Coffee became the quiet structure of our time in Amsterdam. Some mornings it was just me and my husband planning the day ahead.
Other times, it was the four of us, finding a place where two kids could settle, snack, and reset between walks.
The cafés below are not included for trend value. Each one earned its place through comfort, consistency, and how well it fit into real days in the city.
Table of Contents
1. Scandinavian Embassy
Location: Sarphatipark, near Weesperplein
We visited the Scandinavian Embassy with our two kids and found it to be a calm, welcoming place to pause during a busy day.
The space is beautifully designed, quiet, and easy for a family to settle into, with a mix of small tables and shared seating.
The cardamom bun was the highlight, warm, fragrant, and genuinely comforting. My husband enjoyed the filter coffee, while I appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and attentive service during our visit.
Prices are higher than average, but the baking and setting make it feel worthwhile.
Overall, it worked well for us as a family-friendly café with excellent pastries and a peaceful environment.
Must try: Hand-brewed filter coffee featuring Scandinavian roasters
Places to visit nearby:
- Hortus Botanicus
- Artis Zoo
- Plantage
2. Back to Black Coffee
Location: Jordaan and De Pijp
Back to Black quickly stood out for its genuinely good coffee and standout baking.
The coffee was smooth and aromatic, and the apple pie and espresso brownie were easily among the best I tried in Amsterdam.
Seating is limited, and the space fills up fast, which can make things feel rushed at busy times. Prices for some drinks felt high for the size, but the quality of the coffee and pastries made it worth the visit.
Overall, it is a great spot for excellent coffee and baking, best enjoyed without lingering too long, especially with children.
Must try: Flat white with banana bread
Places to visit nearby (Jordaan):
- Jordaan
- Anne Frank House
- Noordermarkt
3. De Koffieschenkerij
Location: Oudezijds Voorburgwal
My husband and I discovered De Koffieschenkerij while walking through the city centre, and the setting immediately stood out.
Tucked inside a historic church courtyard, it feels calm, cosy, and slightly removed from the busy streets around it.
Sitting there with coffee felt almost cinematic, especially with the quiet atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.
We enjoyed the coffee and shared some homemade cake, which tasted fresh and comforting.
Ordering was straightforward, and staff were generally helpful, although it was clear that service quality can vary, especially during busy periods.
This is not a place for working on a laptop, but as a short, relaxed stop during sightseeing, it worked very well for us.
Must try: Cappuccino with traditional Dutch cake
Places to visit nearby:
- Oude Kerk
- Nieuwmarkt
- Old City Centre
4. Bocca Coffee
Location: Kerkstraat, near Leidseplein
I visited Bocca on my own and immediately liked the modern, cosy space, especially the central bar and comfortable seating that make it easy to relax.
The V60 filter coffee was well made, and I also enjoyed a strong flat white, even if the flavour leaned slightly more acidic than I prefer.
They sell their own beans, which is a nice touch, and the café works well as a quiet solo stop.
Service felt efficient rather than warm, so this is a place best enjoyed for the quality of the coffee itself.
Overall, Bocca is a solid choice for good coffee in a comfortable setting when you are visiting alone.
Must try: Single-origin espresso or long black
Places to visit nearby:
- Rijksmuseum
- Leidseplein
- Vondelpark
5. Coffee & Coconuts
Location: Ceintuurbaan, De Pijp
This was the most practical café we visited as a family. The multi-level layout gave everyone space to settle comfortably, and the relaxed seating meant our kids never felt like they had to sit perfectly still.
The menu worked well for all of us, with options that made ordering simple rather than a negotiation.
We found ourselves returning more than once, not because it felt special or trendy, but because it consistently made the day easier.
It was a reliable place to pause, eat properly, and reset before heading back out into the city.
Must try: Coconut latte with a pastry
Places to visit nearby:
- De Pijp
- Albert Cuyp Market
- Sarphatipark
6. Lot Sixty One Coffee Roasters
Location: Kinkerstraat
I stopped by Lot Sixty One for a quick coffee break. The space itself is appealing, with an industrial feel, indoor seating, and benches outside by the canal.
I tried one of their fresh cookies, which was excellent, warm, generous, and clearly made with care. The coffee was flavourful and well prepared, and the prices felt reasonable for the quality.
That said, the experience can feel inconsistent. While my visit was quick and efficient, it is clear this is a place that prioritises coffee over hospitality.
Service is functional rather than warm, and patience helps during busier moments.
Overall, Lot Sixty One is a good stop if you value strong coffee and fresh pastries and are happy to keep the visit short and focused.
Must try: Flat white or espresso
Places to visit nearby:
- Ten Katemarkt
- Foodhallen
- Amsterdam West
7. White Label Coffee
Location: Haarlemmerstraat
My husband and I stopped by White Label Coffee and found the coffee itself to be the highlight.
The flat white made with Brazilian beans was smooth, full-bodied, and properly made, which we appreciated.
The interior is well designed, with split levels and a warm, functional feel that opens up once inside.
Service felt efficient rather than warm, and prices were on the higher side for the cup size.
Overall, White Label is a good choice for quality coffee, best enjoyed as a short stop rather than a long stay. It fit naturally into shopping walks near Central Station.
