Amsterdam is renowned for its cultural heritage, having been the center of the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century. Among the many canals and other landmarks that dot its streets, one of museums are Amsterdam's crowning glory. With remarkable museums such as Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, and the Rijksmuseum millions of tourists are drawn to the city every year. House of Bols happens to be another one of Amsterdams many museums, an immersive one where you can delve into the world of cocktails and experience the art of cocktail making firsthand.
Know Before You Go
Handy information
| ⏰ Suggested Duration: | 2 hours |
| ☀️ Best Time to Visit: | Weekdays |
Must-see at the House of Bols
- The Cocktail Experience
- The Sensory Evolution Experience
- The Mirror Bar
Getting There
Paulus Potterstraat 12 14 16, 1071 CZ
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Get Directions
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday: 13:00-18:00 (last admission at 17:00)
Closed on public holidays.
Why is House of Bols Worth Visiting?
- Delve into Mixology: Immerse yourself in the world of cocktails at House of Bols, the world's oldest distilled spirits brand. Discover the secret behind the Art of Flavour and learn to mix the perfect drinks like a master mixologist.
- Sensory Journey: Embark on a mesmerizing sensory experience with the largest display of cocktail artifacts in the world. Here, you'll be able to get an understanding of colors, scents, and sounds that bring the world of cocktails to life.
- Innovative Tasting Room: Step inside the revolutionary Genever Room and savor the rich flavors of traditional Genever, a Dutch gin-like spirit that dates back over 400 years!
- Interactive Cocktail Academy This, you don't want to miss! Here you'll be able to unleash your creativity and design your own personalized cocktail recipe.
Recommended House of Bols Tickets
Depending on the kind of experience you seek and time in hand, you can choose from a variety of POI tickets.
House of Bols History
Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, the House of Bols was established during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century. While initially renowned for their genever, a traditional Dutch juniper-flavored spirit, they soon became pioneers in the world of liqueurs. In the 19th century, the famous Curaçao liqueur was introduced, inspired by the flavors of the Dutch-Caribbean island. This invention not only revolutionized cocktail culture but also played a crucial role in the birth of iconic cocktails like the Blue Margarita and the Orange Blossom. Having survived the turbulence of World Wars and economic fluctuations, today, the House of Bols invites visitors to explore the fascinating history of cocktails and distilling techniques through interactive exhibits, sensory displays, and expert-led workshops.
Highlights of House of Bols
1The Genever Room
Step into the Genever Room and delve into the origins of this traditional Dutch spirit. Here, you can get a taste of the various types of genever and gain a deeper understanding of its production process through interactive exhibits and tasting sessions.
2The Mirror Bar
The Mirror Bar is a stunning showcase of more than 35 unique Genever cocktails! Crafted by award-winning bartenders, for a banger finale!
3The Flavour Room
The Flavor Room is one of the interactive experiences offered at the House of Bols. In this room, you can explore and learn about the different flavors that go into creating cocktails and spirits, including genever. The experience often involves sensory elements, such as smelling and tasting various ingredients that contribute to the complex flavors of different cocktails.
4Cocktail Workshop
Make sure to use the opportunity to participate in interactive cocktail workshops led by skilled bartenders! You can learn the art of mixology and master the techniques behind creating both classic and contemporary cocktails.
Best Time to Visit House of Bols
The best time to visit House of Bols in Amsterdam is during the spring and summer months, from April to September. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant, allowing you to fully enjoy the attractions and outdoor spaces. It's recommended to visit during the weekdays, as the weekends tend to be busier with more crowds. To avoid long queues, plan your visit in the morning or late afternoon. Additionally, booking your tickets in advance online can help you save money and skip the ticket lines. So, pack your enthusiasm and get ready to have a delightful experience at House of Bols!
House of Bols Timings
- General Timings: The House of Bols is open from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Mondays and Tuesdays, and from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM from Wednesday to Sunday.
- Last Admission: The last entry is allowed one hour before closing time, which is at 5:00 PM.
- Night Hours: There are no night hours available for entry after regular closing time.
- Closed: The House of Bols is closed on Christmas Day (December 25th) and New Year's Day (January 1st).
Getting There
By Bus
Taking the bus is a convenient option to reach the House of Bols. Hop on bus number 22 from Amsterdam Central Station, which will take you directly to the Museumplein stop. From there, it's just a short walk to the House of Bols.
By Train
If you prefer to travel by train, you can take a train to Amsterdam Zuid station, and from there, catch tram number 5 towards Amsterdam Central Station. Get off at the Van Baerlestraat stop, and you'll find the House of Bols within walking distance.
By Tram
Trams are a popular mode of public transport in Amsterdam, and the House of Bols can also be easily accessed by tram. Catch tram number 2 or 5 from Amsterdam Central Station and get off at the Van Baerlestraat stop. The House of Bols is just a few minutes away.
Insider Tips to Visit House of Bols
- Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
- Visit on a Thursday or Friday evening for the added bonus of live music and an upbeat atmosphere.
- Plan to spend at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the interactive exhibits and try out the bar.
- Remember to bring your ID if you want to participate in the tasting sessions, as proof of legal drinking age is required.
Restaurants Near House of Bols
Indulge in classic Dutch cuisine at this charming restaurant that dates back to the 17th century. Try their succulent slow-cooked beef stew or their mouthwatering herring. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a must-visit.
Experience a taste of Dutch home cooking at this quaint eatery. Their hearty dish, "Hutspot," a traditional Dutch stew with mashed potatoes, carrots, and onions, is a must-try. The walls adorned with photos of mothers create a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere.
Discover modern European cuisine with a touch of Dutch tradition at this stylish restaurant. The roasted duck breast with beetroot and apple is a delightful combination of flavors. The minimalist decor and attentive service make it a top choice for food enthusiasts.
Places to Stay Near House of Bols
Things to Do Near House of Bols
Located just 2.5 kilometers from House of Bols, the Van Gogh Museum showcases the impressive works of the legendary Dutch painter. Explore the artist's life and admire his masterpieces, including the famous Sunflowers and Starry Night.
Only 2.8 kilometers away from House of Bols, visit the Anne Frank House to learn about the inspirational story of Anne Frank and her diary. Walk through the secret hiding place where Anne and her family lived during World War II.
Situated just 2.4 kilometers from House of Bols, the Rijksmuseum takes you on a journey through Dutch art and history. Marvel at renowned artworks, such as Rembrandt's Night Watch, and discover fascinating exhibits showcasing Dutch culture.
A mere 2.2 kilometers from House of Bols, Dam Square is the heart of Amsterdam. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere, admire the Royal Palace, or grab a bite at one of the cafés overlooking this historic square.
Visit Vondelpark, Amsterdam's most famous park. Enjoy a peaceful stroll, rent a bike, or have a picnic among beautiful gardens, serene lakes, and charming sculptures in this urban oasis. This is located roughly 3.7KM from House of Bols!
FAQs
House of Bols is famous for being the world's oldest distillery and the creator of Bols liqueurs.
Children are welcome at House of Bols, but the experience is primarily designed for adults, as it focuses on alcoholic beverages.
Absolutely! House of Bols has a shop where you can buy a variety of Bols liqueurs and other cocktail-related products.
House of Bols strives to be accessible to everyone, with ramps and elevators available throughout the venue for easy access.
