House
For a good house night, I recommend filtering Amsterdam’s listings by your travel dates.
Find house partiesGoing out in Amsterdam
Looking for a house night, a rock gig, a welcoming bar or somewhere to go out? Here are my recommendations, organised by area.
Club audiences vary by event. Rather than guess the age of the crowd, I describe the music and atmosphere. Check the venue or event ticket for the minimum admission age.
My tip: choose the event, not just the venue. Music, crowds and admission rules can change from one night to another. Check the programme before going out. Updated 30 October 2026.
What music do you enjoy?
Choose your music. Find your night.
Already know what you want to hear? These links help you find a night without searching through dozens of venues.
Deep house
Start with this style-specific search, then choose your date and venue.
Find deep house nightsTechno
Check the line-up, location and party hours before booking.
Find techno partiesRock & metal
For rock and heavier music, I would start with Melkweg’s programme.
Explore rock & metalJazz & live music
For an evening focused on music, check BIMHUIS by artist, style and date.
Explore jazz concertsWhere would you like to go out?
My recommendations by area
Start with the area you want to explore. Each listing has a short description and a direct link. Nearby venues are included around the main squares; West also covers Sloterdijk and Nieuw-West.
Bars & cocktails
Rembrandtplein & nearby
Door 74
For a date or drinks with friends, I recommend this intimate cocktail bar behind an understated door near Rembrandtplein. Expect carefully made drinks and a seated evening.
21+. Booking recommended; seated service only.
Reguliersdwarsstraat 74, Amsterdam
Dam & city centre
Flying Dutchmen Cocktails
For classic cocktails and advice from the bartenders, I would try Flying Dutchmen on the Singel.
The first-floor bar is reached through Belly of the Beast via steep stairs. Check accessibility before visiting.
Singel 460, Amsterdam
Dam & city centre
In de Wildeman
For beer lovers, I would keep In de Wildeman on the list. This established bar in a former distillery has a changing beer selection.
The entrance is on Kolksteeg. This is a beer bar, not a dance venue.
Kolksteeg 3, Amsterdam
Dam & city centre
BeerTemple
BeerTemple is a useful option for craft beer in the city centre, with an emphasis on American beer culture.
The selection changes. Check prices, especially for special beers.
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 250, Amsterdam
Centraal Station & eastern waterfront
Super Lyan
For cocktails close to the station, Super Lyan is a colourful place to start an evening. Beer, wine and snacks are also available.
Usually walk-in; larger groups should check the website’s arrangements.
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 3, Amsterdam
Centraal Station & eastern waterfront
Dutch Courage
For drinks with a local connection, I suggest Dutch Courage. Its cocktails feature jenever and Dutch liqueurs, a short walk from the station.
Ask the bartenders for suggestions based on your taste. Check hours and availability.
Zeedijk 12, Amsterdam
De Pijp
GlouGlou
If you prefer wine to cocktails, I would head to GlouGlou in De Pijp. The focus is natural wine and an evening with a partner or friends.
Walk-in. If natural wine is new to you, ask for a recommendation that matches your taste.
Tweede van der Helststraat 3, Amsterdam
De Pijp
Bar Mokum
For cocktails somewhere a little tucked away, try Mokum beneath MOAK Pancakes in De Pijp. Drinks include Dutch flavours and spirits.
The bar is in a basement. Check reservations and accessibility if stairs are a concern.
Ferdinand Bolstraat 11, Amsterdam
De Pijp
Brouwerij Troost
For local beer, I would include Troost’s De Pijp branch. It works well for drinks with friends and something to eat.
Choose the De Pijp location on the website; other branches have different addresses.
Cornelis Troostplein 21, Amsterdam
De Pijp
Wijnbar Paulus
For a cosy wine evening in De Pijp, I would add Paulus. It suits an unhurried drink and conversation.
Check the menu and reservations. This is a seated wine evening, not a club party.
Ceintuurbaan 348, Amsterdam
Noord & NDSM
IJver
If you are exploring NDSM and want beer and food, I would mark IJver on the map. It occupies part of the former shipyard’s industrial setting.
A bar-restaurant; check separately for special evening events.
Scheepsbouwkade 72, Amsterdam
Live music
Leidseplein & nearby
Jazz Café Alto
For jazz lovers, I recommend this small, long-established bar near Leidseplein. Live music is the main attraction.
Check the programme and start time. This is a performance bar, so it is less suited to quiet conversation during a set.
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 115, Amsterdam
Leidseplein & nearby
Paradiso
If an artist you like is on the programme, Paradiso is worth making time for. This former church hosts rock, pop, electronic music and club nights.
Check the address on your ticket: Paradiso also organises events at other venues.
Weteringschans 6–8, Amsterdam
Leidseplein & nearby
Melkweg
For rock and metal, I would start with Melkweg. Its programme also covers hip-hop, electronic music and club nights.
Filter by date and genre. Check the hall and whether an additional membership is required.
Lijnbaansgracht 234A, Amsterdam
Leidseplein & nearby
Bourbon Street
For a night with a live band, check Bourbon Street. The programme covers blues, rock, soul and funk, depending on the act.
Check the band, admission charge and start time for your chosen night.
Leidsekruisstraat 6–8, Amsterdam
Leidseplein & nearby
The Waterhole
For live music and a relaxed atmosphere near Leidseplein, take a look at The Waterhole. Choose the evening by the music you enjoy.
It can be loud and busy. The website lists the programme and admission prices.
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 49, Amsterdam
Centraal Station & eastern waterfront
BIMHUIS
For an evening focused on listening, I suggest a jazz or improvised music performance at BIMHUIS on the eastern waterfront.
It is further along the waterfront, not directly opposite the station. Choose a performance and book accordingly.
Piet Heinkade 3, Amsterdam
Clubs & dancing
Looking for gay bars with dancing? Find SoHo, Blend XL and Montmartre XL further down the page.
Noord & NDSM
Shelter
Start with the line-up at this electronic music club beneath the A’DAM tower in Noord. Choose the DJ and style you enjoy.
18+. Check admission rules, last entry and your journey home.
Overhoeksplein 3, Amsterdam
Rembrandtplein & nearby
Escape
Escape is one of my suggestions for a club night on Rembrandtplein. DJs and parties vary through the week.
Check the event, age policy, dress code and tickets. HouseRules is one of the recurring nights to look for.
Rembrandtplein 11, Amsterdam
Rembrandtplein & nearby
Club Prime
Another option for dancing right on Rembrandtplein, with plenty of places nearby for a drink before the party.
The website is being updated. The link opens the official Instagram for current party and admission information.
Rembrandtplein 22, Amsterdam
Leidseplein & nearby
Jimmy Woo
For a more glamorous club night near Leidseplein, Jimmy Woo is a familiar address. Check who is playing and dress accordingly.
Admission policies are strict. A ticket does not replace compliance with the venue’s entry rules.
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 18, Amsterdam
Jordaan
Chin Chin Club
For a lively evening on the edge of the Jordaan, Chin Chin combines a club, cocktails, karaoke and dinner-show options.
Each activity has its own arrangements. Music can include R&B, hip-hop, house and disco, depending on the night.
Rozengracht 133, Amsterdam
Noord & NDSM
Garage Noord
For an alternative side of Amsterdam nightlife, check Garage Noord in a former garage. Its electronic programme varies widely.
In the Hamer district, not NDSM. Read the house rules and plan the late-night journey home.
Gedempt Hamerkanaal 40, Amsterdam
West, Sloterdijk & Nieuw-West
Lofi
For house and techno, I would check Lofi’s line-up. This industrial site near Sloterdijk has indoor spaces and a courtyard that change character with each party.
Not a walk from the city centre. Check the programme, admission times and transport before booking.
Basisweg 63, Amsterdam
West, Sloterdijk & Nieuw-West
RADION
For a serious techno night, RADION in Nieuw-West is worth checking. Choose your visit around the specific party.
Far from the centre. Read the event and house rules and plan the journey home.
Louwesweg 1, Amsterdam
West, Sloterdijk & Nieuw-West
BRET
Near Sloterdijk station, BRET occupies a red shipping-container building. On selected nights the bar hosts house, techno or disco parties.
An open bar does not always mean a club event. Check the party calendar and ticket requirements.
Orlyplein 76, Amsterdam
East & Eastern Docklands
Panama
Panama is another club I want you to know, in a historic building in the Eastern Docklands. Choose between house, techno and nostalgia nights.
In East Amsterdam, not Noord. Check the event, minimum age and tickets.
Oostelijke Handelskade 4, Amsterdam
Rembrandtplein & nearby
De Kroon
For drinks followed by dancing on Rembrandtplein, De Kroon is an option. Its grand café and bar take on a club atmosphere on weekend nights.
Check the programme: house, hits and Latin nights offer different experiences. Restaurant service and club nights are separate.
