Amsterdam Nightlife
The dance clubs in Amsterdam might feel too small for somebody who is used to flashy clubs in NY, LA, or London, but don't worry — they can be just as entertaining and delightfully crazy. Hip, laid-back or sophisticated — the choice is yours.
Artur Bogacki/Shutterstock.comCanvas
Located on the 7th floor of the former office building of the Volkskrant newspaper, this club/cafe/restaurant is characterized by an easy-going vibe. Canvas is renowned for its affordable yet lush cocktails and a stunning view of Amsterdam which, in the summer can be taken in fully from the spacious roof terrace.
funkyfrogstock/Shutterstock.comPanama
As well as being a nightclub with great theater shows, live music and popular club evenings, Panama also offers a trendy dance studio and a cafe-restaurant with a grand terrace to the south for those mid-summer nights. It frequently hosts renowned DJs from all over the world.
mimagephotography/Shutterstock.comBoom Chicago
This American comedy troupe is renowned for their English-language comedy, theatrical shows, improvisation, stand-up and burlesque. Improvisation comedy, good food and tasty cocktails have long been Boom Chicago’s recipe for success. This venue, which also features a bar and a restaurant, is regularly transformed into a nightclub with local electro and house DJs filling the dance floor until the small hours.
Forja2 Mx/unsplashKaraokebar 24K
For a fun night out, especially with a group of people, the Karaokebar 24K is a location to uncover hidden talents or to simply enjoy singing along to one of your favorite songs. Fetch yourself a drink and choose one of more than 80,000 songs, available in several languages.
Maksym Fesenko/Shutterstock.comThe Waterhole
Find The Waterhole in the center of Amsterdam and listen to live music in different genres (but mostly rock) every day, play pool or ask the staff to turn on your desired sports match on one of the 7 available screens. Make sure to join the daily happy hours for cheaper beer and mixed drinks.
Cris_mh/Shutterstock.comCafe de Druif
Cafe de Druif — ‘The Grape’ — has been a local institution for at least 400 years. Wooden casks line the walls and plenty of earthenware jenever bottles can be found behind the bar. Virtually unknown to tourists, De Druif feels like a glimpse into Amsterdam’s past.
Jean-Pierre Dalbéra/cc by 2.0/FlickrXtraCold IceBar
The name says it all: everything in the XtraCold IceBar is made of ice. The walls, the bar, the couch, the fireplace and even the glasses. When entering the bar, you are given special clothing to cope with the icy cold temperature. The beautiful ice sculptures by world-famous artists provide the ultimate ice experience.
Y Photo Studio/Shutterstock.comAIR
Raised from the ashes of legendary club iT, AIR's interior design features a host of surprises, and the theatrical, intimate result is a feast for the senses. Each area has its own style and feel, which lends an extra dimension to exploring the club.
PHOTOCREO Michal Bednarek/Shutterstock.comDe Trut
De Trut is a queer disko that has been organized 100% by volunteers for more than 35 years. The profits from the parties go to LGBTQAI+ projects worldwide. The party is held every Sunday evening from 10pm. Expect a long line, but it's definitely worth the wait.
Cecilie Johnsen/unsplashBourbon Street
Bourbon Street Blues Club is hard to miss when strolling down Leidsekruisstraat — the Blues Brothers are dancing on the roof. The program here ranges from rock to soul and even reggae, with live music every night of the week. Over the years, this amazing venue has hosted many local and international artists, including some big names such as Toto and B.B. King.
carlos castilla/Shutterstock.comSupper Club & Restaurant
If you are looking for an unusual dinner experience in an unexpected place and are not afraid to discover the creative corners of your personality, then knock on Supper's door. Freedom is the keyword at Supper. It’s a mix of food, music, performances and art.
S_Photo/Shutterstock.comEscape
One of Amsterdam’s biggest and most popular nightclubs, situated on the lively Rembrandtplein, Escape is always teaming with pretty young things. Musically speaking, expect all popular styles of dance music: house, electro, techno and pop by both Amsterdam’s finest and world-famous DJ like Tiësto, Kevin Saunderson and Todd Terry.
Pressmaster/Shutterstock.comParadiso
Paradiso has been a centre for pop culture since the 1960s. Today, after thousands and thousands of concerts, the pop venue has reached worldwide recognition. Though national and international pop music is the primary focus, programming has now been expanded to include other disciplines such as classical, world music, festivals and spoken word.
Abigail Lynn/unsplashMelkweg
Located in the bustling heart of Amsterdam, the Melkweg is one of the city's leading entertainment venues with two halls, a cinema, a theatre and a cafe. The venue offers a varied live program ranging from up-and-coming bands to established names, and seated concerts as well.
DigiDaan / Wikimedia Commons