De Karpershoek

Description:

• Opened in 1629, this bar -- the city's second oldest -- was once a favorite hangout of sailors and seamen. Nowadays, given its prime location across the street from Centraal Station, the clientele is a mix of Dutch regulars, commuters popping in for a quick drink, and tourists, some of whom seem to settle in nicely while others look out of place, as if they've wandered in by mistake. The floor is covered with sand, just like it was in the 17th century.

• © Frommer's 2013