Amsterdam: Private Night Tour of Speakeasies and Bars

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Amsterdam’s vibrant nightlife beyond the usual tourist spots, a private night tour focusing on its speakeasies and trendy bars might just be the adventure you’re looking for. This experience offers a personalized way to discover some of the city’s coolest hidden gems, guided by a local who knows the ins and outs of the scene. While it’s not a wild club crawl, it’s a well-curated evening where you can savor drinks, soak up the atmosphere, and get insider tips.

What immediately caught our attention about this tour is its flexibility and the emphasis on customization. You’re matched with a guide based on your interests, which makes the experience feel more intimate and tailored. Plus, with drinks included—up to 3 beers or 2 glasses of wine or cocktails—it’s a laid-back way to enjoy the night without worrying about extra costs. The second highlight we liked is how it explores two trendy neighborhoods—Jordaan and Amsterdam East—each offering a different vibe, from cozy pubs to lively cocktail bars.

One potential consideration is that this experience is quite centered on the nightlife scene, so if you’re not a fan of bar hopping or late evenings, it might not be the perfect fit. Also, while the tour is private and flexible, it does require some planning around your preferred starting time and location—something to keep in mind if your schedule is tight.

This tour feels best suited for those who want a relaxed, personalized look at Amsterdam’s bar scene, especially if you love discovering quirky spots and enjoy local drinks while chatting with a passionate guide. It’s a great way to experience the city’s nightlife authentically, without the pressure of large groups or rushed schedules.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: You’re matched with a guide based on your interests for a tailored night out.
• Focus on local nightlife: Explore trendy neighborhoods like Jordaan and Amsterdam East.
• Includes drinks and snacks: Up to 3 beers or 2 glasses of wine/cocktails, plus bar snacks shared among your group.
• Flexible and private: The tour is private, customizable, and can be arranged at your preferred time.
• Walk and explore: You’ll stroll through lively districts, soaking up the local vibe.
• Ideal for relaxed evenings: Perfect if you enjoy bar culture, cocktails, and small-group experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

The idea of a private night tour of Amsterdam’s speakeasies and bars immediately sounds appealing, especially if you want to avoid the crowded, commercialized bar scenes. Instead, you get to explore places loved by locals, with the comfort of having your own guide who’s genuinely passionate about the city’s nightlife.

One of the biggest draws is the personalization. The guide is chosen based on your interests, which means your evening can be tailored to your mood—whether that’s relaxing with a glass of wine in a cozy pub, enjoying some live music, or dancing in a lively club. This flexibility is a big plus, especially if your group has varied tastes or specific preferences.

The tour kicks off in the Jordaan neighborhood—a charming area known for its narrow streets, trendy cafés, and artsy vibe. Here, you’ll likely find yourself in a mix of old-style eateries and modern cocktail bars. Our sources mention places like Bar Oldenhof, which evoke a relaxed, almost timeless feel, perfect for those wanting a quieter introduction to Amsterdam’s nightlife. You might also visit quirky cocktail bars and tiny tasting rooms serving Jenever, the local gin, adding a local flavor to your evening.

Later, the tour heads over to Amsterdam East, an up-and-coming area that’s gaining a reputation for its energetic bar scene. Bar Bukowski is highly recommended here, offering a lively yet laid-back atmosphere. It’s the kind of spot where you could easily spend the entire evening chatting with your guide or new friends, watching the world go by. The inclusion of 2 to 3 drinks and snacks means you’re set for a relaxed night without the need to worry about extra expenses or rushing.

The drinks included are a notable perk, especially considering the tour’s price point of $151 per person. For a three-hour experience, this is fairly good value—you’re paying not just for the guide but also for a curated selection of drinks and shared snacks. It’s a laid-back way to experience Amsterdam’s best-kept secrets, with the bonus of insider tips from your guide.

From the reviews, one comment notes, “We had a nice time with guide Anna,” highlighting that guides are not only knowledgeable but also friendly and engaging, which can make or break an experience like this. A good guide adds that warmth and insight, transforming a simple bar crawl into a memorable night.

What You Can Expect

The itinerary is flexible but generally involves meeting in Jordaan, strolling through the neighborhood, and stopping at a handful of selected bars. Each stop offers a chance to sample local drinks and enjoy the ambiance. The focus isn’t on quantity but quality—visiting bars with character and charm rather than just being a party-hopping schedule.

The atmosphere you’ll encounter varies from cozy pubs with friendly locals to trendy speakeasies that hide behind unassuming facades. You may listen to live music, watch street performers, or simply relax with a drink while chatting with your guide.

How It Benefits Travelers

If you’re someone who appreciates local insights and enjoys discovering hidden gems, this tour is a good fit. It’s ideal if you want a more authentic experience than what you’d get just wandering around on your own. Plus, the private aspect means your evening is your own—no noisy groups or rushed schedules.

The tour runs rain or shine, which is helpful to know because Amsterdam’s weather can be unpredictable. Luckily, most of the stops are cozy indoor venues, so you won’t be out in the rain for long.

Considering the Price

At $151 per person, the value depends on your expectations. For a three-hour private experience with drinks and snacks included, it’s reasonable, especially if you enjoy exploring local bars and learning from a guide. It’s not a cheap night out, but compared to doing a self-led pub crawl with drinks purchased separately, this feels more relaxed and curated.

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Practicalities and Logistics

The tour includes pickup at any central location, which is great for ease of planning. The guide will confirm your spot and coordinate the meeting point beforehand. It’s wheelchair accessible, which is a plus, and the experience is designed for private groups, making it perfect for couples, friends, or small families if they enjoy bar hopping.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who:

• Love local drinks and bar culture
• Want a personalized tour with a knowledgeable guide
• Are interested in exploring trendier neighborhoods like Jordaan and Amsterdam East
• Don’t mind a relaxed pace and like discovering hidden spots
• Are adventurous but prefer a more intimate setting rather than busy, commercial venues
• Appreciate local tips and insider knowledge for their stay in Amsterdam

It might not be ideal if you’re looking for a high-energy clubbing night or traveling with very young children, as the focus is on bar hopping and enjoying drinks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
This tour is centered around bar hopping and enjoying alcoholic drinks, so it’s best suited for adults. It’s not designed for children or families with young kids.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you enough time to explore a handful of bars at a relaxed pace.

Can I choose my starting time?
Yes, check availability to see the starting times and coordinate with your guide. The tour is flexible and can be scheduled according to your plans.

Are drinks included?
Yes, your booking includes up to 3 beers or 2 glasses of wine or cocktails per person, along with 2 shared portions of bar snacks.

Where does the tour start?
The guide will meet you at a central location in the city, such as your hotel or a designated spot in Jordaan, with prior confirmation.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, local-style look at Amsterdam’s nightlife, this private speakeasy and bar tour offers a meaningful way to spend an evening. The personalized approach and insider knowledge from passionate guides help you avoid tourist traps and instead learn about the city’s authentic bar scene. It’s a great choice for couples or small groups who want to enjoy drinks, good conversation, and a taste of the city’s lively, diverse neighborhoods.

While it’s not a high-energy club crawl, the combination of cozy pubs and trendy bars with shared snacks and drinks creates a laid-back, memorable experience. The price might be a little premium for some, but considering the exclusivity and local insights, it’s a worthwhile splurge if you love discovering hidden gems and savoring good drinks.

This experience suits travelers who value intimacy, authenticity, and a bit of local flavor—giving you a wonderful way to see Amsterdam after dark, one drink at a time.

You can check availability for your dates here: