In the center of the Amsterdam Gay District, Reguliersdwarsstraat stands as one of the city’s most vibrant and welcoming streets. Known for its rainbow-colored crosswalks, legendary nightlife, and long-standing LGBTQ+ roots, this iconic destination blends Amsterdam’s laid-back charm with fierce community pride.
Whether you’re in town for a night out or visiting during Amsterdam Pride, this street has a way of making everyone feel at home.
A Bit of Background
Reguliersdwarsstraat has been part of Amsterdam’s LGBTQ+ story since the late 1970s. What started as just a few bars slowly turned into a nightlife hotspot for the gay community. As more venues opened and the city grew more progressive, this one little street became an international destination.
Today, Reguliersdwarsstraat is lined with queer-friendly bars, clubs, and cafés. You’ll find it just a few minutes from Rembrandtplein—perfectly central, yet totally in its own world. It remains a key anchor in the Amsterdam Gay District, drawing locals and travelers alike to its dynamic, inclusive atmosphere.
Amsterdam Pride: A Celebration Like No Other
If you’re planning a trip in early August, mark your calendar: Amsterdam Pride is one of the most unique and powerful LGBTQ+ celebrations in the world.
Held throughout the Amsterdam Gay District, Pride Week transforms areas like Reguliersdwarsstraat into hubs of celebration, activism, and expression.
Rather than the typical street parade, Amsterdam hosts a Canal Parade—a colorful, musical, unapologetically joyful event where the floats actually float. Boats decorated with dancers, drag queens, musicians, and activists cruise down the city’s historic waterways, cheered on by thousands lining the canals.
Reguliersdwarsstraat plays a big part in the festivities. The street transforms into a massive party zone, with pop-up bars, outdoor stages, DJs, and people dancing well into the night. It’s loud, proud, and 100% unforgettable.
But Pride here isn’t just a party. It’s also a week-long program of cultural events, workshops, film screenings, exhibitions, and talks—shining a light on global LGBTQ+ issues while celebrating how far we’ve come.
Where to Go: The Best LGBTQ+ Spots on Reguliersdwarsstraat
You’re spoiled for choice here, but a few standouts are worth highlighting:
SOHO Amsterdam
A staple of the scene. This is the kind of bar where everyone knows someone, and the vibe is always upbeat. Great drinks, great music, and a solid starting point for your night.
Club NYX
A three-floor club known for its wild theme nights and diverse crowd. From techno beats to drag performances, there’s always something unexpected here.
Taboo
If you’re looking for that perfect mix of cheeky and camp, this is your spot. Expect drag shows, sexy dancers, and a DJ booth that keeps the energy high all night.
Bar Blend
More relaxed than the others, Blend is ideal for cocktails and conversation. It’s stylish without trying too hard and has a great terrace for people-watching.
De Lellebel (just nearby)
A cozy, slightly chaotic drag bar with live performances and a loyal crowd. You’ll leave humming ABBA and probably with a few new friends.
What Makes This Street Special?
Rainbow Crosswalks – Not just decorative, but symbolic of Amsterdam’s commitment to inclusion.
Pride Street Parties – During Pride, the street becomes one big open-air nightclub.
Happy Hours – Great early evening deals if you’re starting your night before the clubs kick off.
Mixed Crowd – While it’s rooted in the LGBTQ+ scene, everyone’s welcome here—locals, tourists, allies, all ages.
Discover more about Amsterdam: 3 Days in Amsterdam: A Local Expert’s Guide
Fun Facts About Reguliersdwarsstraat
- The street is named after monks (Reguliers), but it’s safe to say the vibe has changed since then.
- Many of the original gay bars here were run by LGBTQ+ owners long before it was common.
- During Pride, the bars often spill out into the street, turning the whole area into a block party.
- Amsterdam legalized same-sex marriage in 2001, making it the first country in the world to do so—Reguliersdwarsstraat has been celebrating ever since.
Love, Freedom and Belonging
A visit to the Amsterdam Gay District isn’t complete without a night (or three) on Reguliersdwarsstraat. It’s not just about the party—it’s about being part of a community that thrives on diversity, acceptance, and love.
Reguliersdwarsstraat is more than just a good time—it’s a symbol of how far we’ve come, and how much community matters. Whether you’re looking for a wild night out, a chill drink with friends, or a front-row seat to one of the world’s most unique Pride events, this street has something for you.
So grab a drink, follow the music, and don’t forget to look up—those rainbow flags aren’t just decoration. They’re a celebration of love, freedom, and belonging in the heart of the Amsterdam Gay District.
