Turn up the sound at the top 10 live music venues in Amsterdam
Listening to music is always enjoyable and lively. Every beat and rhythm makes you want to dance.
It’s a good thing we found these iconic live music venues that will transform your night in Amsterdam into an immersive experience with loud, intimate, and crowded performances by talented singers.
That’s why, if you’re a music enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, dive into these live music venues in Amsterdam. And if you’re ready, let the bass kidnap your heartbeat for the night.
1. Paradiso
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Website: https://www.paradiso.nl/en
Location: Weteringschans 6-8, 1017 SG
Contact: +31 20 626 4521
Pricing: €€
The Paradiso is situated at the heart of Amsterdam, a legendary live music venue renowned for its distinctive setting and diverse lineup. It’s housed within a former 19th-century church and remains stunning, blending seamlessly with the historic architecture.
The performances shown here are diverse. It includes indie, rock, electronic, jazz, hip-hop, and other world music genres. The stage is performed by artists like Spinvis, Kensington, Arctic Monkeys, and others.
Pro Tip:
You must arrive at Paradiso early in the evening to explore the unique architectural ambience and also to secure a good spot for a memorable night.
2. Melkweg
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Website: https://www.melkweg.nl/nl/
Location: Lijnbaansgracht 234A, 1017 PH
Contact: +31 20 531 8181
Hours: Monday & Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 AM | Wednesday to Thursday & Sunday: 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Pricing: €€
Melkweg was formerly housed in a dairy factory. The building combines modern and industrial charm, featuring multiple performances in its Main Hall and the intimate Maxzaal.
It allows hosting big events, from concerts to club nights and even art exhibitions. The venue showcases a diverse range of music styles, including rock, jazz, hip-hop, and world music.
This music venue is also notable for its proximity to wine bars like Glou Glou, which is ideal for natural and organic wine. Vyne serves organic and biodynamic wines. While Wijnbar Paulus is a stylish wine bar.
Pro Tip:
We recommend booking your tickets in advance, as most of their show tickets sell out quickly.
3. Ziggo Dome
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Website: https://www.ziggodome.nl/en/
Location: De Passage 100, 1101 AX
Contact: +31 900 2353663
Pricing: €€
This is one of the premier live music venues in Amsterdam, which opened in the year 2012. It’s designed as a modern arena specialising in concerts, boasting excellent acoustics with a capacity of 17,000.
The Ziggo Dome combines contemporary architecture with an advanced sound system, creating a more immersive experience for both performers and the audience attending the show.
It hosts a wide array of music, like electronic dance music and more. Their show attracts world-famous artists and large-scale productions, making this venue a key destination for major tours and festivals in Amsterdam.
Additionally, international superstars such as Ed Sheeran, Bruno Mars, Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, and others have performed on this stage.
Pro Tip:
It’s advisable to use public transport, since the venue is well-served by metro and bus lines, which are convenient and avoid parking hassles or traffic.
4. AFAS Live
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Website: https://www.afaslive.nl/
Location: Johan Cruijff Boulevard 590, 1101 DS
Contact: +31 900 6874242
Pricing: €€
AFAS Live is known for its modern design and exceptional acoustics. It originally opened in 2011 as the Heineken Music Hall and was rebranded as AFAS Live in 2018. It features an oval-shaped auditorium that accommodates up to 6,000 attendees.
The sound quality here is also really good. The venue uses L-Acoustics K1 and K2 line arrays for the sound system.
For an exclusive experience, they offer VIP lounges backstage for fans who purchase premium tickets, which cost between €75 and €150 per ticket.
Pro Tip:
Before visiting the venue, take a moment to explore the nearby cafes and bars, such as Pllek and Cafe de Ceuvel. This will enhance your AFAS Live experience with great food and drink that sets the perfect mood for the event.
5. Bitterzoet
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Website: https://www.bitterzoet.com/
Location: Spuistraat 2 HS, 1012 TS
Contact: +31 20 421 2318
Hours: Thursday to Saturday: 11:30 PM to 4:00 AM
Pricing: €€
Bitterzoet is one of Amsterdam’s beloved music venues. It was formerly a sugar factory; the venue’s name, meaning ‘bittersweet,’ reflects the edgy yet inviting atmosphere that can accommodate up to 350 attendees.
Their popular music style is a blend of electronic, funk, and soul. The venue regularly hosts local and international acts, and its eclectic line-up appeals to a wide range of musical tastes for both performers and audience.
We also enjoy the bar area, which complements the venue’s energy. They serve tasty, creative cocktails, such as the Smoky Negroni and Lavender Collins. For non-alcoholic options, they offer juices like pineapple and grapefruit, as well as mocktails.