Must try: Batch brew using in-house roasted beans
Places to visit nearby:
- Haarlemmerstraat
- Amsterdam Central Station
- Prinseneiland
8. Koffie Academie
Location: Overtoom
I visited Koffie Academie during a morning walk and liked the calm, local feel. It is a small café with outdoor seating that works well for people-watching and a short pause.
The coffee was smooth but not very hot, and the portion felt small for the price. Service was polite but minimal.
Overall, it suits a quick solo coffee stop rather than a long, relaxed visit.
Must try: Cappuccino with a croissant
Places to visit nearby:
- Vondelpark
- Oud-West
- FilmHallen
9. Bakers & Roasters
Location: De Pijp and Westergas (multiple locations)
Bakers & Roasters was our go-to when coffee needed to come with a proper meal. Portions were generous, the menu was easy for kids to navigate, and everyone left satisfied.
Why it stood out: Reliable brunch and coffee in one stop.
Places to visit nearby (De Pijp):
- Heineken Experience
- De Pijp
- Sarphatipark
10. Hummingbird Amsterdam
Location: Spuistraat
I stopped by Hummingbird while exploring the area and was drawn in by its calm, welcoming atmosphere.
The chai latte was excellent, easily one of the best I had in Amsterdam, and the display of cakes and cookies looked genuinely tempting.
The space feels relaxed and comfortable for a short solo break, and milk-based drinks are clearly a strong point here. While experiences may vary with takeaway orders, my visit was a pleasant one.
Overall, Hummingbird is a good choice for a comforting drink and a quiet pause when you are on your own.
Must try: Flat white with a light breakfast option
Places to visit nearby:
- Dam Square
- Royal Palace Amsterdam
- Nine Streets
FAQs
Q. Are coffee shops in Amsterdam family-friendly?
Yes, many coffee shops in Amsterdam are family-friendly. Traditional cafés that serve espresso, filter coffee, pastries, and light meals generally welcome children, especially during daytime hours. Spacious seating, relaxed service, and nearby parks make several cafés suitable for families.
Q. What is the best area in Amsterdam for coffee lovers?
Neighbourhoods such as De Pijp, Jordaan, Oud-West, and areas near Vondelpark offer a strong concentration of quality coffee shops. These areas combine good cafés with markets, parks, and walkable streets, making them practical stops during sightseeing.
Q. What should I order at a coffee shop in Amsterdam?
Most cafés excel at espresso-based drinks such as flat whites, cappuccinos, and lattes. Many also offer hand-brewed filter coffee using locally or internationally roasted beans. Pastries, banana bread, and simple breakfast items are common accompaniments.
Q. Is specialty coffee popular in Amsterdam?
Yes, Amsterdam has a well-developed specialty coffee scene. Many cafés roast their own beans or work closely with European roasters. Quality, consistency, and preparation standards are generally high across the city.
Q. Are coffee shops in Amsterdam expensive?
Prices are comparable to those of other major European cities. Expect to pay slightly more in central or high-demand areas, while neighbourhood cafés often offer better value. Coffee quality is typically consistent regardless of location.
Q. Can you visit coffee shops in Amsterdam without making reservations?
Yes, most coffee shops operate on a walk-in basis. Reservations are uncommon, especially during daytime hours. Seating availability may be limited at smaller cafés during peak periods.
Q. What is the difference between coffee shops and coffeeshops in Amsterdam?
Coffee shops are cafés that serve coffee, tea, and food. Coffeeshops are licensed venues where cannabis is legally sold and consumed under Dutch regulations. Coffeeshops are intended for adults only and follow different legal guidelines.
Q. Is it common to combine coffee stops with sightseeing in Amsterdam?
Yes, coffee shops are often located near parks, museums, markets, and shopping streets. Many visitors use cafés as natural rest points between walking routes and attractions.
Q. Do Amsterdam coffee shops offer takeaway options?
Most coffee shops offer takeaway service, including takeaway cups for espresso and filter coffee. This is convenient for canal walks or park visits.
Q. What time do coffee shops usually open in Amsterdam?
Many coffee shops open between 8:00 and 9:00 in the morning, with some neighbourhood cafés opening slightly later. Hours may vary on weekends.
Final Notes
Amsterdam’s coffee culture fits naturally into daily life. These cafés supported full days of walking, museum visits, markets, and parks without feeling like planned stops.
For families, this balance matters. Good coffee is important, but comfort, patience, and location matter just as much.
These ten coffee shops offered all three, making them reliable anchors.
What Is the Difference Between Coffee Shops and Coffeeshops in Amsterdam?
Many visitors are surprised to learn that coffee shops and coffeeshops mean very different things in Amsterdam.
The cafés listed in this guide are traditional coffee-focused venues that serve espresso, filter coffee, pastries, and light meals.
They are suitable for families, casual breaks, and daily sightseeing routines.
In contrast, coffeeshops in Amsterdam are licensed venues where cannabis is legally sold and consumed under Dutch regulations.
These establishments follow a separate set of rules and are intended for adult visitors only.
This distinction helps ensure visitors choose the right type of venue based on their expectations and travel plans.