Amsterdam has some of Europe’s finest nightlife — and its live music scene is no exception to this. The Dutch capital is a fantastic place to watch musical performances, as it has that winning combination of a world-renowned name, but a relatively small geographical footprint. This means Amsterdam attracts high-calibre artists who play at venues that can often be reached in under 20 minutes, no matter where you are in the city.
The live music scene isn’t all about huge artists though. Despite increased gentrification in recent years, Amsterdam remains a counter-cultural hub and attracts up-and-coming musicians and creatives from all over the world. There are still plenty of venues where you can simply turn up and be met with interesting performances. Whether you’re searching for chart-topping pop artists, or are interested in underground punk bands, Amsterdam has something for you – and here are the best live music venues to find what you want.
RECOMMENDED:
🪩 The best clubs in Amsterdam
🍷 The best bars in Amsterdam
📍 The best things to do in Amsterdam
🍴 The best restaurants in Amsterdam
This guide was updated by Callum Booth, a writer based in Amsterdam. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.
A cornerstone of the Amsterdam scene, this former church is in such high demand that it often hosts several events in one day. The main hall has a rare sense of grandeur, with multiple balconies and stained-glass windows peering down upon the performers. And some seriously big names have played here; think Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Amy Winehouse and (more recently) Lizzo, Lady Gaga and Dua Lipa.
Time Out tip: Check out Paradiso’s smaller outpost in Noord, aplty named Paradiso Noord.
While smaller than the Ziggo Dome or ArenA, AFAS Live remains one of Amsterdam’s largest gig venues. It may not be the most architecturally inspiring building, but that doesn’t really matter, as AFAS Live is all about the music, and it manages to attract some of the world’s most exciting legacy and rising artists. From Nas, Phoebe Bridgers and Fat Freddy’s Drop to a band you’ve never heard of before, you’ll find something memorable on its schedue.
A former dairy (the name translates as 'Milky Way'), the Melkweg acts as a home away from home for music of all styles, and thus draws a suitably eclectic crowd. Its two decent-sized concert halls offer a full programme year-round; after a refit in 2007, which brought the capacity of the Max room up to 1,500, you've got an even better chance of getting tickets for the big shows. Music isn't the sole remit for this diverse venue: the complex is also home to a theatre, a cinema, an art gallery and a café, and stages weekend club nights to boot. All in all, it's a key cultural beacon in the centre of the city; music fans would be mad to miss it. See also the Melkweg art gallery, cinema, club and cafe.
Vondelbunker is one of Amsterdam’s hidden gems. Hidden under a bridge in the world-famous Vondelpark, this cultural centre is at the heart of the city’s DIY scene. Run by volunteers, Vondelbunker is a place that gives artists space to express themselves and push the boundaries of music. If you visit, expect noisy punk bands, intense performances, and thrilling shows.
Nestled in the bustling Leidseplein, this delightful venue has a live jazz or blues performance every night. The intimate building creates a cosy and friendly atmosphere that’s the perfect accompaniment to the world-class musicians playing up a storm on stage. One tip though: try and get to Jazz Café Alto early, as the best seats are taken quickly!
This busy, comfy and casual bar triples as a venue for theatre and music. Both bands and DJs tend to embrace the jazzy, world and urban side of sound, as demonstrated by once-a-monther Crime Jazz: words, poetry and beyond. DJ Maestro has set up camp, sampling Blue Note classics.
DNA is a sparkling promoter of fresh talents in the world of independent rock and electronica in Amsterdam. It may keep itself to itself, but for those in the know it’s the place to be. Programming is sporadic and based on good relations with understanding neighbours; check the website first before heading out.
The Muziektheater is Amsterdam at its most ambitious. This plush, crescent-shaped building, which opened in 1986, has room for 1,596 people and is home to both Dutch National Ballet and De Nederlandse Opera, though the stage is also used by visiting companies such as Nederlands Dans Theater, the Bill T Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company and Batsheva. The lobby's panoramic glass walls offer impressive views out over the River Amstel.
Discover Time Out original video
