De Sluyswacht
Bar · Nieuwmarkt/Lastage ·

De Sluyswacht

Bar · Nieuwmarkt/Lastage ·

Historic canal-side pub with tilted architecture and great views

De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by Courtesy Café de Sluyswacht
De Sluyswacht by Courtesy Café de Sluyswacht
De Sluyswacht by Photo by Christie Sultemeier
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null
De Sluyswacht by null

Information

Jodenbreestraat 1, 1011 NG Amsterdam, Netherlands Get directions

€10–20

Information

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Jodenbreestraat 1, 1011 NG Amsterdam, Netherlands Get directions

+31 20 625 7611
sluyswacht.nl
@de_sluyswacht

€10–20

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Last updated

Nov 17, 2025

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@cntraveler
40,944 Postcards · 5,496 Cities

17 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam

"Everything about this old-school pub—from the adorably lopsided building, to the fab canal views, to the well-priced beers—embodies Dutch gezellig: a cozy, fun, relaxing atmosphere where people feel totally at home. Part of the charm of drinking at Café de Sluyswacht is embracing its quirks: step inside, and everything—from the stone floors to the staircase to the wood-beamed ceilings—tilts to one side, making you feel like you’ve had one too many before you’ve even had your first sip. Originally built in 1695 as a residence for the sluyswacht (the person operating the neighboring lock), this canal-side watering hole offers fantastic views of the Montelbaanstoren tower to one side and the Rembrandthuis to the other." - Meredith Bethune, Jennifer Ceaser

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-things-to-do-in-amsterdam
Courtesy Café de Sluyswacht
De Sluyswacht
@cntraveler
40,944 Postcards · 5,496 Cities

Café de Sluyswacht — Bar Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"First impression? Part of the charm of drinking at this lopsided pub is embracing its quirks: step inside, and everything—from the stone floors to the staircase to the wood-beamed ceilings—tilts to one side, making you feel like you’ve had one too many before you’ve even had your first sip. Originally built in 1695 as a residence for the sluyswacht (the person operating the neighboring lock), this canal-side watering hole offers fantastic views of the Montelbaanstoren tower to one side and the Rembrandthuis to the other. How’s the crowd? A mix of older regulars, students, and tourists stopping in for a beer after a visit to the Rembrandt House Museum , located just across the street. How are the drinks? This is beer-drinking territory, with around 10 available on tap, including the Dutch-brewed Hertog Jan and Belgian favorite Leffe. But you can also get a basic mixed drink (gin and tonics are always popular), Aperol spritz, or hard seltzer. If there’s food, is it worth ordering something to eat? Nothing fancy here, just basic Dutch bar food like bitterballen (breaded, deep-fried meatballs), croquettes, and fries to soak up the alcohol. Did the staff do you right? While the Dutch aren’t known for great service, here they’re remarkably efficient given the constant stream of customers. Wrap it up: what are we coming here for? Everything about this old-school pub—from the adorably quirky building, to the fab canal views, to the well-priced beers—embodies Dutch gezellig: a cozy, fun, relaxing atmosphere where people feel totally at home." - Jennifer Ceaser

https://www.cntraveler.com/bars/amsterdam/cafe-de-sluyswacht
Courtesy Café de Sluyswacht
De Sluyswacht
@afar
25,132 Postcards · 3,700 Cities

"You can find cozy Café de Sluyswacht on a bustling street in the heart of Amsterdam, steps away from the Rembrandt House. Originally constructed in 1692 as a home for the sluyswacht , the man who controlled the neighboring lock, the charming building has been converted into a welcoming gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. Sip your Jupiler beer on a patio overlooking the canal, or break for tea and hot chocolate at one of the adorable tables inside. If you're hungry, try the bitterballen —Dutch meatballs. By Bethany Bodengraven"

The Best Restaurants in Amsterdam
Photo by Christie Sultemeier
Café de Sluyswacht
@silverkris
9,761 Postcards · 2,256 Cities

The best destinations for experiencing the Formula 1 Grand Prix

"Another quintessential brown-bar experience suggested for relaxed socialising, authentic local character and a cozy spot to cap off an evening." - Gayatri Bhaumik

https://silverkris.singaporeair.com/inspiration/best-destinations-experiencing-formula-1-grand-prix/
De Sluyswacht

Debra H.

Google
Did not have food but enjoyed a cup of coffee with Baileys Irish cream. Loved the entire building. So quaint & cute! Great selection of biers on tap.

