From iconic brown cafes to buzzing cocktail hideaways, Amsterdam knows how to pour a good drink. And 2026 has been a big year for the city’s bar scene: Amsterdam hosted the very first Europe’s 50 Best Bars ceremony back in June, with Amsterdam’s own Super Lyan landing at No. 42 on the inaugural list. Earlier in the year, another local favorite, Flying Dutchmen Cocktails, picked up its own accolade too, landing at No. 76 on the World’s Top 500 Bars list under brand-new ownership. Whether you’re up for people-watching on a canal-side terrace, testing out unique cocktails, or discovering hidden gems, this city delivers on every level.
Ready to explore the best bars in Amsterdam?
Let’s raise a glass! 🍻
Bar Bukowski
Named after the legendary writer, Bar Bukowski is as cool as it sounds. Located near Oosterpark, it’s part bar, part literary tribute—with stylish interiors, creative drinks, and an easy-going crowd. Whether you’re popping in for a daytime coffee, after-work beer or evening cocktails, it’s got the mood for every hour.
📍 Oosterpark 10, 1092 AE Amsterdam
Lost in Amsterdam
Looking for one of the coolest bars in Amsterdam? You’ll find it at Lost in Amsterdam. With laid-back lounge vibes, shisha, comfy couches, and a glowing red interior, this spot is made for unhurried evenings. The cocktails are strong (as they should!), the playlist is smooth, and its central location makes it perfect for kicking off or winding down your night.
📍 Nieuwendijk 19, 1012 LZ Amsterdam
Flying Dutchmen Cocktails
A must for cocktail lovers, Flying Dutchmen Cocktails is one of the best cocktail bars Amsterdam has to offer. This spring, the bar reopened under new ownership — Tess Posthumus welcomed on Rosa Moolenaar and Alina Lucia as co-owners — and picked up a fresh accolade in the process: the highest-ranked, fully female-owned cocktail bar in Europe. Run by award-winning bartenders, this bar takes mixology seriously—but without the pretension. Expect expertly crafted drinks and a menu full of surprises (with 800+ classic recipes behind the bar!).
📍 Singel 460, 1017 AW Amsterdam
Hiding in Plain Sight
Tucked away near the Artis Zoo, Hiding in Plain Sight is exactly what it sounds like—an elegant speakeasy with vintage charm and perfectly shaken cocktails. From intimate booths to world-class bartenders, this is one of the best bars in Amsterdam for a romantic date or a stylish catch-up.
📍 Rapenburg 18, 1011 TX Amsterdam
The Tailor
Inside the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky, The Tailor is known for its tailor-made drinks (yes, literally). Inspired by the art of tailoring, each cocktail is crafted to suit your personal taste. This luxurious setting earns its spot among the best cocktail bars Amsterdam has for those who love a classy drink with a twist.
📍 Dam 9, 1012 JS Amsterdam
Cafe de Dokter
Tiny but iconic, Café de Dokter is one of those cool bars in Amsterdam that oozes character. Dating back to 1798 and packed with antiques, it’s the smallest bar in the city and still one of the best. Swing by (Wednesday to Saturday!) for a whiskey, listen to jazz, and soak up the old-school charm.
📍 Rozenboomsteeg 4, 1012 PR Amsterdam
Bar Botanique
Step into a jungle! Bar Botanique is full of leafy vibes, bright interiors, and colorful cocktails. Perfect for Instagram snaps and chill brunches that stretch into cocktail hours. This is one of the best bars in Amsterdam to visit if you’re into sunshine, spritz, and greenery. ☀️🍹
📍 Eerste van Swindenstraat 581, 1093 LC Amsterdam
Waterkant
Located right on the Singelgracht canal, Waterkant is a local fave with Surinamese flair, cold beers, and an unbeatable waterfront terrace. Come summer, DJs take over Friday and Saturday nights and the terrace turns into an open-air dance floor. One of the best spots to grab a casual drink and feel like part of the city.
