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When it comes to having fun, many opt for Amsterdam, which might well be one of the most liberal cities in the entire European Union. As is well-known, prostitution and marijuana are absolutely legal in Amsterdam. For this reason, many tourists and travelers head to this city in search of action, partying and new experiences. If you´ve been to Amsterdam, you already know, of course, that you should avoid places like the touristy cafes that are found in the busiest squares where loud tourists flock at the end of the night.
If you are actually interested in discovering the best of Amsterdam, you’ll have to leave behind the famous “coffee shops” and English pubs and search a bit further on. Amsterdam has great terraces that are very close to the canals and bars with delicious cocktails. The food you´ll find in these alternative venues will also be surprisingly good.
Figuraten Bar
This charming cafe is very popular on the west side of the city. It is located in a very nice neighborhood close to downtown and the famous Vondelpark. During the week, you´ll find students and the occasional celebrity in this typical local bar. On Sundays nights, you can enjoy delicious toasted sandwiches. And you can enjoy live music just about every day.
Hiding in Plain Sight
Just a few canals away from Amsterdam’s red light district, you´ll find the perfect place to have the most delicious cocktails. Hiding in Plain Sight is a small bar that is somewhat hidden from the sight of the average passerby. The atmosphere of this unique cafe will transport you back to the 1920s.
Arendsnest
This unique coffee bar has over thirty different types of beer from all over the Netherlands. Here, you can try a variety of refreshing beers and perhaps be encouraged to strike up a conversation with the people who work here, since they have very good knowledge of the processes of making beer and of several breweries in the Netherlands. This place is also very close to Amsterdam’s central station.
Boom Hannekes
This is another new landmark of the city that has recently gained popularity. Opened in 2011, this cafe is still fairly new. Since then it has become one of the most popular places to have fun at any time of day. With its sixties atmosphere, this spot attracts many designers, students and “hipsters” in general.
These are some of the best places in town that are not usually on the typical tourist’s radar.
For your next holidays, find apartment accommodation in Amsterdam and use that as your home base to explore every part of this great city. Amsterdam is a great option for a trip, especially now that the weather will be warming up.
