Tucked away along the historic Oudezijds Achterburgwal canal in Amsterdam’s Red Light District stands Cafe Old Sailor, a quintessential Dutch “brown café” that embodies the maritime spirit of the Netherlands’ golden age.
With its weathered wooden interior and walls adorned with nautical artifacts, this beloved local establishment has been welcoming sailors, locals, and curious travelers since the 1930s. Step inside, and you’re immediately enveloped in what the Dutch call “gezellig” – that untranslatable feeling of warmth, conviviality, and belonging that defines authentic Amsterdam experiences.
From Harbor Haunt to Cultural Time Capsule
What truly distinguishes Cafe Old Sailor is its authentic connection to Amsterdam’s seafaring past. During the Netherlands’ maritime heyday, establishments like this served as crucial social hubs where sailors shared tales of distant shores over strong spirits and local brews.
While many similar venues have been polished into tourist-friendly versions of their former selves, Old Sailor maintains its unvarnished charm, with decades of stories seemingly embedded in its timeworn wooden beams and vintage nautical decor.
Local legend claims the original owner was indeed a retired sea captain who opened the café after years of sailing the spice routes to the Dutch East Indies. While historical records can’t definitively confirm this tale, the meticulous collection of maritime memorabilia – from authentic ship lanterns and weathered navigation tools to faded photographs of Amsterdam’s harbor life – creates a living museum of Dutch maritime culture.
Why Visit Cafe Old Sailor?
An Authentic Dutch Drinking Experience
Beyond its historical ambiance, Cafe Old Sailor offers one of Amsterdam’s finest selections of traditional Dutch spirits. Don’t leave without sampling their exceptional jenever collection – the juniper-based predecessor to modern gin that Dutch sailors once believed could cure everything from seasickness to broken hearts. The bar proudly serves several varieties, including aged “oude” (old) jenever with its malty complexity and the cleaner, more neutral “jonge” (young) style.
Beer enthusiasts will appreciate the thoughtfully curated selection of Dutch and Belgian brews, including several local craft options that rarely appear in more touristy establishments. The staff – knowledgeable without pretension – excel at matching visitors with drinks suited to their palate.
Beyond the Tourist Bubble
What truly sets Old Sailor apart is its authentic clientele – a rare mix of longtime Amsterdam residents, international visitors, and occasionally, modern sailors continuing centuries-old traditions. This creates opportunities for cultural exchange that manufactured tourist experiences simply can’t replicate. Strike up a conversation with the locals perched at the wooden bar, and you might discover insider tips about Amsterdam neighborhoods that guidebooks rarely mention.
A Glimpse Into Amsterdam’s Living Heritage
While the Red Light District’s global reputation often overshadows its rich history, venues like Cafe Old Sailor offer a window into the area’s authentic character. This neighborhood has been Amsterdam’s most colorful district for centuries, home to sailors, immigrants, artists, and freethinkers. The cafe embodies this eclectic spirit, preserved in its original form rather than reimagined for tourism.
Seasonal Experiences
The cafe’s atmosphere transforms throughout the year, offering distinct experiences across seasons:
- Spring/Summer (April-September): During warmer months, secure one of the coveted outdoor tables for unparalleled people-watching along the canal. King’s Day (April 27th) brings extraordinary energy as the entire neighborhood transforms into Amsterdam’s most vibrant street party.
- Autumn/Winter (October-March): The colder seasons reveal Old Sailor’s most authentic charm – a cozy haven of warmth and gezelligheid. On chilly evenings, the glowing windows beckon passersby into its snug interior, where locals gather over steaming mugs of traditional Dutch kopstoot (a beer with jenever shot) and engage in conversation.
Cycling & Transportation Guide
By Bicycle
Embrace Amsterdam’s cycling culture with a 12-minute ride from Centraal Station to Cafe Old Sailor. Follow the dedicated bike lanes along Damrak, then east onto Oudebrugsteeg, continuing along Oudezijds Voorburgwal.
Secure bicycle parking is available at the public racks near Oude Kerk (Old Church), just 100 meters from the cafe. Remember to double-lock your bike, as this central area experiences higher theft rates.
Local cyclist tip: During peak tourist hours (11am-8pm), consider alternative routes via Geldersekade and Zeedijk to avoid pedestrian congestion.
Sustainable Public Transport
For eco-conscious travelers or during inclement weather, Amsterdam’s efficient public transport network offers excellent alternatives:
- Tram: Lines 4 and 14 from Centraal Station to Dam Square, followed by a 6-minute walk eastward.
- Metro: Line 51, 53, or 54 to Nieuwmarkt station, then a 4-minute walk northwest.
Local insight: Purchase a reloadable OV-chipkaart for the most cost-effective and sustainable way to use public transportation across Amsterdam.
Cultural Respect Guidelines
When visiting Cafe Old Sailor and the surrounding area, be mindful that the Red Light District is both a tourist attraction and a living neighborhood where Amsterdammers work and reside. The cafe appreciates visitors who:
- Respect the photography ban inside (a common practice in authentic brown cafes)
- Keep voices to a considerate volume, especially during evenings
- Avoid blocking the narrow streets while navigating the area
- Understand that the bartenders value genuine conversation over rushed service
Visit Cafe Old Sailor
Location: Oudezijds Achterburgwal 39, 1012 DA Amsterdam
Hours: Daily 2:00 PM – 1:00 AM (Friday & Saturday until 3:00 AM)
Website: None (authentically old-school!)