Explore the Netherlands, a country of scenic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From charming villages and iconic windmills to lively cities and beautiful tulip fields, the Netherlands offers something for every traveler. Our guides cover top destinations, local experiences, and travel tips to help you discover the best this unique country has to offer.
Visit 12+ iconic film locations from Ocean’s Twelve, The Fault in Our Stars, James Bond & more – all in one weekend!
Day 1: Western Canals & Jordaan (Iconic Drama & Heists)
*Start at Central Station (8 AM) – All locations walkable/bikeable.*
Anne Frank House 📍 Prinsengracht 263 | 🎬 The Fault in Our Stars (2014) Tip: Book 9 AM entry (they sell out fast!)
Pancake Bakery 📍 Prinsengracht 191 | 🎬 Ocean’s Twelve (diner scene) + TFIOS (Hazel/Gus ate here) Eat: Dutch apple pancake while overlooking the canal
Leidsegracht Bench Spot 📍 Near Café de Prins | 🎬 The Fault in Our Stars (emotional “Okay? Okay.” scene) Photo: Sit on any bench facing the canal bridge
Singel Canal & Torensluis Bridge 📍 Near Bloemenmarkt | 🎬 Ocean’s Twelve (boat chase) + Diamonds Are Forever (Bond’s canal chase) Rent a boat 🚤 from Canal Motorboats
Huize Frankendael 📍 Middenweg 72 | 🎬 Ocean’s Twelve (“Hotel De L’Europe” facade) Tram 19 from Central Station (15 mins)
Westerkerk Church 📍 Prinsengracht 281 | 🎬 The Fault in Our Stars (Hazel’s narration spot) Climb tower for city views (€10)
Day 2: Red Light District & East (Thrillers & Classics)
Start at Nieuwmarkt (9 AM) – Use trams for longer jumps.
Oudezijds Voorburgwal Alley 📍 No. 40, Red Light District | 🎬 Ocean’s Twelve (Linus trapped) Go early to avoid crowds
Shell Tower / IJ River 📍 Amsterdam Noord | 🎬 A Clockwork Orange (dystopian scenes) Free ferry from Central Station (10 mins)
De Oranjerie Restaurant 📍 Vijzelstraat 55 | 🎬 The Fault in Our Stars (“Oranjee” dinner scene) Brunch tip: Try their high tea
Nescio Bridge 📍 East Amsterdam | 🎬 Ocean’s Twelve (aerial shots) Bike here via Flevopark
Scheepvaartmuseum Dock 📍 Maritime Museum | 🎬 Black Book (WWII boat scenes) See historic ships (€17.50 entry)
Café Hoppe 📍 Spui 18 | 🎬 Soldier of Orange (resistance meetups) End with jenever (Dutch gin) where WWII spies drank!
Key Movie Map
Location
Primary Film
Nearby
Anne Frank House
Fault in Our Stars
Pancake Bakery
Singel Canal
Ocean’s Twelve + Bond
Flower Market
Huize Frankendael
Ocean’s Twelve
Frankendael Park
Shell Tower
A Clockwork Orange
A’DAM Lookout
Red Light District
Ocean’s Twelve
Chinatown
Pro Tips for Movie Marathoners
Bike Rental: Get an OV-fiets (€4.45/day) – 80% faster than walking.
Cine Pass: Buy an I Amsterdam Card (€120/72h) – covers trams, canal cruise & Rijksmuseum.
Missable But Famous:
Diamonds Are Forever canal chase filmed near Groenburgwal.
Girl With a Pearl Earring scenes shot at Rijksmuseum (Vermeer gallery).
Dinner Twist: Eat at De Silveren Spiegel (Zwartboek filming spot) – 17th-century building with WWII spy history.
“Amsterdam’s streets are a living film reel – from Hazel’s tears on Prinsengracht to Bond’s speedboat wake on the Singel. Two days? Enough for 12 iconic scenes.”
Why This Itinerary Works for Movie Buffs
Geographic Grouping: Day 1 = West canals (TFIOS/Ocean’s 12), Day 2 = East + Red Light (Bond/Verhoeven classics).
Mix of Eras: Covers 1971–2017 films without backtracking.
Flexible: Swap Day 1/2 based on Anne Frank House ticket availability.
Ready for your close-up? Grab this map, charge your camera, and remember:
“In Amsterdam, every bridge is a scene transition.” 🎬🚲
🛏️ Where to Stay
🎬 James Bond Locations in Amsterdam
🏳️🌈 About Cramberts
From our home base in Amsterdam, we frequently explore some of Europe’s most vibrant cities, and we’ve compiled detailed guides to share our insider knowledge. Whether you’re seeking the canals and culture of Amsterdam itself, the sunny beaches of Gran Canaria, the historic charm of Lisbon and Porto, the bustling energy of Barcelona and Madrid, the refined elegance of Paris and Munich, the unique character of Sitges, or the diverse landscapes of the Randstad region, you’ll find comprehensive information and recommendations in the links below.
Note: Some of these links are affiliates which means using them won’t cost you any extra but we do receive a small commission for each referral. You’re not obligated to use them but we appreciate it if you do. Thanks in advance for supporting our site if you choose to use our links.
Trace Hazel and Gus’s poignant journey through the city that changed their lives.
Why Amsterdam Matters The city isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a symbol of freedom, love, and living fully. From the Anne Frank House’s whispered history to the canal-side bench where Hazel and Gus bared their souls, Amsterdam breathes life into the story.
Key Filming Locations & How to Visit
Anne Frank House(Prinsengracht 263)
Scene: Hazel and Gus share their first kiss.
Tips:
Book tickets 6+ weeks ahead (80% sell out; official site).
Go early/late: Less crowded at 8:30 AM or 6 PM slots.
Emotional prep: Allow 1.5 hours; no photos inside.
The “Oranjee” Restaurant(Real: De Oranjerie, Vijzelstraat 55)
Scene: The trio’s upscale dinner with Peter Van Houten.
Reality: Filmed at De Oranjerie, a chic glass conservatory with canal views.
Visit:
Brunch/Lunch (€25-40 pp) – try Dutch apple pie.
