Amsterdam: Student Pub Crawl with Welcome Shots

Planning a night out in Amsterdam and feeling overwhelmed by the options? If you’re after something that mixes local flavor, good company, and a fun, lively atmosphere, a guided student pub crawl might just be what you need. This particular experience, offered by USB-Travel, promises a taste of the city’s student nightlife, complete with welcome shots, exclusive drink deals, and free entry to the final club.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on authentic local spots instead of tourist-heavy bars. Plus, the small group size (limited to 10 people) helps keep the vibe intimate and relaxed. The biggest upside? It’s a great way to meet new people and get a feel for Amsterdam’s underground scene.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that this is a drinking-centric experience, so if you’re not into alcohol or are traveling with minors, this isn’t the right fit. Also, since it’s a guided crawl, it’s best suited for those who enjoy socializing rather than just hopping between bars solo. If you’re in town with friends or want a night that’s lively but not overly chaotic, it’s a good pick.

If you’re curious about the kind of nights that genuinely connect you with locals and fellow travelers alike, this tour could be a fun choice. Just come ready to relax, drink, and maybe dance the night away—remember, it’s all about having a good time!

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Focuses on student bars, hidden pubs, and local favorites rather than tourist traps.
• Includes Welcome Shots & Deals: Starts the night with shots and offers discounts at each stop, making drinks more affordable.
• Small Group Dynamics: Limited to 10 participants, fostering a friendly, personal atmosphere.
• Free Club Entry: End your night with free access to a lively club, ideal for dancing and socializing.
• Guided by Multilingual Hosts: Guides speak Bulgarian, Russian, and English, making communication easy for diverse groups.
• Flexible & Stress-Free: No queues, no stress—just show up and enjoy the chaos.

Starting Off: Ease into the Night with Welcome Shots and Friendly Faces

The tour kicks off at a designated spot where you’ll meet your guide and fellow participants. Expect a warm welcome and a quick rundown of what’s planned. You’ll start with a few welcome shots that instantly loosen up the group and set the tone for the evening. This initial phase is perfect if you’re a bit shy or just want to jump into the fun without any fuss.

The First Stops: Discovering Hidden Gems and Local Bars

From there, your guide takes you through some of the best student bars and hidden pubs. These aren’t your glossy tourist spots; instead, the focus is on places where locals hang out. Expect cheap drinks, good music, and a chance to really soak in the student vibe. The guide is knowledgeable about each location’s story and what makes them special, which adds a layer of authenticity that many party tours overlook.

Playing Drinking Games & Facing Challenges

One of the highlights is the drinking games and challenges sprinkled throughout the night. These are designed to be fun rather than overly competitive, encouraging everyone to loosen up and interact. We loved the way these games foster camaraderie and turn strangers into friends. Just remember, moderation is key—this isn’t a wild binge, but a social activity meant to keep the energy high.

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Moving to the Livelier Spots

As the night progresses, the group hits more lively, loud venues. These are the places where the music gets louder, the dance floor fills up, and the atmosphere becomes truly electric. This part of the crawl is perfect if you’re looking to dance, meet more people, or just enjoy the vibrant nightlife. It’s where you really get a feel for the student scene that Amsterdam is famous for.

The Final Club: Free Entry & Dancing to the Beat

The tour concludes at a club where your entry is covered—no extra queues or cover charges. Here, the vibe is all about dancing, socializing, and letting loose. If you’re tired, that’s okay—you can stay or head off into the night knowing you had an authentic, lively experience.

At the price point, this tour offers a lot of value for those who want a curated, social night out. The welcome shots, exclusive drink deals, and free club entry mean you’re getting a comprehensive night out without worrying about extra costs or lines. Plus, the small-group setting makes it more personal than large pub crawls, creating a more genuine and relaxed atmosphere.

However, keep in mind that the focus is on alcohol and socializing, so if that’s not your scene, or if you prefer a more cultural or sightseeing-oriented experience, this might not be your best fit. But if you enjoy lively nights, meeting new people, and experiencing the local student scene, it’s a compelling option.

Practical details

• Duration: 3 hours—a solid length for a night out without feeling rushed or exhausted.
• Languages: Guides speak Bulgarian, Russian, and English, catering to a diverse group.
• Group size: Limited to 10, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Cancellation policy: Full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if your plans change.
• Payment: Reserve now & pay later, giving you flexibility when planning your trip.

The Review in Real Terms

From user reviews, the general consensus is positive—people love the friendly guides, the authentic local spots, and the fun atmosphere. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s a great way to meet people and see a side of Amsterdam you won’t find alone,” which sums up the experience well. Others appreciated the no stress, no queues vibe, making it effortless to just enjoy the night.

Some critiques include the fact that since it’s alcohol-focused, it might not suit everyone, especially if you’re not into drinking or are traveling with minors. Also, the tour’s success hinges on the group dynamic; smaller groups tend to have better vibes, so larger groups might not be as intimate.

This pub crawl is ideal for young travelers, students, or anyone interested in exploring Amsterdam’s local nightlife in a guided, social setting. It’s especially good if you’re new in town or want a night that combines a little adventure with the chance to meet people from around the world.

If you’re looking for an authentic, lively experience with easy access to the city’s best student bars and clubs, this tour ticks those boxes. But if you prefer cultural tours, sightseeing, or quieter evenings, you might want to skip this one.

Do I need to bring my student ID?
Yes, bringing your student card or ID is required to access discounts and benefits during the crawl.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for travel plans.

Are minors allowed on this tour?
No, unaccompanied minors are not allowed, and intoxication isn’t permitted.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides are available in Bulgarian, Russian, and English, so communication should be smooth regardless of your background.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Since the focus is on pub stops and drinking games, it might not be ideal for non-drinkers, but non-alcoholic options are usually available.

How long does the tour last?
The crawl lasts 3 hours, which is a good length for a night of socializing without feeling too long.

Will I get free entry to a club?
Yes, the tour includes free entry to the final club and no queues, so you can dance the night away.

What makes this experience different from other pub crawls?
It focuses on local student bars and hidden gems rather than touristy spots, with a personalized small-group approach.

Can I reserve my spot in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can reserve now & pay later to keep your plans flexible.

Is it suitable for solo travelers?
Definitely. The small-group setting and friendly guide make it easy to meet new people, making it a good choice for solo adventurers.

If you’re looking to experience the authentic side of Amsterdam’s nightlife with a friendly, laid-back crew, this pub crawl is a solid option. It offers a combination of cheap drinks, local stories, and lively venues, all wrapped up in a small-group, guided format that makes it easy to connect with others.

It’s best suited for young travelers, students, or social butterflies who want a night filled with fun, laughter, and dancing. If you prefer quiet nights or cultural tours, you might find this too energetic, but for those who love a good party with a local flavor, it’s worth considering.

Overall, it’s a chance to make some memorable stories, share a few drinks, and see a different side of the city—just be ready to have fun!

You can check availability for your dates here: