Gay Amsterdam – Charming, compact and cruisy!
If there was ever a city designed for the perfect gay vacation, it’s Amsterdam. Celebrated for its small-town charms and cosmopolitan style, the city is enjoying a renaissance.
Once famous for its legal red-light district and “coffeeshops,” Amsterdam has redefined itself as a destination open to change without forgetting what made it one of Europe’s top gay destinations.
From its fairytale cobbled streets and canals to its buzzing gay bars and warm locals, the city is one of the most progressive in the world, with a historic gay scene that continues to thrive.
Check out the top hotels closest to Amsterdam’sAmsterdam’s bars.
Explore our gay travel guide and discover why Amsterdam is one of our favourite places to visit. In 2026, the city will host both EuroPride and WorldPride.
Amsterdam is one of the world’s most gay-friendly destinations.
Is Amsterdam Gay Friendly?
Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most progressive cities and has been welcoming to gays and lesbians for decades. It even has a dedicated tourist information booth, the Pink Point, not to mention the poignant Homomonument.
Homosexuality has been legal here since 1971. Adoption for gay couples is also legal; the age of consent is 16 for everyone (gay and straight), and same-sex relationships have had the same status as heterosexual ones since 2001. Now, how’s that for progressive?
People here don’t look kindly on institutions, whether they’re political parties or religious denominations, telling people what they can’t do. In fact, one local park is a popular gathering place for many gay events throughout the year. De Oeverlanden, has signs pointing to the cruisiest section. Then there’s naked swimming at Marnixbad and Club Church’s weekly underwear party, where you can get even friendlier.
While Amsterdam is generally safe for gay visitors, it is advisable to exercise the same caution as in any major city. The local police have specialised networks, such as Roze in Blauw, dedicated to serving the gay community.
Neighbourhoods like Reguliersdwarsstraat and Zeedijk are known for their inclusive bars, cafes, clubs, and safe spaces. Outside of the Amsterdam gay district, use common sense and be aware of your surroundings.
Exploring Reguliersdwarsstraat, Amsterdam’s gay district.
Amsterdam’s Gay Districts & Neighbourhoods
With the heart and soul of a village, Amsterdam is a city of well-defined neighbourhoods, each one possessing its own distinct character. It is a compact city laid out along radiating canals (grachts) alternating with streets (straats) built during the 17th century and very easily walkable.
All of Amsterdam is very gay-friendly, so you won’t sense the “gay ghetto” mentality typical in other cities. Nonetheless, some streets and neighbourhoods have more rainbow flags, tank tops and leather chaps.
Reguliersdwarsstraat:
- Reguliersdwarsstraat is the center of Amsterdam’s LGBTQ+ nightlife.
- From Club NYX with its multi-floor parties to the stylish SOHO bar, Reguliersdwarsstraat has a diverse and friendly scene.
- It is famous for summer nights when this pedestrian street is packed wall-to-wall with gay people moving between clubs.
- Located just outside the city’s centre in the Canal Ring in the south of the city, making it easy to access.
- You can easily reach the gay district on foot. Alternatively, use a bike or tram (tram lines 1, 2, or 5 pass near popular spots in Reguliersdwarsstraat).
- Upgrade your Amsterdam stay at the Hotel Twenty-Seven, one of the best gay hotels in Amsterdam., a Small Luxury Hotel of the World with the best location in the city.
Kerkstraat
- Kerkstraat is the oldest traditional gay area in Amsterdam.
- Close to the Leidseplein Bridge in between the Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht canals.
- With a more relaxed vibe than Reguliersdwarsstraat, the neighbourhood is home to the popular gay club Church and Amsterdam’s oldest gay bar, Spijke.
- It has a distinct village feel, with locals offering a distinctly traditional atmosphere. It is also home to several gay-friendly hotels and restaurants.
- Check out the top hotels closest to Kerkstraat.
Warmoesstraat
- Amsterdam’s leather scene is centred around Warmoesstraat, just off Dam Square, close to the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky, in the heart of Amsterdam’s infamous red light district.
