Thinking about a pub crawl in the Dutch capital? Amsterdam’s compact centre, canals and lively streets make it perfect for hopping from bar to bar without a long walk. Grab a map, a group of friends, and we’ll show you where to go.
Start at De Pijp, where local brews flow in tiny cafés. Walk a few blocks to Haarlemmerstraat for craft beers and a laid‑back vibe. From there, head toward the Jordaan area – the Westerunie club offers a cool spot for a quick drink before you move on. End the night at a rooftop bar like SkyLounge for city views and a final cocktail.
If you prefer the famous Red Light District scene, begin at a classic canal‑side bar in De Wallen. Follow the lit streets to Club NYX for a high‑energy pause, then swing by a speakeasy hidden behind a bookshelf for a quiet nightcap. This route mixes history, music and a taste of Amsterdam’s daring side.
1. Stay hydrated. Alternate water with each drink so you can enjoy the night without a crash. 2. Keep cash handy – many smaller spots still prefer euros over cards. 3. Pick a meeting point after each stop; a canal bridge or a known landmark works well if anyone gets lost.
4. Dress for comfort. Casual shoes and a light jacket help you walk between bars while the weather shifts. 5. Respect the locals. Dutch people value politeness, so a friendly "Dank je" goes a long way.
You’ll also find plenty of advice in our related articles. Amsterdam Night Bars: Your Guide to Cocktail Culture highlights hidden cocktail lounges, while Amsterdam Rooftop Bars lists the best sky‑high terraces. For a deeper dive into the party scene, check out our piece on Dance Parties in Amsterdam – it explains how tech is reshaping the vibe at several venues.
When the crawl gets late, consider a short break at a 24‑hour coffee shop. It’s a good way to reset before the next round, and you’ll get a taste of the city’s famous cannabis culture if you’re curious. Just remember it’s a separate experience from the bar scene.
Safety matters. Stick together, watch your drinks, and use trusted transport options like the tram or bike‑share if you need a quick ride home. The city’s public transport runs until after midnight, making it easy to exit the nightlife zone.
Planning ahead can save you money. Many bars offer “first drink free” deals after a certain hour, and some rooftops run happy hour specials between 8 pm and 10 pm. Look up the latest offers on the bar’s website or social media before you set out.
Finally, enjoy the spontaneity. A pub crawl isn’t a scripted tour; it’s about discovering local flavors, meeting new people, and soaking up Amsterdam’s electric atmosphere. Grab a seat at the bar, order something you’ve never tried, and let the night unfold.
Don’t want another boring dinner date? Try a pub crawl for couples. I go deep on what a pub crawl really is, how you can set one up, and why it’s quickly turning from a lads’ tradition into the perfect steamy night out for two. You’ll get straight-up pricing info, hot tips, and a raw look at what makes these alcohol-fueled nights so fun and intimate. Let’s talk about why barely making it to the last bar before closing can make your relationship a whole lot more interesting.
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