Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, is a city that thrives on its rich cultural heritage, artistic expression, and its legendary nightlife. With its countless bars, clubs, and entertainment venues, there’s something for everyone, from casual tourists to the most dedicated partygoers.
In this comprehensive nightlife guide, we’ll take you through the best of what Amsterdam’s nightlife has to offer. So, buckle up and prepare to discover the city’s hidden gems, lively hotspots, and unforgettable experiences.
And of course, you don’t need to explore the nightlife alone. We have Amsterdam’s most beautiful ladies ready and waiting to come join you for a few drinks, dance and more!
Nightlife Districts in Amsterdam
There are several distinct nightlife districts in Amsterdam, each offering a unique vibe and experience.
The Red Light District (De Wallen)
Famous for its red-lit windows, De Wallen is a must-visit area for those seeking a quintessential Amsterdam experience. The district is home to numerous bars, clubs, and eateries, as well as the city’s famous cannabis coffee shops. Visit the legendary Casa Rosso erotic theatre, or enjoy live music at the Winston Kingdom Club.
Leidseplein
Leidseplein is a bustling square filled with bars, clubs, and restaurants. Some of the city’s most famous venues are located here, such as Paradiso, Melkweg, and Sugarfactory. During the summer months, you’ll find street performers and open-air terraces for a more relaxed evening.
Rembrandtplein
Rembrandtplein is another lively square where you’ll find a mix of clubs, bars, and pubs. Some popular venues include Club AIR, Escape, and Club Smokey. Don’t miss the famous Icebar Xtracold for a unique experience.
The Jordaan
The Jordaan is a picturesque neighborhood known for its cozy “brown cafes” (traditional Dutch pubs), trendy bars, and laid-back atmosphere. Check out Café Nol, a popular local favorite, or enjoy a beer at the historic Café Chris.
Best Bars and Pubs in Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s bar scene is diverse, with something for everyone. From cozy traditional Dutch pubs to chic cocktail bars, there’s something for everyone in this lively city. Here are a few must-visit spots:
Café Hoppe
Café Hoppe is one of Amsterdam’s oldest and most famous brown cafes, dating back to 1670. This historic venue offers a charming atmosphere, with its wooden furnishings and classic Dutch decor. Enjoy a beer or jenever (Dutch gin) at this iconic spot, perfect for a relaxed evening with friends.
Address: Spui 18-20, 1012 XA Amsterdam
Tales & Spirits
Tales & Spirits is a stylish and intimate cocktail bar located in the heart of Amsterdam. The skilled bartenders create a variety of unique and innovative concoctions, using fresh ingredients and high-quality spirits. With its warm atmosphere and exceptional cocktails, Tales & Spirits is an ideal spot for a special night out.
Address: Lijnbaanssteeg 5-7, 1012 TE Amsterdam
Brouwerij ‘t IJ
For beer enthusiasts, Brouwerij ‘t IJ is a must-visit. This popular microbrewery is located next to a traditional Dutch windmill, offering a unique and picturesque setting. Sample a range of delicious craft beers, including the famous IJwit, and enjoy the laid-back ambiance.
Address: Funenkade 7, 1018 AL Amsterdam
The Flying Pig Downtown
This lively hostel bar is popular with both locals and tourists, offering an energetic atmosphere and a wide selection of drinks. The Flying Pig Downtown is the perfect place to meet fellow travelers, play a game of pool, or simply unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Address: Nieuwendijk 100, 1012 MR Amsterdam
Café Nol
Located in the picturesque Jordaan neighborhood, Café Nol is a beloved local favorite. This cozy brown cafe offers a friendly atmosphere, with regular live music performances and a menu of traditional Dutch bar snacks. Don’t miss the chance to try a bitterbal, a deep-fried Dutch delicacy, while enjoying a drink at this charming spot.
Address: Westerstraat 109, 1015 LZ Amsterdam
Vesper Bar
Vesper Bar, inspired by the iconic James Bond character, is a sleek and sophisticated cocktail bar in the heart of Amsterdam. The talented bartenders craft a range of exquisite cocktails, from classic concoctions to innovative creations. With its stylish decor and impeccable service, Vesper Bar is an excellent choice for a refined night out.