- Most of the bars boast busy backrooms and a leather or fetish dress code with theme nights. Look out for The Eagle and Dirty Dicks, both definitely worth a pit stop.
- Here, you will find the flagships of the famous leather stores Mister B and Rob, which sell a wide range of leather and fetish gear.
- Check out the top hotels closest to Dam Square.
Getting Around
Amsterdam is easy to navigate, on foot, by bike or water taxi!
Getting from the Airport to Amsterdam
- Train: Take the NS train from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Centraal Station.
- It is fast and convenient. Trains run frequently. Journey time is roughly 15-20 minutes.
- Get your tickets via the kiosks or on the NS app.
- Taxis: Alternatively, taxis are available outside the arrivals area.
- A trip to the city centre ranges between €40-€60.
- Rideshare services such as Uber are slightly cheaper.
- Bus: Take the GVB Bus 397 (Amsterdam Airport Express) from Schiphol directly to central Amsterdam.
- The buses also stop at popular areas, including Museumplein and Leidseplei.
- Journey time is between 30-40 minutes.
Getting Around Amsterdam
- Amsterdam is easy to navigate. The city’s centre and old town are surrounded by the Singel Canal. Inside this is the red-light district around the Oude Kerk (Old Church), the Nes Theatre street, a maze of charming old-fashioned streets and quiet canals, and the Royal Palace on Dam Square.
- Also inside the Singel Canal are the pedestrian shopping streets of Nieuwendijk and Kalverstraat, which run north and south from the Dam and the central train station.
- Outside the old centre are three more circular canals: Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht. These are excellent to walk, with the Herengracht being the grandest, especially along the Golden Crescent.
- When negotiating the city, it’s also helpful to note that these canals radiate alphabetically, so it’s easy to work out where you are!
- Centraal’s main train station is at the top of it all.
- Cars have difficulty fitting through the narrow streets, but bicycle taxis can zip around efficiently. Amsterdam is bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes and rental options everywhere. Reserve your bike now and pay later.
- The local tram service is also popular. The GVB network includes trams, buses, and metro services. A day pass offers unlimited travel across all modes.
- Get unlimited public transport on one ticket.
Where to find a Gay Hotel? The top Gay and Gay-Friendly Hotels and Guesthouses in Amsterdam
From luxury hotels to charming guest houses and apartments, discover our top recommendations.
W Hotel Amsterdam – Perfect rooftop pool moments.
Grachtengordel, also known as the Canal Belt, is Amsterdam’s charming UNESCO-designated district that wraps around the south and west of the city centre. It makes the perfect base for your Amsterdam trip, close to the city’s nightlife and surrounded by stunning architecture and high-end shops. Note while you wont find a dedicated gay hotel in the city, its not really an issue. Hotels in Amsterdam are all gay friendly and there is plenty of choice for the gay traveler. Here are our some of our favourites:
- Out Top Choice—The Banks Mansion is an all-inclusive hotel close to the city’s top attractions but away from the hustle and bustle of touristy locations. The Travel Proud Certified venue serves excellent breakfasts. Rooms are large with high-end amenities, and the end-of-day happy hour is a great way to make new friends.
- The Hoxton—Spread across five canal houses, the Hoxton is perfect for cultured gays seeking a relaxing escape after a day of sightseeing or a night of partying. It has chic yet cosy designer rooms and a superb Lotti restaurant and terrace.
- Top of the City—Charming Travel Proud Certified Guest House offers spacious rooms and suites with stunning canal views. It is just a 6-minute walk from Rembrandplein. Breakfast is delicious, and the location is excellent.
- Eden Amsterdam—Located directly on the Amstel, close to the city’s traditional bars, this “Travel Proud” certified hotel features stylish rooms with unique decor. The location is perfect, and the breakfast options are varied and delicious.
