Weekend tips: July 3 to 5 (and more)
Weekend Incoming? Yes, please! And when we do it, we do it right. The summer months are the most fun, which is why we have another list full of the very best and most enjoyable weekend tips ready for you. With cultural outings, culinary pop-ups, new openings, festivals and everything that adds zest to your weekend.
Not only in Amsterdam by the way (our home base), but also definitely outside. And handy: not only for this weekend, but also for the coming weekends. That way you are always prepared. With this list you ensure that your weekend becomes one that you would like to extend for a few more days. Let's go!
After the success of the Oatly Bike Thru, Oatly has really caught the bug. So what's nextRadioRadioOatlyOatly. Whut? This summer, Oatly and the Amsterdam music and community platform Radio Radio are joining forces for RadioRadioOatlyOatly: a outdoor chill spot where beats, good times, sun, and refreshing drinks (something with oat milk) come together. What a delightful match. Radio Radio has had a beloved spot in Westerpark for years and knows exactly how to bring music, culture, and people together. This summer, RadioRadio and Oatly are providing not only the atmosphere but also a nice place to take a break between dancing. Westerpark it is.
RadioRadioOatlyOatly
Westerpark, Pazzanistraat 3, 1014 DB Amsterdam
In the mood for a summer day without traveling far? At the Markthal, it starts the moment you enter: look upstairs, taste downstairs. While the gigantic ceiling artwork draws your gaze upwards, a world of flavors awaits below. Summer must triesGet a mango poke bowl, taste Vietnamese summer rolls, share a plate of Mediterranean mezze, have a tropical ice cream or cool off with a iced matcha. With 100+ food spots There really is something for everyone. Create your own route through various global flavors. Within 20 minutes, you can travel from Asia to the Mediterranean and back again. We like.
With screeching tires to Museum Arnhem for the crème de la crème of Dutch art. One of the most beautifully situated museum buildings in the Netherlands alone is worth a detour. The museum is situated on the high moraine with a picture perfect view over the Rhine. There is a free-to-access sculpture garden, and the museum is bursting with contemporary art, magical realism, neorealism, fashion, and jewelry. Moreover, you will see artists, makers, and visitors there that you do not often encounter in museums. And the accompanying Café Pierre arguably has the most beautiful terrace in Arnhem (including a ping-pong table).
In the exhibition Naked that Touches Through September 20, you can see how artists use the naked body to discuss themes such as freedom, identity, and inequality. Real people, with all the so-called imperfections that come with it, take center stage: from paintings to contemporary photography and performances. Mega interesting. Let's go Arnhem.
Nudity that moves | Museum Arnhem | Art & culture in Gelderland
Rotterdam will be entirely dedicated to cocktails for three weekends this summer. From June 19 to July 5, it takes over Diageo World Class Cocktail Festival Across the city. Wonderful for a night out, fun for an original date, or a perfect excuse for a weekend RotterdamEven better: the festival coincides with the European finals of World Class, one of the most prestigious cocktail competitions in the world, which are taking place in the Netherlands for the first time this year. That means international cocktail vibes in Rotterdam and some of the best bars serving special festival cocktails inspired by the creations of top European bartenders. Run to Rotterdam.
Want to know more? Then read here further, and contact me if you are interested.
What started over 10 years ago as a craft beer festival in a single city has grown into *the* Drinks Festival of the Netherlands (yes, really, with 18 editions in 17 cities this summer). And TAPT is now much more than just beer. In addition to a still fantastic selection of beers, you can also enjoy wines, cocktails, 0.0% alcohol drinks, and food (from Mexican to full charcuterie boards) that is finger-licking good. Add to that space to chill, raunchy singalongs (at the karaoke, which is new by the way!), disco bingo, board games in collaboration with 999 Games, and speed dating, and your weekend is guaranteed to be a success. Speed dating? Yes, singles take note! TAPT is partnering with love partner Festiflirt, who will help you find a new romance through speed dating during the party, among other things.
