Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl

If you’re planning a night out in Amsterdam and want to make it memorable without the hassle of figuring out where to go, the Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl might be just what you need. With a well-curated lineup of bars, a lively group atmosphere, and the promise of free shots along the way, this tour offers a lively, social way to explore the city’s famous nightlife. The tour lasts around six hours, includes VIP club entrance, and is priced at just under $28 per person, making it an attractive option for travelers on a budget.

What really stands out about this pub crawl is how it takes the stress out of planning your night. Instead of wandering aimlessly or spending precious time waiting in lines, you’ll be guided through some of Amsterdam’s best pubs and clubs by knowledgeable hosts who keep the energy high. That said, a few reviews reveal that organization can sometimes be inconsistent—cancellations or mix-ups haven’t been uncommon. The experience is best suited for solo travelers, groups of friends, or anyone eager to meet new people in a fun, inclusive environment.

Key Points

• Curated Experience: Visits to at least 3 bars with a mix of music, atmosphere, and drinks.
• Cost-Effective: Priced under $30 with included free shots and discounted drinks.
• Skip the Lines: VIP club entrance saves valuable time waiting.
• Social Atmosphere: Suitable for solo travelers and groups wanting to meet others.
• Guided by Enthusiastic Hosts: Guides like Pascal and Ludwig receive praise for their energy and friendliness.
• Variable Reviews: While many rave about the fun, some reports of cancellations or organizational issues exist.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl is designed for ease and fun. It starts at different venues depending on the night—most commonly at the Nescio Cafe & Terrace or the Waterhole, depending on the day. The meeting point is straightforward: you’ll gather at a central location, making it easy for travelers arriving from different parts of the city.

The tour lasts approximately six hours, which means you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy each venue without feeling rushed. From the moment you join, you’ll be welcomed into a lively group, often with a mix of international travelers, all eager to enjoy Amsterdam’s legendary nightlife.

Stop 1: The Waterhole Live Music Bar

The tour kicks off at The Waterhole Live Music Bar, where the vibe is usually energetic, with live music and a welcoming atmosphere. Reviewers mention that the first stop often features great music and free drinks, setting a positive tone for the night. For example, one guest shared, “the first bar was super good with great music and free drinks,” which highlights how well the experience starts.

The Pubs and Bars

As you move through the night, you’ll visit a curated selection of bars and pubs known for their vibrant ambiance. Expect to enjoy discounted drinks and free shots at each venue, which adds value to the experience. Some reviewers have mentioned that the tour guides, like Pascal and Ludwig, are especially good at choosing cool venues, making each stop both fun and memorable.

Games and Prizes

Throughout the night, lively games are organized, with chances to win prizes. This adds a playful element, encouraging mingling and interaction among the group. It’s a fantastic way to break the ice, especially for solo travelers or those new to the city.

VIP Club Entrance

The highlight is the VIP club entrance, which allows you to skip the often long lines at Amsterdam’s popular clubs. This access ensures you maximize your night rather than waiting in queues, often a crucial benefit in a city known for its lively nightlife scene. Many reviews mention how this perk makes the experience more seamless and enjoyable.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

While the tour doesn’t specify an exact list of all venues, it indicates a minimum of three stops, with the first usually at The Waterhole. The initial venue provides a chance to soak in the lively atmosphere of Amsterdam’s nightlife — expect live music, energetic crowds, and a friendly environment that sets the tone for the evening.

Following this, the group typically visits a selection of curated pubs and bars that are chosen for their atmosphere, music, and drink deals. The experience is tailored to keep the group energized, with staff like Pascal and Ludwig often praised for their enthusiasm and ability to keep the vibe lively.

The last stop generally involves access to a club, where the party continues into the early hours. The VIP entry ensures you avoid frustrating queues, a common complaint in many nightlife scenes. Some reviews highlight that the selection of venues offers a mix of music styles and environments, so there’s something for all’s taste.

