With best bars in amsterdam at the forefront, this paragraph opens a window to an amazing start and intrigue, inviting readers to embark on a storytelling filled with unexpected twists and insights. Located in the heart of the city, Amsterdam’s nightlife scene is a treasure trove of experiences that cater to all tastes and preferences. From cozy pubs to trendy cocktail bars, the city’s vibrant nightlife is a major draw for tourists and locals alike.
Amsterdam’s nightlife scene is a melting pot of cultures, where people from all walks of life come together to socialize, relax, and have a good time. Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet evening out with friends or a wild night on the town, Amsterdam has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best bars in Amsterdam, highlighting the top spots that will make your night out unforgettable.
Top Recommendations for Best Bars in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars to suit every taste and style. From rooftop bars to underground cocktail dens, this city has something for everyone. Here are our top recommendations for the best bars in Amsterdam, including a mix of popular and lesser-known spots.
Popular Bars in Amsterdam
The following bars are some of the most popular in Amsterdam, attracting large crowds and offering a wide range of drinks and amenities.
- Bar Centraal – Located in the heart of Amsterdam, Bar Centraal offers a wide range of cocktails and beers in a stylish and lively atmosphere. With its beautiful interior and outdoor seating area, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a drink.
- The Flying Pan – This 24-hour bar is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a wide range of drinks and a delicious selection of food. With its cozy interior and friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to grab a drink and snack whenever you need it.
- The Hoxton Amsterdam – This stylish hotel bar offers a range of cocktails and beers in a chic and modern atmosphere. With its comfortable seating and outdoor seating area, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and relax after a long day.
- Bar Oldenhof – Located in the charming Jordaan neighborhood, Bar Oldenhof offers a wide range of cocktails and beers in a cozy and intimate atmosphere. With its beautiful interior and outdoor seating area, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and relax in a quiet corner of the city.
- Bar Noord – This popular bar is located in the trendy Noord neighborhood and offers a wide range of cocktails and beers in a stylish and lively atmosphere. With its beautiful interior and outdoor seating area, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and enjoy the views of the city.
Lesser-Known Bars in Amsterdam, Best bars in amsterdam
If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, here are some of the lesser-known bars in Amsterdam:
- The Alchemist – This hidden bar is located in the charming Jordaan neighborhood and offers a wide range of cocktails and beers in a cozy and intimate atmosphere. With its beautiful interior and outdoor seating area, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and relax in a quiet corner of the city.
- The Blind Pig – This secretive bar is located in the trendy Noord neighborhood and offers a wide range of cocktails and beers in a stylish and lively atmosphere. With its beautiful interior and outdoor seating area, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and enjoy the views of the city.
- Bar Muisca – This intimate bar is located in the charming Jordaan neighborhood and offers a wide range of cocktails and beers in a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. With its comfortable seating and outdoor seating area, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and relax with friends.
Rooftop Bars in Amsterdam
For a unique and breathtaking view of the city, check out these rooftop bars:
- The rooftop bar at the Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht – Located in the heart of Amsterdam, this rooftop bar offers a wide range of cocktails and beers in a stylish and modern atmosphere. With its comfortable seating and breathtaking views of the city, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and take in the sights.
- The rooftop bar at the DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centrum – This rooftop bar offers a wide range of cocktails and beers in a cozy and intimate atmosphere. With its comfortable seating and breathtaking views of the city, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and relax after a long day.
Underground Cocktail Bars in Amsterdam
If you’re a cocktail aficionado, check out these underground bars:
- The Bar at the Hoxton Amsterdam – This stylish bar offers a range of cocktails and beers in a chic and modern atmosphere. With its comfortable seating and outdoor seating area, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and relax after a long day.
- The Blind Pig – This secretive bar offers a wide range of cocktails and beers in a stylish and lively atmosphere. With its beautiful interior and outdoor seating area, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and enjoy the views of the city.
Types of Bars in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is famous for its nightlife, offering a wide variety of bars that cater to different tastes and preferences. From classic cocktail bars to craft beer bars, and traditional pubs, each type of bar has its unique atmosphere and charm.
Cocktail Bars in Amsterdam
Cocktail bars in Amsterdam are perfect for those who enjoy a sophisticated drink-making experience. Many bars offer creative and innovative cocktails that change seasonally, ensuring you’ll always find something new to try. The De Pijp neighborhood is a hotspot for cocktail bars, with several award-winning establishments.
