4 Best Bars in Museum District, Amsterdam

The Vondelpark's quietly pulsating epicenter is a blue flying saucer–shape "teahouse" dating back to 1937. In step with the style of Nieuwe Bouwen (the Dutch version of Bauhaus), the building was erected from concrete, glass, and steel, and with its minimalist forms it still looks strikingly modern. It's now owned by the famous Amsterdam brewery Brouwerij 't IJ, serving organic craft beer and pizza al taglio (pizza cut into squares) from morning until late. Its park-center location and enormous terrace, where DayGlo parakeets fly overhead, make this warm weather nightlife at its finest. You can also play petanque and table tennis here.

In between the Vijzelgracht and Leidseplein is this German bar with an infinitesimal number of improbable brews, including a smoked Franconian lager that tastes of bacon. The decor will make you feel like you've entered your grandmother's living room or a hip retro bar in Berlin—all the more perfect to strike up a conversation (in a variety of languages) with other patrons.

A sublime example of the Dutch ability to turn landmark buildings into chic destinations, this hotel features a cavernous glass-and-steel brasserie with a loungy terrace and Taiko Bar, where you can enjoy cocktails and bites combining "Asian flavors, international luxury, and local roots.'' There are DJs on weekend nights.

This 1920s Amsterdam School edifice is a delightful place for a pre- or post-recital stop, with the Concertgebouw just down the road. The large sunny terrace has great views for architecture enthusiasts and urban anthropologists.