each window is rented by a self-employed professional who decides their own rates and terms. A red light with open curtains means available, a drawn curtain means occupied, the price is settled at the door, and taking photos of anyone is completely off-limits.
The red-lit windows are what everyone comes to gawp at and almost nobody understands. Here is the plain-English version of how they work: who is behind the glass, what the lights mean, and what happens if you knock.
Who’s behind the glass
The women in the windows (and, on a few streets, men and trans workers) are independent, self-employed sex workers. They rent a window and room for a shift from whoever owns the building, roughly €150 for an eight-hour slot, and keep what they earn. Nobody “owns” them. They choose their own hours and set their own prices and their own rules.
What the lights mean
- Red light on, curtain open: she’s working and available. Look, don’t loiter.
- Curtain closed: she’s with a client, or on a break. Move along, because standing outside waiting is deeply uncool.
- Blue or purple light: traditionally indicates a trans worker. It isn’t a fixed rule, but you’ll see it.
- No light, empty window: the room isn’t rented that shift.
How a visit actually happens
When a passer-by shows interest, they step up to the door and the worker opens it a crack. A short, no-nonsense exchange follows about what’s wanted, how long it will take and what it costs. All of that is settled before anything happens, right there at the door. If both sides are happy, the visitor goes inside and the curtain closes behind them. If not, either one can decline and move on. The whole thing is quick and businesslike, and no more mysterious than ordering a coffee. (The etiquette of how to approach a window and the details on prices are covered elsewhere on this site.)
The absolute rules
- No photos or filming. This is the one that gets tourists into real trouble. It’s a serious breach of privacy and nobody tolerates it.
- Don’t haggle aggressively or waste her time. Ask the price, accept or decline, move on.
- Be respectful. These are professionals at work, not an exhibit. A big, drunk group pointing and gawping is the fastest way to be told to do one.
Is it all above board?
Yes. Sex work is legal and regulated in the Netherlands (the full picture is in is prostitution legal in Amsterdam?). Workers pay tax and have rights, and De Wallen has a strong police and support presence. That regulation is why the windows feel calm and safe rather than sketchy.