Amsterdam: Ludwig’s Original Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry

If you’re heading to Amsterdam and want to truly soak up its lively evening scene, a guided pub crawl like Ludwig’s Original Tour promises to be a memorable way to do just that. While I haven’t personally joined this particular experience, the glowing reviews, detailed itineraries, and enthusiastic descriptions paint a vivid picture of what you can expect: an energetic, well-organized night out led by passionate local guides who know the city inside and out.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the well-curated selection of five top bars ensures you’ll get a taste of Amsterdam’s diverse drinking scene—from historic brown cafes to trendy modern spots. Second, the free welcome shot at each bar adds a fun, welcoming touch that keeps spirits high early on. Third, the VIP club entry at the end transforms the evening into a seamless, exclusive party experience.

One potential consideration is the focus on nightlife, which might mean a late night for some travelers—so pacing and comfort are key. The tour is ideal for those who love socializing, discovering local venues, and enjoying a relaxed but lively atmosphere without the hassle of planning individual entries. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this crawl seems designed to foster connection and fun.

Good To Know

• Authentic Local Experience: Guided by passionate, knowledgeable locals who love sharing their city.
• Value for Money: For just $19, you get five bars, free shots, and VIP club entry, making it a surprisingly affordable night out.
• Diverse Venues: From historic cafes to modern hotspots, each stop offers a different slice of Amsterdam’s nightlife.
• Group Socializing: The tour is a fantastic way to meet fellow travelers and locals, with reviews highlighting the friendly and inclusive atmosphere.
• Convenience: All entry fees are included, plus VIP club access, saving you from long lines and extra costs.
• Flexible & Safe: The experience is about fun, safety, and making sure everyone gets back home comfortably.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at Ludwig’s Original Pub Crawl

Meeting Point & Duration

The tour kicks off at Café Kooper, marked by a green letter sign, where Ludwig’s team will be waiting outside. The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, with starting times available based on availability—so you can choose what best fits your evening plans. The tour ends back at the meeting point, making logistics straightforward for those unfamiliar with the city.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The first stop sets the tone for the night. Expect a lively atmosphere with a free shot upon entering, which is a great icebreaker. The guides—like the widely praised Lisa and Ludwig—are known for their friendly, energetic approach, making sure everyone feels included and ready to participate.

Throughout the evening, you’ll visit five of Amsterdam’s best bars. These are carefully selected venues that showcase both traditional Dutch drinking culture and trendy new spots. Reviewers rave about the unique character of each place, praising Ludwig’s ability to curate venues that appeal to all tastes.

Highlights of the Bars

• Historic brown cafes: Expect to see classic Dutch interiors, aged wood, and a cozy vibe—perfect for soaking up local culture.
• Modern bars: Trendy spots serving innovative craft beers and cocktails, appealing to those who enjoy contemporary drinking scenes.
• Hidden gems: Ludwig’s insider knowledge means you’ll get to visit places that aren’t obvious tourist traps but are beloved by locals.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Shots & Drink Specials

At each bar, you’ll receive a free welcome shot, which reviewers say is a fun way to kick off the night. Many also highlight the drink specials, which help stretch your budget and keep the energy high. For instance, some venues may feature discounted beers or cocktails—adding value and variety.

The VIP Club Entry

The night culminates in VIP access to a top club, included in the ticket price. This means skipping long lines and diving straight into Amsterdam’s vibrant club scene. Several reviews highlight this as a major perk, turning what could be an ordinary night into an exclusive experience.

Guides That Make a Difference

Reviews consistently praise Ludwig and his team. Lisa, in particular, is described as an amazing guide who infuses the tour with infectious energy, making sure everyone is having fun and stays safe. Ludwig himself is often called “the friend you didn’t know you needed,” with a knack for selecting venues that suit the group’s vibe and keeping the night flowing smoothly.

Authenticity & Local Insight

Guides like Ludwig aren’t just there to keep track of time—they share insider tips and fun facts about Amsterdam’s rich bar culture, history, and quirky stories behind each location. This adds a layer of authenticity that pure self-guided pub crawling can’t match.

Group Size & Atmosphere

The tour seems to operate in a friendly, lively group setting, with many reviewers noting the easy way to meet fellow travelers. Ludwig’s ability to foster inclusivity and keep groups engaged has been a recurring theme, whether solo or with friends.

