Amsterdam's 5 Best Waterside Bars

When the sun comes out, the only place you want to be in Amsterdam is by the water. Not difficult considering Amsterdam is a city built on water. But there are some hidden gems that you don't want to miss on a sunny day. Read on to find out about Amsterdam's best waterside bars.

An article curated with ❤ and 🍺for PartyWith, the free app that connects people who love to party. Hi, I’m Izzy and I used to work with the amazing PartyWith team in Amsterdam. Today I write for them on Itinari, sharing my best tips about nightlife in Europe. My goal is to connect people one party at a time. So join me on the app and let’s go dancing💃!

Hannekes Boom

This bar is a local favourite, situated close to the central station but hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. This colourful bar is surrounded by water, with plenty of character, outdoor seating and the chilled out vibes you want on a sunny afternoon. Hannekes Boom is also my favourite place to chill after a wild night out in the city or for a lazy Sunday brunch. I also mentioned Hannekes Boom in my article about the Best Bars to Cure your Hangover in Amsterdam.

© Photo courtesy by Hannekes Boom

Waterkant

In Dutch, the name of this bar is literally "water side", so you get the idea! From the road (Marnixstraat), Waterkant is pretty hidden - it is located on the ground floor at the back of a multi-story carpark. Sounds random - I know! - but it is definitely worth discovering this unique hidden gem. Waterkant is the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a beer and watch the boats sail by on the canal whilst soaking up the sun.

© Photo courtesy by Waterkant

Pllek

Where to begin? Pllek has it all: a beach overlooking the IJ river, big bean bags, outdoor movie screenings on summer evenings, DJs and live music at the weekends, great food - to name a few! We love Pllek! Built inside old shipping containers, Pllek is industrial-chic whilst warm and welcoming. Hop on the free ferry to NDSM (departing from behind Amsterdam Central station) and there you'll find this haven. Pllek is also part of my selection as best hangover bar in Amsterdam!

© Photo credit by Xenon Flash, Pllek during Midsummer Night Festival 2017.

Noorderlicht Café

Pllek isn't the only great bar to be found over at NDSM. You also have to check out the Noorderlicht Café - an atmospheric, chilled out cultural venue just a little further along the waterfront. This quirky cafe is set inside an over-sized greenhouse with a big outdoor area next to the water. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon - and don't forget to try their seasonal menu.

PartyWith tip: Noorderlicht Café hosts regular awesome parties, festivals and live music events!

© Photo credit by Peter Robinett

Roest

Roest is an industrial-style ha[ngout](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/10-bars-to-cure-your-hangover-in-amsterdam-ieai) with an awesome bar and its very own beach. But to get here you don't have to head north over the IJ, just to the east-side of the city. There's always something on with their agenda full of unique events, like the Avondmarkt on Friday evenings where you can go for food, drinks & dancing, or their pool-parties! There's even space here to moor up if you prefer to arrive by boat.

© Photo courtesy by Roest

An article curated with ❤ and 🍺for PartyWith, the free app that connects people who love to party.