Published 18th February 2025
Amsterdam, with its picturesque canals and liberal culture, has long been a magnet for digital nomads, remote workers, and entrepreneurs. We’ve curated a selection of the best laptop-friendly work cafes and other popular spots where you can rock up with your laptop, soak up good vibes and get some work done!
In Amsterdam, as with many popular nomad destinations, it’s getting increasingly difficult to find places to work with free WiFi without paying a daily or hourly fee.
Our guide is focused on places where it’s still possible to take your laptop and work for a while in exchange for buying food and drinks or even for free if you’re really strapped for cash!
Want to learn a little about Amsterdam as a digital nomad destination? Read on …
Amsterdam is a thriving digital nomad destination and startup hub
Amsterdam has earned its place as one of Europe’s premier destinations for digital nomads and entrepreneurs.
With a thriving startup ecosystem, a highly international culture, and a progressive, business-friendly environment, Amsterdam competes head-on with cities like London, Berlin, and Madrid as a hub for innovation.
However, while Amsterdam boasts many advantages, it also comes with challenges such as high housing costs.
Let’s explore what makes the Dutch capital a standout destination for digital nomads and startups, and how it compares to some of its European counterparts.
Amsterdam offers a strong international and business-friendly culture
Amsterdam has long been known for its openness to international talent. With English widely spoken, navigating daily life and conducting business is effortless for expatriates.
The Netherlands consistently ranks high on the EF English Proficiency Index, making it an attractive location for professionals who don’t speak Dutch.
Amsterdam is home to an array of multinational corporations, tech companies, and startups, benefiting from a strong digital infrastructure and a highly supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Amsterdam’s liberal and progressive culture is also a major draw for digital nomads.
The Dutch are known for their direct and open-minded approach to business, fostering an environment where innovation and entrepreneurship thrive.
Below we’ve provided a brief comparison of Amsterdam to other popular European capitals and nomad destinations – London, Berlin, and Madrid
London, United Kingdom – London remains Europe’s financial and business powerhouse even despite Brexit taking a little of the wind out of its sails. London offers vast networking opportunities, a massive talent pool, and easy access to venture capital.
However, the cost of living, particularly rent and office space, is prohibitively high. Additionally, post-Brexit regulations have made it more challenging for non-UK entrepreneurs to spend extended time or settle in London.
Berlin, Germany – Berlin has a reputation as one of Europe’s most affordable startup hubs, with a dynamic, creative scene that attracts young entrepreneurs and remote workers.
The cost of living is generally lower than in Amsterdam, and the city has a thriving tech ecosystem.
However, the bureaucratic hurdles for setting up a business can be daunting, and while English is spoken widely in startup circles, German is still necessary for dealing with government paperwork and everyday life.
Madrid, Spain – Madrid offers excellent weather, a lower cost of living than Amsterdam, and a growing startup scene.
However, English proficiency is lower than in the Netherlands, which can pose challenges for non-Spanish speakers. Additionally, Madrid’s tech ecosystem, while developing, is still somewhat less developed than Amsterdam’s.
As a digital nomad / remote work destination, Madrid scores well with the relatively affordable cost of living, plenty of things to do, vibrant culture and sunshine.
Challenges: The high cost of living in Amsterdam
One of Amsterdam’s biggest drawbacks is its high cost of housing. Rental prices have skyrocketed in recent years due to a housing shortage, making it difficult for digital nomads and startup founders to find affordable accommodation.
A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can easily cost €2,000 per month while a room in a shared flat could cost you somewhere between €600 – €1200. This makes Amsterdam one of the most expensive European cities when it comes to housing costs.
Things to do in Amsterdam: From common attractions to the unusual
While Amsterdam is well known for its iconic canals, historic museums, and cycling culture, the city also offers plenty of unique experiences for digital nomads looking to unwind and explore after a busy day of working.
Popular attractions in Amsterdam
Rijksmuseum & Van Gogh Museum – Must-visit museums showcasing Dutch Golden Age paintings and Van Gogh’s masterpieces.
Anne Frank House – A poignant historical site telling the story of Anne Frank and World War II.
Jordaan District – A charming neighbourhood filled with boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Vondelpark – The perfect place to relax, jog, or picnic in the heart of the city.
Canal Cruises – Explore the city’s iconic waterways from a boat.
Unusual and lesser-known experiences in Amsterdam
A’DAM Lookout Swing – Swing over the edge of a skyscraper for an adrenaline rush and a spectacular city view. If that sounds too much there is also a panoramic bar/restaurant where you can enjoy great views of the city without the rush!
Electric Ladyland – Museum of Fluorescent Art – A one-of-a-kind museum showcasing glowing, luminescent artworks.
De Ceuvel – A sustainable urban oasis with floating offices, innovative architecture, and eco-conscious businesses.
NDSM Wharf – A former shipyard turned into a creative hub with street art, festivals, and quirky bars.
Micropia – The world’s only museum dedicated to microbes, offering a fascinating look at microscopic life.
