Rooftops in the Netherlands: the flat country seen from above
A country won from the water
A constitutional monarchy of around 18 million inhabitants, the Netherlands borders the North Sea between Belgium and Germany. Its capital is Amsterdam, even though the government, Parliament and the major institutions sit in The Hague. The kingdom's European territory is divided into twelve provinces.
The country has one of the lowest average elevations in the world: about a quarter of its European territory lies below sea level, and a fifth is covered by water. Over the centuries, the Dutch built dikes and reclaimed land from the Rhine–Meuse delta, so much so that a saying goes: “God created the world and the Dutch created the Netherlands.”
Why head up to the rooftops
In such a flat landscape, the slightest height offers an immense panorama. From a roof terrace or a glass-walled bar, your gaze sweeps over the gables of old houses, the canals and the harbours, all the way to a horizon where the sky takes up a remarkable share of the view. The cities have also seen contemporary towers spring up, whose top floors are now home to bars and restaurants.
Amsterdam, the first stop
A capital between canals and harbour
With its 17th-century canal ring listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its harbour opening onto the IJ and its modern districts, Amsterdam is home to a wide variety of rooftops. You will find luxury hotel bars above Dam Square, sky bars on the 20th and 23rd floors, rooftop gardens open to all, a free public square on the roof of a science museum, and even a former pirate television platform converted into a restaurant above the water.
Very different atmospheres
Some places focus on signature cocktails and DJs, others on seasonal food, local craft beers or weekend brunches. Many Dutch rooftops are glass-walled and stay open all year round, while open-air terraces are at their liveliest from late spring to autumn.
Practical tips
Season, weather and booking
The climate is oceanic, with changeable skies: bring an extra layer for the terraces, even in summer, and opt for glass-walled bars in winter. Sunset is the most sought-after time; several venues do not take reservations, and others require smart dress or an entry ticket. Card payment is very widespread, and some establishments no longer accept cash.
