Amsterdam: Bols Cocktail Experience and Cocktail Workshop

If you’re in Amsterdam and looking for a mix of history, fun, and a dash of hands-on skill, the Bols Cocktail Experience might just catch your eye. It’s a popular choice, especially for those who love discovering new things, whether you’re a casual cocktail sipper or an aspiring mixologist. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, and honestly, it’s quite a well-rounded activity that balances education with entertainment.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines a self-guided audio tour with a professional-led cocktail workshop. The fact that you get to learn about the 450-year history of Genever and liqueur distillation adds depth that’s often missing in other cocktail classes. Plus, finishing with a drink in the Mirror Bar feels like a nice reward for your efforts.

One potential downside? The experience lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours, which is plenty of time to enjoy but might feel a bit rushed if you’re hoping for a more leisurely day. Also, it’s not suitable for children under 18, so if you’re traveling with younger family members, this one isn’t for them.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate a mix of learning and fun, especially if you’re curious about spirits, enjoy trying your hand at cocktail making, or just want a memorable activity in Amsterdam’s vibrant city center.

Key Points

• Educational and Entertaining: Combines a detailed audio guide with a hands-on cocktail workshop.
• History and Flavour: Explores 450 years of distillation tradition, especially Genever and liqueurs.
• Quality Drinks: Enjoy a cocktail at the Mirror Bar and craft your own with pro guidance.
• Great Value for Money: For around $39, you get multiple cocktails, a tour, and a workshop—many reviews highlight how this feels worth it.
• Accessible and Convenient: Located opposite the Van Gogh Museum, easy to find and wheelchair accessible.
• Limited for Kids: Not suitable for those under 18, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Walking Through the Experience

When you arrive at the Bols Cocktail Experience on Paulus Potterstraat, just across from the Van Gogh Museum, you’re stepping into a colorful, inviting spot. The first part is your self-guided audio tour, where you’ll learn about the history of Genever and the art of distillation that has been practiced here for over four centuries. It’s a fascinating glimpse into a tradition many travelers might not be familiar with, and the audio guide is available in multiple languages, making it accessible for international visitors.

This part of the experience is not just about facts—it’s about setting the scene and appreciating the craftsmanship behind every bottle. Many reviews mention how informative and engaging this part is, with people feeling they gained new knowledge about Bols, the oldest distilled spirit brand still operating today. As one review states, “It was really fun and engaging as well as informative of how the brand was founded,” showing that this part offers more than just a sales pitch; it’s genuinely interesting.

After the tour, you end up at the Mirror Bar, where you can enjoy a cocktail. Many guests mention how delicious these drinks are, with options that excite the palate. The Mirror Bar’s cocktail menu offers a variety of choices, and you’re likely to be impressed by how well-made the drinks are. One reviewer raved about the Blue Hawaiian they tried, describing it as “amazing,” which suggests the quality here is high.

Now, here’s where the experience shines for many: the cocktail-making workshop. Led by a professional bartender, you’ll learn techniques and tips that make the process approachable, even for beginners. Most guests find this part fun and educational, with the chance to mix up 2 or 3 cocktails. You get to experiment with different flavors and aromas, gaining some practical skills you can take home. Several reviews highlight how the instructor explained everything clearly and made the session enjoyable. The fact that many describe it as “worth every penny” speaks volumes about the perceived value.

What You Can Expect During the Workshop

The workshop itself is designed to be interactive and accessible. The bartender will guide you through each step, explaining how to combine ingredients, choose the right ice, and balance flavors. People often mention the setup is well-organized, and the environment is relaxed, making it easy to ask questions and learn.

One reviewer noted, “Roberto was a great teacher,” emphasizing the importance of a knowledgeable instructor. The drinks you’ll make are crafted with care, and you’re encouraged to experiment a little—adding flavors to suit your taste, which is especially fun for those interested in customizing their cocktails.

A few tips: While the workshop offers a lot of fun, remember that it’s a learning experience. Don’t expect to walk out as a professional bartender, but you’ll definitely pick up some handy tips to impress friends back home. Many reviews mention how easy it was for novices to follow along and how satisfying it was to finally taste something they made themselves.

The Price and Overall Value

At $39 per person, this experience is quite affordable considering what’s included: an audio-guided tour, a cocktail at the Mirror Bar, and a cocktail-making workshop with a professional. Some reviews mention that, compared to buying two or three cocktails at a bar, the price is very reasonable. They also appreciated that they got multiple drinks, making it feel like good value.

Many guests feel that the combination of history, taste, and hands-on activity makes this a worthwhile purchase. For those interested in spirits and cocktails, it’s a chance to learn and sample in one go. If you’re a big cocktail fan or enjoy trying new spirits, this experience will hit the right spot.

Practicalities and Tips for Visitors

The meeting point is conveniently located in Amsterdam’s Museum Square, directly opposite the Van Gogh Museum, so it’s easy to find. The activity lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a great quick activity without taking up your whole day. It’s wheelchair accessible, and the audio guide is available in several languages, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.

Since it’s not suitable for children under 18, plan accordingly if you’re traveling with younger family members. Also, keep your passport or ID handy, as it’s a requirement for participation. There’s no food included, so if you’re hungry, consider grabbing a bite beforehand.

Cancellation is flexible, with free cancellations available up to 24 hours before the experience. This is a nice perk if your plans change unexpectedly.

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Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Bols Cocktail Experience is perfect for those who love a bit of learning with their drinks, especially if you’re interested in spirits, history, or just having fun with friends. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a relaxed, engaging activity that’s more than just tasting. Perfect for couples, small groups, or even solo travelers looking to meet others, the reviews emphasize how friendly and approachable the staff are.

While it’s not ideal if you’re traveling with kids or looking for a deep dive into mixology, it offers excellent value for money and a memorable way to spend a couple of hours. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a break from museums and walking tours, this experience hits the right note.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, the audio guide is available in multiple languages including Chinese, Dutch, French, German, Spanish, and Italian, making it accessible for many travelers.

How long does the experience last?
Expect about 1.5 to 2 hours, which includes the audio tour, a cocktail at the Mirror Bar, and the workshop.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your plans.

Is it suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, and the location is easy to reach in the city center.

What should I bring?
Just your passport or ID card. No other special items are needed.

Are children allowed?
No, this experience is only for guests 18 and older.

What’s included in the price?
An audio-guided tour, one cocktail in the Mirror Bar, and a 30-minute or 1-hour cocktail workshop with a professional bartender.

Can I make my own cocktails to take home?
You’ll learn to make 2 or 3 cocktails during the workshop, but they are served on-site. However, you’ll gain skills to recreate them at home later.

Final Verdict

In all, the Amsterdam Bols Cocktail Experience is a solid choice for those wanting a fun, educational, and interactive activity during their stay. It’s a great way to combine a bit of history with practical skills, all in a lively setting right in the heart of the city. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or just looking for an enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours, this experience offers a good mix of learning, tasting, and socializing at an accessible price point.

If you’re after a memorable, engaging activity that feeds your curiosity and your taste buds, this could very well be one of the highlights of your trip to Amsterdam.

You can check availability for your dates here: