1. Bimhuis
A renowned jazz club located in the Muziekgebouw complex, the Bimhuis is a must-visit spot for music lovers. Its intimate setting and excellent acoustics make it a favorite among musicians and audiences alike. The venue hosts a diverse range of jazz performances, from local talent to international stars, as well as experimental and improvised music events.
Piet Heinkade 3, 1019 BR Amsterdam, Netherlands
2. Muziekgebouw aan ‘t IJ
This modern concert hall located in the up-and-coming Eastern Docklands area is dedicated to contemporary classical music and experimental sounds. Its cutting-edge programming features a mix of local and international acts, ranging from avant-garde composers to electronic music artists. The venue’s striking architecture and panoramic views of the IJ river also make it a must-visit spot for architecture and design enthusiasts.
Piet Heinkade 1, 1019 BR Amsterdam, Netherlands
3. Ziggo Dome
The Ziggo Dome is a prominent indoor arena in Amsterdam, known for hosting an array of high-profile concerts and events. Its modern design features state-of-the-art acoustics, making it an ideal venue for music performances. With a seating capacity of 17,000, the Ziggo Dome offers an immersive experience for spectators, complemented by impressive light shows and a vibrant atmosphere.
De Passage 100, 1101 AX Amsterdam, Netherlands
4. DeLaMar Theater
The DeLaMar Theater is a renowned venue in Amsterdam, celebrated for its rich history and dedication to the performing arts. Located in the heart of the city, near the bustling Leidseplein, the theater hosts a wide array of performances, including plays, musicals, and comedy shows. The DeLaMar features two modern auditoriums, each offering a cozy and intimate viewing experience.
Marnixstraat 402, 1017 PL Amsterdam, Netherlands
5. Melkweg
Melkweg, or “Milky Way” in Dutch, is a prominent cultural center in Amsterdam, known for its diverse programming in music, film, photography, and visual arts. Located near the Leidseplein, this former dairy factory hosts an array of events, including concerts, club nights, film screenings, and art exhibitions.
Lijnbaansgracht 234A, 1017 PH Amsterdam, Netherlands
6. Eye Filmmuseum
Located across the IJ river from central Amsterdam, the Eye Filmmuseum is a stunning venue dedicated to film history and culture. Its iconic building features a striking white façade and a spacious interior that houses four cinemas, a museum, a café, and a shop. The museum’s collection includes over 50,000 films, from classics to contemporary productions, as well as exhibitions and film-related events throughout the year.
IJpromenade 1, 1031 KT Amsterdam, Netherlands
7. Boom Chicago
A comedy theater and improv school located in the lively Leidseplein area, Boom Chicago offers hilarious and irreverent shows that poke fun at Amsterdam and Dutch culture. The venue features a talented group of local and international comedians who use audience suggestions to create on-the-spot sketches and songs. Boom Chicago also offers improv workshops and training for aspiring comedians.
Rozengracht 117, 1016 LV Amsterdam, Netherlands
8. Vondelpark Open Air Theater
The Vondelpark Open Air Theatre is a unique and vibrant performance venue located in the heart of Amsterdam’s most famous park, Vondelpark. From May through September, it hosts a variety of performances including theatre, dance, music concerts, and children’s shows. The open-air setting creates a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can enjoy performances amidst the natural beauty of the park.
Vondelpark 5a, 1071 AA Amsterdam, Netherlands
9. Amsterdam Dance Event
The Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) is one of the world’s leading electronic music conferences and festivals, held annually in Amsterdam. This multi-day event attracts artists, DJs, and music enthusiasts from around the globe for a series of performances, workshops, panel discussions, and networking events. Showcasing a wide range of electronic music genres and emerging talents, ADE transforms Amsterdam into a vibrant hub of music and creativity.
Tweede Leeghwaterstraat 5B, 1018 RA Amsterdam, Netherlands
10. Grachtenfestival
The Grachtenfestival is an annual music festival held in Amsterdam that celebrates classical music and jazz, with a special focus on young musical talent. The festival’s unique charm lies in its venue – performances take place in and around Amsterdam’s historic canal ring, including concerts on pontoons and in historic canal houses. With a program that ranges from intimate recitals to grand orchestral performances, the Grachtenfestival offers a diverse and accessible platform for enjoying music in the heart of Amsterdam’s cultural landscape.
Rokin 75, 1012 KL Amsterdam, Netherlands
11. Concertgebouw
With its impressive neoclassical architecture and renowned acoustics, the Concertgebouw is one of the world’s most famous concert halls. It is home to the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra and hosts classical music concerts by some of the world’s top musicians. The venue also offers guided tours and pre-concert lectures to enhance the concert experience.
Concertgebouwplein 10, 1071 LN Amsterdam, Netherlands
12. Paradiso
This popular music venue is housed in a former church and is known for its intimate atmosphere and diverse lineup of performers. Paradiso hosts concerts by both established and up-and-coming artists, as well as regular club nights and dance parties.
Weteringschans 6-8, 1017 SG Amsterdam, Netherlands
13. Stadsschouwburg Amsterdam
A historic theater located in the heart of Amsterdam, the Stadsschouwburg is a cultural institution that has been showcasing theater productions since the late 19th century. The venue hosts a mix of classic and contemporary plays, as well as dance performances, opera, and other cultural events. Its ornate interior and red velvet seats offer a glimpse into the city’s rich theatrical history.
Leidseplein 26, 1017 PT Amsterdam, Netherlands
14. National Opera & Ballet
This venue hosts opera and ballet performances by the Dutch National Opera and Dutch National Ballet, as well as visiting companies from around the world. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, with a modern glass facade that offers stunning views of the city.
Amstel 3, 1011 PN Amsterdam, Netherlands
15. De Balie
A cultural center located in the heart of Amsterdam, De Balie is a hub for debate, discussion, and cultural events. The center hosts a diverse program of lectures, talks, film screenings, and theater performances, often focusing on social and political issues. Its intimate theater space is particularly renowned for its thought-provoking performances and experimental productions.
Kleine-Gartmanplantsoen 10, 1017 RR Amsterdam, Netherlands
16. Artis Royal Zoo
For a unique nighttime experience, head to the Artis Royal Zoo. During the summer months, the zoo stays open late on select evenings, allowing visitors to explore the zoo after dark. The experience includes special tours, live music performances, and food and drink options. It’s a great way to see the zoo in a different light and enjoy a fun evening out with friends or family.
Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam, Netherlands