Amsterdam Jails: From Historic Prisons to Modern Reform

Amsterdam isn’t just famous for its canals, bicycles, and liberal culture—it also has a fascinating, lesser-known side: its jails. Whether you're curious about the city's historic prison system, wondering if you can visit any former jails, or want to know how Amsterdam handles incarceration today, this guide will take you through it all.

Historic Jails in Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s prison history goes back centuries, with some sites dating to the 17th century. The city’s most well-known old prison was the Rijksgevangenis in the Weteringschans area. Built in the 19th century, this jail held political prisoners during WWII and remained in use until the late 20th century. Today, it houses part of the American Hotel and a creative workspace complex.

Another notable former jail is the Bijlmerbajes —an infamous high-rise prison complex built in the 1970s. This “prison without bars” had glass walls instead of iron bars to promote rehabilitation. The Bijlmerbajes closed in 2016 and is currently being transformed into a residential and cultural area called Bajeskwartier.

Can You Visit Amsterdam Jails?

Yes, but not in the way you might think. While functioning jails are closed to the public, some former prisons have been creatively repurposed and are now open for visitors. For example:

• Lloyd Hotel : Once a juvenile detention center, it’s now one of the city’s quirkiest hotels—some rooms even retain prison-like design elements.
• Bijlmerbajes Art Space : Before redevelopment began, parts of the old prison were used for art exhibitions and urban exploration tours.
• Het Arresthuis (nearby in Roermond) : Although not in Amsterdam, this converted prison hotel is a popular day trip for architecture and history buffs.

Some walking tours, especially the more alternative or "dark tourism" ones, touch on former prison buildings as part of their route.

Amsterdam’s Modern Jail System

Today, Amsterdam's jails are part of the Dutch national prison system, which is known for its focus on rehabilitation over punishment . The Netherlands consistently has one of the lowest incarceration rates in the world, and Amsterdam is no exception.

Facilities like the Penitentiaire Inrichting Over-Amstel (commonly referred to as "De Schans") are designed with humane treatment in mind. Inmates have access to vocational programs, education, and psychological support. Solitary confinement is rare, and prison sentences are typically short compared to other countries.

Interestingly, because of declining crime and falling inmate numbers, the Netherlands (including Amsterdam) has closed multiple prisons over the last decade—sometimes even renting cells to other countries like Norway and Belgium.

Prison Culture and Public Perception

Prison in Amsterdam isn’t the terrifying or violent concept seen in TV dramas. Instead, Dutch prisons often feel more like minimalist dormitories. This is partly due to the country’s progressive drug laws, robust social safety net, and emphasis on prevention rather than punishment.

Of course, that doesn’t mean crime doesn’t exist—but compared to many countries, the Dutch system favors reintegration and dignity . Prison guards are trained more like social workers, and inmates are treated as future neighbors rather than lost causes.

What to Know as a Visitor

If you're visiting Amsterdam, here's what to keep in mind regarding jails:

• Amsterdam is safe—violent crime is rare, and pickpocketing is more common than anything else.
• It’s not possible to tour functioning prisons unless you're part of a research or legal organization.
• However, keep an eye out for art events or exhibitions hosted in former jails like the Bijlmerbajes.
• If you’re into true crime or dark tourism, Amsterdam walking tours sometimes include jail-related history.

And no, you won't end up in jail for lighting up in a coffeeshop or biking without a helmet. But always stay within the law—police are friendly but firm, and ignorance isn't an excuse.

Summary: Why Are Amsterdam Jails So Fascinating?

Amsterdam jails reflect the city's broader values: creativity, tolerance, and a practical approach to social challenges. From their repurposing as hotels or art venues to the humane way modern jails are run, they offer a glimpse into how a society can handle crime without relying solely on punishment. For visitors interested in history, justice reform, or simply off-the-beaten-track attractions, Amsterdam’s prison past is a window into a thoughtful and innovative system.

FAQ: Amsterdam Jails

• Can I visit a jail in Amsterdam?
  Not active ones, but former jails like Bijlmerbajes and Lloyd Hotel are accessible.
• Is Amsterdam safe?
  Yes. Like any major city, keep an eye on your belongings, but violent crime is very rare.
• Are Dutch prisons really that different?
  Yes—they focus on rehabilitation, and many ex-prisoners successfully rejoin society.
• Where are Amsterdam's current jails?
  The main active facility is Penitentiaire Inrichting Over-Amstel (De Schans).
• Is it true the Netherlands has empty prisons?
  Yes. Some have even been leased to other countries due to low inmate numbers.