Amsterdam, known for its canals and rich cultural history, also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene that draws partygoers from around the world. The city’s clubs offer a diverse range of music, atmospheres, and experiences, making it a top destination for nightlife enthusiasts. Whether you’re into techno, house, hip-hop, or live music, Amsterdam has a club for you. Here’s a guide to some of the best clubs in Amsterdam.
1. Paradiso
Location: Weteringschans 6-8
Paradiso is one of Amsterdam’s most iconic clubs. Housed in a converted church, this venue offers a unique atmosphere and hosts a wide range of musical acts, from rock and indie bands to electronic music DJs. The acoustics and the historic ambiance make Paradiso a must-visit for any music lover.
Overview: Paradiso is renowned for its diverse programming and historic setting. This venue combines a rich cultural heritage with a modern music scene, making it a standout in Amsterdam’s nightlife. The building’s unique architecture and exceptional acoustics enhance the concert experience.
Why Go There: Experience live music in a converted church, enjoy a wide range of genres, and immerse yourself in a historic and vibrant atmosphere.
Opening Hours: Varies depending on events, typically 8 PM – 4 AM.
Music Played: Rock, indie, electronic, hip-hop, and more.
Events: Concerts, club nights, themed events.
Cost of Entrance and Drinks: Entrance ranges from €10-€30, drinks from €4-€10.
How to Get There:
- From Schiphol Airport: Take the train to Amsterdam Central Station, then tram 2 or 12 to Leidseplein.
- From Amsterdam Central Station: Tram 2 or 12 to Leidseplein.
- Public Transport: Trams 1, 2, and 5 to Leidseplein.
2. De School
Location: Doctor Jan van Breemenstraat 1
De School is a 24-hour venue that serves as a club, café, restaurant, and art space. Located in a former technical school, the club is known for its industrial aesthetic and top-tier sound system. De School’s lineup often features world-renowned DJs, and its unique setting provides an unparalleled clubbing experience.
Overview: De School offers a multifaceted experience with its blend of music, art, and dining. Its 24-hour license allows for a non-stop party atmosphere, making it a favorite among dedicated clubbers.
Why Go There: World-class DJs, industrial setting, 24-hour venue, combination of music, art, and food.
Opening Hours: 24/7 (varies depending on events).
Music Played: Techno, house, electronic, experimental.
Events: DJ sets, live performances, art exhibitions, workshops.
Cost of Entrance and Drinks: Entrance ranges from €15-€25, drinks from €3-€9.
How to Get There:
- From Schiphol Airport: Train to Amsterdam Lelylaan, then bus 18 to Jan van Galenstraat/Marco Polostraat.
- From Amsterdam Central Station: Bus 21 to Jan van Galenstraat/Marco Polostraat.
- Public Transport: Bus 18, 19, and 21 to Jan van Galenstraat/Marco Polostraat.
3. Shelter
Location: Overhoeksplein 3
Shelter is a club situated underneath the A’DAM Tower, known for its underground vibe and impressive DJ lineup. This venue focuses primarily on techno and house music and has a strict no-photos policy, allowing partygoers to fully immerse themselves in the experience. Shelter is a favorite among those looking for an authentic underground clubbing experience.
Overview: Shelter’s focus on quality music and immersive experiences makes it a top choice for techno enthusiasts. The no-photos policy encourages guests to live in the moment.
Why Go There: Top-tier techno and house DJs, underground vibe, no-photos policy for a truly immersive experience.
Opening Hours: Thursday to Saturday, 11 PM – 7 AM.
Music Played: Techno, house.
Events: DJ sets, club nights.
Cost of Entrance and Drinks: Entrance ranges from €10-€20, drinks from €4-€8.
How to Get There:
- From Schiphol Airport: Train to Amsterdam Central Station, then ferry to Buiksloterweg.
- From Amsterdam Central Station: Ferry to Buiksloterweg.
