outdoor terraces

Like many European cities, Amsterdam embraces alfresco drinking and dining all year round. Explore the many great terraces and stop off and have a drink, from fancy rooftop bars to beach-chic water side cafes. The beauty of Amsterdam and it’s numerous canals is that many of these places sit next to the water, and some are even accessible by boat. See my top picks below. 

Waterkant

As far as bars go, this hidden gem in Amsterdam is one of my favorites. Hiding under a car park and behind a petrol station, heading into Waterkant is a strange feeling. But once inside you’ll be on a large, open, waterside terrace which enjoys full sunshine – making it a super popular spot for the locals in the summer. 

Waterkant is accessible by boat, so if you’re hiring a boat one day why not make this riverside bar one of your stop-offs!

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Hannekes Boom

Hannekes Boom is centrally located but slightly hidden from the tourist track. This bohemian hang out is constructed from reclaimed wood and salvaged materials, with a huge outdoor beer garden and a rooftop bar and terrace. 

They often have live music and DJ nights and a great drinks and snacks selection. Definitely a spot that attracts the cool crowds!

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Pllek

One of my favorite drink spots in Amsterdam, Pllek is a water-side bar/restaurant serving food and drinks from 9am till 3am. This laid back beach-side bar is located in the north of Amsterdam, easily accessible by passenger ferry which departs from the back of Centraal Station.

The best thing about Pllek is the location – it has unrivalled views over the River IJ and has plenty of bean bags, hammocks and benches facing the water. 

With a focus on sustainability, 75% of their menu is vegetarian and they use mostly local foods. It’s a perfect spot in summer – with al fresco DJ sets and open air cinema nights.

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Hangar Amsterdam

Located in Amsterdam North in an old hanger by the river-side, Hangar is a very trendy, modern, rustic-chic eatery attracting both locals and tourists. Great in summer for a drink overlooking the water, or in winter for a fancy cocktail by the bar.

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Floor 17

If you’re staying in the West of Amsterdam and love a rooftop bar, I’d definitely recommend a visit to Floor 17. Located atop a hotel in Rembrandtpark, this large bar comes complete with sunset views, cocktails, DJ sets and BBQs.

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Sky Lounge Amsterdam

One of the highest bars in Amsterdam, this rooftop bar is worth a visit for the view alone. The outdoor terrace is especially nice in summer, when you can sip on a drink whilst taking in panoramic views of the city. Sky Lounge serves a variety of cocktails, beer and wine and an all-day food menu. Great spot, but the view comes with a price…!

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Nemo Museum

Although not a place for late night drinks, the cafe at the Nemo Museum makes the list because of the views from the roof terrace. Nemo is Amsterdam’s science museum, with 5 floors of interactive exhibitions and demos. Access the roof terrace via a separate entrance and you’ll find a large, multi-leveled space with a great view. The bar closes early, so after a coffee or beer here why not head to HPS (Hiding in Plain Sight) – one of my favorite nearby cocktail bars. 

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Blauwe Theehuis

A popular outdoor terrace located in the heart of Vondelpark is Blauwe Theehuis, a great place to visit in the summer. Beer that is brewed locally by Brouwerij ‘t IJ is available – try their ‘Zatte’ or ‘Ijwit’.

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Cafe De Ceuvel ​

This quirky canal-side spot is located in a former shipyard and has a strong emphasis on sustainability. Popular with urban hippies, this cafe has become a go-to spot thanks to its delicious food, drinks and programme of pop-ups and entertainment.

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