Rembrandtplein 17-I, Amsterdam
Rooftop & waterfront bars
Noord & NDSM
MADAM
For an evening combining a view, dinner and drinks, I recommend checking out MADAM on the 20th floor of A’DAM Tower, across from Centraal Station overlooking the IJ. On Fridays and Saturdays, Madam by Night adds DJs and dancing. A good option if you want dinner followed by a night out in the same venue.
Dancing Friday–Saturday 21:00–03:00, age 18+; last entry 01:30. Check tickets and reservations in advance: dining and nightlife have different entry arrangements. Take the free F3 ferry to Buiksloterweg. Bar and restaurant entrance: Overhoeksplein 5; nightclub entrance: IJpromenade 4.
Overhoeksplein 5, Amsterdam · A’DAM Tower, 20F
Centraal Station & eastern waterfront
LuminAir
For drinks with a view, I recommend the 11th-floor bar at the DoubleTree near Centraal Station. Check the menu before booking.
Standard table reservations are limited to two hours. Admission after 22:00 is 18+.
Oosterdoksstraat 4, Amsterdam
Noord & NDSM
Pllek
I would combine Pllek with a visit to NDSM. It offers food and drinks beside the water, with outdoor seating in good weather.
Restaurant bookings and event tickets are separate. Check the programme for concerts and special events.
TT Neveritaweg 59, Amsterdam
Centraal Station & eastern waterfront
Hannekes Boom
On a pleasant day, I would make time for a waterfront drink at Hannekes Boom. This casual bar-restaurant lies east of Centraal.
Allow time to walk along Oosterdok. Terrace seating depends on weather and crowds.
Dijksgracht 4, Amsterdam
Noord & NDSM
Tolhuistuin / THT
A convenient place to start in Noord near the ferry, with a bar-restaurant, waterside terrace and cultural programme.
Near the Buiksloterweg ferry. The restaurant, concerts and Parallel parties have separate programmes and entrances.
IJpromenade 2, Amsterdam
West, Sloterdijk & Nieuw-West
Waterkant
For drinks beside the water with friends, Waterkant is a fun option on the western edge of the centre, with Surinamese-inspired food.
Closer to the centre than the other West listings. The terrace can be busy in sunny weather.
Marnixstraat 246, Amsterdam
LGBTQ+ nightlife
Choose your evening: dancing at a gay bar, a drag show or a relaxed drink. LGBTQ+ venues are not necessarily men-only; the descriptions explain the atmosphere and audience.
Gay bars & dancing
Dam & city centre
PRIK
PRIK is my suggestion for a gay bar in the centre, with cocktails, a street terrace and a mixed queer audience.
The programme includes karaoke and games. Choose the evening that suits you.
Spuistraat 109, Amsterdam
Rembrandtplein & nearby
SoHo
For a gay bar where you can dance, I would add SoHo to an evening on Reguliersdwarsstraat. Start with a cocktail and check the drag programme too.
For familiar hits and a social atmosphere. Music and crowds vary by evening.
Reguliersdwarsstraat 36, Amsterdam
Rembrandtplein & nearby
Blend XL
For DJs, drag and a dance floor, I would check Blend XL. It is more spacious than a small show bar and is next to NYX.
Number 44, not the smaller Bar Blend at 41. Gay-focused and welcoming to all genders; check the night’s programme.
Reguliersdwarsstraat 44, Amsterdam
Rembrandtplein & nearby
Montmartre XL
For singing along and dancing to familiar songs, Montmartre XL offers Dutch favourites, Eurovision and older hits in a cheerful setting.
The successor to Café Montmartre is at number 48. Think disco and singalongs rather than techno.
Reguliersdwarsstraat 48, Amsterdam
Drag & evening shows
Centraal Station & eastern waterfront
The Queen’s Head
For drag, humour and audience participation, check The Queen’s Head. Its programme includes drag bingo, shows and DJs near the station.
An intimate gay bar, not a large theatre. Check event language, dates and booking arrangements for bingo or quizzes.
Zeedijk 20, Amsterdam
Rembrandtplein & nearby
Taboo
For cocktails with drag and games, Taboo is another option on the same street as SoHo and NYX. Choose a scheduled performance night.
A gay bar with a varied audience, not men-only. Check Fabulous Cocktail Night and Drag Me to Heaven for current times.
Reguliersdwarsstraat 45, Amsterdam
Dam & city centre
’t Sluisje
For an entire evening built around a show, I suggest ’t Sluisje: a theatre restaurant combining three courses with drag and music.