Value & Practicalities

At $19, this pub crawl offers excellent value. For that price, you get entry to five bars, a free shot at each, drink specials, and VIP club access—covering most of what you’d spend on individual venues and avoiding long lines. Reviewers have called it “good value for money” and appreciated how the experience eliminates the stress of planning a night out.

The tour includes all entry fees and VIP club tickets, but extra drinks are not covered. If you love trying a variety of drinks or prefer cocktails, it’s worth budgeting some extra cash.

Getting to the start is straightforward—just meet outside Café Kooper. No transportation is included, so plan your arrival accordingly, especially if you’re coming from farther out.

What to Bring

Since you’ll be in lively venues, comfortable shoes are recommended. Also, remember to carry your passport or ID card—needed for age verification at the venues. A copy of your passport is acceptable if you prefer not to carry the original.

Cancellation & Flexibility

The booking offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility if your plans change. Plus, you can reserve now and pay later, making it easier to plan your trip without upfront commitments.

Why This Pub Crawl Works

Based on glowing reviews from past participants, Ludwig’s tour successfully combines professional guidance, authentic local culture, and fun atmosphere. Guests consistently mention the guides’ knowledge, friendliness, and knack for creating a memorable night. The variety of bars, combined with free shots and VIP access, offers both value and convenience.

Highlighted Review Insights

• Lisa’s energy kept the group dancing and happy, making everyone feel included.
• Ludwig is praised for his knowledge of the city’s nightlife and ability to tailor the experience.
• Many mention how meeting other travelers adds to the fun, making it perfect for solo adventurers.
• The karaoke bar surprise stands out as a highlight in some reviews, showcasing the unexpected fun spots along the route.
• Participants appreciate Ludwig’s attention to safety and ensuring everyone can return home comfortably.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This pub crawl is perfect for social butterflies, first-timers in Amsterdam, or anyone looking to meet new people in a relaxed, lively atmosphere. If you enjoy guided experiences that combine culture with fun, you’ll find this a fantastic way to kick off or end your night.

Travelers who value good value for money and authentic local insights will appreciate the curated bar choices and insider tips. It’s especially suitable if you’re not a nightowl but still want to experience the city’s nightlife vibe in a safe, organized way.

Who Might Want to Consider Other Options?

If you prefer a more relaxed, low-key evening or are not keen on group tours, this might not be ideal. Likewise, if you’re looking for a tour with included transportation or a focus on food rather than drinks, you might want to explore alternative experiences.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Reviews highlight how Ludwig’s guides create a welcoming environment, making it easy for solo travelers to join and socialize.

What is the age requirement?
You need to bring a valid ID or passport, which suggests the tour is geared toward adults of legal drinking age.

Are the entry fees included?
Yes, all entry fees for the bars and club are included in the ticket price.

Can I buy additional drinks?
Yes, additional drinks are extra and not covered in the ticket price. Budget accordingly if you want to try more.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts around 4 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy each venue without feeling rushed.

Where exactly do I meet the guide?
Outside Café Kooper, marked by a green letter sign. The guide will be standing outside, ready to welcome you.

Is there a dress code?
While not explicitly stated, comfortable shoes are recommended given the walking involved, and smart casual attire is usually best for entry to clubs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund, offering peace of mind.

Is this tour available in other languages?
The tour is conducted in English, but check with the provider if you need more language options.

Final Thoughts

Ludwig’s Original Pub Crawl in Amsterdam offers a fantastic blend of fun, culture, and convenience. For only $19, you can visit five top bars, enjoy free shots, and gain VIP access to a lively club, all guided by a host with a genuine passion for the city’s nightlife. Past participants praise the knowledgeable guides, authentic venues, and friendly atmosphere, making it a standout choice for a memorable night out.

This experience is particularly well-suited for social travelers, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to explore Amsterdam’s vibrant bar scene without the hassle of planning individual stops. If you value good value, local insights, and safe group fun, this tour is a reliable and enjoyable option.

In short, if you’re looking for a lively, well-organized way to see Amsterdam’s nightlife with an expert guide, Ludwig’s pub crawl might just become the highlight of your trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: