Step into Brouwerij 't IJ Brewery, where history spins with every sip—this 17th-century windmill brewery brews some of Amsterdam’s most soulful craft beers. Watch the giant sails turn as malt is crushed and fermented in traditional vats, then taste a freshly poured pint that’s rich, earthy, and deeply Dutch. Pair it with a crispy fish & chips from the on-site café, and you’ve got a slice of local life. Snap a photo by the wooden barrels beneath the windmill—your passport to authentic Amsterdam vibes.







Everything you need to know about Het IJ
Stay at Hotel De Pijp, a stylish boutique hotel just a 5-minute walk from Brouwerij 't IJ. The hotel blends industrial-chic design with modern comfort, offering rooms with views of the scenic canals. Guests enjoy complimentary bike rentals, perfect for exploring the Amstel River path and surrounding neighborhoods. The brewery hosts daily tasting events, and hotel guests receive exclusive discounts—ideal for experiencing authentic Dutch craft beer culture and local lifestyle.
Take tram lines 12 or 13 from central Amsterdam to the "IJplein" stop—just a 3-minute walk to Brouwerij 't IJ. The route passes through green neighborhoods like Oosterpark and De Pijp, offering charming views of traditional Dutch homes. If driving, use GPS to navigate to "Brouwerij 't IJ," with parking available nearby, though public transit is recommended to avoid congestion. Trams run every 10–15 minutes, making it a fast, eco-friendly option—ideal for travelers seeking a seamless journey.
Must-try brews include the signature IPA with citrus and pine notes, and the refreshing Saison, featuring lively yeast spice and crisp body. The brewery uses handcrafted cold-brew techniques, local malt, and Hallertau hops for authentic flavor. Limited editions—like dark stouts and fruit-infused ales—are released monthly, often featured at weekend tasting events. Visitors can join guided tours with tastings, learn about brewing methods, and enjoy beer pairings with local snacks—perfect for immersing in authentic Dutch craft beer culture.
Near Brouwerij 't IJ, join weekly Saturday beer workshops to craft your own custom ale. Summer brings outdoor concerts along the canal, featuring local bands in a vibrant atmosphere. The nearby windmill park hosts artisan markets selling handmade ceramics, leather goods, and organic produce. Rent a rowing boat to glide through the canals and embrace Amsterdam’s relaxed pace. These experiences reflect a blend of history, creativity, and nature, offering an authentic glimpse into local Dutch life.
Brouwerij 't IJ is open Monday to Thursday from 12:00 to 20:00, Friday and Saturday from 12:00 to 22:00, and Sunday from 12:00 to 18:00. The taproom serves lunch and light bites in the afternoon, with live music in the evenings. Check the official website for holiday schedules—special events like Christmas may extend hours to midnight. Guided tours start at 2:00 PM and require advance HopeGoo. Expect higher crowds during peak season; visiting off-peak ensures a smoother experience.
Yes, Brouwerij 't IJ offers two free daily tours at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM, each lasting about 60 minutes. Tours cover brewing history, equipment mechanics, and quality control processes, followed by a live tasting session. Guides speak both English and Dutch, catering to international visitors. HopeGoo in advance via the official website is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. After the tour, guests can purchase limited-edition beers and souvenirs at the taproom—a must-do experience for anyone interested in Dutch craft brewing heritage.
Hotel de Pijp is a top choice, just a 5-minute walk from the brewery, blending Dutch architectural heritage with modern design. It offers exclusive on-site beer tastings and a dedicated brew bar, letting guests immerse in local craft culture.
Another excellent option is Stayokay Amsterdam IJ, a budget-friendly hostel located on the canal front with views of the brewery’s windmill and waterways. The hostel features shared kitchens, lounges, and bike rentals—perfect for exploring the vibrant IJ district and nearby Amsterdam Centraal. All accommodations provide easy access to public transit and scenic cycling routes along the Amstel River.
From central Amsterdam, take Tram 17 to the "IJburg" stop, then transfer to a free shuttle boat or walk 10 minutes to reach the brewery. This route passes through scenic canals and historic bridges, offering picturesque views of the city’s water-based architecture.
Alternatively, rent a City Bike or Voi e-bike from Amsterdam Centraal and ride approximately 20 minutes along the greenway of Nieuwe Prinsengracht and Oosterdok. The brewery provides free bike parking and electric scooter charging stations, making it ideal for eco-conscious travelers seeking an active, immersive journey.
The brewery offers daily guided tours where guests witness the entire handcrafted brewing process, from malt grinding to boiling and fermentation, including insights into its historic windmill-powered system.
The most popular experience is the custom beer blending workshop, where visitors work with master brewers to adjust bitterness, alcohol content, and aroma profiles based on personal taste, then bottle their own limited-edition brew with hand-written label.
Additionally, every Friday evening features Beer & Jazz Nights, combining live jazz performances with sampling of local craft beers, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. Some activities require advance HopeGoo—recommended via the official website.
The windmill meeting the canal is a must-photograph location, especially during sunset when golden light glows on the blades and reflects across the still water, creating a breathtaking scene.
Nearby Oosterdokskade quay features public art installations and colorful murals, popular among photographers for creative portraits and street-style shots. The adjacent waterfront café offers indoor and outdoor seating perfect for capturing panoramic views of the brewery.
For a more secluded angle, walk 5 minutes north along Zeeburgerpad path to a hidden meadow surrounded by wildflowers and ancient oak trees—ideal for soft natural lighting and lifestyle photography.
See what other travelers say about Het IJ