- The Nobelman – If you are looking for a unique design hotel, The Nobelman is it. Set in a historic house, the hotel has transformed the building into a luxurious home from home, serving the best a-la-carte breakfast with style.
- Art’otel Amsterdam – An excellent-rated place to stay by Radisson in the heart of the old centre, close to popular bars in the red-light district. Featuring uniquely decorated rooms with crisp modern decor. Highly recommended.
Gay Map of Amsterdam
Nieuwe Doelenstraat 2, 1012 Binnenstad, The Netherlands
De L'Europe Amsterdam offers luxurious accommodation along the Amstel River, in the heart of the city. This 5-star hotel includes a fitness area, spa and wellness facilities and a waterside terrace. Valet parking is available at an additional charge.
The guest rooms and suites blend a classic design, including a Carrara marble bathroom, with contemporary amenities such as Apple TV, A Bose surround sound system and motion detecting floor lighting. A nespresso machine
Vijzelstraat 4, 1017 Binnenstad, The Netherlands
Overlooking the flower market, NH Collection Amsterdam Flower Market is situated in the middle of the city centre, only 100 m from the Kalverstraat shopping area. NH Collection Amsterdam Flower Market offers free WiFi throughout the hotel.
Each air-conditioned room at NH Collection Amsterdam Flower Market features satellite TV, a work desk and tea and coffee making facilities.
Vijzelstraat 49, 1017 Binnenstad, The Netherlands
Each room in the 4-star Albus Hotel Amsterdam City Centre has a flat-screen TV with a special guest communication portal. The
and are a 3-minute walk away.This environmentally friendly hotel with Green Key Gold certification offers 75 rooms, all equipped with a Nespresso® machine, design furniture and modern wooden floors. The completely renovated bathroom has luxurious soap amenities, a rain shower, a heated and lighted mirror, an automatic lightening system and a bathrobe.
Nieuwe Doelenstraat 24, 1012 Binnenstad, The Netherlands
Built in the 17th century and therefore the oldest hotel of
, the 5-star Doelen is a boutique style hotel located along the Amstel River. The renovated hotel offers luxury rooms and free WiFi. Dam Square is a 10-minute walk away.All 81 rooms are stylishly furnished with modern amenities, including air conditioning. Guests can enjoy a drink from the minibar or make a cup of coffee or tea. Each room is also provided with a work desk and cable TV.
Prinsengracht 305, 1016 NM Amsterdam, Netherlands
This beautiful luxury apartment is located at one of the most desired locations in Amsterdam with canal view at the famous Prinsen Canal and nearly adjacent to the famous "9 Streets area". And features all amenities you would expect
Amstel 151, 1018 ET Amsterdam, Netherlands
Right in the heart of Amsterdam with views from the balcony of Amstel River. offering 2 bedrooms, a living room and a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a dining area, and 2 bathrooms with a bath or shower and a washing machine. Free WiFi
Singel 95, 1012 SR Amsterdam, Netherlands
This 18th Century ground floor canal house with patio/garden is close to Royal Palace offering 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and offers river views.
Amstelveld 3, 1017 JD Amsterdam, Netherlands
This Amsterdam city centre luxurious canal apartment offers 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, a patio with city views, free WiFi and a washing machine.
