The Hottest Rooftop Bars in Amsterdam for Summer Evenings

Chasing sunsets over Amsterdam’s canals just feels right when you’re above the crowd, drink in hand, and the city lights flicker on. Rooftop bars aren’t just for tourists—they’re an escape for locals too, especially on those rare balmy evenings after a rain shower finally lets up. Some rooftops throw open the doors to cozy terraces with views stretching from Centraal Station to the A’DAM Toren.

If you’re looking to unwind after work or impress a friend visiting from out of town, knowing which places actually give you a killer view—not just a few wobbly tables and overpriced wine—can save you time and money. Amsterdam’s rooftops offer everything from local craft beers to snacks like bitterballen or loaded fries, so there’s no need to settle for bland drinks or boring bites. A little local know-how goes a long way. And trust me, reservations matter in this city—even for rooftop hangouts. Always check the weather last minute, because Amsterdam skies love to change their plans. The best part? Each bar has its own vibe, so you can hop from a chill afterwork spot to a late-night DJ set without leaving the rooftops behind.

• Why Rooftop Bars Are a Must in Amsterdam
• Best Rooftop Spots for Epic Views
• Where Locals Go: Hidden Rooftop Gems
• Cocktails, Craft Beer, and Dutch Bites
• Timing, Reservations, and Weather Tips
• After-dark Vibes: Rooftop Events and DJs

Why Rooftop Bars Are a Must in Amsterdam

Amsterdam might be famous for its canals and old town charm, but once you get above street level, you realize just how good this city looks from up top. When you grab a seat at one of the Amsterdam rooftop bars, you get a whole new angle—panoramic views, city sunsets, and all those cool windmill rooftops lined up in the distance.

The Dutch love spending time outdoors when the weather finally cooperates. In 2024, the number of sunny hours in Amsterdam for June, July, and August averaged nearly 200 per month—plenty of time to grab a drink outside. Rooftop bars turn those precious rays into a mini-holiday without leaving the city.

For locals, rooftops double as after-work escapes or low-key places to catch up with friends. Many of these bars host DJ nights, small festivals, or the occasional pop-up market. Some even host morning yoga or sport big screens for football matches. That mix of events is a big part of why the scene is so popular. And, let’s be honest, a terrace overlooking the IJ river or a canal does wonders for your Instagram feed.

Another upside: Amsterdam’s rooftops are spread throughout the city, from De Pijp’s hipster hangouts to sleek bars in the business district. You can easily find a spot close to home or work, or plan a quick bike trip on a sunny evening.

If you’re planning a meetup or just want a chill evening, you’ll get more atmosphere—and way better photos—on a rooftop than crammed into a noisy bar at street level. That’s just how Amsterdam works in the summer.

Best Rooftop Spots for Epic Views

Amsterdam’s skyline isn’t packed with skyscrapers, which means the rooftops here actually let you see the city’s cool mix of canals, old warehouses, and modern towers. Want a spot where you feel on top of it all? Start with these tried-and-true favorites:

• A’DAM Tower – LOOKOUT Bar: Up in Noord, the A’DAM LOOKOUT gives you a panoramic look at the entire IJ River, Central Station, and a sweep of the city. If you’re brave, try the rooftop swing—the highest in Europe, swinging right over the edge. A ticket is needed for the rooftop, but it’s worth it for the selfie alone.
• SkyLounge Amsterdam:

High above the DoubleTree by Hilton (next to Centraal Station), SkyLounge gives you glass-walled views, a relaxed vibe in the afternoons, and DJs ramping things up after dark. Cocktails are solid, and there’s plenty of comfy seating both inside and out. Just expect crowds around sunset.

• W Lounge Rooftop:

Directly across from Dam Square, the W Lounge is a go-to for business types during the week and party crowds by night. The glass pool is a head-turner, and you can actually swim if you’re a hotel guest. Drinks here are a bit pricier, but the view of the Royal Palace makes up for it.

