Timeline
15:56
Arrive at Hannekes Boom, a cosy, somewhat ramshackle bar with a waterfront along the IJ. Order a beer and settle in on the terrace or inside. The early evening light is still good for photos, but the main event is the view of the water and the ships.
16:41
Finish your drink and step out onto the walkway along the IJ. Turn your back to the station and face southwest. The sun is setting toward the SW, casting a golden glow over the water and the historic buildings on the opposite bank. This is the key moment to watch the sky change color.
17:16
Walk back towards the station area (about 4 minutes) to Molly Malones Irish Pub. It is an authentic Irish pub with food, located on a canal off the Zeedijk. It is a friendly spot to warm up after the chill of the waterfront, with a mix of expatriates, locals and tourists. Enjoy the atmosphere as the city lights come on.
Local tip
Hannekes Boom is one of Amsterdam's hidden secrets, perfect for those looking for a relaxed vibe rather than a club scene. Check the route to get from the station to the waterfront if you did not arrive by train.
Check before you go
- Hannekes Boom is open Mo-Th and Su 11:00-01:00; Fr-Sa 11:00-03:00.
- Molly Malones Irish Pub is open Mo-Fr 12:00-25:00; Sa-Su 12:00-26:00.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Amsterdam (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).