Utrechtsestraat 19, Amsterdam 1017 VH
● LGBT-friendly cafe-bar
● Ideal for breakfast, snacks, coffee, and wine
Monday-Wednesday 08:00 – 22:00; Thursday-Saturday 08:00 – 01:00;
Sunday 09:00 – 22:00
Weteringstraat 60, Amsterdam 1017 SP
● LGBT-friendly pub with a canal-side terrace
● Serves beer, sandwiches, and various other dishes
● Located between the Museum quarter and the Spiegel quarter with its antique shops
Monday 12:00 – 21:00; Tuesday-Saturday 12:00 – 24:00; Kitchen until 20:30
Reguliersdwarsstraat 41, 1017 BK Amsterdam, Netherlands
● New bar in Amsterdam's famous gay street
● Drag shows and bingo nights
Monday-Thursday 16:00 – 03:00 Friday, Saturday 14:00 – 04:00 Sunday 14:00 – 03:00
Reguliersdwarsstraat 44, 1017 BM Amsterdam, Netherlands
● LGBT-oriented, spacious bar with dance floor
● DJs and entertainment
Monday-Thursday 16:00 – 03:00; Friday, Saturday 14:00 – 04:00; Sunday 14:00 – 03:00
Zeedijk 63, 1012 Amsterdam, The Netherlands
● The grande dame of Amsterdam's gay & lesbian nightlife
● First gay bar in the Netherlands, opened in 1927
● Small cozy bar with mixed clientele
● Music: Dutch Schlager, chansons, Pop
Wednesday, Thursday 16:00 – 24:00; Friday, Saturday 16:00 – 02:00;
Sunday 16:00 – 24:00
Reguliersdwarsstraat 42a, Amsterdam 1017 BM
● Gay bar in 'après-ski' style
● Busiest after 01:00, mixed clientele
Daily 21:00 – 04:00; Friday, Saturday till 05:00
Utrechtsestraat 4, 1017 VN Amsterdam, Netherlands
● Small bar and safe space for the queer/trans community
● Trans/queer women owned and operated
● Events: open mic nights, drag shows, stand-up comedy, karaoke nights, live singers and bands
Thursday 20:30 – 01:00; Friday, Saturday 20:30 – 02:00; Sunday 19:00 – 01:00/02:00
Spuistraat 109, 1012 SV Amsterdam, Netherlands
● Popular gay cocktail bar with a modern and friendly atmosphere
● Snacks available, gets busy early
Monday-Thursday 16:00–01:00 Friday 16:00–03:00 Saturday 15:00– 03:00; Sunday 15:00 – 01:00
Reguliersdwarsstraat 36, 1017 Binnenstad, The Netherlands
● Big gay lounge bar with London pub style
● Street terrace in good weather
Thursday 20:30 – 01:00; Friday, Saturday 20:30 – 02:00; Sunday 19:00 – 01:00/02:00
Kerkstraat 4, 1017 Amsterdam, The Netherlands
● Traditional gay jeans bar with pool table
● Over 40 years of history
Daily 16:00 – 01:00; Friday, Saturday till 03:00
Reguliersdwarsstraat 45, 1017 Binnenstad, The Netherlands
● Very busy gay bar with mixed ages
● Weekly drag shows and popular street terrace
Monday-Thursday 15:00 – 03:00; Friday 15:00 – 04:00; Saturday 14:00 – 04:00; Sunday 14:00 – 03:00
Zeedijk 20, 1012 Amsterdam, The Netherlands
● Friendly gay bar with weekly drag shows and eccentric bingo shows
● DJs on weekends and canal view nook in the back
Daily 16:00 – 01:00; Friday, Saturday till 03:00
Kerkstraat 52, 1017 GM Amsterdam, Netherlands
● 2 floors of dance and play space.
● Different theme nights six times a week – check the program on the Church website.
● Admission: 7-15 €
Wednesday 20:00 – 01:00; Thursday 22:00 – 04:00; Friday, Saturday
22:00 – 05:00; Sunday 16:00 – 20:00
Nieuwezijds Kolk 6, 1012 PV Amsterdam, Netherlands
● Started in 1984 as a leather bar, now without fetish and dress codes.
● The cruising labyrinth in the basement is quite busy in the late evening.
● Minimum consumption: 1 drink
Daily 13:00 – 01:00; Friday, Saturday till 02:00
Warmoesstraat 90, 1012 JH Amsterdam, Netherlands
● Gay cruise bar.
● Traditionally associated with leather and denim, but open to all types of gays.
● Minimum consumption: 1 drink
Thursday 23:00 – 04:00; Friday, Saturday 23:00 – 05:00; Sunday 23:00 – 04:00
Warmoesstraat 86, 1012 JH Amsterdam, Netherlands
● Small gay cruise bar.
