For independent travellers, local bars are the place to be in the evenings, particularly if you’re travelling to Amsterdam. In this buzzing and lively city, these highly frequented hangout spots of Amsterdam’s locals are far from tourist-ridden, over-priced pubs, and can come in the form of historic tasting-rooms and chic lounges. Prepare to enjoy the lively ambience and make some new friends!
If you’re sticking to a budget, be sure to pre-book your convenient airport taxi. Schiphol airport is only 22 kilometres to the city centre, so it’s never been easier to kick start your boozy adventure.
Bar Oldenhof
During your getaway, you must visit the high-end speakeasy Bar Oldenhof – and of course, announce your presence to the staff in the traditional way by ringing the doorbell. Once seated by your server, you can commence your night of drinking by choosing from an immense menu of high-quality drinks. Don’t forget to make the most of your visit by sampling one of their innovative and expertly crafted cocktails. If you fancy it, attend a whiskey-tasting session and learn about the fascinating history of distilling.
Café De Dokter
For a cheaper alternative, Café De Dokter is an excellent choice. This establishment gives guests a fabulous insight into the city’s weird and wonderful traditional culture. Take a step back in time when you enter the café and marvel at the curiosities – antique clocks, birdcages, chandeliers and plenty more. Enjoy a signature beer or choose from the large selection of whiskeys.
Café Hoppe
If you’re a fan of beautifully brewed, classic beers, this is the hangout for you. Café Hoppe has been open since 1670 and is still a favourite among locals and tourists alike. To engage with the buzzing local population, head for the smaller bar area inside, recognisable by its stained-glass windows and historic ambience.
Amsterdam Roest
For an entirely different vibe, head to Roest. It is located in an industrial estate which, being notoriously difficult to find, gives the bar a mysterious quality that adds to its appeal. It is definitely worth searching for, though, as it is home to an enormous terrace, artificial beach and adult-sized jungle gym – perfect for socialising! The bar serves food and drink all day and if that wasn’t enough, they also host gigs and festivals throughout the month, including warehouse events.
How to Get There
Practically neighbours with London, Amsterdam is only a short hour-long plane journey away. Get started on your solo adventure straight away via a budget-friendly airport taxi. Schiphol is a busy airport, and navigating to the town centre can be confusing. Save yourself any hassle by pre-booking your airport taxi. Schiphol is only a 20-minute car ride to the centre, so this is a wonderfully easy method of getting to your destination.
Whether you’re looking for well-known hangouts or Amsterdam’s hidden drinking spots, these bars are sure to give you a taste of local life. Explore the nightlife scene and discover the amazing variety that the Netherlands has to offer.
Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct, the number one provider of shared and private airport transfers all over Europe and northern Africa. If you’re looking for an affordable airport taxi, Schiphol drivers are ready and waiting to ensure that you and your luggage get to and from the airport in Amsterdam swiftly and safely.
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