European cities are loaded with nooks and crannies filled with interesting, off-the-beaten-track bars and pubs. Whether it's a local favourite or relatively famous pub, we've put together a list of some of the most one-of-a-kind spots to grab a drink.
Founded by a doctor from a local hospital in 1798, Amsterdam's Cafe de Dokter looks as if not a lot of it has been changed since. The same family has run the pub for six generations. It is located near the Amsterdam Historic Museum and the Spui and is famously anti-dusted since the owner's mother gave up years ago, which has left the pub's ceiling, doorways and old doctor's decorations covered in soft cobwebs.
The dark wood, yellow lighting and aforementioned cobwebs make you feel almost as if the good Doctor himself may sit down for a glass of wine with you at any moment, and the place has an eerie feel to it.
If you want to enjoy your wine with a more intellectual, bohemian experience, you'll get something a bit different from your average Roman wine bar by visiting Rome's Barbook on the Via dei Reti. The bar offers entertainment alongside the glamour and discussion on Italy's greatest novelist, with a DJ on hand Fridays and Saturdays. You'll also have your pick of off the wall retro arty books to choose from while you sit at the long communal table with a glass of wine.
For a hidden, exclusive-like night out, Ruby's in Copenhagen might be right up your ally. Tucked away in the Georgian Embassy, the only sign is the country's flag flying above the door. Knock and you're in. Once inside, the old bank vault is filled with velvet armchairs and taxidermy, giving you a more sophisticated escape from the cold Danish streets. Ruby's was also ranked one of the 50 best bars in the world. So don't just take our word for it.
Founded by a doctor from a local hospital in 1798, Amsterdam's Cafe de Dokter looks as if not a lot of it has been changed since. The same family has run the pub for six generations. It is located near the Amsterdam Historic Museum and the Spui and is famously anti-dusted since the owner's mother gave up years ago, which has left the pub's ceiling, doorways and old doctor's decorations covered in soft cobwebs.
The dark wood, yellow lighting and aforementioned cobwebs make you feel almost as if the good Doctor himself may sit down for a glass of wine with you at any moment, and the place has an eerie feel to it.
If you want to enjoy your wine with a more intellectual, bohemian experience, you'll get something a bit different from your average Roman wine bar by visiting Rome's Barbook on the Via dei Reti. The bar offers entertainment alongside the glamour and discussion on Italy's greatest novelist, with a DJ on hand Fridays and Saturdays. You'll also have your pick of off the wall retro arty books to choose from while you sit at the long communal table with a glass of wine.
For a hidden, exclusive-like night out, Ruby's in Copenhagen might be right up your ally. Tucked away in the Georgian Embassy, the only sign is the country's flag flying above the door. Knock and you're in. Once inside, the old bank vault is filled with velvet armchairs and taxidermy, giving you a more sophisticated escape from the cold Danish streets. Ruby's was also ranked one of the 50 best bars in the world. So don't just take our word for it.
About the Author:
Steve Alexander is a writer with a good knowledge of the best bars in Europe. Click on the link for more information on Amsterdam, or go to Hotels4U for great savings on hotels in Rome.