● A bit fetish-oriented, but without dress codes (except for special parties).
● Busiest after midnight.
● Minimum consumption: 1-2 drinks
Daily 20:00 – 03:00; Friday, Saturday till 04:00
Amstel 178, 1017 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands
● New bar in Amsterdam for gay men as well as trans and non-binary people.
● (Un)dress code naked!
● With lounge and pool table.
● Admission: 5 €
Thursday 23:00 – 04:00; Friday, Saturday 23:00 – 05:00; Sunday 23:00 – 04:00
Sint Jacobsstraat 6, 1012 NC Amsterdam, Netherlands
● Gay bar in the center of Amsterdam.
● Some cruising upstairs.
● Minimum consumption: 1 drink
Thursday 23:00 – 04:00; Friday, Saturday 23:00 – 05:00; Sunday 23:00 – 04:00
Lijnbaansgracht 234-A, 1017 PH Amsterdam, Netherlands
● Big and popular gay nightclub with themed nights
Reguliersdwarsstraat 48, 1017 BM Amsterdam, Netherlands
● This is a new lesbian bar in Amsterdam that’s on the gay street
Thursday 20:00–1:00 Friday Saturday 20:00–3:00
Damrak 61, 1012 LL Amsterdam, Netherlands
● drake’s cruising is a popular award winning amsterdam cruising venue frequented by a mixed crowd. it has a spacious cruising area. it’s a popular and safe place where travellers and locals meet during the day and evening in a nightclub like atmosphere. there are free lockers and wifi.
Monday – Sunday 12:00 – 19:00
Gay Restaurants: What are the best LGBTQ+-friendly restaurants in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam certainly holds its own on the restaurant front, offering a culinary melting pot reflective of the city itself. Restaurants offer everything a hungry visitor craves: Indonesian to tapas and Mediterranean to modern Dutch.
And remember, no trip to Amsterdam is complete without having tried Bitterballen, a popular snack among many gay travelers. No, it’s not what you might think. These deep-fried snacks are similar to croquettes and are often served in bars and cafés as a snack with drinks. They are filled with a rich mixture of beef or veal ragout and crispy on the outside with a creamy, savoury filling. Try it with mustard for dipping.
Check out our top places to eat, from charming local eateries to something a little different:
Lunch Recommendations:
- Moon is a revolving restaurant located on the 19th floor of the A’DAMA’DAM Tower. Enjoy panoramic views of Amsterdam as it slowly rotates, providing a 360-degree dining experience. Moon serves an elaborate meal from a weekly changing menu featuring pure Dutch ingredients. Their three-course lunch for under EUR 50 is delicious.
- The Pantry – Located on Leidsekruisstraat, The Pantry serves traditional homemade Dutch dishes with friendly service in a setting that evokes traditional Dutch decor. Enjoy delicious Stamppott ( A traditional Dutch dish of mashed potatoes combined with vegetables), Savoury Beef and Onion Stew and desserts such as poffertjes (mini pancakes with butter and powdered sugar)
Dinner Recommendations:
- Ciel Bleu – Two-Michelin-starred restaurant on the 23rd floor of the Hotel Okura, offering exquisite French cuisine and stunning city views. Seasonal menus feature international influences. The decor is stylish and elegant. Reservations are essential.
- Garlic Queen is a unique restaurant in the heart of Amsterdam’s gay district, Reguliersdwarsstraat. As the name suggests, garlic is a central ingredient in their dishes, from the renowned garlic soup to exclusive garlic liqueur. The chef tailors the amount of garlic to your preference. You must try the Garlic Ice Cream!
Breakfast and Brunch Recommendations:
- Greenwoods—This cosy restaurant serves delicious English breakfasts and brunches at its locations on Keizersgracht and Singel. Think generous portions of eggs benedict, pancakes, and banana bread.
