Amsterdam nightlife is extremely diverse, with tons to do for all types of night out travelers. During the night the sheer amount of clubs and bars in the city provides a plethora of party hotspots for people to enjoy. The two main party hotspots are Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein, these locations are nice to wander around as there are tons of bars and clubs to choose from. But they can get quite busy and aren’t that nice. The nontouristy Amsterdam nightlife is MUCH better.
I find that the best locations to go out to are the ones that are less touristy and in interesting & unique locations. When you go to places outside the more common party spots you get higher quality drinks, higher quality people and a nicer atmosphere. The spots I have listed range from places to go for a more casual night, to party night, to a fancy night. There’s something for everybody here!
READ MORE: 12 THINGS TO DO IN AMSTERDAM AT NIGHT
Now, here is my list of the top 10 non-touristy nightlife spots to go to in Amsterdam for a special night out.
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Hannekes Boom
This is an excellent first stop to begin a night of drinking. It is located near Centraal station and you can look at the lovely view of Amsterdam’s waterfront. Plus, there are plenty of places to sit outside and for boats to park so on hot days it can get pretty busy.
Waterkant
Another great spot for an evening drink on the canals. Waterkant has both food and drinks which is great for getting ready for a night out. It is also right beside Liedesplein, so if you decided to head to another bar there are plenty to choose from nearby.
Plekk
This is across from Centraal station on a little beach in the North. It is always super busy and has a really nice view. This bar has a more casual vibe and is
Brouwerij T’IJ
Another great place to start drinks for the night or spend some time with friends. Theres a wide assortment of unique beers that are super fun to experiment and taste.
Bar Botanique
I love this bar. It not only has a wide assortment of really nice drinks it also has a super cool environment of botanicals. It’s a little fancier than the previous locations and has places to sit so you can talk with people.
Bar Bukowski
Another amazing local favorite! Full of a wide variety of cheap drinks as well as great food. At night this location can get very busy, so if you want a table you should get there early.
De School
De School, like its name implies, is located in a former school. It still has all the classrooms and everything! It is a little “intense” to say the least but a super unique and interesting part of Amsterdam nightlife. In order to get in the bouncer will quiz you to make sure you aren’t too intoxicated and to ensure you are there for the music (all techno) and once you’re inside you are given a sticker to cover your camera because there are no photos allowed.
Sky Lounge
Sky Lounge is one of the more expensive bars in Amsterdam but so worth it. It is right downtown and has a rooftop with an amazing view of the city skyline. If you limit yourself to only a
Jimmy Woo
Jimmy Woo is a popular “fancy” night club in Leidseplein. It is one of the few places in the city that follows a strict dress code, but is super fun and has a cleaner atmosphere than most clubs in this area.
Club NYX
NYX is known for its drag and LGBTQ+ nights. It is a super open and welcoming club for people of all orientations and identities. It has three floors with different music, and it’s really easy to get lost in!
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What are your favorite places to go on a night out in Amsterdam? Do you enjoy the non-touristy Amsterdam nightlife or the touristy one? Let me know!
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Love,
SSW
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