So, TAPT is coming to 17 cities this summer, and this weekend (July 3 and 4) Julianapark in Utrecht is on the schedule. Starting from 20,90 euros, you can still get last minute your tickets. Please note: this festival is 18+!
Summer = wonderful. Until the moment you melt on a terrace or wonder what to do with all those days off. Our suggestion? Head to the cinema. This July and August, simply take your Cineville pass with you on vacation. With it, you can go to the movies unlimitedly in all Cineville countries: the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Sweden, and Austria. That's no fewer than 248 cinemas spread across 92 cities.
Planning a city trip to Stockholm, Antwerp, Berlin, Vienna, or another Cineville city? Then a movie is the perfect stopover. From charming neighborhood cinemas and old art-house cinemas to open-air screenings and industrial buildings, a local beer at the bar, and perhaps even a cinema cat to welcome you. Staying in the Netherlands instead? Then this is the perfect time to discover a new movie theater (or just drop back into your favorite).
Don't have a Cineville pass yet? You can easily get one online starting from 19 euros per month.
This summer, you can dance the night away in the garden of H'ART Museum. Every Sunday afternoon (15:30-17:30), enjoy live jazz and DJ sets amidst the greenery, with performances by young talent from the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. Jazz @ H'ART. The program features the Randal Corsen Trio and DJ Lele. Theater maker Anton de Bies will provide the introduction to the entire party.
And there is more at the H'ART Museum. New is Summer @ H'ART, with a cheerful program full of workshops, musical theater for children, wine tastings, and a vintage market. Also fun: Friday @ H'ART, a combination of music, drinks, and a short museum tour.
Click here in the museum's calendar.
For those who haven't managed to chill on the Côte d'Azur these days, just head to Amsterdam South. On July 10 and 11, Bisous, together with Strandzuid, is bringing a Côte d'Azur to Amsterdam with Île de Bisous. The two-day summer event by the water, inspired by the Mediterranean open-air restaurants of the French Riviera, where you want to hang out.
Long summer evenings, from golden hour until late at night. Perrier-Jouët champagne, cocktails, and wines carefully selected by top sommelier Koen van der Plas. The menu features Bisous classics such as oysters, caviar, and fine cuts of fish and meat, plus culinary stations with fresh fish, signature bites, and BBQ specialties. And all of this set to live music: performances by singer Glenn Palm, live saxophone, dancers, and DJs who will dance the night away.
How you handle it is up to you. Go for a full dinner with a reserved table and table service, but drinks and bites are also an option.
Now that the mussel season starts again in July, there is every reason to drive towards the Veluwe. At the bistro of The Weaver Lodge Enjoy delicious mussels during the Mussel Weeks from Monday, July 13 to Sunday, August 9. In addition to the regular menu, the bistro team serves three variations of mussels starting at 17 pm: classic, in tomato sauce, and Asian-style. For €35 per person, you can join us every evening for a summery mussel night. You don't have to stay at De Wever Lodge to dine at the bistro, but a weekend at De Wever Lodge is highly recommended. Located in the heart of the Veluwe, you will find complete relaxation at this beautiful hotel. Then, after all those mussels, you can simply roll straight back to your room.
Book here for the mussel weeks.
I don't know about you, but as soon as the sun comes out, we start craving a refreshing Spritz. Cold drink in hand, sun on your face, you know the drill. Now there is something new: the St-Germain Spritz, a French variation of the classic Spritz. The difference? The St-Germain Spritz is much lighter, less bitter, and more modern. It is inspired by the vibrant atmosphere of Saint-Germain-des-Prés in Paris and the relaxed charm of the French Riviera. Must be good, right? Be sure to try it for yourself. Also great for a summer party or perhaps even as a summer gift. Something different for a change.
How do you make it? Here it is:
- Pour 40 ml of St-Germain over ice in a glass.
- Add 60 ml Prosecco (MARTINI) and 60 ml sparkling water.
- Stir gently.
- Finish with lemon zest and optionally a few edible flowers.
You buy it here.
