Chapter 1896 Amsterdam
Speakeasy in a former library
Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam lies Chapter 1896 — a true hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
To reach this enchanting spot, you go through the grand 19th-century Hotel de l’Europe, a historic treasure and one of the oldest family-owned hotels in the city. Its charm is accentuated by its status as a monument since 2001, a testament to its rich heritage.
Once you step into the hotel, you embark on a small journey through its elegant lobby. As you make your way down the hallway, you'll encounter a delightful surprise — a former library that is now Chapter 1896.
The moment you enter this space, it feels as though you’re being gently whisked back in time. The vintage décor and tranquil ambiance overlooking the serene Amstel River create an atmosphere that is both charming and nostalgic.
One of the standout features of Chapter 1896 is the exquisite cocktails. My personal favorite is “The Principles of Love,” served in a delicate teacup. This warm and cozy cocktail, made with gin, milk, cardamom, and coconut, is a pure bliss.
At the bar, you're welcomed by the head cocktail bartender, who is not just there to serve drinks but is eager to help you select the perfect cocktail that resonates with your tastes.
While it may be a local favorite, I assure you that it’s still hidden spot you won’t want to miss before it transforms into a bustling hotspot. Chapter 1896 is not just a bar, it's an experience that connects you with the heart of Amsterdam.
Find your way with 166 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Amsterdam
Rijksmuseum's gardens
Quiet gardens
Amid Amsterdam’s busy centre, the Rijksmuseum gardens offer a calm oasis with seasonal flowers, fountains, art exhibitions, and a peaceful spots to relax.
by
Dana
Marin
Canvas
Breathtaking views
One of the standout features of Canvas is its breathtaking views over Amsterdam. The restaurant is situated on the top floor of a creative hotel, offering panoramic views of the city.
by
Olya
Kartcheva
Mangiassai
Blindly pick your pizza
Mangiassai is this very lovely Italian place, where all of the pizza makers speak Italian. What do we recommend? Close your eyes and pick blindly.
by
Kristel
van Pinxten
Bar Babar
My candlelit wine heaven
Bar Babar is a wine bar on the bright Utrechstsestraat in Amsterdam, serving natural wines and carefully selected bites (the bread they have is yummyyyy).
by
Olya
Kartcheva
Le Sud
Vegetarian take-away
Le Sud, a family-run vegetarian takeaway, serves Mediterranean-to-Middle Eastern flavours with quality, simplicity, and friendly service. Worth a try!
by
Dana
Marin
uncommon
Aesthetically pleasing café
"Uncommon" in Amsterdam is a café that's so aesthetically pleasing it hurts. 'Good coffee is for good people', they say...
by
Kristel
van der Burgh
Transvaalbuurt Street Art
Ten vibrant murals
The old neighborhood of Transvaalbuurt in Amsterdam is full of impressive, massive street art murals. Makes you stop your bike to take a pic...
by
Ana
V. Martins
Local Dealer
A colorful Mexican food addiction
"Local Dealer" in Amsterdam deals in addictive, authentic Mexican food! My favorite dishes? The tacos with fermented pineapple or the chicken stew...
by
Kristel
van der Burgh
The Upside Down
Dutch Instagram experience
At "The Upside Down" in Amsterdam, your world is quite literally turned upside down! But here you can also learn a thing or two about the Dutch - win win!
by
Kristel
van der Burgh
City Archives
So many treasures!
When exploring Amsterdam's famous canal belt, make sure to visit the art nouveau "City Archives", the most extensive municipal archives in the world!
by
Ana
V. Martins
Pompet
Hidden hipster haven in Noord
"Pompet" in Amsterdam Noord, with its bright furniture, jeu de boules area & outdoor bar with the the enormous croissant, gives new life to Floradorp...
by
Kristel
van der Burgh
Eiburgh Snacks
Arguably the best fries in town
"Eiburgh Snacks" makes the best, extra-crispy fries in Amsterdam, hands down. What makes them so great? Just take a peek inside the next container!
by
Kristel
van der Burgh
Heading to Amsterdam?
166 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Amsterdam?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 166 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