- Public Transport: Ferry to Buiksloterweg, then walk to A’DAM Tower.
4. Club Escape
Location: Rembrandtplein 11
One of the largest and most popular nightclubs in Amsterdam, Club Escape is located in the bustling Rembrandtplein. This club offers a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of themed nights and events, attracting both locals and tourists. The club’s state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems enhance the experience, making it a top destination for a night out.
Overview: Club Escape is known for its high-energy atmosphere and cutting-edge technology. Its central location and varied music offerings make it a go-to spot for a lively night out.
Why Go There: Diverse themed nights, advanced sound and lighting, central location.
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 PM – 5 AM.
Music Played: House, techno, hip-hop, pop, EDM.
Events: Themed nights, guest DJs, live performances.
Cost of Entrance and Drinks: Entrance ranges from €10-€25, drinks from €5-€12.
How to Get There:
- From Schiphol Airport: Train to Amsterdam Central Station, then tram 4 or metro 51, 52 to Rembrandtplein.
- From Amsterdam Central Station: Tram 4 or metro 51, 52 to Rembrandtplein.
- Public Transport: Trams 4, 9, 14 to Rembrandtplein.
5. Melkweg
Location: Lijnbaansgracht 234A
Melkweg, which translates to “Milky Way,” is a cultural center and club located in a former dairy factory. This venue hosts a diverse range of events, including live music, club nights, and cultural performances. Melkweg’s eclectic program and unique setting make it a staple in Amsterdam’s nightlife scene.
Overview: Melkweg’s diverse programming and unique setting in a former dairy factory provide a multifaceted cultural and nightlife experience.
Why Go There: Variety of events, historic and unique venue, wide range of musical genres.
Opening Hours: Varies depending on events, typically 8 PM – 5 AM.
Music Played: Rock, indie, electronic, hip-hop, and more.
Events: Concerts, club nights, film screenings, art exhibitions.
Cost of Entrance and Drinks: Entrance ranges from €10-€30, drinks from €4-€10.
How to Get There:
- From Schiphol Airport: Train to Amsterdam Central Station, then tram 1, 2, or 5 to Leidseplein.
- From Amsterdam Central Station: Tram 1, 2, or 5 to Leidseplein.
- Public Transport: Trams 1, 2, and 5 to Leidseplein.
6. AIR Amsterdam
Location: Amstelstraat 16
AIR Amsterdam is known for its modern design and cutting-edge sound system. The club hosts a variety of nights featuring different music genres, including house, techno, and hip-hop. AIR’s inclusive atmosphere and top-notch production values make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
Overview: AIR Amsterdam offers a sleek, modern clubbing experience with a focus on high-quality sound and diverse music genres.
Why Go There: Modern design, excellent sound system, variety of music genres.
Opening Hours: Thursday to Saturday, 11 PM – 6 AM.
Music Played: House, techno, hip-hop, electronic.
Events: Themed nights, guest DJs, live performances.
Cost of Entrance and Drinks: Entrance ranges from €10-€20, drinks from €5-€12.
How to Get There:
- From Schiphol Airport: Train to Amsterdam Central Station, then metro 51, 52 to Waterlooplein.
- From Amsterdam Central Station: Metro 51, 52 to Waterlooplein.
- Public Transport: Metro 51, 52 to Waterlooplein.
7. Radion
Location: Louwesweg 1
Radion is a multidisciplinary venue that combines a nightclub, art space, and café. Known for its underground vibe and eclectic programming, Radion often features electronic music events, live performances, and art installations. The club’s focus on creativity and innovation makes it a standout in Amsterdam’s nightlife scene.
Overview: Radion’s blend of music, art, and creativity offers a unique experience for those looking to explore Amsterdam’s underground culture.
Why Go There: Eclectic programming, underground vibe, combination of music and art.
Opening Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 10 PM – 7 AM.
Music Played: Electronic, house, techno, experimental.
Events: DJ sets, live performances, art exhibitions.
Cost of Entrance and Drinks: Entrance ranges from €10-€20, drinks from €4-€9.
How to Get There:
- From Schiphol Airport: Train to Amsterdam Lelylaan, then bus 18 to Louwesweg.
- From Amsterdam Central Station: Tram 17 to Derkinderenstraat.
- Public Transport: Bus 18 to Louwesweg, tram 17 to Derkinderenstraat.
8. Panama
Location: Oostelijke Handelskade 4
Located in a former warehouse, Panama is a club that offers a spacious dance floor and a variety of events. The club’s programming includes everything from electronic dance music to live bands, making it a versatile venue for a night out. Panama’s industrial setting and high-energy atmosphere attract a diverse crowd.
Overview: Panama combines industrial charm with a diverse range of events, offering something for every type of clubber.
Why Go There: Spacious dance floor, variety of music and events, industrial setting.
Opening Hours: Friday to Sunday, 11 PM – 5 AM.
Music Played: Electronic, house, techno, live music.
Events: Club nights, live performances, themed events.
Cost of Entrance and Drinks: Entrance ranges from €10-€25, drinks from €4-€10.
How to Get There:
- From Schiphol Airport: Train to Amsterdam Central Station, then tram 26 to Muziekgebouw/Bimhuis.
- From Amsterdam Central Station: Tram 26 to Muziekgebouw/Bimhuis.
- Public Transport: Tram 26 to Muziekgebouw/Bimhuis.
9. Club NYX
Location: Reguliersdwarsstraat 42
Club NYX is a three-story nightclub known for its inclusive and diverse atmosphere. The club’s motto, “Be who you want to be,” is reflected in its welcoming environment and eclectic music selection. Club NYX hosts themed nights that cater to a wide range of musical tastes, from pop and hip-hop to electronic music.
Overview: Club NYX’s inclusive vibe and diverse music selection make it a welcoming spot for all kinds of partygoers.
Why Go There: Inclusive atmosphere, diverse music genres, themed nights.
Opening Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 11 PM – 5 AM.
Music Played: Pop, hip-hop, electronic, house.
Events: Themed nights, drag shows, live performances.
Cost of Entrance and Drinks: Entrance ranges from €10-€20, drinks from €5-€12.
How to Get There:
- From Schiphol Airport: Train to Amsterdam Central Station, then tram 4 or metro 52 to Vijzelgracht.
- From Amsterdam Central Station: Tram 4 or metro 52 to Vijzelgracht.
- Public Transport: Tram 4, metro 52 to Vijzelgracht.
10. Marktkantine
Location: Jan van Galenstraat 6
Marktkantine is a club located in a former canteen building. Known for its excellent sound system and dynamic lineup, this venue hosts events featuring both local and international DJs. Marktkantine’s spacious dance floor and unique setting make it a favorite among electronic music fans.
Overview: Marktkantine’s blend of historic charm and modern amenities provides an excellent setting for a night of dancing and music.
Why Go There: Great sound system, dynamic DJ lineup, spacious dance floor.
Opening Hours: Friday to Sunday, 10 PM – 6 AM.
Music Played: Electronic, house, techno.
Events: DJ sets, club nights, live performances.
Cost of Entrance and Drinks: Entrance ranges from €10-€25, drinks from €4-€10.
How to Get There:
- From Schiphol Airport: Train to Amsterdam Lelylaan, then tram 13 to Jan van Galenstraat.
- From Amsterdam Central Station: Tram 13 to Jan van Galenstraat.
- Public Transport: Tram 13 to Jan van Galenstraat.
Conclusion
Amsterdam’s club scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. Whether you’re looking for an intimate venue with live music, a large nightclub with themed events, or an underground techno experience, Amsterdam has something to offer. These clubs represent the best of Amsterdam’s nightlife, each providing a unique and unforgettable experience. So, get ready to dance the night away and explore the vibrant club scene that Amsterdam has to offer.