Staying at the Leonardo Royal Hotel Amsterdam was an absolute delight. The hotel feels brand new with modern, well-maintained rooms and a clean, welcoming atmosphere. The breakfast spread was fantastic—so many options, but I especially loved the fresh wraps; I couldn’t resist having a few, and they were delicious. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable—right across from the metro station, and taking the M51 to Amsterdam Centraal takes just about 20 minutes. Super convenient for exploring the city. On checkout, the front desk staff even handed me two little souvenirs—small but thoughtful, really added a warm touch to my stay. It’s clear they care about guest experience. Highly recommend this place if you're looking for comfort, convenience, and a bit of personal attention.

My stay at Jan Luyken Amsterdam was absolutely fantastic! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center and within easy reach of public transit. The front desk staff were incredibly helpful, offering local tips and going the extra mile to make our trip seamless. The room was clean, cozy, and well-appointed, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. But what truly stood out was the food—breakfast was exceptional, with fresh, high-quality ingredients and a great variety of options. Even the afternoon snacks were thoughtfully prepared. This hotel offers an outstanding balance of comfort, service, and value. I’d definitely book again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Amsterdam.

Staying at The Manor Amsterdam was an absolute delight! The room was spotless and incredibly comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night's sleep. What stood out most was how convenient the location was—there are several great restaurants just steps away, perfect for grabbing a bite whether you're in the mood for coffee, a casual meal, or something more upscale. The neighborhood itself is quiet, safe, and full of charm, with easy access to public transit. I especially appreciated being close to the metro, making it simple to explore all of Amsterdam’s top attractions. This hotel offers excellent value for the quality and service—highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city who wants a peaceful yet central base.

Our three-night stay at the Leonardo Hotel Amsterdam City Center was absolutely fantastic. The location couldn’t be better—just a short walk from the museum district and the charming inner canals of Amsterdam, yet it’s surprisingly quiet and peaceful, which is a real plus. Breakfast was a highlight: a great variety of hot and cold options, fresh pastries, fruits, and fruit salad—all served in a beautifully designed, stylish dining area. Room quality was solid: spacious with large picture windows offering lovely views, a well-appointed en-suite bathroom, and incredibly comfortable beds that made for restful nights. The staff were friendly, professional, and always ready to help, whether it was recommending local spots or assisting with travel tips. Everything about this hotel felt thoughtfully put together. It’s a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and charm. We’d definitely book again and highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Amsterdam.

Staying at Eden Hotel Amsterdam was an absolute highlight of my trip! The service was outstanding—staff went above and beyond to make me feel welcome. What truly stood out? A few team members actually spoke Cantonese, which made the experience so much more personal and comforting. From check-in to check-out, every interaction felt warm and genuine. The hotel is perfectly located—just a short metro ride from the city center, surrounded by great restaurants and charming local vibes. It’s quiet yet convenient, and the rooms were clean, comfortable, and well-designed. I loved how thoughtfully everything was arranged. If you’re looking for a cozy, authentic stay in Amsterdam with heartfelt hospitality, this place is a must-try.

Staying here for three nights with my partner was absolutely perfect. The hotel is located right across from a beautifully landscaped park, offering a peaceful and green retreat just steps from our door. Despite being in the heart of Amsterdam, it felt quiet and serene. The staff were incredibly responsive and attentive—always ready to help with anything we needed. They even arranged high-quality bicycles for us directly at the hotel, which made exploring the city by bike super convenient. From the location to the service, everything was outstanding. A truly memorable stay—definitely planning to return.

This little gem of a hotel truly exceeded my expectations! Right in the heart of Amsterdam, it's perfectly positioned for exploring the city on foot or via public transport. The decor strikes a great balance—modern yet unpretentious, with just the right amount of character. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive without being overbearing, making check-in and daily interactions a breeze. The bed was an absolute dream—so comfortable I barely wanted to get up in the morning. I didn’t try the breakfast, but it looked delicious and well-presented. Overall, this place offers a perfect mix of location, comfort, and charm. I’d happily stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Amsterdam.

This was hands down the most comfortable hotel I stayed at during my European trip. The place feels brand new, with spacious rooms that make you feel instantly relaxed. It’s just two tram stops from Amsterdam Central Station—get off at Nord, which is the final stop—and it’s only a 3-minute walk to the hotel. Perfectly located for a quiet escape from the busy city center while still being super accessible. Check-in was handled by MIKA, who was incredibly friendly and helpful. I’d actually had trouble exiting the station earlier, but he quickly explained that scanning the Eurostar QR code would solve it. When I left, I was nervous—but sure enough, one scan and I was through. Huge thanks to MIKA! The breakfast was exceptional too. That coffee? The milk foam was so rich and velvety, it might be the best cup I’ve had anywhere in Europe. I even tried making waffles myself—fun and delicious! The room’s tea and coffee station was well stocked with capsules, tea bags, and everything else you’d need, and they were always refilled promptly. If I ever return to Amsterdam, this hotel would be my top pick without hesitation.

I absolutely loved the vibe of this hotel! The lobby is a real highlight—especially that serene little tree right in the center, it creates such a peaceful atmosphere. The location is unbeatable; just steps from the canal and super close to all the main tourist spots. I appreciated the thoughtful touches like the unique hotel ID design—very memorable and stylish. It’s clear they put care into every detail. A fantastic stay with great value and a calming ambiance—I’d happily return!

Staying at Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht was an absolute delight. The location couldn't be better—just steps away from the famous Nine Streets and surrounded by top attractions, making it perfect for exploring on foot. Being in the heart of the canal district, I highly recommend booking a river view room. Sitting by the window, watching the gentle flow of the canals and the charming architecture glide by, is pure relaxation. The hotel maintains excellent cleanliness and modern amenities throughout. The minibar is restocked daily and completely free—such a nice touch! Everything about this stay exceeded expectations. I’ll definitely return and would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone visiting Amsterdam.

A friend recommended this charming B&B, and it truly exceeded my expectations. Located in a classic canal house, the owner and his family live on the upper floors, while I stayed in a ground-floor room with a lovely canal view—quiet, intimate, and full of character. I was able to check in right upon arrival in the late morning, and the host kindly stored one of my suitcases during my short pre-cruise stay in Amsterdam—perfect for those traveling light. The room was cozy and well-appointed: a comfortable bed, a fully stocked bathroom, a small table with two chairs, and thoughtful extras like coffee, cream, and other daily comforts. Each morning, the host personally delivered breakfast to my room—fresh fruit, delicious croissants, rolls, a boiled egg, jams, butter, honey, and muesli. It was a delightful start to the day. I didn’t use the TV, so I can’t comment on that feature. The location couldn’t be better—steps from restaurants, shops, and all the major sights in central Amsterdam. Walking distance to everything makes exploring effortless. The host is also happy to offer personalized recommendations if you’re unsure where to go. One small tip: if visiting in summer, close the room-darkening curtains during the day, as the west-facing sunlight can heat up the room quickly. Overall, an exceptional stay with genuine hospitality and a wonderful home-away-from-home feel.

Staying at Bens the Highdocks was an absolute highlight of my trip to Amsterdam! The apartment was beautifully designed, spacious, and incredibly comfortable—everything we needed was right there. The location is perfect: just a short walk from major attractions and public transport hubs, making it easy to explore the city without hassle. The neighborhood itself is vibrant and full of charm, with cozy cafés, local eateries, and hidden gems around every corner. I especially loved how quiet and safe the area felt, even though it’s so central. It’s rare to find a place that combines comfort, convenience, and character like this one. Would highly recommend to anyone visiting Amsterdam—this stay truly made the trip unforgettable.
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