Fun fact: The “Amsterdam” sign outside was CGI-added!
Hazel & Gus’s Bench(Leidsegracht Canal, near Café de Prins)
Scene: “Okay? Okay.” emotional confession.
Location: Exact bench removed post-filming, but Café de Prins (Prinsengracht 124) marks the spot.
Photo Tip: Recreate it on nearby benches facing Leidsegracht.
Hotel Filosoof(Anna van den Vondelstraat 6)
Scene: Hazel and Gus’s hotel (filmed in Pittsburgh, but inspired by this literary-themed gem).
Morning: Anne Frank House (8:30 AM entry) → Prinsengracht walk → Bench spot at Café de Prins.
Lunch: Pancakes at The Pancake Bakery (next to Anne Frank House).
Afternoon:De Oranjerie for apple pie → Float a tribute in the Leidsegracht canal.
Evening: Sunset canal cruise with Stromma (departs near Anne Frank House).
❤️ Weekend Love Story Immersion
Day 1: Anne Frank House → Bench spot → Dinner at De Oranjerie → Evening at Westerkerch church (Hazel’s narration spot).
Day 2:
Vondelpark picnic (where Gus admits his fears).
Rijksmuseum (see Rembrandt’s The Night Watch – Gus’s favorite).
Electric Ladyland (niche glow museum – “like a literal metaphor”).
Essential Tips for Fans
Bench Alternatives: No exact replica exists, but benches at Bloemgracht or Leliegracht offer similar quiet canal magic.
Book vs. Movie: Read Ch. 12 for Hazel’s Amsterdam diary entries while sitting by a canal.
Respect: The Anne Frank House is a memorial—whisper and avoid selfies inside.
Gus’s Pipe: Buy a clove-scented candle at Bij Bijenkorf (De Dam) to smell “Amsterdam”.
“The city is still full of stars you can’t see—but Hazel and Gus’s Amsterdam? You can feel it everywhere.”
🛏️ Where to Stay
🎬 The Fault in Our Stars Trailer
🏳️🌈 About Cramberts
From our home base in Amsterdam, we frequently explore some of Europe’s most vibrant cities, and we’ve compiled detailed guides to share our insider knowledge. Whether you’re seeking the canals and culture of Amsterdam itself, the sunny beaches of Gran Canaria, the historic charm of Lisbon and Porto, the bustling energy of Barcelona and Madrid, the refined elegance of Paris and Munich, the unique character of Sitges, or the diverse landscapes of the Randstad region, you’ll find comprehensive information and recommendations in the links below.
Walk in the footsteps of George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Catherine Zeta-Jones in the Dutch capital.
Why Amsterdam? Ocean’s Twelve swapped Vegas glitz for Amsterdam’s Golden Age charm, using the city’s winding canals, cobbled lanes, and elegant architecture as the backdrop for Europe’s slickest heist. While the plot hops between cities, Amsterdam steals the show with iconic scenes you can still visit today.
Key Filming Spots & How to Find Them
(All locations are walkable or bikeable in central Amsterdam!)
The “Hotel De L’Europe” Facade
Movie Scene: Tess (Julia Roberts) arrives at the luxurious “Hotel De L’Europe” – but it’s a cinematic trick!
Reality: The exterior is actually Huize Frankendael, a 17th-century manor in East Amsterdam (Middenweg 72).
Visit Tip: Snap photos of the grand facade (now event spaces). Pair it with breakfast at Café Frankendael next door.
Weekend Bonus: Wander Frankendael Park – it’s serene and rarely touristy.
Canal Chase Sequence
Movie Scene: Basher’s (Don Cheadle) chaotic boat escape through narrow canals.
Location: Primarily filmed along the Singel Canal near Torensluis Bridge (Amsterdam’s widest bridge).
Visit Tip:
Rent a boat (€50-100/hour) to recreate the chase (sans explosions!).
Walk the Singel from Bloemenmarkt (flower market) to Café van Zuylen for canal views.
“Linus Gets Caught” Alleyway
Movie Scene: Linus (Matt Damon) trapped in a dead-end alley.
Location:Oudezijds Voorburgwal 40 in De Wallen (Red Light District).
Visit Tip: Go by day for photos – it’s quieter and photogenic with leaning gables.
Canal House Rooftop Vantage Point
Movie Scene: The crew surveilling targets from a canal house rooftop.
Location: Any canal house on Herengracht or Keizersgracht captures the vibe.
Visit Tip: Book a stay at a canal-house hotel (like Pulitzer Amsterdam) for rooftop access.
Nescio Bridge (Bonus Spot!)
Movie Scene: Brief aerial shots of modern bridges (filmed near IJ River).
Location: Cycle to Nescio Bridge in Amsterdam-Oost for futuristic skyline views.
Evening: Drinks at historic Café Hoppe (Spui 18) – a Dutch staple since 1670.
🎬 Weekend Mission (Live Like the Crew):
Day 1:
Film locations (above) + Electric Ladyland (glow-in-the-dark museum near the alley).
Dinner at De Silveren Spiegel (Michelin-starred 17th-century building).
Day 2:
Rijksmuseum (see Vermeer’s art, referenced in the heist).
Vondelpark picnic (where locals unwind).
Brouwerij ’t IJ windmill brewery for Dutch beer.
Insider Tips
Bike > Walk: Rent a bike (€10/day) – it’s faster and very Amsterdam.
Skip the “Real” Hotel De L’Europe: It’s pricey (€800+/night), but lobby cocktails are worth the splurge.
Fun Fact: The crew’s “Amsterdam” bar scenes were shot in Chicago – stick to the real deal!
Final Intel:
“Amsterdam’s beauty isn’t stolen—it’s waiting. Whether you’ve got 24 hours or 48, you’ll leave feeling like you pulled off the heist of the trip.”
Ready to channel your inner Danny Ocean? Grab sunglasses (rain or shine!), a map, and hit the canals. 🕶️🚤 Tag #OceanTwelveAmsterdam to share your heist!
