The 5 best nightclubs in Amsterdam that actually live up to the hype
My first night out in Amsterdam didn’t quite go as planned. I ended up following a random list I found online, which led me to a half-empty club with overpriced drinks, and the atmosphere was totally missing.
It was far from the electric, unforgettable experience I had hoped for. That frustrating start motivated me to explore the city’s nightlife more thoroughly, and what I discovered was a city filled with creativity, community, and non-stop beats.
From energetic techno havens to chic dance venues, here are the best nightclubs in Amsterdam that’ll truly give you the night you’ve been dreaming of.
1. Shelter
Media credit: shelteramsterdam
Website: http://www.shelteramsterdam.nl/
Address: Overhoeksplein 3, 1031 KS
Contact Details: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Friday: 11:00 PM to 12:00 AM | Saturday: 12:00 AM to 7:00 AM & 11:00 PM to 12:00 AM | Sunday: 12:00 AM to 7:00 AM
Pricing: €
Shelter Amsterdam is one of the city’s most legendary late-night spots, located beneath the A’DAM Tower. This place is renowned for its exceptional sound system and raw concrete interiors, all of which are driven by a genuine passion for electronic music.
With lineups that showcase both international techno icons and local talent, every night feels like a curated musical journey. Typically, entry costs around €20, depending on the event, and tickets tend to sell out quickly online.
I absolutely loved how the venue felt like a hidden world. It’s also gritty yet hypnotising, and filled with a crowd that knows how to appreciate the beats.
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget to bring cash for the lockers. Using your phone’s flashlight on the main dance floor isn’t allowed, which really enhances the full-sensory experience.
2. Warehouse Elementenstraat
Media credit: warehouseelementenstraat
Website: https://www.elementenstraat.nl/
Address: Elementenstraat 25, 1014 AR
Contact Details: +31 20 851 0600
Operating Hours: Monday: 12:00 AM to 6:00 AM | Wednesday to Thursday: 12:00 AM to 6:00 AM | Friday: 12:00 AM to 12:00 PM | Saturday: 11:00 PM to 12:00 PM | Sunday: 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM
Pricing: €
Warehouse Elementenstraat is an industrial venue where techno and house music take centre stage.
Once a bustling printing factory, this prestigious space now hosts electrifying raves and underground events by Amsterdam’s finest promoters, including Vault Sessions and Verknipt.
Entrance fees vary depending on the event, typically ranging from €25 to €40, with most tickets available for purchase online in advance. I love how open the venue feels. It gives dancers ample space to groove while still feeling the rhythm from every corner.
Pro Tip:
Take a look at the raised platforms located near the back wall. It’s the ideal spot to enjoy those bass-heavy beats without getting lost in the crowd.
3. Paradiso
Media credit: paradisoadam
Website: https://www.paradiso.nl/
Address: Weteringschans 6-8, 1017 SG
Contact Details: +31 20 626 4521
Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday: 7:00 PM to 4:00 AM | Friday to Saturday: 7:00 PM to 5:00 AM | Sunday: 7:00 PM to 4:00 AM
Pricing: €
Paradiso was once a church and has now been transformed into a nightclub and music venue. It features original stained glass windows and tiered balconies.
It’s also the place to be for everything from International concerts to local DJ sets and engaging cultural talks. Ticket prices vary by event, typically ranging from €20 to €35, and some shows offer discounts for students.
But it’s not just about the music here; the venue also supports art residencies and spoken word nights. I like how the acoustics resonate through the arches. It gives even the heaviest beats a magical quality.
Pro Tip:
Be sure to grab a locker near the entrance, as they fill up quickly, and the stairs can get quite crowded between sets.
4. Escape
Media credit: escape_amsterdam
Website: https://escape.nl/
Address: Rembrandtplein 11, 1017 CT
Contact Details: +31 6 39 22 88
Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday: 11:00 PM to 4:00 AM | Friday to Saturday: 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM | Sunday: 11:00 PM to 4:00 AM
Pricing: €
Escape is one of the biggest and longest-standing clubs in Amsterdam. It’s famous for its light shows and booming sound system. With weekly themed nights like Techno Tuesday and Girls Goin’ Wild Saturdays, Escape attracts a lively crowd eager to dance until 5 AM.
I checked out their cocktail bar upstairs. It was surprisingly cosy for a venue that can hold over 2,000 people. Plus, they bring in top international DJs, along with up-and-coming local talent.
Entry fees typically range from €15 to €30. You can book VIP tables or groove beneath the massive LED wall on the main floor.
Pro Tip:
Get your drinks early. The bar lines can get crazy around midnight, which can slow down the party vibe.
5. Garage Noord
Media credit: garagenoord
Website: http://www.garagenoord.com/club
Address: Gedempt Hamerkanaal 40, 1021 KM
Contact Details: +31 20 751 9990
Operating Hours: Wednesday to Thursday: 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM | Friday: 12:00 AM to 3:00 AM & 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM | Saturday: 12:00 AM to 7:00 AM & 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM | Sunday: 12:00 AM to 7:00 AM
Pricing: €
Garage Noord is where underground energy meets a gritty, industrial vibe.
This unique club and restaurant serves up everything from boundary-pushing DJ sets to intimate live shows. It features a constantly evolving lineup that leans into house, techno, and experimental sounds.
What I appreciate is their cosy kitchen area. It’s not every day you find a dance floor where you can enjoy a plate of pasta at 2 AM.
Entry fees typically range from €8 to €15, depending on the event, and tickets can usually be purchased at the door.
Pro Tip:
Be sure to bring cash or have a backup plan, as the bar’s card machines may occasionally experience issues.