Gay bars in amsterdam

Though most people will be found in drag, admirers and friends are welcome and the atmosphere is friendly. Everyone is welcome. Indeed, true to the bar’s slogan this venue attracts a diverse crowd who enjoy its tasty snacks, groovy soundtrack and special events such as the ‘After Shopping Cocktail Sale’ and ‘SpeedDate’ evenings.

Get ready to explore and experience!

Walk down Main Street Reguliersdwarsstraat—the city’s most vibrant gay area, which has some of the best gay bars in Amsterdam, and the nearby areas Amstel Street and Kerkstraat with other popular queer spots. Located just off the popular nightlife area of Rembrandtplein, the bar’s popularity comes partly from the fact that it has been part of the scene for so long, and partly from the simple, fun vibe of the place.

On Tuesdays, the bar hosts a drag queen bingo night that is always guaranteed fun. The atmosphere inside these coffee shops is typically laid-back, with an emphasis on creating a comfortable and social setting where patrons can relax and enjoy their purchases. Key attractions include the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum and the Museum of Sex.

World-Class Accommodations

With some of the best gay hotels, clubs and bars on the planet, Amsterdam offers LGBTQ+ travelers a truly unique and vibrant visit.

Warmoesstraat in the red-light district is waiting.

Open every day, the Web’s music selection and house DJs are second to none, and after 6pm they do snacks (although their famous soup and hot dogs are Sunday only). It’s happy hour every day from 6pm, and Wednesday is ‘Fabulous Cocktail Night’, complete with drag queens and games (plus cheap tipples). Just before its then-owner (Bet’s younger sister, Greet) died, she put the wheels in motion to have the club restored and re-opened – which it was, finally, in 2008, bringing ‘the basket’ back to its bustling best.

The dark wood interior is at its best in the upstairs smoking room, where it gives the feeling of a library or Victorian gentlemen’s club. However, Amsterdam’s most prominent gay neighborhood is Regulierswarstraat. The vibe here is laid back and relaxed, aimed at a slightly older crowd than the incessantly noisy venues above.
Address: Kerkstraat 4
Web: spijkerbar.nl

SoHo

Without doubt the most popular gay bar in the city, SoHo is where every night out in the Amsterdam gay scene begins.

Stand before the "Night Watch" and feel the gaze of history upon you, urging you to carve out your own story in this timeless city. Looking for more of a adult-friendly destination? This enchanting metropolis cradled by intricate canals and historic bridges, (with some of the best gay bars in Amsterdam!) serves not just as a backdrop for postcard-perfect memories but, pulsating with queer energy and celebration.

Amsterdam greets you with open arms and a cheeky wink, inviting you to explore its labyrinthine streets, where every turn reveals a new aspect of the city's fabulous soul.

One downside is that the venue charges to use the bathroom, but with free entrance and a closing time of 04:00 on the weekends, this does little to deter late night partygoers.
Address: Halvemaansteeg 17
Web: www.cafemontmartre.nl

Getto

This mainstream bar on the busy Warmoesstraat at the edge of the Red Light District is a great place to come for a cocktail or a burger with a group of friends, gay or straight.

Spijker’s position as a favourite of the leather scene is evident from the gay porn playing on TV screens behind the bar. It’s become a place to celebrate and be proud: on Queen’s Day and Pride, it’s annexed to an open-air disco and market. Three floors offer distinct vibes – making liberal use of graffiti, glitter and concrete – and a toilet DJ keeps the party going while you wash your hands at a giant pink phallus.

One of Amsterdam’s oldest gay bars – Spijkerbar opened in 1978 – remains one of the best thanks to its friendly, laid-back vibe, cheap drinks, great music, and a number of popular theme nights.

There’s also the utter fabulousness of having Prosecco – or, as they call it, PRIK wine – on tap.