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

The staff welcomed us warmly upon check-in and took the time to show us how to use the in-room amenities, including the washing machine and dryer—very thoughtful. We appreciated the complimentary coffee, tea, cookies, and chocolates available in the lobby; it made our arrival feel extra special. There are also shared laundry facilities in the basement, which is great since we already had a washer/dryer in the room—convenient for longer stays. Plus, two bikes are available for rent, perfect for exploring the city on two wheels. The room itself is spacious and spotlessly clean, with one large bed and a generous sofa bed—ideal for a group of four. The in-room coffee maker was a nice touch for morning routines. The view from the window is lovely, offering a peaceful glimpse of the canal life. One small improvement could be adding more lighting in the living area—it’s a bit dim, but not enough to spoil the experience. Overall, our four-night stay was incredibly pleasant. The location, comfort, and attention to detail make this a standout choice. Highly recommended for travelers seeking a cozy, well-located, and thoughtfully designed home away from home.

Family stay was absolutely perfect—two adults and two teens enjoyed every moment. The location right by the marina is modern, peaceful, and incredibly quiet, offering a refreshing escape from the busy city vibe. Just a short tram ride away from downtown Amsterdam, making it easy to explore the city while still coming back to a serene atmosphere. There’s an Albert Heijn supermarket just a 2-minute walk away, open until 10 PM—perfect for picking up groceries and cooking a cozy meal in the spacious, well-equipped kitchen of our apartment. This place strikes the ideal balance between urban access and quiet relaxation. If you're looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing, this is the spot. Highly recommend for families or travelers who value peace, comfort, and convenience.

Staying at Yays Amsterdam Maritime by Numa was an absolute delight! The location is perfect—right next to a metro station, making it super easy to explore the city without needing to switch lines. I loved how modern and well-designed the apartment was, with all the essentials included—from kitchenware to cozy bedding. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the room was quiet, which made for a restful night’s sleep. The staff were friendly and helpful, even offering free shuttle service to the harbor. Everything about this place felt thoughtfully curated. It’s not just a hotel—it’s a home away from home. Highly recommend this gem if you’re visiting Amsterdam!

Staying at Numa Amsterdam the Crane was such a unique and memorable experience! Check-in was super easy at the nearby Yays Maritime hotel, and the platform even provided a complimentary taxi transfer straight to the floating hotel—so convenient. The room was spotless and beautifully designed with a fun, quirky vibe that made it feel like a real adventure. Bikes were available for guests, making it simple to explore the city on two wheels. Plus, it’s just a short walk from Amsterdam Central Station, so getting around is a breeze. This place truly stands out—perfect for travelers looking for something different and full of character.

Absolutely recommend this place! The location is fantastic—easy to access major attractions while still feeling peaceful. The room itself is stunning, with floor-to-ceiling windows and high ceilings that create a truly open and airy feel. It instantly lifts your mood the moment you step inside. Everything was clean and well-maintained, and I especially appreciated the separate shower and toilet area—perfect for families. The dishwasher was a lifesaver on our last day, making cleanup so much easier. A great balance of comfort, convenience, and value. Definitely planning to come back.

The accommodation was spotless and thoughtfully laid out—perfect for a comfortable stay. Right outside the door is a tram stop, making travel around Amsterdam incredibly easy and convenient. I especially appreciated the complimentary drinks included with breakfast—such a nice touch! The only minor downside was that communication with the team was only in English, but overall, the experience was outstanding. I left feeling completely satisfied and would highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Amsterdam. Would definitely book again!

I absolutely loved my stay at YAYS Amsterdam North by Numa! The location is perfect—quiet yet convenient, just a short metro ride from the city center. The room was clean, modern, and very comfortable with a great bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout my visit, making check-in smooth and welcoming. I appreciated the little touches like the welcome gift—it showed attention to detail. There are plenty of cafes and local spots nearby, so it’s easy to explore the neighborhood on foot. Overall, the value for money is excellent, and it’s ideal for travelers who want a more authentic Amsterdam experience without being too far from the main attractions. I’ll definitely be back and highly recommend this place!

Staying at this serviced apartment was an absolute delight! The modern, clean, and well-organized space felt like a home away from home. We appreciated the convenience of receiving a secure access code via email—no front desk hassle, just smooth entry. Located right along the peaceful Oosterpark, it’s quiet and green, perfect for relaxing after a day exploring Amsterdam. Our group of four had a separate bedroom plus a spacious sofa bed that comfortably accommodated everyone. The bedding was excellent—very comfortable and restful. It’s just a 15-minute metro ride to the city center (Central Station), or about 45 minutes on foot if you’re up for a scenic stroll through the neighborhood. Apartments facing the inner courtyard are especially quiet—ideal for a good night’s sleep. Everything worked perfectly, from the kitchenette to the smart lighting and Wi-Fi. Highly recommend this place for travelers who value comfort, privacy, and a central yet serene location.

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.
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