Amsterdam's entertainment scene attracts a diverse bunch, with its bars and clubs filling up every night once the sun sets on the city.

Pub crawls in Amsterdam take you on an adventure through the city's liveliest hotspot to make new friends as you sip on shots and dance until you drop. With so many different types of tours available, everyone will find a bar crawl to suit them, whether you're looking to play drinking games or explore the city's gay bars.

Here's all you need to know about pub crawls, some of the most exciting nightlife experiences in Amsterdam.

What are the best pub crawls in Amsterdam?

Leidseplein party pub crawl

The entertainment district of Amsterdam — Leidseplein — is the most vibrant part of the city and comes to life as night falls, and thousands of lights illuminate the streets. On one of these pub crawls, you'll head to the most lively bars in the city where you'll enjoy a free drink and get acquainted with your group.

Break the ice with hilarious drinking games and as the night progresses, you'll move on to the coolest clubs in the Dutch capital where you can party until the early hours.

Red Light District pub crawl

Alternatively, you can head to the Red Light District for your pub crawl in Amsterdam. Here, you can indulge in unlimited shots with your new-found friends and walk around the city's oldest, and most historic district, checking out its nightlife.

These excursions include dance competitions and drinking games, designed to get you bonding with the other participants as you follow your guide around Amsterdam's best watering holes.

Gay bar pub crawl in Amsterdam

Alongside its heteronormative culture, Amsterdam has a thriving LGBTQIA+ scene, with plenty of bars where anyone is made to feel welcome. No matter where you come from, you'll be enveloped in love as you enter these pubs and clubs, where you can down shots, and let loose, free to be yourself.

Make like-minded friends and sing your heart out to a DJ's mix of club classics.

Which places are visited?

Leidseplein

Leidseplein is known for its dynamic entertainment scene and is where the majority of Amsterdam's bars, and clubs can be found. On top of that, you'll see street performers entertaining locals and tourists who pass through its main square on their way out for the evening.

Acts include acrobatic and break dancing, which are sure to wow you as you admire these performers' talents from a distance.

Alongside bars and clubs, Leidseplein is also home to a variety of comedy clubs, theaters, and restaurants, making it a one-stop shop for a night out in Amsterdam.

Red Light District

The Red Light District — also known as De Wallen — is the oldest part of the city and has been known as a hub for prostitution since the 14th century.

Originally a place where sex workers would appeal to sailors passing through the city, today the Red Light District is one of Amsterdam's main attractions, where tourists travel in order to see the brightly illuminated windows for themselves.

On top of this long-standing history, the Red Light District is home to numerous bars and clubs where visitors can sip on local brews, and people-watch to their heart's content.

How much do pub crawls in Amsterdam cost?

Pub crawls in Amsterdam cost between €20 and €30 per person, making it an affordable way to spend an evening in the city, and have the opportunity to make a bunch of new friends.

What is included?

Generally, bar crawls in Amsterdam include one free drink at each venue you visit. You'll normally make your way around approximately five different bars and clubs with a guide who will put you at ease, and encourage you to have fun. You can also win prizes in the drinking games that your guide sets up for the group.

Occasionally, pub crawls include unlimited shots for a set time period, such as 30 minutes, during the tour.

Where does it start?

Pub crawls in Amsterdam begin at a variety of destinations across the city, depending on which district you'll be exploring. These meeting points are always simple to locate and easily reached by public transport.

You can see the starting location of each tour before booking so that you can arrange any necessary transportation ahead of time.

How long does it last?

Amsterdam bar crawls typically last between 2 and 5.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to check out the city's party scene.

Is it safe?

Yes! Pub crawls in Amsterdam visit places that have been the favorites of locals and tourists. However, people with serious health conditions should not participate in this tour, as it involves drinking alcoholic beverages.

Are children allowed?

No. Amsterdam's legal drinking age is 18 and participants should bring a valid ID.

When is the best time for a pub crawl in Amsterdam?

While some pub crawls in Amsterdam allow you to select a time slot throughout the day, most of these excursions happen after dark when the city's bars and clubs come alive.

These Amsterdam party tours are fun to participate in throughout your trip. However, it's worth considering booking one for the final night of your trip to see your vacation off with a bang.

Are there any combos available with pub crawls in Amsterdam?

Red Light District pub crawl and boat tour

Climb aboard a vessel and make your way through the city's web of Amsterdam canals in style. Admire the plethora of attractions that line the banks of the waterways, as you sip on unlimited drinks from your open bar on this boat tour in Amsterdam.

Then, hop off your boat for an energetic tour of the city's best bars, finishing off at one of the most renowned clubs in Amsterdam for a night of drinking, dancing and all-around fun.

Which other nightlife experiences can be done in Amsterdam?

Boom Chicago in Amsterdam

Travel tips

Always keep your drink within sight to avoid being spiked.
Arrange your transportation back to your accommodation at the end of the night before you begin your tour, so as to ensure you have a safe route home even if you've had too much to drink.
People on pub crawls in Amsterdam are usually a friendly bunch, so don't be afraid to mingle and make new buddies.

Pub crawls in Amsterdam: Tickets