- Dignita Hoftuin – Set in a tranquil garden near the Hermitage Museum, Dignita Hoftuin offers a serene brunch experience with a menu emphasising fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Coffee, Ice Cream, and Street Food Spots:
- For Coffee: Scandinavian Embassy in De Pijp is known for its excellent coffee and delicious cakes, with beans imported from micro-roasters in Scandinavia. citeturn0search0
- Ice Cream: Monte Pelmo is one of Amsterdam’s oldest and most beloved gelaterias in the heart of the Jordaan district. This family-run spot has served Italian-style ice cream made fresh daily since 1957. It offers a range of flavours, including caramel sea salt and traditional classics.
- Street Food: Albert Cuyp Market is a bustling street market where you can find a variety of Dutch street foods like herring, stroopwafels, and poffertjes.
Where can you find the best gay-friendly beaches in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam has some great gay-friendly beaches worth a short trip from the city centre.
- Zandvoort Beach – Just 30 minutes by train from Amsterdam Central Station, Zandvoort is a popular seaside destination.
- The gay-friendly section is located on the southern side of the beach, near Beach Club ‘t Naatje.
- Complete with a designated nude section. The beach also hosts several pride events during the Amsterdam Pride celebrations.
- Nieuwe Meer—Just outside Amsterdam’s city centre, Nieuwe Meer is a lake where nude sunbathing is permitted.
- The adjacent Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest) is a busy gay cruising area throughout the year.
- Amsterdamse Bos – Within Amsterdamse Bos, there are secluded spots along the waterways that are popular among gay friends meeting up for an afternoon in the sun. While not traditional beaches, these areas offer a tranquil setting for relaxation and socialising.
Exploring Amsterdam Beyond the Scene: Top things to see and do over a weekend.
Follow our relaxed guide to the best things to do in Amsterdam.
Day 1: Introduction to the City
Morning
- Canal Cruise—The best way to get a feel for Amsterdam is by taking a relaxing boat ride through the canals—the perfect way to explore the city’s layout and iconic architecture.
- Anne Frank House—Visit the Anne Frank House, a powerful historical experience that reflects resilience, tolerance, and justice.
Afternoon
- Jordaan District – Stroll through this charming district, which is famous for its galleries and cafes. Stop for lunch at a local spot like Café Winkel 43, renowned for its apple pie.
- Pink Point (LGBT+ Information Kiosk): Near the Homomonument, visit Pink Point, a hub of information about Amsterdam’s LGBT+ community and events.
Day 2: Cultural Landmarks and LGBT+ History
Morning
- Rijksmuseum, a cultural landmark near the Amsterdam gay district.—Explore the treasures of Dutch art, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. After admiring the artwork, take a tour of the landscaped gardens outside.
- Van Gogh Museum—This beautifully curated museum is a must-see for learning about Van Gogh’s life and works.
Afternoon
- Homomonument—Visit this important monument commemorating LGBT+ people who have faced persecution. It’s located near the Westerkerk and offers a quiet spot for reflection.
- Rembrandt House Museum – Discover Rembrandt’s life and history at his former home and workshop.
- Amsterdam Museum—Visit this museum to learn more about the city’s history, including exhibits on its progressive social policies and LGBT+ history.
Evening
- Dinner Cruise—Book a special evening canal cruise with dinner and enjoy the city’s beauty lit up at night.
Day 4: Relaxation and Hidden Gems
Morning
- Vondelpark – Enjoy an early morning bike ride or a relaxing walk in one of the city’s most beautiful parks.
- Tropenmuseum – Explore this fascinating museum dedicated to world cultures, with thoughtful exhibits on diversity and inclusion.
Afternoon
- Albert Cuyp Market – Enjoy this bustling market, sampling Dutch treats like stroopwafels or trying local cheeses.
- A’DAM Lookout and Swing – For a thrilling end to your trip, visit this observation deck with panoramic views of Amsterdam. Try the “Over the Edge” swing for a final adrenaline rush.
When to visit Amsterdam?