🏨 Where to Stay
🎬 Ocean’s Twelve Trailer
🏳️🌈 About Cramberts
From our home base in Amsterdam, we frequently explore some of Europe’s most vibrant cities, and we’ve compiled detailed guides to share our insider knowledge. Whether you’re seeking the canals and culture of Amsterdam itself, the sunny beaches of Gran Canaria, the historic charm of Lisbon and Porto, the bustling energy of Barcelona and Madrid, the refined elegance of Paris and Munich, the unique character of Sitges, or the diverse landscapes of the Randstad region, you’ll find comprehensive information and recommendations in the links below.
Note: Some of these links are affiliates which means using them won’t cost you any extra but we do receive a small commission for each referral. You’re not obligated to use them but we appreciate it if you do. Thanks in advance for supporting our site if you choose to use our links.
Hi darling LGBT travellers! Whilst I’m not quite an Amsterdammer I’ve lived in this wonderfully progressive, chaotic, and bike-clogged city for nearly a decade now. Whether you’re here for the first time or returning to soak up some more Dutch charm, I’ve curated a two-day itinerary that celebrates Amsterdam’s queer spirit, rich culture, and unbeatable vibes. Pack your comfiest shoes and let’s go!
🌈 Getting into Town: Schiphol to City Centre
Flying into Schiphol Airport? Getting to the heart of Amsterdam is a breeze.
Train (NS): Trains to Amsterdam Centraal depart every 10 minutes. Journey time is around 15–20 minutes. 🧭 Buy tickets at:www.ns.nl or use an OV-chipkaart. 🚉 Departure point: Schiphol Plaza (follow signs after baggage claim).
Alternative: The Connexxion Bus 397 gets you to places like Museumplein and Leidseplein if your stay is more central/southwest. 🚌 Info: www.bus397.nl
🛏️ Where to Stay (LGBTQ+ Friendly)
Hotel Mercier
Situated in the Jordaan neighbourhood with vintage charm and queer-friendly vibes. 📍 Address: Rozenstraat 12, 1016 PX 🌐 www.hotelmercier.nl
Or if you’re on a budget:
The Generator Amsterdam (trendy hostel in a former zoological university building!)
Fuel up with a top-notch brunch in a serene garden setting. LGBTQ+ friendly and sustainably focused. 📍 Address: Nieuwe Herengracht 18a, 1018 DP Amsterdam 🌐 eatwelldoelgood.nl
Transport Tip: From Centraal, take Metro 51, 53, or 54 to Waterlooplein, then it’s a short walk.
12:00 – Visit the Homomonument and Anne Frank House
Pay tribute to LGBTQ+ lives lost in WWII at the world’s first gay monument. Walk along the canal to the Anne Frank House — deeply moving and essential.
📍 Homomonument: Westermarkt, 1016 DK 📍 Anne Frank House: Prinsengracht 263–267 🌐 annefrank.org (Book well in advance)
15:00 – Coffee & People-Watching at Soho or ‘t Mandje
Amsterdam’s LGBTQ+ café scene is thriving. Try:
Soho – Classic gay bar in Reguliersdwarsstraat 📍 Reguliersdwarsstraat 36 🌐 sohoamsterdam.com
Café ‘t Mandje – One of the oldest queer bars in the world! 📍 Zeedijk 63, 1012 AS 🌐 cafetmandje.amsterdam
20:00 – Dinner at De Kas (Fine dining in a greenhouse)
For a splurge-worthy experience, head to De Kas for farm-to-table magic. 📍 Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3, 1097 DE Amsterdam 🌐 restaurantdekas.com
Getting there: Tram 19 to Hogeweg, walk 5 minutes.
22:00 – Night Out in Club Church or Club NYX
Two of the most beloved queer venues in the city.
Club Church – Sexy, themed, unapologetically wild. Older crowd. 📍 Kerkstraat 52, 1017 GM 🌐 clubchurch.nl
Club NYX – Three floors of dance, pop, drag, and neon joy. Younger crowd. 📍 Reguliersdwarsstraat 42 🌐 clubnyx.nl
🚲 Day 2: Arts, Parks & Queer Stories
10:30 – Vondelpark Picnic & Stroll
Pick up coffee and snacks from Coffee Concepts (📍Jacob Obrechtstraat 5) and head into Vondelpark. On a sunny day, you’ll spot locals lounging, couples smooching, and queer families walking their dogs.
12:30 – Drag Brunch at The Queen’s Head
Catch some of the best local queens over mimosas and Dutch bitterballen. 📍 Zeedijk 20, 1012 AZ 🌐 queenshead.nl
14:30 – Rijksmuseum or Moco Museum
If you love classics: Rijksmuseum for Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Dutch Golden Age drama. 📍 Museumstraat 1 🌐 rijksmuseum.nl
For modern & queer-friendly pop culture art: Moco Museum 📍 Honthorststraat 20 🌐 mocomuseum.com
Tip: Both museums are reachable by Tram 2 or 12 to Museumplein.
17:00 – LGBTQ+ Book Browsing at Boekhandel Vrolijk(Queer Bookstore in the Heart of Amsterdam)
For a cozy, inspiring literary stop, head to Boekhandel Vrolijk, Amsterdam’s most beloved LGBTQ+ bookstore. They stock queer fiction, non-fiction, poetry, zines, and art books — mostly in Dutch and English — and the staff are warm, knowledgeable, and always up for a recommendation.
Located just behind Dam Square, this spot also gives you a chance to stroll through the city center or grab a coffee at nearby de Koffieschenkerij in the Oude Kerk courtyard.
20:00 – Sunset Drinks at Bar Buka (Lesbian-owned, all welcome)
Wrap it all up with cocktails at this easygoing queer gem. 📍 Eerste Constantijn Huygensstraat 60 🌐 barbuka.nl
🏁 Before You Go…
Amsterdam is one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly cities on earth, but like anywhere, staying alert and aware at night (especially outside the center) is smart. Dutch people are direct but kind, and most speak English fluently.
Need to get back to Schiphol? Reverse your train or bus route — give yourself 1 hour of wiggle room for check-in.