– The Hoxton Amsterdam’s Cub Room: This intimate bar is a masterclass in cocktail-making, with a menu that changes daily. Bartenders are happy to guide you through the selection process, ensuring you find the perfect drink to match your taste.
– The Nightjar: Located in the trendy De Pijp neighborhood, The Nightjar is known for its innovative and visually stunning cocktails. The menu is divided into sections, each featuring a unique mix of flavors and ingredients.
– Bitters & Loves: For a more laid-back atmosphere, head to Bitters & Loves, where you can enjoy creative cocktails in a cozy setting. The bar is famous for its extensive selection of bitters, which add a unique twist to its signature cocktails.
Craft Beer Bars in Amsterdam
Craft beer bars in Amsterdam have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many establishments offering a wide selection of local and international beers. De Pijp and the Jordaan neighborhood are hotspots for craft beer enthusiasts.
– Brouwerij ‘t IJ: Located in a former windmill, Brouwerij ‘t IJ is one of Amsterdam’s oldest craft breweries. The bar offers a wide selection of its own brews, as well as other local and international beers.
– De Pijp’s De Adelaar: This cozy craft beer bar in De Pijp offers an extensive selection of local and international beers, including many Dutch craft brews. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through the menu, helping you find the perfect beer to suit your taste.
– Jordaan’s Proef: Located in Amsterdam’s charming Jordaan neighborhood, Proef is a craft beer haven that offers a rotating selection of local and international beers. The bar’s menu features a range of beer styles, from crisp lagers to rich stouts.
Traditional Pubs in Amsterdam
Traditional pubs in Amsterdam offer a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, often with a focus on live music and sports events. Many pubs serve a range of beers and have a relaxed, casual vibe.
– The Flying Pigeon: Located in the heart of Amsterdam, The Flying Pigeon is a classic pub that offers a range of beers and a cozy atmosphere. The pub is known for its live music events, including folk and rock performances.
– The EYE Film Museum’s Barca Bar: Located in the trendy EYE Film Museum, Barca Bar offers a range of beers and a cozy atmosphere. The bar is a great spot to catch a sports event or live music performance.
– De Kas: This converted greenhouse is now a charming pub that serves a range of beers and offers a relaxing atmosphere. The pub is a great spot to enjoy a drink in the evening or on a sunny afternoon.
Unique Features of Amsterdam’s Bars
Amsterdam, known for its vibrant nightlife, offers a plethora of bars that cater to different tastes and preferences. From cozy cocktail bars to lively music venues, the city’s bars are unique in their offerings. Here are some of the features that set Amsterdam’s bars apart.
Outdoor Seating Areas
Amsterdam’s bars often have outdoor seating areas, which are perfect for enjoying a drink on a warm summer evening. Bars like De Kas and De Pijp have spacious outdoor areas surrounded by lush greenery, creating a tranquil oasis in the midst of the bustling city. The ambiance is relaxed, and the surroundings are picturesque, making them ideal spots to unwind and socialize.
- De Kas, located in a former greenhouse, offers a serene atmosphere with its lush green surroundings and comfortable outdoor seating.
- De Pijp, a trendy neighborhood in Amsterdam, has several bars with outdoor seating areas, including Lew Zealand and Bar Bukowski
Live Music Venues
Music enthusiasts will find plenty of options in Amsterdam, with bars and clubs hosting live music performances. Paradiso, a popular music venue, hosts both local and international artists, offering a diverse range of music genres. From rock to jazz, and electronic to hip-hop, Amsterdam’s bars and music venues cater to various musical tastes.
- Paradiso, a historic music venue, has hosted renowned artists like David Bowie and Prince, and continues to provide a platform for both established and emerging musicians.
- The Concertgebouw, Amsterdam’s concert hall, is a world-renowned venue that hosts both classical and contemporary music performances.
Cocktail Menus
Amsterdam’s bars are known for their creative and extensive cocktail menus, featuring unique ingredients and signature drinks. The Hoxton, Amsterdam offers an impressive cocktail menu featuring house-made juices and infusions. With over 30 cocktails to choose from, visitors can indulge in a range of flavors and styles, from classic to innovative.
| Cocktail Name | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|
| The Last Word | Green Chartreuse, ginger liqueur, lime juice |
| Cucumber Collins | Cucumber-infused gin, lemon juice, soda water |
Safety and Drink Culture in Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s nightlife scene is legendary, with its cozy beer cafés, trendy cocktail bars, and laid-back atmosphere. However, as with any city, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to stay safe while out drinking. In this section, we’ll discuss the importance of responsible drinking, share tips on staying safe, and explore the Dutch attitude toward drink driving.