Advance booking required. Check the confirmed date, show language, menu, price and inclusions.
Torensteeg 1, Amsterdam
Lesbian & queer bars
De Pijp
Bar Buka
For a lesbian and queer bar in De Pijp, I recommend checking Bar Buka. Choose between drinks, karaoke, a DJ or a special event.
The wider LGBTQ+ community and allies are welcome. Check opening hours for your chosen day.
Albert Cuypstraat 124, Amsterdam
Jordaan
Café Saarein
For a neighbourhood pub rather than a big club, try Saarein in the Jordaan. It has lesbian roots and now welcomes a wider queer crowd.
Not women-only. Check current opening hours and event updates.
Elandsstraat 119, Amsterdam
Queer & mixed-crowd clubs
Rembrandtplein & nearby
Club NYX
For dancing with a mixed queer crowd, see what is on at NYX. Its several floors host different parties and music styles.
Check the specific event, minimum age and tickets. This is not a men-only club.
Reguliersdwarsstraat 42, Amsterdam
West, Sloterdijk & Nieuw-West
Club RAUM
For electronic music in a club with queer roots, get to know RAUM. Music, community and a respectful dance floor are central here.
Read the community and admission rules. The music depends on the event.
Humberweg 3, Amsterdam
Festivals & events
Choose a season or enter your travel dates. Events without confirmed dates are shown separately as seasonal ideas.
26.11.2026–17.01.2027
Amsterdam Light Festival
Explore light artworks along the canals on foot or by boat for a winter evening outdoors.
Check the route, lighting hours and what your walking or boat ticket includes.
17.12.2026–02.01.2027
Het Amsterdamse Winterparadijs
Winter activities, skating, rides and shows at RAI. Choose a daytime family visit or check the evening programme.
Closed on 31 December. Prices vary by date; food and some extras cost more.
April, annually
Tulp Festival
Tulips in squares, streets and gardens across Amsterdam. I would include the locations in a city walk.
This is the city festival, not Keukenhof. Check the bloom map and private-garden entry conditions.
Spring; check the next edition’s dates
Rollende Keukens
Food trucks and stalls in Westerpark, with live music. A good option for tasting several things with friends.
Entry is free; food and drinks cost extra. The tourism listing links to the organiser.
May–September, depending on the programme
Vondelpark Open Air Theatre
Music, dance, family shows and comedy in Vondelpark. An easy way to add a performance to a day in the city.
Free admission, with donations welcome. Check the language of spoken performances.
24–25.07.2027
Milkshake
An electronic dance festival in Westerpark, with performances and an open, queer atmosphere.
Check admission age, ticket type and line-up. This is a dance festival, not a quiet park outing.
31.07–08.08.2027
Pride Amsterdam
Community events, street parties, performances and cinema. Choose a small event or join the wider celebrations.
The Canal Parade is planned for 7 August 2027. Each event has its own programme and entry conditions.
13–22.08.2027
Grachtenfestival
Classical and jazz performances at different locations across Amsterdam.
Choose by venue, time and style. Each performance has its own price and admission arrangements.
Summer; next edition’s programme not yet verified
Pluk de Nacht
Open-air films with a bar and deckchairs, for an evening that feels different from a club night.
Check language and subtitles, book if required and bring a warm layer.
20–24.10.2027
ADE
Days and nights of electronic music and parties across the city. I would choose by artist and music style.
Many events sell tickets separately. Check what is included and the venue’s admission policy.
07.11.2026
Museumnacht
Museums open in the evening with workshops, performances and music.
Regular tickets were sold out when checked on 30 October 2026. Check current availability with the organiser.
12–22.11.2026
IDFA
Documentary films and talks at an international festival. Pick a screening that interests you.
Check the language and subtitles for each film. Tickets and the programme are on the festival website.
Want more ideas for your travel dates?
The I amsterdam calendar also lists concerts, exhibitions and other events.
Explore the city calendarOne more tip from me
Found somewhere you like? Open its website before heading out. A special event can change the music, audience and admission rules, even at a familiar venue.
Photo credits
Venue and archive atmosphere photographs, not documentation of the 2026–2027 events. Door 74 / Amsterdam Bachelor · Escape official gallery · LuminAir official gallery · Super Lyan · Unsplash contributors: Dmitrii E., Hector John Periquin, Ari Dinar, Yvette de Wit and Loris Boulinguez ·