Café Karpershoek, Kennemerland Travel Guide

Name: Café Karpershoek
Address: Martelaarsgracht 2, Amsterdam, 1012 TP, NL
Telephone: +31206247886
Price range: 2
Rating: 4.1

4.1 (1170)

Amsterdam's oldest brown pub since 1606: historic VOC inn turned lively café with Heineken drafts, jenever, and authentic local banter near Central Station.

Amsterdam's oldest café since 1606, Café Karpershoek is a traditional brown pub on Martelaarsgracht, offering authentic Dutch drinks and snacks in a historic setting near Central Station. Enjoy Heineken, jenever, and local vibes with wooden beams, worn floors, and an outdoor terrace for people-watching.

A brief summary to Café Karpershoek

Martelaarsgracht 2, Amsterdam, Amsterdam-Centrum, 1012 TP, NL
Click to display
Click to display
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Mid ranged
Mixed
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 10 am-12 am
Tuesday 10 am-12 am
Wednesday 10 am-12 am
Thursday 10 am-12 am
Friday 10 am-12 am
Saturday 10 am-12 am
Sunday 10 am-12 am

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Café Karpershoek.

Opt for the terrace on sunny days to watch canal life and passersby while sipping a fresh Heineken.
Try traditional jenever or bitterballen for an authentic Dutch pub experience with locals.
Visit before or after Central Station trains for convenience and to soak in the historic harbor vibe.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

't Wapen van Kennemerland

Subliem Restaurant - Haarlem

Spaarne66

Ratatouille Food & Wine

Kraantje Lek

Explore Café Karpershoek on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Café Karpershoek, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

4-minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station; follow signs to Martelaarsgracht, €0, accessible daily.
Tram

Tram 4/14/24 to Centraal Station stop, then 4-min walk; €3.20 single ticket, frequent service.
Cycling

Rent OV-fiets at station or use city bikes; 2-min ride along canals, €4-6/day, watch for traffic.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Drink Options
Food Options
Seating Areas
Sheltered Areas

Discover more about Café Karpershoek

History and Heritage

Established in 1606 as an inn for VOC sailors and tradesmen at Amsterdam's bustling harbor, Café Karpershoek claims the title of the city's oldest café. Originally overlooking the IJ waterway, it served rough characters before the Central Station altered the vista. Today, this bruine kroeg preserves its legacy with shabby furniture, sand-worn floors, and wooden beams evoking centuries of stories.

Atmosphere and Ambiance

Step into a timeless brown pub where middle-aged locals greet with cheek kisses and hearty laughs. The casual, unpretentious vibe mixes historic charm with lively chatter. Friendly staff pour perfect pints amid vintage decor, creating an authentic Amsterdam experience. The outdoor terrace buzzes with street life, ideal for a relaxed pause.

Menu and Offerings

Expect classic Dutch fare: crisp Heineken drafts, robust jenever shots, wines, spirits, and light snacks like bitterballen. Moderate prices suit quick refreshers or lingering drinks. Event packages cater to birthdays or gatherings, with tailored food and beverage options in this welcoming space.

Location and Accessibility

Nestled at Martelaarsgracht 2 in Amsterdam-Centrum, it's a 4-minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station. The prime spot near canals and shops immerses you in the city's pulse, perfect for travelers seeking genuine hospitality post-train or pre-sightseeing.

Practical Details

Open daily from 10:00 to 20:00 or later, it welcomes families and solo visitors. The terrace adds outdoor appeal, while the interior offers shelter. This historic gem blends tradition with convenience for an unforgettable taste of old Amsterdam.