Lesbian Bars in Amsterdam
Amsterdam may have a reputation as an extremely gay-friendly city, but it is often said that the lesbian scene is under-represented. Gay men dominate many events such as the gay pride celebrations, as well as a lot of the gay clubs in Amsterdam. However, there are a number of excellent Amsterdam lesbian bars that, while of course welcoming to gay men, tend to be geared more towards women.
You can read more about fun in Amsterdam at our main Amsterdam nightlife page.
Bar Buka
The newest lesbian bar in town where you will find all types and ages of women. Bar Buka is located in the Pijp Amsterdam and you can expect a relaxed and welcoming vibe. Sip your favorite drink or ask the bartenders to make their signature cocktail. The bar is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 17.00 and during the weekends they stay open until 03.00.
Address: Albert Cuypstraat 124
Web: www.barbuka.nl
Cafe 't Mandje
A true piece of Amsterdam gay history, Café ‘t Mandje was founded in 1927 by the famous “Queen of the Zeedijk” Bet van Beeren. After Bet’s death, her sister Greet van Beeren took over the bar until she herself passed away in 2007. Today, the bar is as popular as ever, with a welcoming crowd nestled into the nooks and crannies of the traditional brown café interior. Old school lamps and a forest of ties hanging from the ceiling help to give a visit to Café ‘t Mandje the feel of drinking backstage at a theatre or burlesque venue.
Address: Zeedijk 63
Web: http://www.cafetmandje.nl/
Saarein
Saarein is a traditional brown café found in the picturesque Jordaan area of the city. It became one of the best-loved Amsterdam lesbian bars in 1978 when a consortium of ten women bought the bar from its then owners. Another change of ownership in 1999 means that it is now welcoming to Amsterdam’s entire gay scene, although the crowd is still mostly women. Saarein’s corner location, cosy interior and selection of cocktails, coffee and cakes make it an ideal spot to socialise and watch the world go by.
Address: Elandsstraat 119-HS
Web: http://www.saarein2.nl/
Lesbian Club Nights and Festivals
In addition to the lesbian bars in Amsterdam, there are a number of regular parties held specifically for the city’s gay women. Garbo for Women is a club night held on the 4th Saturday of every month in Club Lite at Jan van Galenstraat 24. Music tends towards deep house and there is an open kitchen at the venue. Flirtation is a women-only festival held just outside of Amsterdam at Beach Club Vroeger in Overveen, just past Haarlem. With a crowd of over 1,000 women on a beach dancing to music by female DJs, this is certainly one party worth travelling for.
Web: http://www.garboforwomen.nl/
http://www.flirtation.nl/info/