📍 Marnixstraat 246, 1016 TL Amsterdam
Proeflokaal Arendsnest
Beer lover? Don’t miss Proeflokaal Arendsnest. This canal-side bar is dedicated to serving only Dutch craft beers—with over 50 on tap. The bartenders know their stuff, and the cozy wooden interior gives proper pub vibes. It’s one of the best bars in Amsterdam for anyone wanting a true taste of the local scene. 🍻
📍 Herengracht 90, 1015 BS Amsterdam
Door 74
Fancy a bit of mystery with your martini? Door 74 is Amsterdam’s original speakeasy — hidden behind an unmarked door, twice named to the World’s 50 Best Bars list. Book ahead, knock on the right door, and settle into an art-deco hideaway that takes its Prohibition-era cocktails (and its atmosphere) seriously. One for anyone who loves a bar with a story to tell.
📍 Reguliersdwarsstraat 74, 1017 BN Amsterdam
Café ‘t Mandje
With Amsterdam hosting WorldPride 2026, this one’s unmissable. Café ‘t Mandje opened in 1927 as one of the city’s first openly queer bars, founded by the legendary Bet van Beeren. Nearly a century on, the original interior is still lovingly preserved — think decades of ties and bras hanging from the ceiling, left behind by generations of regulars. A true piece of Amsterdam’s LGBTIQ+ history, and still a warm, welcoming spot for a drink today.
📍 Zeedijk 63, 1012 AR Amsterdam
Café Brecht
Looking for something more laid-back? Café Brecht channels a cosy Berlin “Wohnzimmerbar” (living-room bar) vibe, with secondhand armchairs, board games, and a menu of German and Dutch beers and ciders. Sustainably run and easy on the wallet, it’s a great pick for backpackers and budget-conscious explorers who still want a proper night out.
📍 Weteringschans 157, 1017 SE Amsterdam
Super Lyan
And last but not least, fresh off landing at No. 42 on the debut Europe’s 50 Best Bars list, Super Lyan is the Amsterdam outpost of London mixology legend Mr Lyan (Ryan Chetiyawardana). Set inside a 17th-century canal house near Amsterdam Centraal, it pairs playful 1950s-kitsch styling and neon touches with genuinely inventive drinks — think the Beeswax Old Fashioned or a menu built around “Amsterdam Moments” cocktails inspired by the city’s own stories. No reservations needed for small groups, just walk in and grab a seat.
📍 Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 3, 1012 RC Amsterdam
Final Cheers 🥂
From classy cocktails and secret speakeasies to canal-side beers and quirky lounges, there’s no shortage of cool bars in Amsterdam to check out. Whether you’re all about creative drinks, relaxed atmospheres, or unforgettable settings, this list has your next night out covered.
FAQs
What are the best bars in Amsterdam for cocktails?
Top picks include Flying Dutchmen Cocktails, The Tailor, and Hiding in Plain Sight—all known for their expertly crafted drinks and standout atmospheres.
Where can I find the coolest bars in Amsterdam with unique vibes?
For cool, unforgettable vibes, check out Lost in Amsterdam, Bar Botanique, and Café de Dokter—each offering a different aesthetic, from tropical interiors to antique charm.
Is Bar Bukowski Amsterdam worth visiting?
Absolutely! Bar Bukowski Amsterdam is a stylish literary-themed bar near Oosterpark, perfect for laid-back drinks, cocktails, or an afternoon coffee.
What are the best cocktail bars that locals love?
Locals rave about Flying Dutchmen Cocktails, The Tailor, and Hiding in Plain Sight for their creativity, mixology expertise, and cozy yet elegant settings.
Where can I enjoy canal-side drinks in Amsterdam?
Waterkant and Proeflokaal Arendsnest are fantastic canal-side bars. Both offer scenic views, great drinks, and relaxed atmospheres right by the water.
Are there any themed bars in Amsterdam worth checking out?
Yes! Bar Bukowski Amsterdam is themed around the writer Charles Bukowski, and Bar Botanique offers a lush, tropical setting that's perfect for cocktail lovers.
Which bar in Amsterdam has the best view?
Waterkant offers one of the best waterfront terraces in the city, ideal for enjoying a cold drink with views over the Singelgracht canal.
What's the smallest bar in Amsterdam?
That title goes to Café de Dokter, Amsterdam’s tiniest bar packed with antique decor and live jazz. It's a cozy, character-filled spot for a whiskey or cocktail.
Where should I stay in Amsterdam to explore the bar scene?
Book a centrally located MEININGER Hotel in Amsterdam—perfect for hitting up the best bars in Amsterdam and enjoying a relaxed stay after a night out.