• Canvas (Volkshotel):

Down in Oost, Canvas sits atop what used to be a newspaper office. It has chill vibes and a wraparound terrace showing off the city’s mix of modern and classic architecture. Their summer weekend parties bring in younger crowds and creative locals.

• Floor17:

West-side locals swear by Floor17 at the Leonardo Hotel. At 85 meters up, you get straight-up views of the Rembrandtpark and, on a clear day, even the North Sea. They’re into quirky stuff like rooftop film nights and outdoor BBQ in July and August.

Here’s a quick look at what you get for each spot:

Tip: If you want the best seats at any Amsterdam rooftop bars, get there before 6pm in summer, especially on Fridays. These places fill up fast whenever the weather is decent. Some even accept online reservations, so check their sites before heading out.

Where Locals Go: Hidden Rooftop Gems

Finding a true local haunt isn’t always easy in Amsterdam, but a few rooftop bars regularly fly under the tourist radar. Locals flock to places like Hopp Amsterdam, a spot on the seventh floor of Casa hotel in Oost. It’s not right in the city centre—and that’s exactly why you’ll meet Dutch regulars there after work, sipping on IPAs with skyline views. They even let you bring your own board games and there’s always a fresh batch of nachos up for grabs.

Nearest to Vondelpark, you’ll find Floor17 perched atop the Leonardo Hotel. This place serves classic cocktails, but what keeps Amsterdammers coming is the rooftop cinema in July and the occasional rooftop yoga session. Don’t expect massive crowds, but do book a spot if you plan on catching their movie nights—it fills up fast once the (barely predictable) summer sun shows up.

In Noord, Shelter’s secret isn’t its club, but the bar just upstairs: A’DAM LOOKOUT’s Moon has a revolving floor and panoramic windows. Locals pile in for Friday evening drinks—skip the swing ride and settle in for views across the IJ and Central Station. If you want something even more low-key, climb to Canvas, above Volkshotel. It’s a favorite with young creatives and freelancers, offering DJs after dark and surprisingly affordable snacks—even by Dutch standards.

• Check each bar’s website or Instagram for pop-up events and weather alerts before heading out.
• Most rooftop bars in Amsterdam require you to book a table, especially during summer weekends.
• Don’t expect table service everywhere; some places like Hopp hand out pagers and let you grab food yourself.
• If you want a seat with a prime view, go early. Locals tend to show up just before sunset.

Hidden gems are worth the effort, since you’ll not only dodge the crowds but get to see how real Amsterdam residents unwind. Try one, and you might just trade your usual pub for a sky-high hangout with the best Amsterdam rooftop bars have to offer.

Cocktails, Craft Beer, and Dutch Bites

If you think rooftop bars in Amsterdam are just about pricey cocktails, you’re missing half the picture. These hotspots are raising the bar (pun intended) when it comes to both drinks and food, giving you a true taste of Dutch flavors with every sip and bite.

Keen on cocktails? Amsterdam’s rooftop menus lean into local spirits—think Bobby’s Schiedam gin, Bols Genever, and Damrak. Super Lyan on the Singel is making a name with its creative, easy-drinking cocktails. Even big places like Floor17 or W Lounge offer their own twists on classics—like an ‘Amsterdam Mule’ or anything featuring Dutch apple syrup.

For beer lovers, rooftop taps are packed with choices. Order a draft from Brouwerij ‘t IJ (that signature ostrich logo is everywhere) or try small-batch brews from Oedipus and Two Chefs Brewing. Whether you like your beers crisp or hoppy, you’re covered—and most spots serve them by the bottle or trendy sharing jugs. Amsterdam rooftop bars love craft beer, so don’t settle for the basic stuff unless you want to.

