These include several world-class museums , attractions , forward-thinking art galleries and even an old-school game arcade with a bar. Ready to explore? Our pick of the best things to do in the Red Light District should keep you busy. Just remember to take a break every now and then β those pixellated graphics can play havoc on the eyes. Set inside several rooms attached to Oude Kerk, this secluded coffeehouse feels worlds apart from the hubbub of inner Amsterdam.
Known for its preference for time-honed recipes, Brouwerij de Prael mainly brews traditional styles of beer from the Netherlands or elsewhere in north-western Europe. Its massive tasting room has all the charms of an old-school beer hall, featuring dark wooden furniture, vintage collectibles and a bar fitted with silver fonts. Tread carefully: the beers here are notoriously strong and moreish.
The whole place centres around a clandestine chapel built by an underground Catholic congregation after their religion was outlawed in the 16th century by the Protestant Dutch government. Planning to drink a skinful while in Amsterdam but worried about the morning after? Worth a try, right? With highlights ranging from Samurai armour made from hemp to American anti-cannabis propaganda created during the height of Reefer Madness, the museum has plenty to offer seasoned stoners and history buffs alike.
The space also hosts regular thought-provoking temporary exhibitions relating to cannabis cultivation, consumption and culture. Vintage treasure hunters may have difficulty leaving this coffee room empty-handed β its wall-spanning collection of gorgeous retro knick-knacks, lampshades and embroideries are mostly for sale.
Food-wise, Latei mainly serves light, lunchtime dishes, like sandwiches, soups and cakes made in its tiny on-site kitchen. As independent Dutch production companies regularly premiere their latest work here, Frascati is among the best places in Amsterdam to discover the local drama, dance and comedy scenes. Expect avant-garde, politically-conscious art inside. It took some time β but brunch is now serious business in Amsterdam.
