The Amsterdam Beer Guide: Heineken Experience & Local Breweries

Last Updated: June 17, 2026 This post was originally published in 2012 and has been updated to reflect current recommendations and travel conditions.

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.

The Heineken Experience: Amsterdam’s Most Famous Beer Tour

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 visit and tour. 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, the beer, is everywhere, followed by Amstel.

Finding Craft Beer at Brouwerij De Prael

In the interest of variety, I stumbled upon a smaller 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 old wood interior and the historic brewing methods. The beers are absolutely delicious and authentic. If you are a beer lover, you will be in heaven. 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 with your beer. Great atmosphere and beer made with traditional methods. Well worth the visit. Because De Prael is located in the oldest part of the city, it makes a perfect afternoon stop before you head deeper out to explore Amsterdam’s infamous nightlife and Red Light District at night.

Quick Tips for Drinking Beer in Amsterdam

Like every establishment, bars have their open hours. But if you are looking for a beer at anytime during the day or night, you will find a bar open. Also, no smoking in bars.
A warning about portion sizes: A “biertje” is tiny (200ml or 230ml for some), don’t expect the standard 330ml serving you are used to in many other countries.
Going to the bathroom can be an adventure in an old building with old stairs, toilets and suspect stalls.

Author Bio

Mark Crone is the traveller and storyteller behind Mark’s Travel Journal, where he shares practical tips, destination guides, and real experiences from his adventures around the world. Based in Canada, he aims to help others travel smarter and discover meaningful moments on the road. Explore more of Mark’s work: