Located in the luxurious Hotel de L'Europe, Freddy's Bar has often featured in the city's top selection of hotel bars. Named after its famous loyal patron, this sleek cocktail bar boasts an old world charm. Traditional wood and copper railings dominate the decor, while soulful jazz music keeps you entertained all evening. Select from classic concoctions, including what critics agree is Amsterdam's unrivaled Bloody Mary, to complement gourmet appetizers. During happy hours, enjoy a variety of cheeses and live piano tunes.

Cocktail lovers can sit back and enjoy a wide variety of libations at Vesper Bar. This place is known for its intimate ambiance and good drinks. The well-stocked bar has a good selection of beer, wines and spirits. With the wide variety of cocktail parties that take place here, Vesper is a famed entertaining gateway. All in all, this spot is a perfect after-work hangout!

Don't let its name deceive you. Chocolate Bar is a 1970s-style bar, and a great place to socialize. Thursdays to Sundays are marked for cocktail parties with DJs. On the drinks menu are malts, wines, cocktails and fruit shakes, that complement sandwiches, salads and several Dutch specialties. Although located among an array of local watering holes, Chocolate Bar stands out for its lively ambiance. Its terrace is very popular, and may seem a bit over-crowded, but is worth a visit.

The former canteen of De Volkskrant, one of The Netherlands' most well-known newspapers, Canvas was once a hotbed of journalistic discussion and hurried meals. Today, the atmosphere is much more relaxing, with people from many backgrounds gathering for a meal and a drink in this 7th-floor establishment with a view over the city below. During the week, Canvas is a great place for lunch, with decently priced mains and sandwiches, including a tasty panini selection. A cool place to hangout, the terrace offers amazing views. There is also an ever-changing line-up of exhibitions in Canvas, and art lovers will be pleased to know that most of the works are for sale.

Regarded as one of best cocktail bars in The Netherlands, Twenty Third Bar can be found on the 23rd floor of the Hotel Okura in Amsterdam. It should go without saying that once up at the bar, you can expect great views of the city below. Apart from cocktails, award-winning chapagnes are also on offer. The Twenty Third Bar is situated right next to the Ciel Bleu Restaurant, from where food can be ordered to complement your drink.