Amsterdam's nightlife runs from grand concert halls to sweaty underground clubs and cosy 'brown cafes'. It is the home of the Amsterdam Dance Event and a serious electronic scene, but also of unhurried evenings over a beer by the canal. Here is where to go after dark.
Amsterdam Nightlife & Live Music
1Must visit
Bar5.0
Paradiso
A legendary live-music venue in a former church, hosting everyone from indie bands to club nights under stained glass.
Leidseplein
2Must visit
Club5.0
Shelter
An underground techno club beneath the A'DAM tower in Noord, with a serious sound system and late hours.
Amsterdam-Noord
3
Club4.0
Radion
A 24-hour-licensed club in a former dental institute, known for marathon parties and a free-spirited crowd.
Nieuw-West
4
Bar5.0
Bar Oldenhof
An intimate, speakeasy-style cocktail bar in the Jordaan for a refined, low-lit nightcap.
Grachtengordel
5Must visit
Other5.0
Concertgebouw
One of the world's finest concert halls, for world-class classical music in glorious acoustics, including free lunchtime concerts.
Oud-Zuid
FAQ
- Is Amsterdam good for nightlife?
- Very. It ranges from world-class live music at Paradiso and the Concertgebouw to a strong electronic and club scene (home of the Amsterdam Dance Event), plus the uniquely Dutch cosiness of canal-side brown cafes.
- What is a 'brown cafe'?
- A traditional Dutch pub, named for its wood-panelled, tobacco-stained interiors. They are the heart of Amsterdam's everyday social life, perfect for an unhurried local beer or jenever.
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