محمد ا.

Google
A wonderful historic spot dating back to 1695, originally built as the house of the sluice gatekeeper in Amsterdam. The building has a charming tilt, adding to its unique character, and it’s perfectly located by the historic canals near Nieuwmarkt, offering beautiful views of the water and bridges. The atmosphere is very relaxing, especially at the outdoor seating area. The coffee was delicious and the waitress was friendly and attentive. A memorable experience worth visiting.

Tony G.

Google
Cute little place to stop at once but limited bar and not very friendly staff. Cool place to see the canals and have a drink but not somewhere to spend alot of time. Now that I have been there i don't need to go back again.

Daniel L.

Google
Very nice place as seen in pictures and video I uploaded in this post. Beer was delicious as always in Amsterdam, the view is wonderful, lots of fresh air, has many sits and different spots within the restaurant. The staff very helpful and straight forward as it should be all around the world. They don´t ask for tip as it is usual in Netherland, some places do ask for tip and for us Americans it´s uncomfortable to say no, here you won´t deal with that :) You can check the beers and food options in the pictures on this post. Didn´t try the food that´s why I didn´t put stars on it, I believe it should be great as in most Amsterdam Dutch-places.

Lena J.

Google
Very awesome atmosphere and decor. Located in a busy area but wasn't busy in the time we visited. Friendly staff.

Nanako

Google
Really nice place to have a drink and bar snacks. It is a little pricey however the service was good and the view was very nice. Would recommend as a place to have a drink or two.

Rich M.

Google
The entire time we were there I thought the staff were being rude. Much later, when we were back in the U.S. I realized. They were being that way because we sat indoors and everyone was being sat outside, which was a real nice area. We only sat inside because we were going to just have a fast beer. I am sure the reason staff was being this way...it was the day after King's Day!! I can't even imagine what they all went through on King's Day. I completely understand now! I did have a great conversation with the bartender about her tattoos...something we love. This place has great beer and a view that is outstanding...stop in, but sit outside lol!!

Maya Y.

Google
Racial Bias in Service ​My experience was deeply distressing and felt discriminatory. ​After being seated, I waited for 20 minutes. During this time, the waitress systematically took orders from other separate tables that were seated after. I made multiple attempts to get the waitress's attention. She said "wait" then moved on to other tables and never came back. ​Frustrated by the obvious prioritization, I went to the bar to place an order. There were four waitresses behind the bar who all acknowledged me but continued to serve other customers who had just walked up. ​When I finally managed to ask one waitress if she would take my order, she dismissively stated, "We only take orders at your table." I explained that I had been waiting for a significant time, but she completely disregarded my explanation and walked away without offering any assistance or apology. ​The service was not just slow; it was an act of active, targeted neglect and refusal to serve that I can only conclude was based on my race. I felt profoundly unwelcome. This level of indifference and discrimination is unacceptable.
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Wern O.

Yelp
TLDR: great cozy little pub with bites Beautiful to look at this cozy pub has old school vibes. Outdoor seating available as well. Staff were friendly and there were several beers on tap. Got a small snack with our drink and it was a great way to start our trip
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Eric R.

Yelp
5 stars for location and seating area out back. 1-2 stars for food. It would be great if they would do an upgrade here. Quick drink, before you go out for dinner or an afternoon beer? This is the place!
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Terri K.

Yelp
Amazing little place for a drink. An old Locke house now a pub with light snacks/food. Right on a canal with large patios in front & back. Service was good as well. Stop by for a drink.

Hunter S.

Yelp
This was my favorite place in Amsterdam to have a few beers. Unbelievable selection. Super helpful bartenders. Such a cool location - outside has great view of the canals. There was just an unbelievable vibe at this place. Highly recommend checking it out.
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Terri S.

Yelp
This cute little Old Locke House, built 1695, is the cutest little bar in Amsterdam! De Sluyswacht is a 2 story bar on the canal that serves a good selection of beer with a limited menu selection. The atmosphere is inviting and friendly, which always makes for a great experience. This is NOT the first time here....as I travel here frequently....and every time I come here it feels like I belong. No smoking....of any sorts! Just a quaint old place that serves as a watering hole in Amsterdam. I have been here when it was full to the brim and experienced being the only couple at the bar. Either way....great service with a smile! English speaking staff..... Will be back in 2 years!
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Jeremy S.

