Gay area of amsterdam

Key attractions include the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum and the Museum of Sex.

World-Class Accommodations

With some of the best gay hotels, clubs and bars on the planet, Amsterdam offers LGBTQ+ travelers a truly unique and vibrant visit. From luxury hotels to quirky boutique accommodations, gay travelers will be spoiled for choice.

I've structured it with headings, tightened up the writing, and removed some overly market-y sounding language.

It’s not just about the party—it’s about being part of a community that thrives on diversity, acceptance, and love.

Reguliersdwarsstraat is more than just a good time—it’s a symbol of how far we’ve come, and how much community matters. This iconic LGBTQ+ street began developing into a gay hotspot in the 1970s and 1980s with an explosion of gay bars and clubs, cementing Amsterdam’s role as an international gay destination and birthing a queer nightlife scene that continues to thrive.

Arts, Culture & Attractions

Beyond its lively nightlife, Amsterdam is also rich in culture and art.

The Dutch capital has been a bastion of the LGBTQ+ community for over a century, with its queer community flourishing despite political and social adversity.

Gay Neighborhoods & Nightlife

Amsterdam has several thriving gay villages brimming with gay restaurants, coffee shops, clubs and bars.

As you can see on our Clubs & Parties page there aren't many regular gay clubs and parties left in Amsterdam nowadays.

First of all you got the street with the unpronounceable name, Reguliersdwarsstraat, which tends to get quite busy at the weekend. In the second half of the 20th century it was considered the gay capital of Europe, due to the beauty of the city and due to the city's liberal atmosphere which was far ahead of most other European cities and countries at that time.

What started as just a few bars slowly turned into a nightlife hotspot for the gay community.

As our Amsterdam Gay Maps show, there are several gay areas in Amsterdam, all of them not really far from each other. They’re a celebration of love, freedom, and belonging in the heart of the Amsterdam Gay District.

Ready to turn your trip into an unforgettable experience? 

Discover the full range of expertly led experiences at Take Walks Tours where passionate local guides bring history, stories, and iconic sights to life.

Annual highlights and queer events in Amsterdam are the LGBTQ film festival Roze Filmdagen in March, King's Day on the 27th (or 26th) of April, the Milkshake Festival in July and the Amsterdam Gay Pride with the canal parade in August. You’ll find it just a few minutes from Rembrandtplein—perfectly central, yet totally in its own world.

You’ll leave humming ABBA and probably with a few new friends.

What Makes This Street Special?

Rainbow Crosswalks – Not just decorative, but symbolic of Amsterdam’s commitment to inclusion.
Pride Street Parties – During Pride, the street becomes one big open-air nightclub.
Happy Hours – Great early evening deals if you’re starting your night before the clubs kick off.
Mixed Crowd – While it’s rooted in the LGBTQ+ scene, everyone’s welcome here—locals, tourists, allies, all ages.

Discover more about Amsterdam:3 Days in Amsterdam: A Local Expert’s Guide 

Fun Facts About Reguliersdwarsstraat

• The street is named after monks (Reguliers), but it’s safe to say the vibe has changed since then.
• Many of the original gay bars here were run by LGBTQ+ owners long before it was common.
• During Pride, the bars often spill out into the street, turning the whole area into a block party.
• Amsterdam legalized same-sex marriage in 2001, making it the first country in the world to do so—Reguliersdwarsstraat has been celebrating ever since.

Love, Freedom and Belonging

A visit to the Amsterdam Gay District isn’t complete without a night (or three) on Reguliersdwarsstraat.

The city has a network of galleries, museums and exhibition spaces showcasing some of the finest art from the Netherlands and beyond. Known for its rainbow-colored crosswalks, legendary nightlife, and long-standing LGBTQ+ roots, this iconic destination blends Amsterdam’s laid-back charm with fierce community pride.

Whether you’re in town for a night out or visiting during Amsterdam Pride, this street has a way of making everyone feel at home.

A Bit of Background

Reguliersdwarsstraat has been part of Amsterdam’s LGBTQ+ story since the late 1970s.

Expect drag shows, sexy dancers, and a DJ booth that keeps the energy high all night.

Bar Blend
More relaxed than the others, Blend is ideal for cocktails and conversation. Let me know if you would like any other changes!