Rainbow Bar Stroll: Sashay through Amsterdam

Planning a night out in Amsterdam’s famous LGBTQ+ scene? The Rainbow Bar Stroll offers a peek into this lively part of the city, blending iconic gay bars with the charming backdrop of historic canals. It’s a tour designed for those who want to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife in a relaxed, guided setting.

What we really like about this experience is its affordability—you’re paying just under $30 and getting a taste of some of the most popular spots, often with knowledgeable guides who know their way around the scene. Plus, the tour’s short duration—about an hour and a half—means you can easily fit it into a busy evening without feeling overwhelmed.

Of course, there are some things to consider. For example, one review pointed out a hiccup with the meeting location, which could cause confusion or disappointment if you’re expecting a seamless experience. Also, since it’s a walking tour with a maximum of 20 people, it’s best suited for those who enjoy smaller, intimate groups rather than large crowds.

This tour is perfect for anyone curious about Amsterdam’s gay nightlife, whether you’re visiting or a local looking for a fun evening out. It offers a chance to connect with new friends, see some of the city’s coolest bars, and get a sense of the lively, colorful culture that makes Amsterdam so unique.

Key Points

• Affordable price point for a guided nightlife experience.
• Expert guides often have good local knowledge and can enhance the experience.
• Short duration makes it easy to include in your evening plans.
• Limited group size creates a more personal and engaging atmosphere.
• Some reviews highlight logistical issues at the start, so be prepared for potential delays.
• Primarily suited for those interested in nightlife and LGBTQ+ culture.

This walking tour is designed to take you through some of Amsterdam’s most famous gay bars and clubs, all set against the backdrop of the city’s picturesque canals. For about 1.5 hours, you’ll be guided through the vibrant world of Amsterdam’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, visiting spots that are well-loved by locals and visitors alike.

The tour starts late evening, around 7:00 pm, making it a great way to kick off or follow up on a night in the city. For just under $30, the experience includes visits to key venues such as Bar Blend, BLENDXL, and Soho Amsterdam, with some stops offering VIP options like champagne or cocktails (if you choose the VIP package).

What makes this tour appealing is the variety of venues—ranging from lively dance clubs to more relaxed bars—allowing you to see different facets of the scene. Plus, with guides sometimes being DJs at some venues, there’s a real insider feel to the night.

Starting Point: PRIKSpuistraat 109
The tour begins here, at a lively spot in the city center. Your guide will give a quick rundown of why Dam Square is so buzzing with activity—it’s the heart of Amsterdam and a hub for both locals and visitors. This initial introduction sets the tone for an energetic night.

Stop 1: Bar Blend
This first stop clocks in at about 10 minutes, so it’s a quick but fun introduction. Expect to enjoy some shots, meet fellow travelers, and get a sense of the bar’s vibrant atmosphere. Reviewers mention the experience can be a little disorganized, with one noting that they arrived on time but found the meeting point within a block party, and long lines made entry challenging.

Stop 2: BLENDXL
A highlight for many, this dance club is renowned for its energetic vibe. Spanning about 20 minutes, it’s a place where the beats are hot, and the dance floor is calling. This venue often gets praise for its lively ambiance, with some reviewers saying it’s “one of the best places to dance on earth.” Be prepared to let loose and enjoy the music.

Stop 3: Soho Amsterdam
The VIP option here is a nice touch, offering a glass of champagne or cocktail. It’s a brief stop—around 10 minutes—but an opportunity to relax and soak in the upscale atmosphere. The venue is also notable because it’s where high-profile guests and even royalty are entertained, adding a touch of elegance to the night.

Final Stop: BLENDXL (again)
The tour wraps up back at BLENDXL, which some guides are also DJs at, so the party keeps going. The location is easy to find, close to public transportation, and ideal for those who want to dance the night away or continue exploring on their own.

The reviews paint a mixed picture. One traveler, Leslie D., described a less-than-ideal experience, saying: “We never actually had our experience. The meeting place was within a block party organized by the bar we were supposed to meet at.” Long lines and confusion hindered their plans, illustrating that logistical hiccups can occur, especially in lively city environments.

Conversely, Gary A. raved about the tour, giving it a full five stars: “This is a such a fun tour! My guide, Erik, was great, very knowledgeable. You shouldn’t miss this one.” It seems that when all goes well, guests really enjoy the guided insight, lively venues, and the chance to dance with new friends.

The tour’s affordability is another plus, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers. Its short length is perfect if you’re looking for a quick, fun introduction to Amsterdam’s gay nightlife without committing an entire evening.

Price and Value: At $29.04 per person, this tour offers a budget-friendly way to get a taste of Amsterdam’s LGBTQ+ nightlife. While it’s not a full-on club crawl with multiple stops all night, it provides a structured experience with access to some of the city’s top venues, often with lively guides that add local insights.

Duration and Group Size: With approximately 1 hour 30 minutes and a maximum of 20 travelers, the experience is intimate enough to foster connections but short enough to keep things energetic. If you prefer a more relaxed or longer experience, this might feel a bit brief.

Start Time and Meeting Point: Begin at 7:00 pm at PRIKSpuistraat 109. Make sure to arrive on time—delays or confusion could mean missing part of the tour, as some reviews suggest.

Weather Considerations: Since it’s an outdoor walking tour, good weather is a must. If rain or poor weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund, according to the provider’s policy.

Accessibility and Suitability: The tour is open to most travelers, and service animals are allowed. It’s probably best suited for adults interested in nightlife, dancing, and LGBTQ+ culture.

This experience is perfect for those curious about Amsterdam’s gay scene, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned local. It’s ideal if you want a guided, safe environment to explore popular venues and dance with others in a lively setting. It’s also great for anyone who enjoys a social atmosphere but prefers a smaller, more personal group rather than large clubs.

However, if you’re looking for a comprehensive, multi-night club crawl or a very detailed cultural tour, this might not be the best fit. The tour is more about the fun, vibrant night and meeting people than in-depth exploration.

The Rainbow Bar Stroll in Amsterdam offers an affordable, lively introduction to the city’s renowned LGBTQ+ nightlife. With a knowledgeable guide, a handful of iconic venues, and the chance to meet fellow travelers, it’s a fun way to kick off an evening. Despite some logistical hiccups reported by a few guests, the overall vibe seems energetic and welcoming, especially when the stars align.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to experience a snapshot of Amsterdam’s vibrant gay scene in a friendly, social setting. If you’re after a quick, well-organized night of dancing and bar-hopping, it might just fit the bill. Just keep in mind that it’s not a full-fledged club crawl and that the experience can vary depending on the guide and the night’s crowd.

For a taste of Amsterdam’s colorful, inclusive nightlife, and a chance to dance among new friends, this tour remains a solid choice—just double-check the meeting details and weather forecast before you go.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
This tour is geared towards adults interested in nightlife and LGBTQ+ culture. It’s not designed for children or family groups.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a quick, energetic experience.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs about $29.04 per person, offering a budget-friendly way to explore Amsterdam’s gay nightlife.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at PRIKSpuistraat 109 at 7:00 pm, so arriving on time is important.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, at least one reviewer praised their guide, Erik, for being friendly and well-informed.

What venues are visited?
Stops include Bar Blend, BLENDXL, and Soho Amsterdam, with some VIP options for drinks.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The provided information doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the provider if needed.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if it’s canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re seeking a spirited, social introduction to Amsterdam’s gay bars and clubs, the Rainbow Bar Stroll can be a fun, budget-friendly option. Just remember to arrive early, pack your dancing shoes, and keep expectations realistic about the logistical hiccups some guests have experienced.