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The most popular and crowded parties are those which happen monthly or every few months. It also hosts parties on King’s Day, plus bear nights, football nights (during the cup season), Eurovision Song Contest nights and so on.
Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.
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Everyone is welcome. Come and immerse yourself in Amsterdam’s LGBTQ+ scene – be prepared to feel embraced by a community that celebrates diversity.
The city is brimming with a vibrant LGBTQ+ history and culture just waiting to be explored. It’s become a place to celebrate and be proud: on Queen’s Day and Pride, it’s annexed to an open-air disco and market.
Many of these stores actively collaborate with queer artists and designers, providing a platform for their work and contributing to the vibrant LGBTQ+ art scene in the city. It’s happy hour every day from 6pm, and Wednesday is ‘Fabulous Cocktail Night’, complete with drag queens and games (plus cheap tipples).
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Gay Street stalwart Club Exit was reborn as mixed Club NYX back in 2012 (named after the Greek Goddess of the Night), and it’s been pretty legendary since. The Dutch capital has been a bastion of the LGBTQ+ community for over a century, with its queer community flourishing despite political and social adversity.
Amsterdam has several thriving gay villages brimming with gay restaurants, coffee shops, clubs and bars.
It has it all, plus more: a bar with Greek-style columns, a stage perfect for drag-queen acts, a great sound and light system and various dark, dark chambers... So, when you choose to shop with pride in Amsterdam, not only are you supporting local businesses, but you’re also celebrating and embracing a culture of acceptance and love.
So, whether you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community or a passionate ally, don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in Amsterdam’s vibrant LGBTQ+ shopping scene.
Some popular ones include Club NYX, a multi-level nightclub with various themed parties, and the iconic Café ‘t Mandje, the city’s oldest gay bar, which has been welcoming people since the 1920s. Cheeky theme nights abound.
Entertainment runs all week: Tuesday is karaoke night, Thursday salsa and Monday is ‘Whatever You Want, You Get’, when punters themselves are responsible for providing the music.
Queer or not, PRIK is hot.
As our Amsterdam Gay Maps show, there are several gay areas in Amsterdam, all of them not really far from each other.
Additionally, organizations such as COC Amsterdam and OUT & ABOUT provide a range of services, from advocacy and social events to counseling and support for LGBTQ+ individuals living in or visiting the city.
Beyond Pride events, Amsterdam offers a wide variety of LGBTQ+ activities.
Dive into this rich history and immerse yourself in the experiences, struggles, and triumphs that have shaped the community.
Begin your journey by visiting the fascinating LGBTQ+ museums and exhibitions scattered throughout the city. Just don’t be surprised to see some open-minded straight people frequent these joints – these are some of the best clubs in a city famous for its nightlife, after all.
In summer the canal-side patio is perfect for catching some rays (or simply watching the world go by).
Three floors offer distinct vibes – making liberal use of graffiti, glitter and concrete – and a toilet DJ keeps the party going while you wash your hands at a giant pink phallus.
One of Amsterdam’s oldest gay bars – Spijkerbar opened in 1978 – remains one of the best thanks to its friendly, laid-back vibe, cheap drinks, great music, and a number of popular theme nights.
These hotspots are buzzing with infectious beats, vibrant lights, and an empowering sense of freedom.
Just before its then-owner (Bet’s younger sister, Greet) died, she put the wheels in motion to have the club restored and re-opened – which it was, finally, in 2008, bringing ‘the basket’ back to its bustling best. Recently refurbished, Soho now has a cocktail bar and large dance floor, while the terrace out back is a wonderful spot in warmer weather.
Open every day, the Web’s music selection and house DJs are second to none, and after 6pm they do snacks (although their famous soup and hot dogs are Sunday only).