The bustling Cafe Hoppe has been around since 1670.

©Claire Bissell/Lonely Planet

Hoppe

Top choice in Medieval Centre & Red Light District


An Amsterdam institution, Hoppe has been filling glasses since 1670. Barflies and raconteurs toss back brews amid the ancient wood panelling of the bruin café (brown cafe) at No 18 and the more modern, early-20th-century pub at No 20. In all but the iciest weather, the energetic crowd spills out from the dark interior and onto the Spui.

Both the interior and exterior of the original brown cafe are listed historical monuments.