The 5 Best Amsterdam Bars

De Druif

One of the oldest bars in Amsterdam first opened in 1631, Café de Druif is small, quiet, and very local. Located a few blocks from the river’s edge, de Druif was once a sailors bar in the 17^th century, and one could say that the furniture hasn’t been replaced since then. Many generations of Dutch drinkers have imbibed here, and there’s sure to be many more to come.

‘t Arendsnest

Advertising itself as a “beer café,” ‘t Arendsnest features the largest collection of Dutch beers in the city: over 30 on tap and 150 bottled varieties.  Located in a charming old canal house, the décor is reminiscent of the long lost pubs of yore, featuring lots of dark wood and antique beer advertisements on the walls.

Vesper Bar

If cocktails are more your thing, you’ll love the trendy Vesper Bar, serving up delicious, original concoctions. The friendly staff, cool crowd, and convenient location in the Jordaan, make Vesper Bar a fun and fashionable place to experience Amsterdam nightlife.    

Brouwerj ‘t LJ

Located at the base of the Goyer windmill, you can’t get any more Dutch than this local brewery and tasting house. Seating is minimal, so on a nice day, you’ll find everyone congregating on the pavement outside enjoying very cheap pints.

Café Belgique

Cozy, warm, and dark, this laidback bar located behind Nieuw Kirk is a city favorite. The beer is on tap is predictably dominated by Belgian varieties but there are a few great Dutch ones as well. A friendly bar catering to a mix of locals and tourists, Café Belgique is a great place to begin the evening.

If after visiting one of these bars, you still feel like spending the night on the town, be sure to visit some of Amsterdam's best clubs.