Amsterdam is known as a town that likes to have a good time – and drinking beer in Amsterdam is certainly a good time. With bars open virtually all day, some interesting bars open from 2am – 6am, getting a drink is not a problem. And in coming to Amsterdam, you’ve come to the right place.
Amsterdam’s Most Famous Beer
As a beer guy, I’m a fan of Heineken. Although I may be one of the world’s most disloyal beer drinkers (if it’s in a bottle and cold, I’ll try it), I have been drinking Heineken since my late teens (more than a few years ago). The Heineken Experience (don’t call it the Heineken Museum) makes for a worthwhile. You walk through the former brewery location and wind your way through an interesting interactive tour of all things Heineken. The history of Heineken, the family, the beer and the making of beer. Of course, the best part is drinking the beer – the 2 Heinekens at the end of the tour. Heineken casts a large shadow in Holland and Amsterdam in particular. Heineken is everywhere, followed by Amstel.
Not So Famous Beer
In the interest of variety, I stumbled upon a small brewery called “Brouwerij De Prael“. The brewery occupies a building that dates back to 1300. Prael makes you think you are back in the day between the wood interior and the historic brewing methods. Absolutely delicious and authentic. They have 4 different beers to choose from- Johnny (5.7%), Heintje (5.4%), Mary (9.7%) and Willeke (7.5%). They all have a kick for sure but without the harsh strong beer taste. You can take a tour and taste all 4 beers for 10 Euro. Or just sit down and pick one and have a great Dutch meal. Great atmosphere and beer made with traditional methods. Well worth the visit. http://deprael.nl/
Mark's Travel Journal 