Responsible Drinking
It’s crucial to drink responsibly in Amsterdam, just as you would in any other city. The Dutch have a relaxed attitude toward drinking, but excess can still lead to problems. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
- Know your limits: Be aware of your drinking capacity and pace yourself to avoid over-intoxication.
- Drink plenty of water: Stay hydrated by alternating between drinks and water throughout the night.
- Eat before or while drinking: A full stomach can help slow down the effects of alcohol.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on your belongings and don’t leave your drinks unattended.
- Have a plan: Set a budget, designate a meeting spot, and arrange for a safe ride home.
The Dutch Attitude Toward Drink Driving
The Dutch take drink driving very seriously, and the laws reflect this. The blood alcohol content (BAC) limit in the Netherlands is 0.22%, and driving under the influence can result in severe fines, license suspension, or even imprisonment. The city also offers alternative transport options, such as taxis and public transport, to ensure you can get home safely.
The Dutch proverb “Huishouden met alcohol” translates to “Living with alcohol,” emphasizing the country’s laid-back attitude toward drinking, but also its awareness of the risks associated with excessive consumption.
Local Customs and Etiquette
While Amsterdam’s bars and restaurants offer a welcoming atmosphere, it’s essential to be mindful of local customs and etiquette:
- Smoking policy: Smoking is banned in enclosed public places in the Netherlands.
- Table service: In some bars, you’ll be brought a menu or asked to seat yourself. Wait for staff to direct you.
- Tipping: Tipping in the Netherlands is generally less common than in other countries, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is always appreciated.
Safe Ride Options
Amsterdam offers various safe ride options to get you home:
- Taxis: You can find taxis on the street or book in advance.
- Public transport: The city’s tram, bus, and metro systems run late into the night.
- Apps: Services like Uber and Bolt operate in Amsterdam, offering a convenient and safe ride option.
Bars with a View
Amsterdam is a city of stunning beauty, with its canals, bridges, and architecture making it a treat for the eyes. When it comes to enjoying a drink while taking in the views, Amsterdam has plenty of options to choose from. From rooftop bars with panoramic views of the city to cozy pubs with a canal-side spot, here are some of the best bars in Amsterdam with a view.
Canal-Side Bars
For a more laid-back atmosphere, head to one of the many bars that line the canals. These bars offer a unique perspective on the city, with the constant movement of boats and bicycles adding to the lively atmosphere. Some popular options include:
- The Flying Sailor in the Jordaan district, which offers a cozy spot with a view of the Prinsengracht canal.
- The Boat House in the Canal Ring, which serves a range of drinks in a boat-themed setting.
- The Hoxton Amsterdam in the Oud-Zuid district, which has a charming bar with a view of the city.
Rooftop Bars
For a more panoramic view of the city, head to one of Amsterdam’s many rooftop bars. These bars offer a sleek and modern atmosphere, with drinks and snacks to match. Some popular options include:
- The SkyLounge in the Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht hotel, which offers stunning views of the city skyline.
- The Roof Top bar in the W Amsterdam hotel, which serves a range of cocktails in a chic setting.
- The Akkie in the Stedelijk Museum, which offers a unique view of the Museumplein and the city beyond.
Bars in Parks
For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to one of the bars that are located in Amsterdam’s many parks. These bars offer a peaceful spot with a view of the surrounding nature. Some popular options include:
- The Cafe in the Amsterdamse Bos, which serves a range of drinks in a scenic setting.
- The Bar in the Vondelpark, which offers a cozy spot with a view of the park.
- The Park Bar in the Linnaeuspark, which serves a range of drinks in a peaceful setting.
Bars for Special Occasions: Best Bars In Amsterdam
When it comes to celebrating special occasions in Amsterdam, you’ll find an array of unique bars that can provide an unforgettable experience. From proposal-worthy spots to lively venues for birthday parties and hen nights, we’ve got you covered.
Proposal-worthy Bars in Amsterdam
For a romantic proposal, Amsterdam has some of the most picturesque and intimate settings. Here are a few top recommendations:
Blauw:
This upscale cocktail bar offers a sophisticated ambiance, complete with elegant decor and an extensive menu of handcrafted cocktails.
Private rooms available for up to 40 people.
Reservations recommended for a proposal-worthy experience.