Yelp
This is a great bar located right in the heart of Amsterdam and right off of one of the main canals. The bar itself is rather no frills but does pour a great pint and provided you with ample outdoor seating should the weather cooperate... This location is actually very picturesque and does provide some excellent people watching. Pros- Beer Price Location Views Picturesque Cons- Crowded Smoking
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Amir G.

Yelp
What an awesome place to stop for a quick drink. After a couple of hours of strolling the canals in central Amsterdam, my f owns and I stopped for a beer. They have a wide selection and the service was excellent. We were able to sit outside and enjoy the view of the canals.
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Christina W.

Yelp
Loved stopping by this bar located inside a tall skinny house right on the canal. Service was fast and friendly. We ordered the curly fries, which came out hot and fresh. There's a decent amount of seating and the view of the canals never gets old! We would definitely come back here again. Bathrooms were pretty clean as well!
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Holly M.

Yelp
We sat outside on the patio for several hours, enjoying our beers and watching boats along the canal. The bar itself is small, but there is plenty of seating outside (both in the front and back). Would recommend this for people and boat watching!

Meghan M.

Yelp
THE OWNER CALLED ME A C*NT 3x. This was the WORST stop I have ever made in Europe. Locals, visitors, and travel websites recommended this bar as a must-see as it's old age and architectural wonder has marveled visitors time and time again. But I had the absolute displeasure of encountering one of the owners and he completely disrobed the entire experience. I am traveling with a family of 7 and the owner actually had the nerve to call me, a woman, 26yo, a C*NT 3x over, for trying to save seats for the rest of my clan while they were buying drinks. THE OWNER CALLED ME A C*NT. Go inside at your own risk....I wouldn't if you're a woman...

A S.

Yelp
This place has tremendous vibes. The bar itslef is tiny, and there is little indoor seating. But the outdoor patio overlooking the canals is perfect, especially for a nice day. There are a few (not a ton) communal tables on the patio. It gets packed and loud later in the day, so try to come on a weekday before 4pm if you want a spot. It's the greatest spot to grab a cold beer and wave at the boats on the canals that cruise by.
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Nicole W.

Yelp
Note: i went during an afternoon rainstorm in February! I thought it was adorable! It's tilted, it's on the water, and there is a view of the Montelbannstoren We went as a way to pass the afternoon as the rain started coming on strong. This places isn't too far from a canal ride. It was too crowded on a weekday afternoon, but we went up stairs for some quiet conversation and to get a view of the M tower. We got a wondeful little table with a built in bench, received some fabulous wit biers, our friend had hot tea (no judgement from the staff is awesome. The patio out back looks great for a summer afternoon, but winter made our situation fun and cozy. The leaning building is super fun, even the windows seem to just fall in with the leaning action! I would return to this place to enjoy a beverage and conversation! American credit cards can cause an issue with their machine, so bring cash if you can!
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Catarina F.

Yelp
Very cosy and friendly bar! Full of life and perfect for young couples and groups of friends. Perfect for a late night drink and great location! The staff were very attentive and helpful!
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Q N.

Yelp
Five stars for the patio seating with the canal beneath you. Less stars for the price and lack of food options (expected since this is more of a pub than a restaurant). They were kind enough to accommodate my party of 10, a raucous hodge podge of Americans, Thai, South Africans, and Swedes.
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Kate J.

Yelp
My favorite bar in Amsterdam! Very cozy and relaxed - great ambiance. Go at night and sit at the window. Looking out on the canals, you could not be anywhere other than Amsterdam. Unique city experience and great beers, too.
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Jason W.

Yelp
A no frills bar in a very interesting building. I really love bringing people here because it seems like a unique place for a bar. There is really not much to the inside of the bar except for the slight incline of everything, but it still has its charms. Well that is a lot of its charms. they have a full bar with a main floor and upstairs which is quite big. On the weekends you can certainly get packed but most times I've been in the place is manageable. if you want to bring somebody to a unique location with a fun history then this is your place.

Kris H.

Yelp
The outdoor is very nice, but the guys who work the bar are loud, inconsiderate, and generally obnoxious. Went in for a drink and early dinner while in town (6PM). Bartenders were drinking behind the bar, seemed to be already tipsy and we're blasting music/screaming at each other. Incredibly disappointing.

Chris F.

Yelp
The best place to drink a beer in Amsterdam! Building was originally a lock house in 1695--small, charming and welcoming.
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Gianguido G.

Yelp
The palce is in a TOP location. The back terrace is litterally on the water...pity they stop serving at 18.30!!!!!