Ah, yet another superb gastronomic festival in our own country. Once again in Amsterdam. Chefs in het Bos in the Amsterdamse Bos is where we want to go for two weekends: from July 31 to August 2 and August 7 to 9. Under the canopy of the Amsterdamse Bos, an impressive lineup of the culinary elite: there are a total of 24 Michelin restaurants, spread across 12 top chefs per weekend! This year's theme is 'Roots of 2050': the idea is how we will eat in the future. Innovative techniques and local ingredients. Delicious food – check. But there is also entertainment: jazz sessions during the day and dancing under the stars in the evening. Count us in.
Heard it a lot, a whole lot this summer (holiday): we’re staying close to home! And we understand that all too well. There is still so much to discover in our own beautiful country (where it is at its most beautiful in the summer, too). To celebrate that – our beautiful country in the summer – book your city trip with WestCord Hotels this summer with extra benefits: The longer you stay, the higher the discount! And that’s not all. You also get amazing extras such as free late check-out, a welcome drink, or a cocktail at the bar of the hotel of your choice. For example, you could go to Hotel New York in Rotterdam, the Arsenaal in Delft, or Hotel Jakarta in Amsterdam, to name just a few absolute top picks. Where to book? You can do so below.
Some things just scream summer. A sunny terrace, a cold glass of bubbly, and ice, for example. Enter: the Hendrick's Gin Sgroppino. The Italian classic makes this summer a delicious one. comebackFor this special variant, Hendrick's teamed up with Amsterdam ice cream parlor Miuz. The result? A fresh, airy cocktail that is perfect for warm summer weather. The best part: you don't have to break a sweat to taste it (at most, in the sun on a terrace). The Hendrick's Gin Sgroppino is temporarily on the menu at a number of top terraces in Amsterdam. Pull up a chair at Nido, The Hoxton City Centre, Sonora, Hotel De L'Europe, or W Lounge, among others, and order one (or go on, two). It is only available for a limited time, so anyone looking for an excuse for an extra afternoon on a terrace this summer has found it. You're welcome.
Nice extra tip: on July 3rd, there is a special Hendrick's Another evening at Hotel W. You can stop by between 18 pm and 22 pm to taste the refreshing sgroppino.
If we could, we would hop on a plane to the Caribbean right now. Endless sunshine, good vibes, and delicious food. Unfortunately, that isn't always possible. Luckily, Mondi has come up with a solution. At both Mondi Nieuw-West and Mondi Skybar, you can attend Mondi Weekends every Friday and Saturday. Sultry evenings with flavorful Caribbean à la carte dishes, Mondi DJs behind the turntables, and a special Mondi Moment as the cherry on top. So, food, drinks, and dancing! Always a good choice. It is also highly recommended for a birthday or other special occasion. There is even a balloon decoration service for that (yes, really!).
Book now here.
This summer, chefs Joris Bijdendijk and Thomas Val are setting up shop in the meadows of Baambrugge, a small village between Amsterdam and Utrecht. For five weekends, the team from restaurant Wils is opening an exclusive summer restaurant on the grounds of Lindenhoff Farm: Wils at the Farm. An ode to the outdoors, cooking over an open fire, and the origins of the food. While you enjoy the view over the meadows, the chefs will serve a five-course menu three evenings a week. You will take a seat at one of the long, communal tables (cozy!) among the pigs, Gasconne cows, and vegetable garden. The ingredients are harvested on the day itself and prepared immediately over the open fire, just as we know Wils. The chefs have dreamed of such an outdoor pop-up for years. “For five weeks, we get to cook with our feet in the field, surrounded by the scent of smoking wood and fresh herbs.” A fan of Wils, but not sure if that farm vibe is for you? Give it a try – and otherwise no stress: the fire at restaurant Wils will simply keep burning this summer.
Book here your spot (from May 21).
If there is a reservation you make for the warm days, it should be a reservation at Erloom.