Feeling peckish? Forget boring bar nuts. In Amsterdam, a reliable rooftop bites menu usually means:

• Bitterballen (crispy Dutch beef bites)—a classic with mustard
• Kaasstengels (cheese sticks)—picture cheesy, deep-fried wonder
• Loaded “patat” (fries) with truffle mayo, curry ketchup, or satay sauce
• Mini Asian steam buns or vegan snacks—a big hit at newer rooftops like NEMO’s dakterras

Locals will tell you that some sky-high spots nail the combo of epic food and drink. Like the ever-popular NDSM’s PLLEK, known for its veggie-friendly menu and local beers, or the A’DAM LOOKOUT’s rooftop with canal views and platters.

To help compare the rooftop menus, check out this snapshot of what to expect at some top spots:

Don’t forget: Dutch rooftops don’t fuss too much about dress codes, but do check menus online if you have dietary needs. Many serve plenty of vegan or gluten-free bites. Finally, paying by card is the norm—most rooftop bars are cashless these days.

Timing, Reservations, and Weather Tips

If you want the best seat for sunset at a Amsterdam rooftop bars, timing makes all the difference. Thursday and Friday evenings get packed fast, especially once the weather app promises a dry night. Most rooftop spots open around 4 or 5 PM and fill up by 7 PM, so arriving early gives you a real shot at a front-row view.

Most locals know that Dutch weather isn’t shy about ruining outdoor plans. Even on sunny days, a sudden shower isn’t rare. Many rooftops have limited covered seating, so always scan the radar on Buienradar or Weeronline before heading out. Rooftop bars like SkyLounge at DoubleTree or Floor17 typically update their social feeds if the terrace is closed due to rain or wind. Indoor seating at these places means the view isn’t gone, just the open-air vibe.

Don’t count on walking in last minute, especially on weekends or during festivals like King’s Day or Amsterdam Pride. Reservations are your friend. Even local favorites like W Lounge and Canvas often get booked out days in advance when the sun’s out. Here’s a quick rundown of peak times and booking habits at popular rooftops:

Quick tips for a smooth rooftop night:

• Always check live weather updates right before you leave.
• Book a table online if the bar takes reservations (especially for groups bigger than 2).
• Bring an extra layer—Amsterdam winds get chilly, even in July.
• If the forecast turns sour, have a backup indoor bar nearby (many rooftops are close to lively indoor bars on the same street or building).

After-dark Vibes: Rooftop Events and DJs

The real fun on Amsterdam rooftops kicks in when the sun dips and the city hums with Friday night energy. Head up to the SkyLounge near Centraal Station for their popular DJ nights—locals know the music leans towards deep house and you get sweeping views of the old town lit up. During peak summer weekends, expect the terrace heaving with both expats and lifelong Amsterdammers. DJ lineups drop weekly on Instagram, so it’s worth following their account to stay in the loop.

Rem Eiland, that unusual bar built on an old offshore platform in the Houthavens, is another evening hotspot. Their "Sunset Sessions" run every Friday, sometimes featuring live jazz or dance classics, with themed cocktails and a more relaxed crowd. Unlike some places charging big entrance fees, most rooftop bars in Amsterdam stick to standard drink prices, even when there’s live music.

Need something less mainstream? Canvas, up on the seventh floor of Volkshotel on the east side, hosts regular rooftop parties—think vinyl nights, silent discos, and open-deck evenings where you can sign up and play your own set. Check their website for event calendars because these sell out fast, especially during big city events like Pride or King’s Day.

• Nightlife Amsterdam truly peaks during these events, as you’ll often find pop-up food stands or themed drink menus alongside the usual lineup.
• A lot of bars tilt the schedule towards weekends, but some—like Floor17—do summer movie nights and quiz evenings on weekdays, making it chill for afterwork hangs.

Here’s a snapshot comparing key rooftop bar events this summer:

Some advice: Amsterdam noise rules mean most rooftop parties start slipping indoors by midnight—so arrive early if you want the best seats. If loud beats aren’t your thing, many rooftops offer cozy nooks away from the speakers, so you can chat without shouting. Always check booking policies and grab a table if you’re in a group, as walk-ins rarely score prime spots during event nights.