Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl

A Fun Night Out in Amsterdam with the Original Pub Crawl

If you’re looking to get a real taste of Amsterdam’s nightlife, joining a pub crawl like this gives you a lively, well-organized way to explore the city’s best bars and clubs. For around $28, this 6-hour tour offers a chance to meet fellow travelers, enjoy discounted drinks, and skip long lines with VIP club entry. It starts at the Nescio Cafe & Terrace or the Generator Hostel Bar, depending on the day, and takes you through a curated selection of establishments that showcase what makes Amsterdam’s nightlife special.

What we love most about this experience is the guided group aspect—it’s a great way to meet people from all over the world—and the variety of venues. You get to enjoy live music at The Waterhole, mixed with lively bars and a final club at the end, all while participating in fun games and collecting prizes along the way. The tour’s affordability and all-inclusive features make it a compelling option for solo travelers or larger groups seeking a memorable night out.

One thing to keep in mind is that the experience can vary depending on the guide and day—some reviews mention cancellations or quieter venues—but overall, the tour offers good value. It’s especially suited for those who love socializing, enjoy music and drinks, and want to avoid the hassle of planning their own nightlife route.

This pub crawl is ideal for travelers wanting a fun, social introduction to Amsterdam’s nightlife scene. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with group tours, enjoy a mix of live music and vibrant bars, and value VIP access that saves time. If you’re after a relaxed, engaging way to experience Amsterdam after dark, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Vibrant venues: Visit a mix of Amsterdam’s best pubs, bars, and clubs in one evening.
• Included perks: Free shots, discounted drinks, and VIP club entrance enhance the night.
• Social vibe: The tour attracts solo travelers and groups, making it easy to meet new people.
• Flexible meeting points: Starts at either Nescio Cafe or Generator Hostel Bar, depending on the day.
• Tour duration: About 6 hours, providing plenty of time for fun without feeling rushed.
• Variable experiences: Some reviews mention cancellations or quieter venues, so experiences can differ.

The Full Experience: What to Expect

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at the Nescio Cafe & Terrace or, during certain days, at the Generator Hostel Bar. Meeting at these lively spots sets the tone for an energetic evening. Your guide, often praised for being knowledgeable and friendly (like Pascal or Ludwig, based on reviews), will brief you on the plan. Most travelers find the meeting process straightforward, with clear instructions on where to gather.

The First Stop: The Waterhole Live Music Bar

Your first venue, The Waterhole, offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music that gets the night rolling. This bar is appreciated for its good music selection and the chance to grab a free drink. According to one review, “the first bar was super good with great music and free drinks,” which helps break the ice and energize the group.

Moving Through the Pubs

The tour then moves through a curated selection of bars and pubs. Expect to enjoy discounted drinks throughout—a real bonus when drinks can add up quickly—and to engage in games with prizes that keep the energy up. The variety of venues means you’ll experience different sides of Amsterdam’s nightlife, from cozy pubs to bustling bars.

The VIP Club Experience

The highlight for many is the VIP club entrance, which allows you to skip lines and jump straight into the party at the final venue. This saves valuable time and offers a more exclusive experience. Once inside, you’ll find a lively setting to dance, mingle, and enjoy the night.

The Guides and Atmosphere

Most reviews praise the guides—”Pascal is a great guide“—for keeping the group lively and ensuring everyone has fun. Ludwig, in particular, is lauded for his enthusiasm and host skills, making the night feel both organized and spontaneous.

Fun and Games

Throughout the evening, you’ll participate in interactive games that add a layer of entertainment beyond just drinking. Sometimes, these come with prizes, which contribute to the fun atmosphere and give you a chance to win small souvenirs or drinks.

End of the Night

The tour wraps up at the club, giving you ample time to dance and socialize. Some reviewers mention that the experience at this stage is everything you hope for—a combination of great music, good drinks, and an energetic crowd.

Authenticity and Variability: What to Watch For

While many travelers rave about the guided experience and good venues, some reviews point out cancellations or quiet venues that didn’t quite live up to expectations. For example, one reviewer expressed frustration over a canceled tour without prior notice, highlighting the importance of confirming your booking and understanding the cancellation policy.

On top of that, the quality of venues can vary depending on the guide and day—sometimes you might visit lively spots, other times quieter bars. However, the core value remains in the social aspect, the VIP line-skipping, and the fun games that keep energy high.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $27.87 per person, this pub crawl offers good value for money, especially when you consider the included free shots, discounted drinks, and VIP access. The tour’s length—around 6 hours—means you get a substantial night out without feeling hurried or rushed.

Compare this to paying cover charges and buying drinks separately; the tour provides a structured, social way to enjoy Amsterdam’s nightlife at a reasonable price. Plus, the group setting makes it easier to meet fellow travelers, which is a big plus for solo adventurers or first-time visitors.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This pub crawl suits travelers who enjoy socializing, like live music, and want an easy, guided way to explore Amsterdam after dark. It’s ideal for those who value VIP access and are open to participating in games and mingling with diverse groups. If you’re seeking a fun, relaxed night without the hassle of planning your own route, this tour offers a lively and authentic experience.

However, if you’re very particular about the venues or have specific expectations about exclusivity—like avoiding cancellations or very quiet bars—you might want to confirm availability and read recent reviews before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the pub crawl last?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, providing plenty of time to explore multiple venues and enjoy the nightlife.

Where does the tour start?
It begins either at the Nescio Cafe & Terrace or the Generator Hostel Bar, depending on the day.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention solo travelers meeting new friends and having a great time.

Are drinks included?
While drinks are discounted throughout the tour and there are free shots, you’ll need to pay for additional drinks beyond the initial perks.

What is the cost per person?
The tour costs around $27.87, which includes admission, free shots, discounts, and VIP club entry.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, since it’s an outdoor and nightlife activity, poor weather could lead to cancellations or changes—check the policy if weather is a concern.

Who should avoid this tour?
If you prefer very quiet venues or dislike group activities, this tour might not be ideal. Also, be aware of possible cancellations or quieter venues as noted in some reviews.

Final Thoughts

The Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl offers a lively, social way to experience the city’s nightlife without the stress of planning individual stops. With good value, engaging guides, and a variety of venues, it’s a great choice for those wanting to meet new people, enjoy live music, and skip the lines at popular clubs.

While experiences can differ—cancellations or quieter nights happen—the core appeal remains: a fun, organized night out that showcases some of Amsterdam’s best bars and clubs. If you enjoy drinks, games, and meeting fellow travelers, this tour is likely to add a memorable chapter to your Amsterdam trip.

Who’s it best for? Solo travelers, first-timers, and groups looking for a hassle-free night of fun. Just remember to confirm your booking, stay flexible, and be ready to enjoy a spirited evening with new friends.

Additional Information

• Price: $27.87 per person
• Duration: Approximately 6 hours
• Booking: Usually booked 18 days in advance
• Availability: Thursdays to Saturdays at the Generator Hostel Bar, Sundays to Wednesdays at The Waterhole
• Cancellation Policy: Full refund if canceled 24 hours before

Enjoy your night out in Amsterdam—just bring your best party spirit and a sense of adventure!