Final Tips:
✅ Download the 9292 app for real-time public transport planning ✅ Get an OV-chipkaart or buy digital tickets via www.gvb.nl ✅ Want to bike? Rent from MacBike: macbike.nl
More Accomodation Options
Happy travels! 🌈💛
– Love from Amsterdam, your local LGBTQ+ insiders
🏳️🌈 About Cramberts
From our home base in Amsterdam, we frequently explore some of Europe’s most vibrant cities, and we’ve compiled detailed guides to share our insider knowledge. Whether you’re seeking the canals and culture of Amsterdam itself, the sunny beaches of Gran Canaria, the historic charm of Lisbon and Porto, the bustling energy of Barcelona and Madrid, the refined elegance of Paris and Munich, the unique character of Sitges, or the diverse landscapes of the Randstad region, you’ll find comprehensive information and recommendations in the links below.
Note: Some of these links are affiliates which means using them won’t cost you any extra but we do receive a small commission for each referral. You’re not obligated to use them but we appreciate it if you do. Thanks in advance for supporting our site if you choose to use our links.
Yes, Amsterdam is amazing. Yes, we really live like this all the time. Things to know if you are thinking of moving…
– Visa First up. Can you move here? Do you need a visa? You can skip this step if you are an EU National. It’s not possible to live/work permanently in the Netherlands without a valid visa if you are a non-EU national. You have to figure out a valid visa relevant to your stay before your move here. It’s a lot more complicated but not impossible and I didn’t mention the B word but yeah that sucks. More information at the official website (In English).
– Getting a job Okay so you can work here but do you speak Dutch? If not don’t worry many offices operate in English particularly the larger international organisations like Booking.com. So check out these larger employers. Booking.com Uber Netflix Adidas Nike PVH Heineken ING Group TomTom Adyen Philips AkzoNobel Randstad Takeaway.com (Just Eat Takeaway)
– Housing Next up is accommodation. You need somewhere to stay! Yeah for some people this is more complicated than the actual visa step. Renting is one of the top news topics it seems every month. Especially during student season when you will be competing with the influx of international students. The first thing to note is nothing is too far away so don’t think you need to live in the canal ring of Amsterdam to enjoy living here. I recommend a makelaar (real estate agent) and we have used Yael for both rental and buying and recommend her without hesitation. It will make your move much easier and is worth every cent. https://www.urbanhomies.com/services/expat-housing/ Check out Funda or Pararius for an idea of prices and availability. Keep a note of the things you like and share with your makelaar so they have an idea of what you want. Note to our American friends yes apartments are small. No you aren’t misreading the prices.
– Registering BSN – Social security number There is a weird catch-22 that you need a BSN to get a bank account and you can’t be paid without a bank account but you can’t get a job without a BSN. You need to register for a BSN and also register with the local authority (Gemeente). All of which is easy (so long as you aren’t in peak student season). One thing to note is you need your birth certificate and it needs to be apostilled. More details at the official Amsterdam site (a simple google search for other cities have the same information).
Bank account ABN Amro allow you open an account without a BSN at their expat centre in Leidseplein. Make an appointment, bring your important details such as your passport and BSN (Citizen Service Number) given by your Gemeente and they will do it all for you. Other popular “high street” banks in the Netherlands include ING and Rabobank. If you travel often or you just prefer to use online more then you can choose one of the newer online banks like Revolut, bunq or N26.
30% ruling This is controversial. It’s essentially a tax break for foreigners. Naturally some locals hate it. Anyway if you qualify you should apply for it. More information on the official government website.
Health Insurance Everybody who lives in the Netherlands by law needs to have minimum basic healthcare insurance (around €130 a month). This must be taken out within 4 months of registering (if non-EU) and within 1 year but importantly either way once you have a job, you must pay straight away). There is a price comparison at independer.nl but ultimately they are all very similar. Read more at https://www.independer.nl/zorgverzekering/info/health-insurance/system/basic-health-insurance
Register with a GP (Huisarts) On the subject of health you also should register with a GP before you need one. Also with a pharmacy. The pharmacy part is kind of weird and if you are looking for something specific like PrEP then you should shop around. Some are much more expensive than others. You can always get a prescription for a different pharmacy though if you ask. Anyway just know you can shop around. The GP part is easier and to do this you should go to the reception desk of your local practice and take your ID, health insurance details and BSN number with you. Here you will be assigned a doctor. If you have specific needs then I’d say ask in one of the many expat groups on facebook or similar.
Bike Get a bike or rent a bike. Either way it makes whichever city you’ve moved to much smaller. Rent one with none of the maintenance hassle from swapfiets.
Dutch weather It rains. A lot. Don’t move at the start of winter if you can help it or you may need counselling. https://www.buienradar.nl/ – check if it’s about to pour down before you hop on your bike.
Shopping (online and offline) Okay so the Dutch like to keep it Dutch even if it’s not as good as something not Dutch. So Amazon never really made it here but there is an equivalent – bol.com Also online just like offline we like a discount (korting) so checkout https://nl.pepper.com/ Supermarkets offer prices that you might not pay at the till unless you have a loyalty card. So sign up for them all. Albert Heijn and Jumbo are probably the largest supermarkets but for more organic fare then there is also EkoPlaza and Marqt. Note: Less so in the last couple of years but as a lot of the stores are franchises some stores don’t accept credit cards or international cards but they will have an ATM to take out cash.
Most of the gay bars (homohoreca) in Amsterdam (in no particular order) grouped by location – also available on google maps and check out the events page on iamsterdam (Milkshake and Pride are two of the main events). Club nights like Bear Bash, Bear Necessity or Furball etc are not listed so check out Tom’s guide or Patroc. Our friends also run a club night in Amsterdam (and now London too) at The Eagle called Bear Bash.
Most Friday evenings we will be found on Reguliersdwarsstraat usually outside of Taboo or Blend for informal drinks or as the locals like to call vrijmibo which is a Dutch short for “Vrijdagmiddagborrel,” which loosely translates to “Friday afternoon drinks.” In the summer we also tend to meet at Marineterrein AKA the gay beach. Bring snacks, drinks and a blanket to sit on and watch Amsterdammers unwind and swim and get drunk in the marine base near Kattenburg. Further afield is Nieuwe Meer which is an official cruising spot in Park de Oeverlanden.
