Welcome to Amsterdam!
In one of the sections, you can read about pub culture which of course, is a bonus for me. As you can see, Amsterdam is living full up to its name and is packed with decent pubs and bars that cater for every taste. From bruin cafés –the old fashioned pubs that are an essential part of the Dutch culture – to modern craft beer bars, the following guide will let you choose the best places in Amsterdam.
Types of Pubs in Amsterdam
Amsterdam, therefore, has an excellent variety of pubs that are characterized by individual acts. Here are a few types of pubs you’ll come across:
Bruin Cafés: It is an assortment of friendly, brown- toned pubs that have an authentic Dutch setting. They usually offer local beers and some locally made chips and nuts among other related accompaniments.
Craft Beer Bars: If you are a fan of craft beer, you will find some of the best craft beer bars in Amsterdam. They include a large number of local and imported brands of beer.
Jazz Cafés: The city’s rich jazz heritage is evident today, and there is no shortage of places to catch live music in Amsterdam – and a drink, too.
Amsterdam Pub “Brown” Tours: These special walking tours show you the oldest and most genuine brown cafés in Amsterdam to give you an insight into the history of this type of pub.
Popular Pub Districts
Many areas of Amsterdam are popular for the concentration of pubs with some of these areas being more famous than the others. Consider visiting the following areas:
Jordaan
Jordaan is a colourful residential area with small streets with a lot of pubs and cafés. Having a bar, it can be recommended for those who want to have a view after walking through the close canals.
Leidseplein
Leidseplein also comprises a coverage of pubs, clubs and bars where people flock to have a wonderful time. It is often visited by both residents of the city and guest, mostly in the evening.
De Pijp
De Pijp is one of the most fashionable areas in which successfully active numerous casual pubs and beer gardens. It is well established for offering fun and various type of intercontinental meals.
Must-Visit Pubs in Amsterdam
Café Hoppe
The Café Hoppe in this list was established in Amsterdam in the year 1670. It’s a brown café noir par excellence with a large tap beer and jenever, the Dutch gin, selection.
Proeflokaal Arendsnest
For those people, who like beer, Proeflokaal Arendsnest is definitely a place to go. Fifty plus Dutch beers on tap make this a craft beer bar you can cheer for.
Bimhuis
When it comes to Jazz lovers Bimhuis is one of the most famous Jazz Café which is near Amsterdam Central Station. Have the opportunity to witness or participate in great live jazz, and a drink too.
In’t Aepjen
In’t Aepjen is an interesting pub with a very interesting history behind it. Back in the 17th century sailors loved to drink there and one can pay the check with monkeys if he wished to!
Pub Etiquette
While visiting pubs in Amsterdam, it’s helpful to keep a few things in mind:
When you are entering a pub you should either say “Hallo!” or “Goedenavond!” which means ‘Good Evening’ to the bartender.
In some pubs people can eat at round tables which are common areas so don’t be shocked when someone sits with you.
A majority of Dutch people are able to speak English, nonetheless, basic Dutch phrases such as ‘Dank je wel’- Thank You are worth learning.
Paying tips to your bartender and servers is expected among restaurants and bars in the Netherlands.
Wrap Up
So it is always fun and a great way to sample the Amsterdam nightlife to explore the various bar and pub establishments in this city. But whether you are a fan of conventional pubs or the new breed of craft beer bars, there is something out there for you. Always drink in moderation and have a great time moving through the pubs of one of Europe’s most beautiful cities!