Address: Vinkenstraat 57, 1013 JM Amsterdam
Proeflokaal Arendsnest
Proeflokaal Arendsnest is a beer lover’s paradise, specializing in Dutch craft beers. The bar boasts an impressive selection of over 100 beers, all sourced from local breweries. The knowledgeable staff are happy to provide recommendations and guide you through the diverse offerings. Enjoy a beer tasting in this cozy and inviting venue.
Address: Herengracht 90, 1015 BS Amsterdam
De Pijp
De Pijp is a bustling neighborhood in Amsterdam, known for its diverse range of bars and pubs. Head to the famous Café Gollem, a cozy pub offering an extensive selection of Belgian and Dutch beers, or visit Barça, a lively spot with a Spanish flair and a variety of delicious cocktails.
Address: De Pijp Neighborhood, Amsterdam
Hannekes Boom
This quirky and rustic waterside bar is a hidden gem in Amsterdam. Hannekes Boom offers stunning views of the city, a laid-back atmosphere, and a diverse selection of drinks. In the summer months, enjoy the outdoor terrace and live music performances, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed evening by the water.
Address: Dijksgracht 4, 1019 BS Amsterdam
De Drie Fleschjes:
De Drie Fleschjes, or “The Three Little Bottles,” is a historic Dutch bar with a warm and welcoming ambiance. Established in 1650, this authentic tasting room is known for its impressive selection of jenever (Dutch gin) and liqueurs. Experience a piece of Amsterdam’s history while enjoying a traditional Dutch drink at De Drie Fleschjes.
Address: Gravenstraat 18, 1012 NM Amsterdam
Door 74
Door 74 is a chic and sophisticated speakeasy-style cocktail bar hidden behind an unassuming entrance. With its vintage-inspired decor and intimate atmosphere, Door 74 offers a unique and memorable experience. The skilled bartenders create a range of inventive cocktails, and the venue operates on a reservation-only basis, ensuring an exclusive night out.
Address: Reguliersdwarsstraat 74, 1017 BN Amsterdam (Note: The exact location is kept secret, but you can find it near this address)
Café Sound Garden
Café Sound Garden is a relaxed and eclectic bar located in the lively Marnixstraat area. Known for its rock ‘n’ roll vibe and laid-back atmosphere, the venue offers a wide range of drinks and regular live music performances. Enjoy the outdoor terrace by the canal or play a game of pool inside this lively Amsterdam establishment.
Address: Marnixstraat 164-166, 1016 TG Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s bar and pub scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself, offering a wealth of options for visitors and locals alike. From historic brown cafes like Café Hoppe to sleek cocktail bars like Tales & Spirits and local breweries such as Brouwerij ‘t IJ, there’s a venue to suit every taste. Immerse yourself in Amsterdam’s unique nightlife and discover these unforgettable bars and pubs.
Best Nightclubs in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is renowned for its thriving nightlife scene, with a wide range of clubs catering to various music genres and atmospheres. Whether you’re looking for techno beats, hip-hop, or a more laid-back vibe, the city has something for everyone. Below are some the best nightclubs Amsterdam has to offer.
Club Paradiso
Located in a former church, Club Paradiso is an iconic venue known for its unique atmosphere and diverse music lineup. With its stained-glass windows and high ceilings, Paradiso hosts both live music events and club nights, featuring genres like electronic, house, and indie.
Address: Weteringschans 6-8, 1017 SG Amsterdam
Melkweg
Another iconic venue in Amsterdam, Melkweg, offers an eclectic mix of music and cultural events. The club has two main spaces, with one dedicated to live music and the other to dance events. From techno and house to hip-hop and R&B, Melkweg has something for everyone.
Address: Lijnbaansgracht 234A, 1017 PH Amsterdam
De School
A former school building turned cultural hub, De School is a popular destination for techno and electronic music enthusiasts. The club is known for its industrial aesthetic and underground vibe, hosting local and international DJs in its spacious venue. De School also houses a restaurant, a gym, and an art gallery.
Address: Dr. Jan van Breemenstraat 1, 1056 AB Amsterdam
Shelter
Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Amsterdam Noord, Shelter is an underground club known for its focus on techno and house music. With its minimalist design, state-of-the-art sound system, and talented DJ lineup, Shelter offers a memorable clubbing experience.
Address: Overhoeksplein 3, 1031 KS Amsterdam
AIR Amsterdam
AIR Amsterdam is a modern and stylish nightclub located near the famous Rembrandtplein. The club features several rooms, each with its own unique ambiance and music genre. AIR hosts a variety of events, from techno and house to hip-hop and R&B, with both international and local DJs on the decks.
Address: Amstelstraat 24, 1017 DA Amsterdam
RADION
Situated in a former dental school, RADION is a cultural hotspot that offers a range of events, including club nights, live performances, and art exhibitions. The nightclub primarily focuses on techno and electronic music, showcasing both established and up-and-coming DJs in its industrial setting.
Address: Louwesweg 1, 1066 EA Amsterdam
Club NYX
Club NYX is a lively and inclusive nightclub located in the Reguliersdwarsstraat area. With its vibrant atmosphere and diverse music lineup, the club offers a mix of electronic, house, and pop music, spread across multiple floors. Club NYX is also known for hosting popular LGBTQ+ events and parties.
Address: Reguliersdwarsstraat 42, 1017 BM Amsterdam
Sugarfactory
Although the Sugarfactory closed in 2019, it remains an iconic part of Amsterdam’s nightlife history. The venue was known for hosting a variety of club nights and live performances, featuring music genres like techno, house, and drum and bass.
Address: Lijnbaansgracht 238, 1017 PH Amsterdam (closed)
Chicago Social Club
Located in the bustling Leidseplein area, the Chicago Social Club offers a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere for clubbers. The venue hosts a variety of music events, including hip-hop, house, and disco nights, with both local and international DJs gracing the decks. The Chicago Social Club is the perfect spot for a fun and casual night out.
Address: Leidseplein 12, 1017 PT Amsterdam
Disco Dolly
Disco Dolly is a vibrant and energetic nightclub located near the Spui area. With its neon lights and retro decor, the venue is known for hosting lively disco, funk, and soul nights. With a friendly crowd and an upbeat atmosphere, Disco Dolly is an excellent choice for those seeking a lively and fun night out.
Address: Handboogstraat 11, 1012 XM Amsterdam
JACK
JACK is a relatively new addition to Amsterdam’s nightlife scene, focusing on electronic music, techno, and house. The club is designed to be an inclusive space, fostering creativity and connection through music and dance. With a lineup of local and international DJs, JACK offers a unique clubbing experience in the city.
Address: Hogehilweg 20, 1101 CD Amsterdam Zuidoost
Warehouse Elementenstraat
Warehouse Elementenstraat is a spacious venue located in an industrial area of Amsterdam. With its raw and minimalist design, the club is the perfect setting for techno and house music events. Warehouse Elementenstraat hosts large-scale club nights and festivals, showcasing both established and up-and-coming artists.
Address: Elementenstraat 25, 1014 AR Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s nightlife scene is diverse and vibrant, offering a wide range of nightclubs to suit every taste. From the iconic Club Paradiso and Melkweg to the underground vibes of Shelter and De School, there’s a club for every music enthusiast in the city. Whether you’re seeking techno beats, hip-hop, or a more laid-back atmosphere, you’re sure to find your perfect night out in Amsterdam.
Best Live Music Venues in Amsterdam
Amsterdam has a thriving live music scene, well known for its rich cultural heritage, artistic spirit, and lively music scene. The city is home to a variety of live music venues, from intimate spaces to larger concert halls, catering to a wide range of musical genres. Below we’ll explore the best live music venues Amsterdam has to offer.
Paradiso
Paradiso is one of Amsterdam’s most iconic live music venues, housed in a former church building in the heart of the city. This unique location gives it an enchanting atmosphere, with stained glass windows and high ceilings. Paradiso hosts both international and local artists, covering a wide range of genres, from rock and pop to electronic music and world music.
Address: Weteringschans 6-8, 1017 SG Amsterdam
Melkweg
Originally a dairy factory, Melkweg (meaning “Milky Way” in Dutch) is now a popular cultural center, housing a live music venue, a cinema, and an exhibition space. The live music hall hosts a diverse range of performances, from indie rock and hip-hop to electronic and world music. Melkweg is known for its intimate setting, giving audiences an up-close experience with their favorite artists.
Address: Lijnbaansgracht 234A, 1017 PH Amsterdam
Bitterzoet
Bitterzoet is a cozy live music venue located in the bustling Spuistraat area. Its unique decor, featuring chandeliers and red velvet curtains, creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for discovering local talent and up-and-coming international artists. Bitterzoet showcases a mix of music genres, including reggae, soul, electronic, and indie.
