A night out in Amsterdam sounds like a dream — bars everywhere, no curfews, friendly crowds, and endless ways to drink, dance, and explore.
But without a plan, things can go downhill fast. We’ve seen it all: lost phones, forgotten friends, and pub crawls that end by hole 3.
Here are the most common mistakes beginners make during an Amsterdam pub crawl — and how you can avoid them for a night to remember.
Mistake 1: Starting Too Strong
Shots at the first bar? Rookie move. It might feel fun in the moment, but by hole 5 you’ll be searching for a trash can instead of a challenge.
✅ Fix it: Start with beer or a low-ABV cocktail. Build momentum, not regret.
Mistake 2: No Plan, No Route
Wandering aimlessly leads to bar arguments, bad vibes, and wasted time. You’ll end up in tourist traps or waiting 30 minutes for a table.
✅ Fix it: Use a planned route with challenges, a bar list, and a scorecard. Like this one.
Mistake 3: Ignoring the Rules of Pub Golf
Pub golf isn’t just about drinking — it’s a game. Without rules, it’s just a bar hop with extra hangovers.
✅ Fix it: Use our ready-made rules or create your own before you start. Assign someone to track scores and dares.
Mistake 4: Forgetting to Eat
Empty stomach + cocktails = chaos. This mistake ruins more nights than bad weather.
✅ Fix it: Eat something hearty before bar 1. Schedule a snack stop between bars 5 and 6.
Mistake 5: No Water, No Breaks
Dehydration + alcohol = fuzzy memories and sore mornings. You can still be wild and stay safe.
✅ Fix it: Water after every 2 bars. No one will judge you — they’ll thank you later.
Mistake 6: Too Many People, No Leader
Groups larger than 6 can become chaotic without direction. You’ll lose people, waste time, or split up.
✅ Fix it: Appoint a ‘crawl captain’. They keep the night on track and make final decisions (plus it’s fun to give someone power).
Mistake 7: Not Downloading the Route
You’ve got one chance to make your Amsterdam crawl unforgettable. Why risk winging it?
✅ Fix it: Download the Amsterdam Pub Crawl Route for €9.95 — 9 bars, drinking challenges, a full scorecard, and zero stress.
Bonus Tips for Your First Crawl in Amsterdam
-
Bring cash — some bars don’t love cards
-
Take a group photo at the start (before things get messy)
-
Use Google Maps offline mode in case of bad signal
-
Choose bars within walking distance only
-
Be nice to bartenders — they might let you skip the line later
True Story: When No Plan Meant No Night
We once met a group of tourists at bar 3 who were already lost — half their group had gone somewhere else, they couldn’t agree on where to go next, and someone had already lost their wallet.
They ended up going back to the hostel at 10PM. Don’t be that group.
The Psychology of a Good Crawl
People love structure — even in chaos. A crawl with a beginning, a middle, and a finale gives your group something to aim for. It becomes a mission, not just a mess.
That’s why crawls with a clear order, challenges, and a competitive element (like pub golf) work so well. Everyone is involved. Everyone’s present.
Real Reactions from First-Timers Who Did It Right
“We downloaded the route on the tram to the city and didn’t look back. Best night of our trip.” – Zoe, 26
“Honestly, I didn’t even like beer that much, but the challenges made it so much fun.” – Liam, 22
“Didn’t lose anyone. Had rules. Got drunk in style. I’d call that a win.” – Chloé, 24
Signs You’re Doing It Wrong
-
You’re googling bars mid-crawl
-
Half the group is bored
-
You’re already arguing by bar 2
-
Someone’s already asleep at the table
Solution: Reset. Regroup. Follow the route and get back on track.
What's Included in Our Pub Crawl Route PDF?
-
16 bar stops in walking distance
-
Suggested drinks
-
Rules for pub golf (and how to score)
-
Group challenges and questions connected to drinks and strokes
-
Printable scorecard (or digital use)
-
Pro tips for pacing, safety & fun
Still Not Sure? Here's What You Get for €19.99
-
Save hours of planning
-
Avoid awkward bar debates
-
Instantly more fun, structured, and memorable
-
Use it again on your next trip or friend group
It’s the best €19.99 you’ll spend on a night out. Cheaper than 2 cocktails — and way more fun.
Final Word
The difference between an average night out and a crawl you'll remember forever? A little structure, a few rules, and a lot of laughs.
Avoid the rookie mistakes. Play pub golf. Make memories.
🎯 Download the Amsterdam Pub Crawl Route now → Buy here