Bars for Birthday Parties in Amsterdam
For a celebratory night out with friends, Amsterdam has plenty of lively bars to choose from. Here are a few top picks:
The Bulldog:
Located in the heart of Amsterdam’s Red Light District, this bar offers an energetic atmosphere and an impressive selection of cocktails.
Private rooms available for up to 100 people.
The bar also offers a DJ booth for hire.
Bars for Hen Nights in Amsterdam
If you’re planning a hen night in Amsterdam, you’ll want a bar that’s lively, fun, and memorable. Here are a few top recommendations:
The Flying Pan:
This trendy bar offers a unique atmosphere, complete with a large dance floor and a cocktail menu featuring creative concoctions.
Private rooms available for up to 20 people.
They also offer a ‘Hen Party’ package that includes a private room, bottle service, and a designated host.
Exclusive Event Venues in Amsterdam
If you’re planning a special occasion that requires a more exclusive venue, Amsterdam has plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few top recommendations:
The Grand Amrâth Hotel Amsterdam:
This luxurious hotel offers a range of event spaces, from intimate meeting rooms to grand ballrooms.
Private chefs and event coordinators available to customize your event.
The hotel also offers a range of exclusive packages and promotions.
Daytime Bars and Cafes
For those looking to escape the morning haze or enjoy a late-afternoon pick-me-up, Amsterdam’s daytime bars and cafes are the perfect spots. These versatile venues offer a refreshing change of pace from the city’s renowned nightlife scene, with many boasting impressive outdoor seating areas that make the most of Amsterdam’s temperate climate.
Must-Visit Daytime Bars and Cafes
Some of the best daytime bars and cafes in Amsterdam include:
- The Hoxton, Amsterdam – Located in the heart of the city, this stylish hotel features a bustling lobby bar with a lively atmosphere and an impressive selection of coffee and cocktails.
- Café Papeneiland – Housed in a charming 17th-century building, this picturesque cafe serves up delicious coffee, sandwiches, and pastries in an intimate setting.
- The Flying Pan – This trendy breakfast and brunch spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, with its mouth-watering menu and cozy, industrial-chic decor.
- Bar Botanic – Tucked away in a peaceful courtyard, this trendy bar is a hidden gem, serving up creative cocktails and delicious small plates in a lush, green setting.
- Café De Kas – With its stunning glasshouse design, Café De Kas is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to soak up some natural light and enjoy the city’s best coffee and pastries.
Each of these daytime bars and cafes brings its own unique atmosphere and offerings to the table, making them must-visit destinations for anyone looking to experience Amsterdam’s vibrant daytime scene.
Unique Features and Menu Options
Bar Botanic stands out from the crowd with its innovative cocktail menu, featuring drinks made with house-made syrups and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The bar also boasts an impressive selection of spirits, making it a haven for any gin or whiskey enthusiast.
The Flying Pan, on the other hand, is renowned for its creative breakfast and brunch menu, featuring dishes such as eggs benedict and avocado toast. Their extensive coffee selection is also worth a mention, with a range of artisanal blends and expertly brewed pour-overs.
Café Papeneiland is a haven for foodies, with its delicious menu of paninis, sandwiches, and pastries, all made with locally-sourced ingredients and loving care.
In contrast, Bar Botanic’s focus is on its beautiful glasshouse setting, which provides a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Visitors can unwind and enjoy a refreshing cocktail or snack in the peaceful surroundings of this charming bar.
Epilogue
As you wind down your night and say goodbye to the best bars in amsterdam, remember the unforgettable experiences you’ve shared with friends, the laughter, and the memories. And when you return to Amsterdam, you’ll know exactly where to go to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife once again. Whether you’re a seasoned party animal or just looking for a place to grab a quiet drink, Amsterdam’s bars have something for everyone.
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the best bars in Amsterdam for a party night?
Some of the top bars in Amsterdam for a party night include Paradiso, Air, and Panama. These bars offer a lively atmosphere, great music, and a wide range of drinks to keep the party going all night long.
What are the most popular cocktails in Amsterdam bars?
Some of the most popular cocktails in Amsterdam bars include the Amsterdam Sour, the Heineken Cocktail, and the Ginjega. These cocktails are made with a blend of traditional and modern ingredients and are sure to satisfy any cocktail lover’s cravings.
Are there any bars in Amsterdam with outdoor seating areas?
Yes, there are several bars in Amsterdam with outdoor seating areas. Some of the top bars with outdoor seating include the Grand Café Papeneiland, the Cafe Papeneiland, and the Café De Wit. These bars offer a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a drink or snack on a warm day.