When WorldPride is held in Europe, it is traditionally also designated as that year’s EuroPride. This was the case in London in 2012, Madrid in 2017, Copenhagen in 2021, and will be again in Amsterdam in 2026. So 2026 is going to be a big year for Gay Amsterdam from 25 July to 8 August 2026. More information at World Pride. See also events.
XXX – signifies the bar has a dark room or is otherwise a sex positive venue.
This is the current “gay street” of Amsterdam. reguliers.net
Taboo + Taboo Kantine –
Reguliersdwarsstraat 4 taboobar.nl Busy bar especially for the after work crowd on a Friday but with a few recent price hikes make sure you don’t go crazy.
Blend + Blend XL –
Reguliersdwarsstraat 41 barblend.nl Next door to Taboo and same kind of crowd. XL is opposite next to SoHo
This used to be much more gay but now only a few stalwarts remain. Although Café Montmartre has reopened recently and Brug is under new ownership so there is hope.
Nate’s – (formerly Brug34)
Utrechtsestraat 19 nate.amsterdam – (formerly brug34.nl) Great bar with a large terrace that gets the evening sunshine so great for after-work beers and the staff are super friendly. (December 2024 under new ownership still LGBT but rebranding as Nate).
Free Willie – (PAID entry ) – – XXX
Amstel 178 freewillie.nl The newest gay bar. Mostly a naked bar. From the Club Church team.
Lellebel –
Utrechtsestraat 4H lellebel.nl Queer bar which is small but fun. They recently moved focus of Lellebel towards building a safe environment for the Queer/Trans community so support it.
Café Montmartre –
Reguliersdwarsstraat 129 – NEW ADDRESS cafemontmartre.nl Please note new address – was closed for a few months but reopened in new location. Very traditional gay bar with Dutch music and eurotrash. And in the new bar the ceiling is dotted with 18 glittering chandeliers…
Zeedijk 20 (Oudezijds Kolk) queenshead.nl Friendly little bar where you can have a nice drink and a chat. Get there early for the booth with the canal views.
Warmoesstraat 90 eagleamsterdam.com (sometimes PAID entry ) Ring the bell for entry. Not for the faint-hearted 😉 Usually, no cover unless there is an event.
Dirty Dicks – – XXX
Warmoesstraat 86 dirtydicksamsterdam.com (sometimes PAID entry ) Usually, no cover unless there is an event.
Kerkstraat 4HS spijkerbar.nl Pool, Bingo, Disney + Porn in addition to naked Tuesdays what more could you ask for? Oh super friendly staff that’s what. . A small dark room upstairs provides a discreet area to enjoy new friends, and its location just two minutes down the road from Club Church make it a great warm up spot. Not as large a “play” area as some of the other bars with “play” areas but hey that can sometimes be fun right…
Club Church – (PAID entry ) – – XXX
Kerkstraat 52 (Leidsestraat) clubchurch.nl Also not for the faint-hearted (paid entry and allegedly very cruisy). Expect club nights like Furball to sell out and even with tickets arrive in good time or you will be joining a 1 out 1 in line outside
Taboo Kantine Amsterdam – Iain Croll
Jordaan
Saarein
Elandsstraat 119 saarein2.nl Neighbourhood LGBT+ friendly bar.
Oost
Lola (The Green Aardvark) –
Mauritskade 100 A-h lolathegreenaardvark.nl Another large terrace great in the summer and they do good food too
West
Pamela –
Jacob van Lennepstraat 86H pamela.amsterdam Local neighbourhood queer cafe bar
Gay Events in Amsterdam
Pride Amsterdam Amsterdam Pride is a multifaceted celebration that transforms the city into a vibrant hub of LGBTQIA+ culture. At its heart lies the world-famous Canal Parade, a truly extraordinary event that draws over 300,000 enthusiastic spectators. Unlike traditional street parades, this spectacle unfolds on Amsterdam’s iconic canals, with elaborately decorated boats gliding along the waterways. These floating stages showcase a diverse array of performers and themes, from dazzling dancers and flamboyant drag queens to leather-clad bears and representatives of various LGBTQIA+ organizations.
Beyond the Canal Parade, Amsterdam Pride encompasses a week-long program of events, including street parties that spill into the city’s charming neighborhoods, electrifying club nights that keep the energy high until dawn, and the uniquely entertaining Drag Queen Olympics. This city-wide celebration embodies Amsterdam’s reputation as one of the most open and progressive cities on the planet, where diversity is embraced and celebrated.
It’s important to note the distinction between Amsterdam Pride, the overall LGBTQIA+ festival, and the Canal Parade, which is its most iconic event. While the Canal Parade is the visual centerpiece, Amsterdam Pride encompasses a broad range of cultural and activist events that contribute to the festival’s significance. Dates for 2025: 26 July – 3 August 2025
King’s Day – Takes place in April every year on the same date in honour of the Dutch King’s birthday. The main activities during the day are drinking and markets (it’s a whole thing) and are followed by a orange-inspired night with many parties across the city with everyone dressed in orange! Dates: 26 April, 2026.
Milkshake Festival A huge LGBQIA+ focused, outdoor music and dance festival held in July in Westerpark. This Milkshake definitely brings all the boys to the yard! Dates for 2025: 26 – 27 July, 2025.
All of these bars have permanently closed a couple have rebranded as new LGBT bars but most are no longer LGBT.
Amstel 54 – – PERMANENTLY CLOSED Amstel 54 €10 to spin the wheel and you might win shots or drinks or lose it all! Not as much fun or as gay as it used to be (I sadly predicted it would be the next on this list of closed venues).
Queers – – PERMANENTLY CLOSED Amstel 60 A cozy bar along the Amstel strip from Amstel 54 and Fame. Drag Bingo and Sunday afternoon snacks.
Fame – PERMANENTLY CLOSED Amstel 50 Fun bar in the aread near Queers, Monmartre and Amstel 54.
Club YOLO – PERMANENTLY CLOSED Amstel 178 Late bar. Now opened as Free Willie.
De Engel – PERMANENTLY CLOSED Zeedijk 21 with a friendly and open attitude, a mixed crowd of all ages and styles, with a nice established terrace. CLoseby to the Queen’s Head.
