Ah, summer in Amsterdam! The best way to take advantage of it is to sit with a delicious drink on one of the city’s waterside terraces. If that sounds good to you then there are plenty of places to find that experience. Whether you want to be right in the centre of Amsterdam or would prefer a quieter spot somewhere further out, we’ve got you covered.
Here are our top picks for canalside terraces
1. Waterkant
Waterkant has such a brilliant vibe, inspired by De Waterkant in Suriname, South America, which means that their kitchens are full of the most delicious ingredients, perfect for eating on a beautiful Spring day overlooking the water. You can book a table on the website.
📍Marnixstraat 246, 1016 TL
2. Hannekes Boom
Hannekes Boom is in the centre of Amsterdam, but it feels a million miles away from the city. You can hang out on the decking, covered with sand, on one of Amsterdam’s most amazing waterside terraces, and sit at one of their lovely picnic tables right by the water. From here there’s a beautiful view out over the city, and you can read the menu on the website.
📍Dijksgracht 4, 1019 BS
3. Café de Jaren
By the beautiful Amstel sits Café de Jaren, and even on a rainy day, you can enjoy a view here, with huge glass windows through which to gaze out over the river. However, the beautiful waterside terrace is the best spot in which to relax with a lovely cold beer and a stunning view. Read more about the cafe on the website.
📍Nieuwe Doelenstraat 20-20, 1012 CP
4. Café van Zuylen
Café van Zuylen is located by the Torensluis, a bridge that dates back to the 17th century, and it couldn’t be better placed to offer spectacular views. It’s an incredibly popular cafe and it’s right in the heartbeat of Amsterdam so you can people-watch from a comfy seat on the terrace. There are more details about the cafe on their website. Oh, and the café has an amazing resident cat, Fluitje!
📍Torensteeg 8, 1012 TH
5. Pllek
Pllek is one of the coolest places in Amsterdam, and its outside space is fantastic. They offer really tasty vegan food, and you can eat it by the water, which is such a calming and pleasant experience. Check out their website for more information on the restaurant.
📍TT Neveritaweg 59, 1033 WB
6. Noorderlicht
This lovely cafe serves responsibly sourced food and the waterside terrace is expansive. Plus, the view of the water from the terrace is breathtakingly beautiful. Visit their website to view the menu.
📍NDSM plein 102, 1033 WB