After all, you might just know Hilvarenbeek from Safaripark Beekse Bergen… But there is more to the Brabant village just outside Tilburg! And how… Hilvarenbeek is charming, welcoming, and it is the home of restaurant ErloomThe owners run the business under that name all summer long – from early May to late September. restaurant Erloom so, one of the Netherlands' most fun pop-up restaurants. Every weekend is a party during those months, and it's a success.
We already knew Madurodam in The Hague: the miniature version of the Netherlands. But did you know that Amsterdam now has its own miniature version too? It's not an interactive open-air museum like Madurodam, but it is a beautiful museum with plenty of stories and miniatures to help you out. From the Anne Frank House to Dam Square and the Red Light District – in about 50 minutes, you'll visit all the highlights and learn about the history of our beautiful capital. It's also fun with kids, who can endlessly search for figures, boats, and recognizable places. This way, you won't need a city tour and can spend the rest of the day shopping or relaxing at one of the many restaurants en terracesChildren under 18 can participate for €12,95, and an adult ticket costs €17,50.
A massive success for years, and this year promises to be another delightful summer evening. Friday, July 10th, is the day: the 10th edition of *the* Sangria Party at De Vergulden Eenhoorn. An evening full of sangria (of course!), music, and good times in the garden of De Vergulden Eenhoorn. Tickets start at just €14,50. This includes a refreshing first glass of sangria, a pass for the restroom, and a deposit token. You can enjoy food, drinks, and dancing all afternoon and evening. Tired? Then just plop down in the oh-so-cheerful beach chairs (under the parasol). It doesn't get any more summery than this, does it?
Buying here your tickets. Please note: the party is 18+!
Yes, you heard correctly. Not the eveningveveryday, but the Evening BVierdaagse. This event is actually a better (or yes, even more sociable) version of the regular Vierdaagse. Here, walking through the beautiful streets of Amsterdam and Rotterdam is combined with brewery hopping, beer tasting, and enjoying the tastiest bitesLast year, an edition was already organized in Amsterdam, but due to its success, there is also an edition in Rotterdam this year. So when does it take place? During the Nijmegen Four Days Marches, of course. You can participate from July 21 to 24.
Buying here your tickets for 45 euros each.
It might still feel a bit far away, but the summer holidays are really just around the corner. Time to slowly start filling that calendar again. To celebrate Cinekid's 40th anniversary, a number of unforgettable Dutch film classics are being shown on the big screen again throughout the Netherlands this summer. From Abeltje en Pietje Bell to Tasjesdief, Afblijven, and Kapsalon Romy: films you (probably) grew up with yourself and can now show to your kids. A perfect holiday outing for rainy afternoons, sweltering summer days, or simply because going to the cinema together is secretly always fun. The classics can be seen in cinemas and film theaters throughout the Netherlands from July 9 to August 12. Extra fun: for some screenings, Cinekid is also organizing workshops, quizzes, and other activities for children.
Attention all seasoned oyster fans and 'I'm-finally-starting-to-appreciate-it' slurpers: on September 12 (from 12 to 17 pm), Koester je Oester is organizing the very first Oyster Walk XXL. And for this, you don't need to put on Wellington boots and trudge along the Zeeland coast. You'll simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the heart of Amsterdam. No fewer than 15 top restaurants are participating in this slurping route, where you can sample one fresh oyster at each participating restaurant using a stamp card. Yum. Tired of oysters, but haven't collected all 15 stamps yet? Don't panic. You determine your own route and pace, so stopping early is no problem either. During the walk, you will discover the very best oysters in Amsterdam, from classic brasseries to modern seafood restaurants.
Here you score your tickets for 58 euros per person.
Handy, aren't those weekend tips from Bart? Are there never enough and do you want even more inspiration? things to do and good ideas for the weekend (and the rest of the week)? Of course we also have something for that, namely the Barts Boekje Newsletter. No endless spam, we hate that too. Just an email once a week with tips for your holiday (or just a... staycation), for your interior, countries you want to go to now that the weather is possible, the most beautiful tree houses, the tastiest coffee, tips for your offspring and so on. Lots of good ideas in a small email – we can't make it any easier, but we certainly can make it more fun.
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