NeighbourhoodCentrum (near Rembrandtplein)
Sub-zero Socializing
Amsterdam Icebar
Step into a world carved from 35 tons of ice, where the temperature stays a crisp -10°C and even your glass is frozen solid.
Best forGroups and Arctic enthusiasts
Plan for45–60 minutes
Worth knowingStrictly 18+ only; ID required
The Experience
Amsterdam's Coolest Attraction
The Amsterdam Icebar, often referred to as XtraCold, offers a literal escape from the temperate Dutch climate. The venue is split into two distinct zones: a heated front lounge where you can relax in a traditional bar setting, and the main ice chamber. Inside the chamber, everything from the bar counters to the stools and decorative sculptures is crafted from crystal-clear ice, maintained by advanced refrigeration systems.
Your visit is structured around a narrative journey. Upon entering the ice chamber, you are transported back to 1596 to join the crew of the Dutch explorer Willem Barentsz. The theme recreates the atmosphere of being stranded on the island of Nova Zembla in the Arctic, celebrating the spirit of Dutch maritime innovation and survival against the elements.
Arctic Inspiration
The Legend of Willem Barentsz
The attraction draws its inspiration from one of the most famous survival stories in Dutch history. In 1596, navigator Willem Barentsz and his crew on the ship Mercurius attempted to find the Northeast Passage to Asia. They became trapped in the ice off the coast of Nova Zembla and were forced to spend a grueling winter in a makeshift cabin known as 'Het Behouden Huys'.
The Icebar pays tribute to this expedition by immersing guests in a simulated Arctic environment. While the modern experience includes music and cocktails, the surrounding ice walls and sub-zero temperatures serve as a reminder of the extreme conditions Barentsz and his men endured for nearly a year before their eventual escape.
What to Expect
Frozen Features
Construction
35 Tons of Ice
The bar is built using massive quantities of natural ice, which is regularly refreshed to maintain the intricate sculptures and structural integrity of the furniture.
Refreshments
Three Included Drinks
Every ticket includes three tokens: one for a cocktail or beer in the warm lounge, and two for shots or beer served in glasses made entirely of ice inside the cold chamber.
Atmosphere
Arctic Lighting
The ice chamber is illuminated with glowing blue and purple lights, creating a polar wilderness ambiance that enhances the crystalline details of the ice carvings.
Your Visit
The Flow of the Cold
Arrival
The Warm Welcome
Start in the heated lounge. This is where you exchange your ticket for tokens and enjoy your first drink in a comfortable, room-temperature environment.
Preparation
Suiting Up
Before entering the ice chamber, staff provide you with a heavy thermal poncho and gloves. These are essential for enduring the -10°C temperature inside.
The Chill
The Ice Chamber
Spend approximately 20 minutes inside the ice bar itself. This is the time to use your remaining tokens, take photos with the sculptures, and experience the Arctic theme.
Visuals
Inside the Freezer
The visual appeal of the Icebar lies in the contrast between the warm, inviting lounge and the sharp, illuminated edges of the ice room. Photogenic spots include the ice-carved bar and the life-sized polar bear sculptures that inhabit the frozen chamber.
Visitor Info
Planning Your Trip
Due to the popularity of the venue and the limited capacity of the ice chamber, booking a time slot in advance is highly recommended, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons.
Official Amsterdam Icebar WebsiteAge Limit
Adults Only
The Amsterdam Icebar is an 18+ venue. You must present a valid government-issued ID to enter, regardless of your appearance.
Clothing
What to Wear
While thermal gear is provided, it is wise to wear closed-toe shoes as the floor is also made of ice and can be very cold and slippery.
Bookable experiences
Experiences around Icebar Amsterdam.
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Location
Getting There
The Amsterdam Icebar is located at Amstel 194-196, just a short walk from the bustling Rembrandtplein. It is easily accessible via public transport; take Tram 4 or 14 to the Rembrandtplein stop, or the Metro to Waterlooplein station, which is only a few minutes away on foot.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How cold is it inside the Icebar?⌄
The temperature is strictly maintained at -10°C (14°F) to ensure the ice structures remain solid.
Are non-alcoholic drinks available?⌄
Yes, the bar offers non-alcoholic options for both the warm lounge cocktail and the drinks served in the ice chamber.
How long can I stay inside the ice room?⌄
Most visitors spend about 20 minutes in the cold chamber, which is usually enough time to enjoy two drinks and take photos before the cold becomes intense.