There’s little that beats a good, spontaneous Friday afternoon drink (VrijMiBo) in the capital. Because it’s often challenging to come up with or find a suitable location on the spot, we have an overview for you: these are our favorite places to have a drink in Amsterdam. From classic to brand new.
AMSTERDAM UPDATES
Subscribe to YOURLBB'S newsletter and get the AMSTERDAM BUCKET LIST BOOK in your inbox for free.
"*" indicates required fields
Best spot to have drinks in Amsterdam
Drinks in Amsterdam? Look no further! At the places below, the beer is always cold; they select the best wines, cocktails, and matching snacks for a drink where nothing is missing. Doesn’t that sound like music to your ears?
De Willem
De Willem is still relatively new, but it feels like it’s always been there. Located in the middle of Haarlemmerplein, this establishment offers the tastiest bites, coffee, and drinks from early morning till late at night. In the summer, you can sit on the large terrace, and in the winter, in the cozy bar and restaurant area. The extensive wine selection ensures you have a great evening.
De Willem, Haarlemmerplein 58
WATERKANT
Ah, Waterkant! The first establishment of 3WO – the geniuses who now own half of Amsterdam – remains an institution in the city. When the mercury rises, this is the first place where avid terrace-goers flock, and it’s not for nothing. Their drinks menu is unparalleled (just the various gin and tonic variations are dizzying), as is the consistently lively atmosphere.
Waterkant, Marnixstraat 246
© Waterkant, @waterkantamsterdam
Calisto
From the owners of establishments like Café Binnenvisser and Bakkerij Loof, Calisto is the latest hotspot on Haarlemmerdijk – one that was very much welcome. They have a hotel and restaurant but also offer a wide range of drinks for a great evening. In the summer, the sidewalk is packed with people enjoying drinks; in winter, you can cozy up at the bar.
Calisto, Haarlemmerdijk 61
HANNEKES BOOM
Another iconic spot like Waterkant: Hannekes Boom – undoubtedly one of Amsterdam’s best places to drink. Hannekes Boom offers a vast outdoor and indoor space to enjoy drinks, food, and dance.
Hannekes Boom, Dijksgracht 4
© Hannekes Boom, @hannekesboom
Louie Louie
The extensive terrace of Louie Louie is famous all year round. It enjoys plenty of sunshine in the summer, and it’s thoroughly heated in the winter. Don’t assume smokers will surround you, as most of the terrace is smoke-free. The drink menu is perhaps one of the most comprehensive in Amsterdam, with a long list of snacks, delicious bites, and a wide selection of drinks, cocktails, and other refreshments.
Louie Louie, Linnaeusstraat 11A
Pllek
Pllek in Amsterdam-Noord has become a cult spot along the IJ River. In the summer, you can dip in the water, enjoy the sun all day, and indulge in snacks and ice-cold beer. They also host events you don’t want to miss, from movie nights to music that goes on into the early hours.
Pllek, T.T. Neveritaweg 59
© Pllek, @pllek_amsterdam
CAFÉ VERLAN
Right in the center of Amsterdam, you’ll find Café Verlan, the perfect place for a classic drink. Although this cafe has only been open for a few months, it feels like home. It’s the ideal spot for an impromptu drink but also for long evenings with tables filled with delicious food.
Café Verlan, Prinsengracht 381HS
Bar Bonnie
Bar Bonnie is always buzzing! Hosts Omar and Thijs welcome everyone with open arms and ensure a great atmosphere. They carefully select wines to complement the dishes and ensure you have a great time during a drink. One of our favorite places to have a drink in Amsterdam.
Bar Bonnie, Amstelveenseweg 226h
© Bar Bonnie, @bonnie.amsterdam
Radio Radio
Radio Radio is the low-key hotspot in Westerpark, Amsterdam. You can enjoy fresh pizza (excellent!) and dance until early. In short, it’s a great idea when looking for a drinking spot where things can get a bit wild.
Radio Radio, Pazzanistraat 3
Lagerwal
Lagerwal in Amsterdam-Noord is the perfect casual hotspot for an extensive drink that might turn into a night of dancing.
Lagerwal, tt. Melissaweg 57
© Lagerwal, @lagerwal.noord
