Learning a new language doesn’t have to be limited to the classroom. In fact, one of the best (and most fun) places to improve your Dutch is right around the corner: your local café.
Amsterdam is full of warm, gezellig cafés where you can listen, speak, and practice Dutch naturally — without pressure. Whether you’re ordering your favorite koffie verkeerd or striking up a short chat with the barista, every interaction helps build your confidence.
Here are some of our favorite cafés in Amsterdam for practicing Dutch — handpicked by our students and teachers.
☕ 1. Coffee & Coconuts – De Pijp
Spacious, relaxed, and always buzzing with locals and internationals. Baristas are Dutch-speaking but patient with learners. Try ordering in Dutch — they’ll likely help you along.
🗣️ Tip: Start with “Mag ik een cappuccino alstublieft?”
☕ 2. Koffie Academie – Oud-West
A cozy, stylish café with a local crowd and friendly staff. Sit near the counter and listen to Dutch conversations while you sip your drink.
🗣️ Challenge: Listen in and write down new words you hear!
☕ 3. Stach – Multiple Locations
This chain has great coffee, snacks, and a fast-paced but very Dutch environment. Perfect for practicing short conversations and hearing “real world” Dutch.
🗣️ Tip: Practice asking about ingredients or recommendations — “Wat raadt u aan?”
☕ 4. Bocca Coffee – Centrum
If you want a quality brew and a chill, local vibe, this café is ideal. Staff usually speak both English and Dutch, but they’re used to people trying to learn.
🗣️ Challenge: Place your full order in Dutch — no switching back to English!
☕ 5. De Koffieschenkerij – Inside the Oude Kerk
Located in one of Amsterdam’s oldest buildings, this peaceful café is a great spot to relax and read Dutch. Bring a simple Dutch book or magazine and immerse yourself.
🗣️ Tip: Combine coffee with reading — 30 minutes per week goes a long way.
🎓 Language Learning Outside the Classroom
At Inburgering Course Amsterdam, we encourage our students to use their Dutch outside of class — cafés, markets, and museums are your bonus classroom.
Learning Dutch is about real-life connection. And it’s easier than you think — especially when the cappuccino is good. Sign up at Inburgering Course Amsterdam here now.