Catboat (De Poezenboot) – A floating cat sanctuary where you can meet and adopt rescue cats while floating on a canal. If you are a cat lover or animal lover in general it’s a nice place to go spend some time with cats looking for a home and some loving. It’s free to enter but donations are welcome
An overview of Amsterdam’s districts. You can click on the district names to take you directly to laptop-friendly cafes in the district
Centrum (City Center) – The historic heart, home to iconic sites like Dam Square and the Anne Frank House. Bustling with activity, it’s filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.
Jordaan – Known for its narrow streets and artistic heritage, this district offers indie boutiques, cosy cafes, and art galleries.
De Pijp – A multicultural neighbourhood famed for the Albert Cuyp Market, diverse eateries, and a lively atmosphere.
Oud-West – A blend of residential charm and trendy spots, featuring the Foodhallen—a hotspot for diverse culinary delights.
Amsterdam Oost (East) is known for its cultural diversity, green spaces, and trendy hotspots. It features the historic Indische Buurt, the lively Dappermarkt, and the scenic Oosterpark. Oost blends old and new, offering hip cafés, multicultural eateries, and modern architecture alongside historic charm, making it a great area to explore, work in and hang out.
Amsterdam-Noord – Accessible via a short ferry ride, this up-and-coming area boasts creative spaces, modern architecture, and the EYE Film Museum.
Zuid (South) – An upscale district housing the Museum Quarter, Vondelpark, and high-end shopping streets.
Each district offers unique experiences, catering to various lifestyles and preferences. Whether you’re seeking a bustling urban environment or a tranquil workspace, Amsterdam’s diverse neighbourhoods have something to offer every digital nomad.
In conclusion, Amsterdam is an exceptional destination for digital nomads and startup founders looking for a city with strong business opportunities, a high quality of life, and an open international culture.
While Amsterdam’s high cost of housing is a drawback, the city’s well-developed infrastructure, entrepreneurial spirit, and vibrant atmosphere still make it a top choice in Europe.
Compared to London, Berlin, and Madrid, Amsterdam strikes a balance between accessibility, innovation, and lifestyle, making it a compelling choice for the next generation of global entrepreneurs and remote workers blazing a trail towards the unicorns of tomorrow.
Where to work remotely when you are in Amsterdam
Once you are in Amsterdam you’ll need nice places to work, we’ve put together our list of the best laptop-friendly cafes, coffee shops, hotels and libraries where you can turn up with your laptop and get some work done.
As always, do keep in mind that our guides are not about the best cafes but rather the best laptop-friendly cafes. Ideally we try to find great cafes that are also laptop-friendly but mainly our goal is to help our readers find nice places they can go with their laptops to work.
If you have any suggestions for laptop-friendly cafes and coffee shops to work in Amsterdam do let us know in the comments section or you can submit a personal review of your favourite laptop-friendly work cafe in Amsterdam as well as other cities around the world.
DE PIJP, AMSTERDAM
CT COFFEE & COCONUTS, DE PIJP, AMSTERDAM
Ceintuurbaan 282, 1072 GK Amsterdam, Netherlands
Coffee & Coconuts in De Pijp, Amsterdam, is a spacious, multi-level café set in a former theatre, with a clean, minimalist interior design. There is a nice loft area with comfy seating if you would like to take a break, chill or meet with friends.
Coffee & Coconuts is popular among remote workers in Amsterdam, though it should be noted that laptops are not allowed on weekends and there are laptop-free tables and a dedicated area on the ground floor where it’s possible to work on a laptop. So, do make sure you are there during weekdays if you would like to work and are seated in the correct area, otherwise, you will probably be asked to move. It would also be advisable to get there early in order to find a space to work.
Coffee & Coconuts café serves quality food and drinks, with standout items like coconut pancakes and fresh coconut juice. A Flat white will cost you around €4.60 and a veggie or chicken pita around €12 if you are hungry and looking for a bite to eat.
The vibe is lively, and it gets busy during peak hours, making it less ideal for deep focus but great for casual work or meetings. Free Wi-Fi is available, but the bustling environment may not suit everyone.
Overall, Coffee & Coconuts is an interesting, popular and inspiring spot, best for shorter work sessions or networking rather than all-day laptop marathons.
Have you worked from CT Coffee & Coconuts? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments section
OUD-WEST, AMSTERDAM
KANARIE CLUB, OUD-WEST, AMSTERDAM
Bellamyplein 51, 1053 AT Amsterdam, Netherlands
De Kanarie Club, nestled within Amsterdam’s vibrant De Hallen in Oud-West, offers an exceptional environment for remote workers, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs. Designed by Studio Modijefsky, the space retains its industrial heritage with exposed beams, raw surfaces, and high ceilings, creating a chic yet comfortable atmosphere There’s also a terrace for catching a little sunshine on a beautiful day.
De Kanarie Club is well-equipped for productivity, providing fast, reliable Wi-Fi and an abundance of power outlets throughout the venue. Its spacious layout features various seating options, including communal tables and cozy corners, catering to both individual work and group collaborations.
