
Wonky pubs and historic drinking holes in Amsterdam
22 May 2025


While on the terrace of O'Reilly's, you have a great view of the Royal Palace on Dam Square. In the basement bar, you watch Arsenal - Manchester United, the Zandvoort Grand Prix or Blackburn Rovers - Ipswich Town. You get the idea: all the world's major (and minor) sports matches are broadcast here. Incredibly convenient if you don't feel like talking to each other during a delicious Sunday Roast.

This dimly lit pub is somewhat hidden in an old warehouse between Centraal Station and the Red Light District, but located on one of Amsterdam's most photogenic streets. Are you bored with pints of Guinness or Kilkenny? We can hardly imagine it, but if you want to switch drinks, Malone's is known for its obscure and antique whiskeys collection. Last time we counted 75 of them.

This Irish pub has now achieved legendary status among live music lovers. Mulligan's hosts an Irish music session every Sunday, with locals coming together to play classic Irish songs and Gaelic melodies. When a band isn't playing on the (tiny) stage, expect a playlist full of traditional folk music that will undoubtedly have the regulars dancing on the table. This is not a metaphor or an exaggeration. Please beware of spontaneous table dancing.

Behind the famous Heineken Brewery in De Pijp, you'll find O'Donnell's, an Irish pub with loungy chesterfield sofas and a huge back room. Here you are guaranteed they will show your favourite football or rugby team on a big (or smaller) screen. With 12 different beers on tap, you are assured not to have to go home thirsty.

This Irish spot on Leidseplein, Amsterdam's Theatre District, takes you on a one-way ticket to Dublin. Saint Patrick's Day is celebrated every year with a big party and performances of traditional Irish dancers, but there's always a party outside this famous Irish holiday too. Whether you come for fish & chips, Six Nations Rugby or a 21-year-old Bushmills whisky, Hoopman got you covered year-round.