Dutch Bar Pricing Guide: What You Need to Know

If you’re planning a night out in the Netherlands, the first thing on your mind is probably the price of a drink. Dutch bars aren’t a mystery, but they do have a few quirks that can surprise visitors. Knowing the average cost, where prices differ, and how to get the best value can make your night more fun and less stressful.

Typical Drink Prices Across Dutch Cities

In Amsterdam, a regular beer (0.33 l) at a city‑center bar usually costs €4 to €6. Trendy spots near the canals may charge €7 or more for a craft brew. A standard cocktail runs between €9 and €12, while a glass of wine (150 ml) costs €5 to €8. If you head to Rotterdam or The Hague, you’ll notice a small drop – beers often sit at €3.5 to €5, and cocktails at €8 to €10. Smaller towns like Groningen or Utrecht tend to be even cheaper, with local pubs serving draft beers for €2.5 to €4.

Non‑alcoholic drinks are cheaper across the board. A soda or a soft drink is usually €1.5 to €2.5, and a coffee at a bar will be around €2. Dutch supermarkets sell the same drinks for half the price, so ordering a drink you can finish quickly saves you money.

Tips to Save Money When Drinking Out

Look for "happy hour" deals. Many bars in Amsterdam and Rotterdam offer discounted drinks between 5 pm and 7 pm, especially on weekdays. Some places even have a two‑for‑one beer special that can cut the bill in half.

Order the house pour instead of a brand name. A house lager or house wine is typically the cheapest option on the menu. If you’re into cocktails, ask the bartender for a simpler version – a basic gin‑tonic or a rum‑coke is often cheaper than a fancy mixed drink.

Share a pitcher. In many Dutch bars, pitchers of draft beer are priced for a group. Splitting a pitcher with friends can bring the cost per person down to €2 or €3 for a full glass.

Take advantage of cash discounts. Some venues give a small discount if you pay with cash instead of a card. It's not a huge saving, but it adds up over a night.

Finally, keep an eye on the location. Bars in tourist-heavy areas charge more for the same drink you could get for less a few blocks away. A short walk into a side street can lead you to a local spot with lower prices and a more authentic vibe.

Understanding Dutch bar pricing helps you plan your night without surprise tabs. Whether you’re sipping cheap lager in Utrecht or splurging on a crafted cocktail in Amsterdam, these basics keep you in control of your budget while you enjoy the Dutch nightlife.