Culinary offerings are diverse and enticing. Patrons can order from a wide range of international cuisines directly to their tables by scanning a QR code, with options ranging from pizzas and hot dogs to dumplings. Do keep in mind that while De Kanarie is within the food hall, it is a separate restaurant so food from de Hallen is not allowed.
In terms of prices, a flat white will cost around €4.20 and a sourdough Avocado toast around €13.50
De Kanarie Club is a really popular remote work spot in Amsterdam if you are looking for a place in Oud-West.
Have you worked from De Kanarie Club? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments section.
MONKS COFFEE ROASTERS, OUD-WEST, AMSTERDAM
Bilderdijkstraat 46H, 1052 NB Amsterdam, Netherlands
Monks Coffee Roasters, located on Bilderdijkstraat in Amsterdam’s Oud-West district, is a coffee roaster and cafe that has a limited amount of space in the back available for laptop users.
Please note that they have a strict laptop policy with no laptops allowed on weekends or on tables with no laptops signs which is fair enough.
If you are into your coffee and are looking for a space to work for a while in Oud-West Amsterdam then Monks Coffee Roasters could be a nice choice.
Do get there early though in order to find a space!
In terms of pricing, a smashed avo toast on sourdough bread will set you back €13.95. Payment is only possible with cards, no cash.
Have you been to and worked remotely from Monks Coffee Roasters? Let us know your experiences in the comments section.
CENTRUM (CITY CENTRE), AMSTERDAM
OBA OOSTERDOK PUBLIC LIBRARY, CENTRUM, AMSTERDAM
Oosterdokskade 143, 1011 DL Amsterdam, Netherlands
OBA Oosterdok, Amsterdam’s central public library, is a haven for remote workers, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs seeking a quiet workspace in Amsterdam’s city centre.
Situated within walking distance of Amsterdam Centraal Station, the expansive 10-floor facility offers over 1,000 seats, 490 internet-enabled computers and free WiFi for those with their own devices.
OBA Oosterdok provides free Wi-Fi on personal devices. To connect, visitors need to create a Publicroam account by downloading the Publicroam app or registering online to receive an activation code via SMS. Once registered, select the ‘Publicroam’ network in your device’s Wi-Fi settings.
Laptop users will appreciate the numerous workspaces, though it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak hours.
On the 7th floor, visitors can enjoy a café-restaurant with a terrace offering panoramic views of Amsterdam.
Overall, OBA Oosterdok combines location, functionality and aesthetics, making it a top choice for remote workers seeking a quiet and completely free laptop-friendly workspace in the heart of Amsterdam.
Have you worked from OBA Oosterdok? Let us know your experiences in the comments
JORDAAN, AMSTERDAM
THE HOXTON HOTEL, JORDAAN, AMSTERDAM
Herengracht 255, 1016 BJ Amsterdam, Netherlands
The Hoxton Hotel, located at Herengracht 255 in the Jordaan district of Amsterdam, offers a vibrant and trendy workspace in the centre of Amsterdam for remote workers, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs looking for a bit of style.
Set within five historic canal houses, the Hoxton Hotel’s design blends old Amsterdam charm with modern sophistication.
The lobby area, known for its hipster vibe, provides ample seating options for both work and casual meetings.
It should be noted that the Hoxton does tend to get busy and perhaps a little loud so it’s maybe not the ideal spot for focused work but rather a place to work if you are looking for cool vibes and a lively atmosphere for a few hours of work.
Lotti’s, the in-house restaurant, serves brasserie-style dishes throughout the day and is a popular spot among locals and guests alike. The lobby bar and café also offer a range of beverages and light snacks for whenever hunger strikes.
Have you worked from the Hoxton Amsterdam? Let us know in the comments
OOST, AMSTERDAM
WERKPLAATS AT VOLKSHOTEL, OOST, AMSTERDAM
Wibautstraat 150, 1091 GR Amsterdam, Netherlands
Werkplaats, located on the ground floor of Volkshotel in Amsterdam’s Oost district, is a co-working space ideal for remote workers, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs.
The spacious area features long wooden tables equipped with power outlets, ensuring ample workspace and charging facilities for your devices.
The interior design pays homage to the building’s history as a former newspaper headquarters, blending industrial elements with a modern-day creative flair.
Werkplaats operates on a self-service basis, offering a menu that ranges from early morning croissants and coffee to healthy lunches and evening snacks like burgers with fries.
As a rough price guide, a burger at their cafe will cost around €12
While laptops are more than welcome, certain areas are designated as no-laptop zones to maintain a balance between offering spaces to relax and spaces to work.
Werkplaats can get crowded as the day progresses, so arriving early is advisable to secure a spot for you and your laptop!
In the evenings, particularly on weekends, the space transitions into a lively venue with DJs and a vibrant social scene, offering a perfect blend of work and leisure.
Have you worked from Werkplaats? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments section.