Here’s our guide to the different seasons to visit:
Spring (March to May)
- Amsterdam comes alive in spring, with the city’s canals framed by blooming flowers and sunny weather just beginning to warm things up.
- Temperatures range from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F), so pack layers.
- Spring is prime time for seeing the famous tulip fields, especially in April. Keukenhof’s gardens are bursting with colour—a must-see just a short ride from Amsterdam.
- For LGBTQ+ visitors, Amsterdam’sAmsterdam’s Pink Film Days takes place in March. This LGBTQ+ film festival showcases an eclectic mix of queer cinema from across the world—an excellent opportunity to experience an intimate local culture.
Summer (June to August)
- Summer is Amsterdam at its liveliest. The temperatures settle between 17°C and 26°C (62°F to 78°F), and tourists flock to the canals and parks.
- This is festival season, and for the LGBTQ+ crowd, August is the best month when Amsterdam Pride dominates the city.
- Canal Pride Parade, an iconic celebration that draws thousands, floats down the Prinsengracht, turning the whole area into a vibrant and welcoming party. For a less-crowded Pride experience, visit during the opening or closing events—the celebrations are still electric but more intimate.
- Amsterdam’s Vondelpark is perfect for a picnic, especially when evening temperatures stay warm. Bring some local delicacies and find a patch of grass. The LGBTQ+ community is visible and comfortable here, particularly around Pride, when people gather for unofficial pre- and post-celebrations.
Fall (September to November)
- Autumn in Amsterdam feels relaxed as the summer crowds fade. Temperatures are mild, between 10°C and 18°C (50°F and 64°F), but it’s wise to bring waterproof gear—rain makes frequent but short appearances.
- Fall brings an artistic vibe to the city, with museum season in full swing and cultural festivals like the Dutch Theatre Festival and the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE).
- ADE offers LGBTQ+-inclusive spaces across the city for electronic music lovers to get lost in thumping beats until dawn.
- Nightlife during this time is cosy and casual. Many local LGBTQ+ bars, like Prik and Bar Buka, offer themed events ideal for meeting locals and sharing travel stories.
Winter (December to February)
- Winter in Amsterdam is all about embracing the charm of quieter canals, holiday lights, and gezelligheid (a Dutch word capturing the sense of cosiness and warmth).
- The temperatures range from 0°C to 7°iconic experience layers and a warm coat.
- The Light Festival runs from late November through January, and there’s nothing like taking a canal cruise to see the installations reflect on dark waters.
- For LGBTQ+ travellers, New Year’s Eve is an event to keep on the radar. Popular spots like Club Church or Club NYX often host themed parties—plan to get tickets early.
- If you’re lucky, the canals might freeze, allowing skating—an iconic experience in its own right.
Recommended Hotels in Amsterdam By Booking
Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels Amsterdam that keep you close to all the shops, restaurants & bars
De l’Europe
5 Star – Central Location
- 5 Star, Waterside Terrace, Spa Facilities
- A short walk to the gay bars
- Carrara marble bathroom, Apple TV
- Classic design meets contemporary luxury, complete with fitness area, spa facilities, and a beautiful waterside terrace.
NH Collection Doelen
5 Star, Readers Choice
- 5 Star, Amsterdam’s Oldest Hotel
- A short walk to the gay bars
- Stylish furnishings, modern amenities, air conditioning
- Nestled in a historic 17th-century building, offering stylishly furnished rooms with modern amenities in a central location.
Albus Hotel Amsterdam
4 Star – Great Amenities
- 4 Star, Environmentally Friendly, Green Key Gold
- A short walk to the gay bars
- Nespresso machine, rain shower
- Eco-friendly with modern rooms featuring Nespresso machines, rain showers, and an innovative air conditioning system.
Inntel Hotel
4 Star – Perfect Location
- 4 Star, Near Amsterdam Central Station
- A short walk to the gay bars
- Satellite TV, air-conditioned, modern decor
- Offers comfortable, modern rooms close to Central Station, with free Wi-Fi, and stylish bar.
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