Monk Bouldering

When it rains in Amsterdam — and it will — my go-to backup plan is always bouldering at Monk. It’s not just a gym, it’s a full-on indoor climbing experience without ropes, which means no need to worry about gear or safety harnesses. The Noord location is the biggest in Amsterdam, with high ceilings and walls up to 4 meters tall. The routes are color-coded from beginner to expert, so even if you’ve never climbed a wall in your life, you can find something that suits you. I remember the first time I went, I was a total beginner and my friend Sara was already at the top of a route, cheering me on. It’s that kind of welcoming vibe that makes Monk feel like a second home. The gym rents out climbing shoes at the desk, which is helpful because I always forget to bring my own. A day pass is about 15 to 17 euros, plus 4 euros for shoes, which is pretty reasonable for the experience. The Noord location is huge, and it’s easy to combine with other Noord activities — I’ve gone there after a morning at the Vondelpark, or even just to grab a coffee at the nearby cafes. It’s also a great place to meet other people, especially if you’re traveling solo. The vibe is active, group-friendly, and beginner-friendly — it’s not a place where you feel like you’re being judged. I always go on weekday mornings, especially Thursday, because it’s less crowded and you can get the hang of the routes without feeling rushed. My coworker Tom once told me he went there with his kids and they had a blast — kids 6 and up are allowed with supervision, and there are even youth open training sessions. I did have to attend a short safety lesson, which is standard, but it’s not a big deal. Just make sure you wear comfortable clothes and bring socks, because the shoes are a bit tight and you’ll want to be ready for a workout. It’s not a place you can just drop in and go — it’s smart to pre-register online via the Monk portal, and you can even check in through the app. One thing to keep in mind: your forearms will be sore the next day. You’ve been warned. But it’s worth it. And if you’re thinking of sticking around longer, the gym offers memberships starting at around €52.50 a month for under-25s — which is a good deal if you’re planning to go more than a few times. The house rules are pretty standard — no alcohol, no pets, no jewelry, and mandatory climbing shoes. You can also check out their regular events like LOCO if you want to mix it up. I’ve seen a lot of people come and go, but the crowd is consistently friendly and encouraging. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to go back. If you’re in Amsterdam and it’s raining, don’t just sit inside — check out Monk Bouldering. It’s a fun, active way to spend a day, and it’s easy to get to from Centraal via the free ferry. I’d recommend going early in the morning or later in the afternoon, and if you're planning a longer visit, make sure to check if that deal's still on — the app is your best friend for keeping track of everything.