Address: Spuistraat 2, 1012 TS Amsterdam
Concertgebouw
For a more refined musical experience, head to the world-renowned Concertgebouw. This historic concert hall, built in 1888, is famous for its exceptional acoustics and stunning architecture. Concertgebouw hosts classical music performances, as well as occasional jazz, pop, and world music concerts, featuring both renowned international artists and talented local musicians.
Address: Concertgebouwplein 10, 1071 LN Amsterdam
The North Sea Jazz Club
The North Sea Jazz Club is Amsterdam’s premier venue for jazz, blues, and soul music. With its intimate setting, dim lighting, and excellent acoustics, it offers the perfect atmosphere to enjoy live performances from both international and local artists. The club also serves a variety of food and drinks, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed night out.
Address: Pazzanistraat 1, 1014 DB Amsterdam (Please note that the North Sea Jazz Club closed in 2017, but it remains an iconic part of Amsterdam’s live music history.)
OCCII
The OCCII (Onafhankelijk Cultureel Centrum In It) is a non-profit, volunteer-run live music venue located in a former horse tram station. OCCII is known for hosting experimental and underground music acts, including punk, noise, and avant-garde performances. With its unique atmosphere and commitment to supporting independent artists, OCCII is a must-visit for fans of alternative music.
Address: Amstelveenseweg 134, 1075 XL Amsterdam
De School
A former school building turned cultural hub, De School is home to a club, a restaurant, an art gallery, and a live music venue. The venue has a reputation for hosting cutting-edge electronic music acts, as well as experimental and underground performances. With its industrial aesthetic and commitment to fostering creativity, De School is a must-visit for fans of innovative music.
Address: Dr. Jan van Breemenstraat 1, 1056 AB Amsterdam
Muziekgebouw aan ‘t IJ
Located on the waterfront, Muziekgebouw aan ‘t IJ is a modern concert hall dedicated to contemporary classical and experimental music. The venue hosts a range of concerts, from chamber music to orchestral performances, as well as cutting-edge electronic and multimedia shows. With its striking architecture and superb acoustics, Muziekgebouw aan ‘t IJ is a unique venue for a memorable musical experience.
Address: Piet Heinkade 1, 1019 BR Amsterdam
Q-Factory
Situated in the lively neighborhood of Amsterdam Oost, Q-Factory is a multifunctional space that includes rehearsal studios, a music school, a hotel, and a live music venue. The live music program is diverse, featuring performances from rock and pop to jazz and world music. Q-Factory’s spacious venue and dedication to supporting musicians make it an essential stop for music lovers.
Address: Atlantisplein 1, 1093 NE Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s live music scene is as rich and diverse as the city itself, offering a wealth of venues for fans of all genres to explore. From the historic Concertgebouw to the intimate Bitterzoet and the cutting-edge OCCII, there’s a live music venue in Amsterdam for every taste. Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant music culture, and enjoy unforgettable performances at these iconic locations.
Best LGBTQ+ Nightlife in Amsterdam
Amsterdam has long been known as a welcoming and open city, with a vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.
Club Church
A popular gay club, Club Church hosts a range of themed nights, including drag shows and fetish parties. The venue also serves as a community center, offering workshops and discussions.
Café Saarein
A cozy lesbian bar in the Jordaan neighborhood, Café Saarein has a welcoming atmosphere and a selection of board games to enjoy with friends.
Reguliersdwarsstraat
This street is the heart of Amsterdam’s LGBTQ+ scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to a diverse crowd. Don’t miss the famous gay bar, Taboo, or the lively Club NYX.
Best Cannabis Coffee Shops in Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s famous coffee shops offer a unique experience for visitors interested in the city’s liberal cannabis culture.
The Bulldog
Established in 1975, The Bulldog is the city’s first and most famous coffee shop. With multiple locations, it’s an iconic spot to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and a wide variety of cannabis products.
Green House Centrum
Known for its quality cannabis strains and comfortable setting, Green House Centrum is a popular spot among both tourists and locals.
Barney’s Coffeeshop
With a friendly staff and award-winning cannabis strains, Barney’s Coffeeshop is a must-visit for those interested in the city’s cannabis culture.
Conclusion
Amsterdam’s nightlife is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself, with something to offer everyone. From cozy brown cafes and trendy cocktail bars to world-class clubs and live music venues, the city’s nighttime offerings are not to be missed. As you explore Amsterdam’s nightlife, remember to respect local customs, stay safe, and most importantly, have fun!