Getto – PERMANENTLY CLOSED Warmoesstraat 51 Bar/Restaurant with drag insired menu. The team have now opened Lola (The Green Aardvark).
Amsterdam is renowned for its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, with a wide array of gay bars that cater to diverse tastes and offer something for everyone. Iconic spots like Prik are popular for their welcoming atmosphere and delicious cocktails, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists. For those who enjoy a more lively scene, Soho on Reguliersdwarsstraat is known for its stylish decor and energetic vibe. If you’re looking for a classic Dutch experience, Café ’t Mandje is one of the oldest gay bars in the city, steeped in history and character. While these bars are fantastic places to experience Amsterdam’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, it’s worth noting that their popularity means they can get quite busy, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly to fully enjoy what they have to offer.
Hotels nearby or that are recommended – we used to recommend the Doubletree Hilton by the station and the Amrath which are both lovely hotels but not super close to us (10 min walk) and not super close to the bars (15-20 min walk) or places we go so… Also you will probably see a great deal on a hotel and think it’s worth saving the €35 a night but trust us it’s easier to get a hotel within the S100 (M25 for you londoners) otherwise you will spend a lot of your weekend walking or on a tram. It’s fine if you are local or have a bike otherwise pay the extra and enjoy the weekend. Nearby | Rembrandtplein | Map | Trivago | Booking.com | Hotels.com
Nearby (Valkenburgerstraat)
There are four on our street listed here by their ratings in order of best to least best according to people who have booked on tripadvisor. Monet Garden (Nice #44 out of 417 ratings) Holiday Inn Express (Average #64 out of 417 ratings) Motel One (Average #72 out of 417 ratings) Ibis (Basic #131 out of 417 rating). Ibis though is also cheaper than the other 3 usually so take your pick biertjes or nice room!
Amstel 144, 1017 AE edenhotelamsterdam.com Booking.com The always reliable Eden hotel near Rembrandtplein is only a few minutes from us and unlike the ones on our street closer to many of the bars. It’s had a refurb during covid time so the prices may be a little higher than you remember.
Note: Some of these links are affiliates, which means using them won’t cost you any extra but we do receive a small commission for each referral. You’re not obligated to use them but we appreciate it if you do. Thanks in advance for supporting our site if you choose to use the link.
You can book a lot of places using ‘The Fork‘ listed in no particular order. € is approximate in case that wasn’t clear and you can save €20 off your first booking with this link or using this code 7C90F385
In no particular order – so check the map if you are looking for a particular location or something near your hotel. We also have a more comprehensive list on google maps which may have some new favourites that have not made it onto this page yet. It’s also worth noting that some we absolutely will not put on this page since we don’t want to publicise them too much for fear of the ‘influencer death’ that impacts so many lovely Amsterdam spots. We of course will recommend them to you though as they are not a secret just some local gems.
Asian | Aziatisch
A Fusion – €€ Zeedijk 130, 1012 BC https://a-fusion.nl/ | Book on The Fork and use code 7C90F385 Asian restaurant that has a Michelin Bib Gourmand 6-course shared dining menu.
Mojo Japanese Kitchen – €€ Oosterdokskade 133, 1011 DL http://mo-jo.eu Again sounds dodgy – all-you-can-eat sushi – but is delicious!
Restaurant Puri Mas – €€ – CLOSED Lange Leidsedwarsstraat 37-41, 1017 NG http://www.purimas.nl/ Nice Indonesian with a great ‘rice table’ set menu.
Sampurna – €€ Singel 498, 1017 AX https://www.sampurna.com/ Despite its very tourist location this is a great local gem. Rijstafel is a great option.
Shisho – €€€ Rembrandtplein 47, 1017 CT https://www.shiso.nl/ Sounds dodgy – all-you-can-eat sushi – but is fantastic and more ‘central’ than MoJo
Thaise Snackbar Bird – €€ Zeedijk 77, 1012 AS http://www.thaibird.nl/ Nice but no reservations and usually a queue – small tiny and a quick dirty meal rather than a casual night out.
The Cottage – €€ Linnaeusstraat 88, 1092 CP https://www.thecottage.amsterdam/ A taste of the UK in NL. Sunday Roast but book well in advance it’s a small popular place.
Dutch | Nederlands
Van Beeren – €€ Koningsstraat 54, 1011 EW http://eetcafevanbeeren.nl Great neighbourhood bar/food place with a garden in the summer but best to book as it can get busy.
Brug 34 – €€ Utrechtsestraat 19, 1017 VH http://www.brug34.nl/ Lovely for Sunday Brunch in the summer on the terrace. Nice Gay bar in the evenings.
Kaagman & Kortekaas – €€€ Sint Nicolaasstraat 43, 1012 NJ http://www.kaagmanenkortekaas.nl/ A delicious set menu restaurant with no decisions needed except how many courses and if you want cheese or not!
De Kas – €€€€ Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3, 1097 DE http://www.restaurantdekas.nl/ A greenhouse with a fascinating history is now a restaurant using ingredients grown on-site.
Frenzi – €€ Zwanenburgwal 232, 1011 JH http://www.frenzi-restaurant.nl/ Nice little neighbourhood cafe. Good for a bottle of wine at sundown or a meal or a casual brunch at the weekend.
French | Frans
Bistro Neuf – €€€ Haarlemmerstraat 9, 1013 EH https://bistrotneuf.nl/ Amazing – one of our go-to places when family are in town.
Incanto – €€€ Amstel 2, 1017 AA http://www.restaurant-incanto.nl/ Nice but pricey italian sesonal food. Great for groups as it has a private dining area.
Oocker – €€€ Frederiksplein 29h, 1017 XL http://www.oockeramsterdam.nl/ Tapas sized bites and some mains. Small food menu. Large wine menu.
Foodhallen – €€ Bellamyplein 51, 1053 AT http://foodhallen.nl/ Does what it says on the tin, a hall filled with food. Think of a food court but better food and drinks.