Pro Tip:
Take advantage of their creative cocktail menu. Ask for a bartender recommendation or any special drink for a unique taste experience.
6. Bimhuis
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Website: https://www.bimhuis.nl/
Location: Piet Heinkade 3, 1019 GM
Contact: +31 20 788 2150
Hours: Monday to Sunday (except Tuesday): 6:30 PM to 1:00 AM | Tuesday: 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Pricing: €€
Bimhuis is a live music venue in Amsterdam, located on the scenic waterfront, dedicated to jazz and improvised music. It opened in the current modern building in 2005. The venue boasts its contemporary design with floor-to-ceiling windows.
Classical performances are occasionally held, as well as other world music, reflecting its focus on musical innovation and diversity.
They offer exclusive membership perks for regular visitors. This offer includes priority tickets, discounts, and invitations to select special events at the venue.
Pro Tip:
For an immersive Bimhuis experience, it is advisable to arrive early and secure a seat with a stunning view of the IJ waterfront.
7. Tolhuistuin
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Website: https://tolhuistuin.nl/
Location: IJpromenade 2, 1031 CC
Contact: +31 20 760 4820
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Pricing: €€
One of the vibrant cultural venues in Amsterdam is Tolhuistuin. It’s known for its striking modern design and riverside setting. It was formerly housed in a shipyard building, featuring spacious indoor halls and an outdoor terrace.
The capacity of Tolhuistuin is 1,000, offering both intimate concerts and large-scale events. The venue hosts both locals and rising stars, including Jeangu Macro, Jungle by Night, and Wende Snijders.
It’s also the key venue for several festivals in Amsterdam, such as the Over het IJ Festival, which combines performing arts and outdoor experiences.
Pro Tip:
Check their event schedule, as Tolhuistuin offers workshops and talks that deepen your experience beyond the monthly main music performances.
8. De Nieuwe Anita
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Website: https://denieuweanita.nl/
Location: Frederik Hendrikstraat 111, 1052 HN
Hours: Monday to Tuesday, and Thursday: 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM | Friday to Saturday: 8:00 PM to 1:30 AM
Pricing: €€
De Nieuwe Anita is considered a distinctive live music venue and cultural hub located in the vibrant West District of Amsterdam. It’s also formerly a community centre.
With a capacity of 150, it offers an intimate setting. Most of their music styles feature the popular indie rock, folk, electronic, punk, and experimental sounds.
The venue is an inclusive and safe space for all music enthusiasts, as it fosters an environment that welcomes diverse communities. These include LGBTQ+ and marginalised groups.
De Nieuwe Anita also offers rentals. You can find basic sound and lighting equipment, musical instruments, projectors, and other essentials here.
Pro Tip:
For an immersive experience, bring your instruments or creative ideas and take advantage of opportunities to join the impromptu jam session or participate in collaborative art projects within the venue.
9. Jazz Cafe Alto
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Website: https://www.jazz-cafe-alto.nl/home/
Location: Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 115, 1017 PX
Hours: Monday to Thursday and Sunday: 8:00 PM to 3:00 AM | Friday to Saturday: 8:00 PM to 4:00 AM
Pricing: €€
Jazz Cafe Alto is one of the cherished music venues located in the heart of Amsterdam. It’s renowned for intimate and authentic jazz experiences. Established in 1959, the basement club exudes a timeless charm.
Its design was inspired by wooden architectural interiors, and it had a modest capacity of around 100. The venue specialises in jazz, featuring bebop, swing, blues, and even modern jazz.
Most of the artists are local and acclaimed musicians, such as Chet Baker, Benjamin Herman, and Caroline Henderson. They support the spot’s pivotal role in the Amsterdam jazz scene.
Pro Tip:
It’s best to visit Jazz Cafe Alto on a weeknight for a more enjoyable and unforgettable experience. The atmosphere and performance are much more intimate, and musicians engage in spontaneous jam sessions.
10. The Waterhole
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Website: https://waterhole.nl/
Location: Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 49, 1017 PW
Contact: +31 20 620 8904
Hours: Monday to Thursday and Sunday: 12:00 PM to 3:00 AM | Friday to Saturday: 12:30 PM to 4:00 AM
Pricing: €€
The Waterhole is a lively music venue known for its welcoming and diverse musical offerings. The venue can accommodate around 150 guests.
It specialises in different musical types, including rock, blues, indie, and funk. It presents performances by local bands, alongside international touring artists, as well as Amsterdam-based bands like Triggerfinger, The Kik, DeWolff, and more.
They offer a discounted night for special events like the Retro Rock Party, Acoustic Sunday, and others. The perks include reduced entry fees, giveaways, and lower drink costs.
Pro Tip:
Visit the venue early in the night to secure a perfect spot near the stage and take advantage of the happy hour special drinks they serve.