Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl

If you’re planning a night out in Amsterdam and aren’t quite sure where to start, a guided pub crawl like this one might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally done this particular tour, I’ve looked into it closely, and it seems to strike a good balance between fun, convenience, and socializing. Whether you’re traveling solo or in a larger group, this experience promises to take the hassle out of planning your evening and ensures you hit a selection of the city’s best nightlife spots.

What I really like about this pub crawl is that it offers curated experiences—meaning you get to visit at least three different venues, from lively pubs to exclusive clubs, all with VIP entry. Plus, the inclusion of free shots and discounts at each stop makes it feel like good value for the money. The fact that the tour group is mixed with people from around the world also adds an extra layer of fun—you might even make some new friends along the way.

However, there’s a notable caveat to keep in mind: some reviews mention cancellations and organizational hiccups, which can be frustrating if you’re counting on a smooth experience. Also, the tour’s timing and venue changes mean you’ll want to double-check the details before booking to ensure it aligns with your plans. This is definitely a tour best suited for travelers who enjoy social nights out and are flexible about minor schedule changes.

All in all, this pub crawl seems like an excellent choice for those wanting a lively, sociable evening in Amsterdam without worrying about where to go or how to get in. If you’re comfortable with the possibility of some unpredictability, it could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Curated venues mean you visit a mix of well-loved pubs and clubs, saving you the guesswork.
• VIP club entrance cuts down on waiting times and gets you into the best spots.
• Free shots and discounts add extra value to your evening.
• Group size and guides appear to be friendly and engaging, with some reviews praising guides for their energy.
• Cancellation policy is flexible up to 24 hours, but last-minute cancellations have no refunds.
• This tour is well-suited for solo travelers and larger groups looking for a sociable night out in Amsterdam.

The Experience: What to Expect from the Pub Crawl

Starting Point and Schedule

The tour kicks off at different locations depending on the day of the week. Most meet at the Generator Hostel Bar (Mauritskade 57) from Thursday to Saturday, or at The Waterhole on Korte Leidsedwarsstraat from Sunday to Wednesday. The initial meeting point, at the Nescio Cafe & Terrace, provides a relaxed spot to gather, and from there, your guide will lead you into the first venue.

The Venues and Stops

First stop: The Waterhole Live Music Bar—a lively spot where you’ll get your first taste of Amsterdam’s nightlife. Expect good music, a friendly atmosphere, and free drinks to kick things off. This venue is noted for its vibrant vibe, making it a great way to warm up and meet your fellow crawlers.

Subsequent venues are curated to showcase some of the city’s best pubs and clubs. The tour promises a “mix” of different atmospheres, ensuring variety and keeping the night interesting. The VIP entrance at the final club ensures you won’t be stuck waiting in long lines—a real plus if you’re eager to dance and mingle.

Activities and Fun Elements

Throughout the night, you’ll likely participate in games with prizes, adding an extra layer of entertainment beyond just drinking. The inclusion of free shots at various venues is a popular feature, giving you some extra fun without breaking the bank.

The Guides and Group Dynamics

The tour’s success heavily depends on the guide. Reviews speak positively about guides like Pascal and Ludwig, calling them “great hosts” who keep the energy high. One reviewer even said, “Ludwig was an amazing host! Great vibes and kept the booze, and party going all night!”

However, it’s worth noting that not all guides get glowing reviews. One account mentions a guide who seemed disengaged or distracted, which highlights that experiences can vary. The group size tends to be social—perfect for meeting new people, especially solo travelers.

Duration and Pacing

The crawl lasts about six hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each venue without rushing. The timing is generally well-spaced, allowing for conversations and photos along the way. Remember, while the tour runs mostly Thursday to Saturday, confirm the schedule before booking.

Price and Value Analysis

At roughly $27.87 per person, this pub crawl is quite affordable considering what’s included. Free shots and drink discounts at multiple venues mean you’re likely to get more than your money’s worth in drinks alone. Plus, VIP club entries cut down on waiting times, so you’re not wasting precious party hours in lines.

From reviews, it’s clear some travelers feel the value is high, especially when they meet friendly guides and new friends. One reviewer said, “Pascal is a great guide. We went to really cool places, first bar was super good with great music and free drinks!”

Of course, a few reviews mention cancellations or poor organization, which could be a concern if you’re arriving with strict plans. But overall, the price seems reasonable for a lively, well-organized night out in central Amsterdam.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

What Travelers Love

• Excellent guides who keep the party lively and fun, as noted by multiple reviews praising Ludwig and Pascal
• Diverse venues that showcase different facets of Amsterdam’s nightlife, from music bars to clubs
• Free shots and drink discounts that add to the night’s enjoyment
• VIP entry ensures you avoid long lines and maximize your time dancing and socializing

The Downsides

• Occasional cancellations can leave you waiting or disappointed; one review even called a experience “dispicable” due to poor organization
• Weather dependency could impact the experience, especially if you’re hoping for outdoor venues or if the weather turns bad
• Variable guide quality means your experience may depend heavily on who’s leading the crawl on the day
• Limited details on the exact venues mean you’ll need to trust the curated selection and hope it matches your preferences

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you thrive in social settings, enjoy meeting new people, and want a straightforward way to explore Amsterdam’s nightlife, this pub crawl is a solid choice. It’s particularly good for solo travelers or groups who want to avoid the hassle of planning individual bar visits. The affordable price point combined with VIP access makes it a good value for those who want to maximize their evening.

That said, if you prefer highly organized, meticulously planned experiences or have specific venues you want to visit, you might find some limitations here. Also, travelers wary of last-minute cancellations or organizational hiccups should weigh those risks.

The Sum Up

The Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl offers a fun, sociable way to experience some of the city’s best nightlife venues without the stress of figuring everything out on your own. With a mix of lively bars, free shots, discounts, and VIP access, it’s a solid choice for those looking to make the most of an evening out in Amsterdam, especially if you’re traveling alone or in a larger group wanting to meet others.

While it’s not without its occasional organizational issues, many travelers have praised the guides for their energy and friendliness, and the variety of venues keeps things exciting. If you’re flexible and ready to enjoy a night of drinks, music, and new friends, this pub crawl could be a highlight of your trip.

Just remember to confirm the schedule and meeting points beforehand, and keep expectations in check regarding possible cancellations. With a bit of patience, you’ll likely find yourself with some great stories and new friends by the end of the night.

FAQ

Is this pub crawl suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many reviews mention solo travelers meeting new friends and enjoying the lively group atmosphere.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs approximately $27.87 per person, which includes entries, free shots, and drink discounts.

How long does the pub crawl last?
The tour takes about 6 hours, giving you plenty of time at each venue.

Are drinks included?
While drinks aren’t fully included, you’ll enjoy free shots and discounts on drinks at several venues.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refunded.

Where do we meet for the tour?
Most meet at the Generator Hostel Bar (Mauritskade 57) from Thursday to Saturday, or at The Waterhole from Sunday to Wednesday. Check your booking confirmation for exact details.

Is there a dress code?
The tour doesn’t specify a dress code, but casual, neat attire is generally appropriate for bars and clubs.

What if the tour gets canceled?
You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled due to weather or other reasons.

Will I get VIP access at the clubs?
Yes, VIP entrance is included, so you bypass long queues at the final club.

Is it family-friendly?
This tour is geared towards adults enjoying nightlife. It’s not suitable for children or families.

If you’re looking for a lively, social way to explore Amsterdam’s nightlife without the hassle, this pub crawl offers a fun, value-packed option. Just go in with open expectations, a sense of adventure, and a readiness to meet new people—it’s likely to be a memorable night!