The Seafood Bar – €€ Spui 15, 1012 WX https://www.theseafoodbar.com/ If you love seafood then the platter is amazing! Otherwise kibbeling from a stall will be cheaper 😉
Bridges – €€€€ Oudezijds Voorburgwal 197, 1012 EX https://www.bridgesrestaurant.nl/ | Book on The Fork and use code 7C90F385 Located in Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam. Slightly more upmarket than many of the other offerings on this list but they have a great tasting menu and a lovely cocktail bar (see Oriole below) for a pre-drink.
Oriole – – €€€€ Oudezijds Voorburgwal 197, 1012 EX http://www.oriolebistro.nl/ Fancy hotel restaurant and cocktail bar. Located in Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam. The Mystic Garden is delicious. Also a cocktail bar and there is a courtyard in the summer for brunches.
Wolf Atelier – €€€ Westerdoksplein 20, 1013 AZ https://www.wolfatelier.nl/en Great set menu and a lovely experience from the menu box through to the desserts.
Graphite – €€€€ Paardenstraat 15III, 1017 CX https://graphite.amsterdam | Book on The Fork and use code 7C90F385 More formerly known as “Graphite by Peter Gast”. A speakeasy Michelin star restaurant with reservations essential.
Box Sociaal – €€ Plantage Middenlaan 30A, 1018 DG https://www.boxsociaal.com/menu/ Sunny, vibrant outpost for Australian-inspired global brunches & burgers, plus wine & local coffee.
Febo – € Various locations febo.nl LOLS – great for the stumble home after drinks.
Amsterdam is home to an array of fantastic restaurants that offer a diverse culinary experience, from cosy local eateries to innovative fine dining. Some standout options include Foodhallen, a vibrant indoor food market perfect for sampling a variety of dishes, and De Kas, known for its farm-to-table concept in a stunning greenhouse setting. For those who enjoy traditional Dutch cuisine, Moeders is a beloved spot celebrating hearty home-cooked meals. While these places are excellent choices, we might hesitate to recommend them too widely, as they are local favorites and could easily become overcrowded with tourists, potentially diminishing the unique, authentic experience they offer. It’s worth noting that while these restaurants are exceptional, their charm is partly due to their current balance of local and visitor patrons.
There is a map below and the list is broadly Memorials then Museums and other stuff like boat trips. Don’t forget there is a lot more to the Netherlands than Amsterdam. If you are here for a few days or have been here before consider venturing outside the city. This is a list of some of the top culture in Amsterdam.
Prinsengracht 263-267 (Westermarkt) https://www.annefrank.org/en/ Book early as this is one of the most visited sites in Amsterdam and books up well in advance. The building is located on the Prinsengracht, close to the Westerkerk. You experience her story through an audio tour, quotes, photos, videos, and original items. Important: The Anne Frank House can only be visited with an online ticket for a specific date and time. Book online here https://www.annefrank.org/en/museum/tickets/
Weesperstraat and Nieuwe Herengracht https://www.holocaustnamenmonument.nl/en/home/ (Free) Seventy years after the Second World War, more than 102,000 victims of the Holocaust have their own memorial.
Shadow Bank/De Schaduwkade –
Nieuwe Keizersgracht 1, 1018 DS http://www.schaduwkade.nl/ (Free) Monument to murdered jews who lived in the houses opposite the memorial.
Stolperstein
All over the city and country https://stichting-stolpersteine.nl/ Stolperstein (stumble stones) are brass stones which commemorate the victims of National Socialism during the Second World War. The brass Stolpersteine are placed in the pavement for the last home of the victims.
Museumplein https://www.rijksmuseum.nl The Rijksmuseum is the museum of the Netherlands. The completely renovated Rijksmuseum tells the story of the Netherlands from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Frans Hals, and more! Most famous is Rembrandt’s masterpiece the Night Watch.
Van Gogh Museum (The Sunflower guy) –
Museumplein https://www.vangoghmuseum.com/en Book early as this along with Anne Frank Huis is one of the most visited sites in Amsterdam and books up. Discover the world’s largest collection of works by Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh, featuring masterpieces such as Sunflowers.
Stedelijk (Museum of Modern Art) –
Museumplein https://www.stedelijk.nl/en The Stedelijk Museum is an international institution in Amsterdam dedicated to modern and contemporary art and design.
Oosterdok 2 https://www.nemosciencemuseum.nl/en/ Worth it for the roof cafe and views alone! The largest science museum of the Netherlands you will find proof that science and technology can be captivating for all ages.
The National Maritime Museum/Het Scheepvaartmuseum –
Amstel 51 https://www.hartmuseum.nl/ This museum houses collections from other museums like the Amsterdam Museum, the Rijksmuseum etc and used to be twinned with the Russian Museum Hermitage but of course no more hence the rebrand. In addition, the Hermitage H’Art Museum Amsterdam provides spaces for smaller exhibitions, such as the annual winner of the ABN AMRO Art Award.
Tropen Museum –
Linnaeusstraat 2 https://www.tropenmuseum.nl/ The Tropenmuseum is a museum of world cultures, housed in one of the most impressive museum buildings in the Netherlands. From the monumental Great Hall there is a wide view of what the museum has to offer. It has some great temporary exhibitions too so check the website for more.
Museum Het Schip –
Oostzaanstraat 45, Amsterdam https://www.hetschip.nl/ Iconic 1919 apartment building with a museum displaying works by the Amsterdam School, plus a cafe.
NXT (Digital exhibition) –
Asterweg 22, 1031 HP https://www.nxtmuseum.com Nxt Museum is the first museum in the Netherlands dedicated to new media art.
Grachtenmuseum (The Museum of the Canals) –
Herengracht 386, 1016 CJ https://grachten.museum/ History of Amsterdam’s canals through films & audio & interactive exhibits in a waterside museum.
A’dam Tower (swings and beers on the top of a tower) –
Overhoeksplein 5 1031 KS https://www.adamlookout.com/ A’DAM LOOKOUT is an observation deck with an unrivalled panoramic view of Amsterdam. Also it has SWINGS that go out over the roof.
Zaanse Schans (Windmills, chocolate and clogs) –
Kalverringdijk Schansend, Kraaienest, 1509 AZ Zaandam http://zaanseschans.com/ Riverside village with traditional windmills & workshops making wooden clogs, cheese & pewter goods.
