Ready to discover some of the most stylish bars in Amsterdam? Spend less time planning and enjoy your visit to the iconic city when you head to any of these choice establishments.
The best bars in Amsterdam
Whether you’re searching for a dimly-lit cocktail bar for a couple of perfect drinks or a swanky rooftop spot to sip on champagne, there are plenty of places to discover in Amsterdam. Here are just a few of our favourites.
W Lounge
Conveniently situated at Amsterdam’s heart, W Lounge is one of Dam Square’s most elegant bars. The décor is modern yet cosy, with a rustic fireplace and neatly-trimmed candles helping set the scene. Attentive service and high-quality drinks make this lounge one of our go-to’s in this part of the city. Visiting in summer? There’s a beautiful terrace to enjoy when the sun’s shining. Whether you’re in Dam Square shopping or sightseeing, there’s no better choice to regather your strength.
Café Panache
This Kinkerbuurt favourite is an ideal choice for dinner and drinks combined, offering a larger restaurant area and a small bar to slip into after your meal. The décor is industrial yet cosy, with rich wood flooring and leather textures that’ll warm you up to the place from the moment you step inside. Enjoy everything you might expect from a contemporary bar, but be sure to try one of Panache’s classic cocktails before you head out.
SkyLounge
Expertly-made cocktails with sweeping views over Amsterdam? SkyLounge ticks both boxes. Enjoy beautiful views by day or glistening lights as far as the eye can see at night. This sleek, award-winning bar boasts both inside seating and an extensive, fairy-lit terrace, so you can enjoy it at any time of year.
SkyLounge is also an ideal choice for lunch or dinner, with refined menus offering something to suit everyone. As the night progresses, live DJs step out to lay down the soundtrack to your experience.
The Harbour Club
Get out of central Amsterdam and visit The Harbour Club, on the city’s Eastern Docklands. This vast restaurant is traditional yet modern, with comfortable leather seating and authentic beams creating an irresistible cosy atmosphere. The seafood and meat selection is second-to-none, making this an excellent choice for dinner and drinks combined. Or visit for a few glasses of world-class wine and watch the world go by from The Harbour Club terrace, which boasts views of the water and Eastern Docklands.
Bluespoon
On the city’s central canal belt, Bluespoon is the work of Dutch design house Moooi, with suitably stylish interiors and an atmosphere you’re sure to enjoy. Settle into a plush velvet seat and enjoy wine, fizz, spirits, or cocktails in the indulgent, relaxing atmosphere.
Tunes Bar
This striking bar screams contemporary elegance, with floor-to-ceiling bottles lit like gems from behind. The menu separates cocktails into continents, so you can sample something unique, whatever your taste or fancy. Not in the mood for cocktails? Tunes Bar’s impressive gin selection is sure to satisfy your thirst.
The best wine bars in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is known for its beer, and you should definitely look to taste some of the local export during your visit. Still, if you’re more interested in drinking fine wine, you won’t be disappointed by the city’s varied offering. Amsterdam’s best wine bars include something to suit every drinker, from sour naturals to robust reds, perfect for chilly Dutch nights.
1. GlouGlou – For natural wines and a laid-back atmosphere
2. The Library – For weekly wine tastings and small bites to compliment
3. diVino – For Mediterranean fine wine and charcuterie
4. Wester Wijnfabriek – For many wines by the bottle or glass in bright, contemporary surroundings
5. Wijnbar Paulus – For a homey atmosphere and European wines
6. Viqh – A locals favourite, traditional-style wine bar
Whatever way you spend your time in Amsterdam, make the most of your visit when choosing the city’s best bars to spend your evening hours.
Finding the perfect hotel in Amsterdam
For an exquisite Amsterdam experience, choose Sofitel Legend The Grand for your beautiful central hotel. Enjoy five-star luxury from the moment you arrive when you make this elegant Sofitel hotel your temporary home. Set between canals in the city’s heart, the hotel occupies a 15th-century building with a beautiful façade and original features throughout. For style, peace, and proximity to the best of Amsterdam, you can’t do better than Sofitel Legend The Grand.
