Amsterdam’s Hottest Terraces

For many months of the year, sunshine is a rare commodity in Amsterdam. So when the warm rays finally peek through the clouds in spring and summer, it feels like everyone in the city comes out of hiding to enjoy a drink outdoors at one of Amsterdam’s many terraces. Thanks to its northern location, Amsterdam has extra-long summer days. The sun sets at 22:00 at the start of summer. Soaking up the sun with a drink in hand is one of the city’s most popular summer pastimes, so you might not find a table at the first café you see. Be sure to have a couple options in mind before you head out the door. Here are more than enough suggestions to get you started. The city centre is bursting with outdoor options – if you know where to look.

Central Amsterdam

The city centre is bursting with outdoor options – if you know where to look. The most obvious spots are the big open squares like the Leidseplein, Rembrandtplein and Spui. But, if you’re hoping for a bit more local flavour, start exploring the side streets. For waterside views, try Café van Zuylen’s sprawling terrace on the Singel. De Jaren offers two levels of outdoor tables for great views of the Amstel, while the terrace at Zouthaven makes you feel like you’re floating in the middle of the IJ.

At the end of the Utrechtsestraat, Nel offers a peaceful escape on a beautiful square dotted with shady trees. The Nieuwmarkt is circled by bars and cafés with outdoor seating, including elegant In de Waag. Finally, the Vondelpark is a perfect destination for a long lazy afternoon. The park has four cafés with large terraces, including Vondelpark3 and ‘t Blauwe Theehuis. In the Jordaan, grab a table at ‘t Smalle, or wander around near the Noordermarkt and Lindengracht for a variety of options, including Finch, Café Thijssen of Winkel (best apple pie in town).

De Pijp & Amsterdam Zuid

The Marie Heinekenplein is stuffed with tables from a variety of cafés located right on the square. In the heart of de Pijp by the Albert Cuypmarkt, visit the Gerard Douplein for popular hangouts like De Pilsvogel or stroll over to the Krull or Sarphaat for views of the Sarphatipark. Not far from Museumplein you’ll find an expansive terrace at Wildschut or a quiet upscale oasis at The College Hotel.

Amsterdam Oost

Most notable terraces in Oost start along the Amstel River, with Café Hesp and De Ysbreeker offering the best views and the most tables. Near the Tropenmuseum, the stretch of Linnaeusstraat has a number of great options like De Biertuin and Caffe Milo. On the other side of the Oosterpark, recently redeveloped Beukenplein offers a cluster of top spots including Louie Louie and Café Maxwell. And on the far edge of Oost, stop by Brouwerij ‘t IJ or neighbouring Langendijk for a quintessential Amsterdam experience!

Amsterdam West

A sure-fire bet for a sunny day in West is the Westergasfabriek. This sprawling park and cultural area has a number of great spots for cold drinks in the sun, including Pacific Parc and WestergasTerras. On the corner of the Marnixstraat, Brandstof is always full of good-looking locals, while Loulou on the Bilderdijkstraat has tons of comfortable outdoor seating. At the start of the Postjesweg, Edel is a rare find with a waterside terrace that wraps around the building.

Amsterdam Noord

Jump on one of the free ferries to Amsterdam Noord for the best views of the IJ River. This district is hiding quite a few gems, including the EYE Filmmuseum with a long sunny terrace or Il Pecorino for Italian al fresco. By the NDSM Wharf, you’ll find the IJ-Kantine, Noorderlicht and Pllek — complete with its own urban beach.

Visit one of these hot terraces