The top 5 music venues in Amsterdam that locals can’t get enough of
One evening, we found ourselves wandering through the lively streets of Amsterdam, not quite ready to call it a night. The city was alive with energy, and we were drawn in by the sound of a guitar riff echoing from a nearby building.
As we stepped inside, we were greeted by a live performance that instantly lifted our spirits and just like that, our calm evening turned into something electric.
That unexpected discovery sparked something. Ever since, we’ve been on a search to find the best music venues in Amsterdam—places with great sound and performances that leave you wanting more.
And if you’re like us, eager to explore the city’s live music scene, make sure to add these spots to your list.
1. Paradiso
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Website: https://www.paradiso.nl/
Address: Weteringschans 6-8, 1017 SG
Contact: +31 20 626 4521
Hours: Monday: 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM | Tuesday: 6:00 PM – 3:00 AM | Wednesday: 6:00 PM – 4:00 AM | Thursday to Saturday: 6:00 PM – 5:00 AM | Sunday: 6:00 PM – 4:00 AM
Pricing: €
Located in a former church close to Leidseplein, Paradiso stands out as one of Amsterdam’s most iconic music venues. With its stained-glass windows, balconies, and stage, it offers an unforgettable setting for live performances.
Since opening its doors in 1968, it has welcomed a diverse array of artists from rock legends like Nirvana and Prince to today’s rising talents and electronic DJs.
It features two concert halls, lively club nights, and a range of cultural events, including talks and exhibitions. Paradiso seamlessly blends music, art, and history.
Aside from that, the venue features a bar and a year-round lineup that attracts both locals and crowds from all around the globe.
Pro Tip: Tickets can sell out quickly, especially for popular artists. Make sure to book online early and arrive a little before showtime to snag a great spot near the stage.
2. Melkweg
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Website: https://www.melkweg.nl/nl/
Address: Lijnbaansgracht 234A, 1017 PH
Contact: +31 20 531 8181
Hours: Monday to Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 AM | Wednesday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Friday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 AM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Pricing: €
Melkweg, meaning “Milky Way”, is a cultural hub where music and art come together in an inspiring way.
It’s set in a former dairy factory near Leidseplein. This iconic venue features a diverse lineup, ranging from indie bands and hip-hop performances to visual art displays, film screenings, and lively club nights.
What we really appreciate about Melkweg is its dedication to showcasing both international stars and emerging local talent.
Just note that tickets typically range from €10 to €30, depending on the event, and a monthly membership of €4 may be required for entry.
Pro Tip: Be sure to check out their event calendar in advance, as some nights feature a mix of concerts and late-night dance parties, all for one ticket.
3. Concertgebouw
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Website: http://www.concertgebouw.nl/
Address: Concertgebouwplein 10, 1071 BB
Contact: +31 20 671 8345
Hours: Monday to Friday: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Pricing: €
The Royal Concertgebouw is a standout venue in Amsterdam. It’s celebrated for its incredible acoustics and a rich history of concerts.
It’s also home to the world-renowned Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra and features talented soloists such as Yuja Wang and Janine Jansen.
We really love the Sunday Morning Concerts. These short yet high-quality performances start at just €18, making them perfect for newcomers or a delightful weekend cultural treat.
We attended a Sunday show and were absolutely captivated by a mesmerising Brahms performance from the orchestra. The red velvet seats and golden accents in the Main Hall made the experience even more special.
Pro Tip: Book ahead for free Wednesday lunchtime concerts. They’re short but truly spectacular, and spots tend to fill up fast.
4. Bimhuis
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Website: http://www.bimhuis.nl/
Address: Piet Heinkade 3, 1019 GM
Contact: +31 20 788 2150
Hours: Monday: 6:30 PM – 1:00 AM | Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 AM | Wednesday to Sunday: 6:30 PM – 1:00 AM
Pricing: €€
Located along the IJ River, this world-renowned venue offers panoramic views of Amsterdam’s skyline and is celebrated for its combination of jazz and adventurous music.
With over 300 concerts annually, Bimhuis showcases a diverse range of artists, from international legends to emerging talent and experimental sounds.
One of the things we adore about the main concert hall is its steeply tiered seating. It ensures that every guest enjoys a clear and intimate view of the stage, along with a glimpse of Amsterdam’s skyline through those impressive floor-to-ceiling windows.
We attended an improv jazz night and left buzzing with excitement, and a playlist of artists we couldn’t wait to revisit. But before the show, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a drink or a meal at their cafe with a waterfront view.
Pro Tip: Be sure to check the concert calendar in advance. Some shows even offer free admission or discounts for students.
5. Ziggo Dome
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Website: https://www.ziggodome.nl/
Address: De Passage 100, 1101 AX
Contact: +31 900 235 3663
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Pricing: €€
The Ziggo Dome stands out as Amsterdam’s premier venue for massive concerts, regularly welcoming global icons such as Beyoncé, Coldplay, and BLACKPINK.
With room for 17,000 fans and state-of-the-art acoustics, it’s designed specifically for electrifying pop and rock performances—no echoes, just pure sound.
We absolutely love how the venue captures that stadium vibe, plus, nearly every seat offers a great view. The LED-lit exterior also really sets the stage for an unforgettable night.
You’ll find plenty of bars and food stalls scattered throughout, plus it’s super easy to get there from Bijlmer Arena station, just across the street.
Pro Tip: Set up a digital Ziggo Dome wallet to order drinks from your seat. Many bars now support this. It’s faster than queuing at intermission.