New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam hits different. Fireworks light up the canals, the streets stay buzzing long after midnight, and the city turns into one big, choose-your-own-adventure night out. Whether you want craft beer, top-tier cocktails, or a low-key toast that accidentally turns into a very late night, these bars know how to do December 31 right.
BeerTemple
BeerTemple is where Amsterdam’s beer obsession goes big. The tap list leans heavily into American craft alongside standout European brews, with plenty of bold IPAs, stouts, and seasonal pours worth exploring. Order a hazy IPA or something barrel-aged and claim a table early. The crowd is lively and international, especially on New Year’s Eve, making it an easy spot to toast the night with great beer and good momentum before heading deeper into the city.
Proeflokaal Arendsnest
Arendsnest puts Dutch beer front and center (more than 52 on draft), pouring from an impressive lineup of local breweries you rarely see elsewhere. Strong ales and seasonal bocks shine here, especially on colder nights. Located along the canal, it draws a friendly mix of regulars and curious travelers. The atmosphere encourages staying longer than planned, easing into New Year’s Eve with a glass in hand before the streets fill and the countdown energy builds.
Bar TwentySeven
Right near Dam Square, Bar TwentySeven serves polished cocktails with a front-row view of the city’s biggest night. Floor-to-ceiling windows look out over the buzz below, while the menu keeps things classic with confident twists. Go for a Pornstar Martini if you’re in a party mood, or splurge on a glass of vintage 2008 Dom Pérignon if you’re feeling extra. Gold-laden booths set the tone, luxe but not stiff, and it’s the kind of place that fills up fast. Reservations are highly recommended.
Tales & Spirits
Tales & Spirits is a high-energy cocktail spot with playful drinks and a party-ready vibe that stays fun, not messy. Order house favorites like the Fallen Lady, The Girl Next Door, or Bird Is the Word, or let the bartenders point you to something bold. The music is upbeat, the room fills fast, and it’s a great pick for groups. Before you go, know the house rules: be silly, the hostess decides who gets in, and dress to impress.
Door 74
Hidden behind an unmarked door in central Amsterdam, Door 74 is a true speakeasy-style cocktail bar. Getting in feels like a secret, and once you do, you’ll find themed cocktail menus, illustrated drink cards, and a relaxed, welcoming crowd. Every drink has a story, and the menus change regularly, so there’s always something new to try. For New Year’s Eve, book a ticket for an open bar, snacks, music and more!
Bar Mokum
Bar Mokum is a top-rated Amsterdam cocktail bar with low-key speakeasy energy. It’s dark, cozy, and focused on drinks that are easy to love. Menus change with the seasons, the room fills fast, and New Year’s Eve gets busy in a good way. No DJ, no chaos, just strong cocktails and a packed bar. If you want to ring in the new year without a club wristband, book ahead.
Bonus Spots: In de Wildeman & Flying Dutchman Cocktails
Tucked inside a former distillery, In de Wildeman focuses on quality over noise. The rotating selection highlights Belgian classics, Dutch farmhouse styles, and harder-to-find ales, all poured by staff who love explaining them. A crisp tripel or funky lambic pairs well with slow conversation and an unhurried pace. It is ideal for starting the evening with intention, surrounded by locals and visitors who prioritize flavor over volume.
Flying Dutchmen Cocktails is a no-nonsense cocktail bar in the heart of Amsterdam, owned by award-winning bartender Tess Posthumus. The menu sticks to (neo-)classic drinks done right, backed by the largest spirit collection in the Netherlands, more than 900 bottles behind the bar. It’s open seven days a week until 4 am, making it a go-to for late nights. Don’t skip the OG Punch, a historic crowd-pleaser with Batavia Arrack, lemon, pomegranate, and rose water.