What Travelers Say

Many reviewers highlight the guides’ energy and friendliness. Pascal, in particular, gets glowing reviews; one guest said, “Pascal is a great guide. We went to really cool places, first bar was super good with great music and free drinks!” Ludwig also received high praise: “He was an amazing host and the best guide ever,” according to one reviewer.

The value for money is another strong point. For about $28, you’ll get several hours of guided fun, free shots, discounted drinks, and VIP club access. A guest noted, “Good value for money, and the guides keep the party going!”

However, not all experiences are perfect. Some reviews mention organizational issues. For example, one reviewer faced a cancellation after waiting for over an hour, expressing frustration with poor communication. Another mentioned a guide who seemed distracted, leading the group to fewer venues than advertised. These hiccups suggest that while the core experience is fun, planning consistency can vary.

Group size can fluctuate, but generally, the tour seems to cater well to both solo travelers and larger groups. The inclusive environment and games help break the ice, making it easier to meet new friends amid the lively crowd.

Practical Details and Tips

Pricing: At $27.87 per person, this tour offers good value considering the length, drinks, and VIP access included. The price is relatively low for a guided night out in a city famous for nightlife.

Duration: About six hours, which is enough time to enjoy multiple venues without feeling overwhelmed. Keep in mind that the tour starts at different times depending on the day—Thursday to Saturday, it begins at the Generator Hostel Bar, while Sunday to Wednesday, it starts at The Waterhole.

Meeting Points: Easy to find, with the main meeting point at Mauritskade 57 (Nescio Cafe & Terrace). The flexible start locations help accommodate different schedules.

Weather Consideration: Since the experience is mostly outdoors and involves walking between venues, good weather is preferable. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This pub crawl is an excellent choice for solo travelers eager to meet new people or groups of friends looking for a hassle-free night out. The lively guide-led format and games foster social interaction, making it easier to connect with others. It’s also perfect for those on a budget, as it combines drinks, entertainment, and VIP access at a reasonable price.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a highly organized experience with guaranteed venues and no possibility of cancellations, this may not be the best fit. The mixed reviews about organization suggest that some nights could be less smooth than others.

Night owls will appreciate the extended hours, and music lovers will enjoy the variety of venues, from lively pubs to dance clubs. The inclusion of free shots and discounted drinks adds extra value, especially for those wanting to maximize their night without overspending.

The Sum Up

The Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl offers a lively, social way to experience the city’s renowned nightlife without the stress of planning. With curated stops, free shots, discounted drinks, and VIP club access, it delivers good value for those looking to make the most out of their evening in Amsterdam.

While organizational hiccups are not uncommon—so it’s worth managing expectations—many guests praise the guides’ enthusiasm and the friendly, party-ready atmosphere. The tour suits solo travelers, groups, and anyone eager to meet new friends while enjoying some of the best bars and clubs Amsterdam has to offer.

If you’re after a fun, social night out with minimal effort and decent value, this pub crawl could be your ideal introduction to Amsterdam’s nightlife scene.

FAQ

Is the pub crawl suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention the friendly guides and lively atmosphere that make it easy to meet new people, making it a great option for solo travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately six hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy multiple venues without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
For around $28, you get at least three bar visits, free shots, discounted drinks, and VIP club entry, which saves you time waiting in line.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing for flexibility.

Where does the tour start?
The main meeting point is at Mauritskade 57 (Nescio Cafe & Terrace) on Thursdays to Saturdays, or at The Waterhole on Sundays to Wednesdays.

Are the venues suitable for all tastes?
The curated selection aims to offer a mix of lively pubs with good music and vibrant atmospheres, but some venues may have quieter moments or less crowded times.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID, some cash or cards for additional drinks, and a good sense of humor. Dress code is casual but check local guidelines if you plan to go to clubs afterward.

Whether you’re looking to meet new friends, explore Amsterdam’s nightlife, or just enjoy a hassle-free evening, the Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl provides a lively, affordable, and social way to experience the city after dark.