Stationsweg 166A 2161 AM Lisse https://keukenhof.nl/ The most beautiful spring garden in the world! (allegedly). Open in Spring usually March/April/May and best usually end April/May. Important: It gets busy so midweek is best and you can only buy tickets online.
Amsterdam Light Festival (December/January) –
Amsterdam Light Festival is light art festival in the city centre of Amsterdam. National and international artists are invited and called upon to create a light artwork for the festival. This year Amsterdam Light Festival will illuminate the city for the eleventh time in a row. The route can be experienced by foot, bike or by boat. Ticket sales start in the autumn. https://amsterdamlightfestival.com/
We love a boat trip and rather than take an organised tour boat if you are up for it you can hire a boat (or ask us if we are free and we will join you). This way you can cruise around and bring your own food and drink like a picnic. Or if you want to waste your hire time you can moor up near one of the bars on the water like Hannekes Boom.
Adam’s Boats –
Mauritskade 3 (Centrum) https://adamsboats.com/ Can fit up to 10 so is a little more expensive than Mokumboot. No supermarket nearby the pick-up location so buy your snacks and drinks before you get there. Important: If it is going to be remotely warm the weekend you are here then you should reserve a boat before you get here. letsbook.adamsboats.com
Mokumboot –
Mauritskade 1 (Centrum) – More locations available including Nassaukade 351 (Centrum) Can fit up to 6 so is a less expensive that but if you want a larger group or more space then Adam’s is the way forward. No supermarket nearby the Mauritskade pick-up location so buy your snacks and drinks before you get there. Important: If it is going to be remotely warm the weekend you are here then you should reserve a boat before you get here. https://mokumbootverhuur.nl/
Bridges
Yeah, I am a little obsessed with the number of bridges in Amsterdam crossing the canals. So yeah feel free to also check out my obsession. https://bridges.cramberts.com
The Randstad (AKA “Round”, “Rim” or “Edge” City) is a roughly crescent-shaped urban area in the Netherlands, primarily made up of the four largest Dutch cities (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht). Whilst Amsterdam is the capital and largest city there is plenty to do in what is basically one larger city area (yeah okay it’s not one city but you can get from Amsterdam to Utrecht in 30 minutes and it takes about the same from Balham to Soho so… Public transport is also efficient and inexpensive compared to most other countries. There is no need to buy an advance saver return for a specific train 3 months in advance here. Turn up and go. Amsterdam to Utrecht is € 8.80 and you can plan trips and book tickets on 9292.nl or you can also pay as you go with a debit or credit card.
Rotterdam | The Hague | Delft | Utrecht | Further The second city of the Netherlands. Rotterdam Port needs no introduction but maybe the cultural and artistic side of the city does. There is plenty to see and do but some of the highlights we loved are below.
Those crazy yellow cubes that no one could possibly live in because the walls are the wrong way around! Don’t believe us? Then visit one. Overblaak 70, 3011 MH, Rotterdam kubuswoning.nl
Rotterdam | The Hague | Delft | Utrecht | Further The Hague is the third-largest city in The Netherlands, after Amsterdam and Rotterdam, and it is most notably the seat of the government for The Netherlands
Rotterdam | The Hague | Delft | Utrecht | Further Small by comparison to it’s neighbours The Hague and Rotterdam but world renowned for it’s blue and white pottery. Worth a day trip if you have more than a weekend and you are interested in pottery.
Royal Delft Museum –
Part museum and part factory tour the Royal Delft Museum showcases pottery from 1654 when the factory opened through to the new patterns and styles including Miffy collaborations. Important: If you want to paint a plate or tile you really need to book the workshop a few days in advance. Rotterdamseweg 196, 2628 AR Delft museum.royaldelft.com/en/
Rotterdam | The Hague | Utrecht | Further Not as large as Amsterdam or Rotterdam and not as influential as the Hague yet still has a lot to offer for a day trip from Amsterdam. They also have their own canal pride which is much earlier than Amsterdam and is also fun and the whole city seems to celebrate.
Domtoren –
The cathedral tower can be seen from A’dam Tower in Amsterdam on a clear day (that’s how close the cities are and how flat the Netherlands is). Domplein 21, 3512 JC Utrecht domtoren.nl
Rotterdam | The Hague | Delft | Utrecht | Further Not really close to anything but worth a trip if you are here for more than a weekend or you have been here before or you have just moved here.
Binnenpad 54, 8355 BT Giethoorn giethoornvillage.com “Venice of the Netherlands” overstates it a little but it’s a quaint little village with only canals and every year, 1 million people visit Giethoorn so expect it to be busy.
De Bruggen van Europa | The Bridges of Europe at Spijkenisse – Iain Croll
The Hague, often referred to as the “International City of Peace and Justice,” is the political heart of the Netherlands. Home to the Dutch government and the royal family, it boasts a rich history intertwined with modern governance and international diplomacy. The city’s elegant boulevards, world-class museums, and pristine beaches make it a unique blend of cultural sophistication and coastal charm.
Rotterdam is the Netherlands’ vibrant, modern metropolis known for its innovative architecture and bustling port, one of the largest in the world. The city is a hub of contemporary art, cutting-edge design, and diverse culinary scenes. With its dynamic skyline, thriving nightlife, and a blend of historical and avant-garde attractions, Rotterdam offers an energetic and cosmopolitan experience.
Utrecht is a picturesque and historic city that combines a charming old town with a youthful, lively atmosphere, thanks in part to its large student population. Its scenic canals, medieval architecture, and cozy cafes create an inviting and relaxed ambiance. As a cultural and academic center, Utrecht offers a wealth of museums, theaters, and festivals, making it a vibrant and engaging place to visit.
Delft is a quaint and historic city renowned for its charming canals, beautiful medieval architecture, and the iconic blue and white Delftware pottery. The birthplace of the famous painter Vermeer, Delft exudes a timeless charm with its narrow streets, lively market squares, and significant historical landmarks. It is a serene and picturesque destination, perfect for those seeking a blend of history, art, and tranquility.
