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GAPP rooftop terrace with people
Image from GAPP

Sun around the clock on these Amsterdam terraces

Start your day with a generous dose of sunshine and end it on a magical note as blue skies transform into a shimmering gold hue. Here’s our list of the best sun-soaked terraces in Amsterdam and the perfect time to bask in the sun, from sunrise to sunset. Let the quest for the ultimate sunny spot begin.

Morning rays - 9:00 - 12:00

Vessel

Vessel restaurant signature dishes
Image from Vessel

In the morning, Vessel's spacious terrace is blanketed in radiant sunlight. Situated along the IJ, you can observe boats passing by as you ease into your day with a coffee. Their delectable breakfast menu is sure to bring a smile to your face.

Tip: get there on time to secure a spot (especially on weekends), as this place tends to fill up quickly with swimmers and sunbathers.

No Man's Art Gallery

No Man's Art Gallery in Bos & Lommer - people dinning outside
Image from Winnie Verswijvel

No Man's Art Gallery is a unique fusion of a restaurant and a gallery and is the perfect place to wake up your senses and gather inspiration for the day ahead. Explore their ever-changing gallery, then settle into a comfy spot outside and watch the city go by. If real hunger strikes, don't miss out on their tantalising "Big Brunch"!

Honourable Mentions

Parkzuid café-restaurant exterior
Image from Parkzuid
  • The Cottage - anyone craving a hearty English breakfast must visit the sunny terrace here to bask in the morning rays.
  • Parkzuid - a relatively new addition to Vondelpark, Parkzuid is an ideal spot for people-watching in the sun.
  • Benji's (Baarsjesweg) - enjoy good food and even better company at Benji's as you feel the warm embrace of sunshine.

Afternoon lunch 12:00 - 15:00

Polly Goudvisch

Image from Polly Goudvisch

This bar and restaurant in one is the newest addition to Amsterdam Noord. Just a short ferry ride across from Central Station, you’ll find Polly Goudvisch. Whether you come for lunch or drinks and bites, their terrace always promises abundant sun.

Canvas

Entrance of Canvas rooftop bar Volkshotel.
Image from Volkshotel

Located on the top floor of the Volkshotel in Oost, the Canvas roof terrace is open from noon until late in the evening as your dancing adventures commence. The city views are unique, and their lunch menu has some delicious options - all complimented by a seat in the sun.

Honourable mentions

Kikkie natural wine bar and restaurant on Prisengracht interior
Image from Koen Smilde
  • Pont 13 - with a view on 't IJ and the option to take a refreshing dip, this restaurant/bar is the go-to sunseekers spot in summer (opening times vary weekly). 
  • Theetuin Noot - you’ll find an abundance of sun and serenity accompanied by a breakfast or lunch made of organic ingredients.
  • Kikkie - with their terrace along the Prinsengracht, enjoy a bucketload of sun while having lunch and delicious natural wines at this pub.

Golden hour - 15:00 - 18:00

Lowlander Botanical Restaurant

At Lowlander Brewery they focus on botanical herbs, flowers and fruits for their products, and now you can enjoy their beers, gin or sodas at their very own restaurant. From Wednesday until Sunday, you can enjoy their (mostly) plant-based menu and order one of their many brews alongside it. Enjoy your cold brew with a view of ‘t IJ on their sun-soaked terrace.

Honourable mentions

GAPP rooftop terrace with people
Image from JD Photography
  • Deck - this recently opened sun-drenched terrace at Yotel serves street food bites and craft beers or cocktails. Be sure to check out their events calendar as well!
  • Wolf Atelier - located in an old bridge, Wolf is worth a visit just for its unique dining location. But if you are looking for a bite and drink while working on your tan, their terrace is perfect.
  • Restaurant Elixer - this organic and vegan restaurant in Zuidoost is a must-visit. They grow some of their ingredients themselves and are all about sustainability. Big plus: they have a terrace in the sun where you'll be surrounded by nature.
  • Gapp - sun is guaranteed on this roof terrace. Pair it with a beer off of their extensive drinks menu and some tasty snacks, and you'll be set.

Sunset onwards - 18:00 - 21:00

Pacific

Pacific Park terrace in Westerpark.
Image from Koen Smilde

For a dinner spot in the sun, head to Pacific in Westerpark. With a name like that, you know they've got some serious sun action going on. Pacific has a sprawling terrace that wraps around their restaurant, giving you the perfect opportunity to chase the sun all evening long (aka the sunflower effect).

Tip: Not many places in Amsterdam let you reserve a spot on their terrace, but Pacific is one of the exceptions. Just make sure you're on time with it because they fill up quickly.

Lagerwal

Discover Amsterdam Noord's playground for adults at Lagerwal. This new spot next to Helling 7 (also a great sunspot) is a haven for art nerds, music junkies, wine tasters, beer lovers, and gastronomes alike. Their terrace is a cosy paradise with scenic boat views, ideal for catching up with friends.

Honourable mentions

People drinking on a terrace
Image from Cafe Cook
  • Cafe Cook - uncover the hidden gem of De Baarsjes, nestled on a lively square adorned with a magnificent Amsterdam School-style church.
  • Amstelhaven - don't miss out on Amstelhaven, a prime spot to catch the sun's rays as the day winds down. With its terrace on the water, you'll feel like you're part of the scene.