10 Best Venues in Amsterdam to Listen to Live Music

Jessica Lipowski

By , Local Expert, Amsterdam
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Nothing beats live music. The performers fill the room with energy and beautiful melodic sounds, which creates a fun and lively atmosphere. The audience feeds off the band, adding to the overall experience. The drinks are flowing, and everyone is having a great time.

Amsterdam is definitely home to its fair share of fun nightlife venues. From classical and rock to jazz, underground and indie, the city is filled with an abundance of live music. For the best jazz in town, make your way to Jazz Café Alto or the Bimhuis. Casablanca Café is also a good find. It is one of the oldest jazz clubs in the...  Read more »
  • 1

    Paradiso

    Paradiso is a world-famous venue that covers the entire music spectrum: rock, folk, soul, country, reggae, eclectic, blues and so on.

    Local Expert Tip: "Buy tickets in advance, because shows may sell out."

     
  • 2

    Concertgebouw

    It is one of three venues in the world with the best acoustics.

    Local Expert Tip: "On Wednesdays at 12:30, you can get a taste of the Concertgebouw and attend a lunchtime concert for free. Make sure to queue early."

     
  • 3

    Alto Jazz Café

    Café Alto, home to some of the best jazz in the city, offers live music seven days a week.

    Local Expert Tip: "The space is small, so make sure to arrive early to get a seat."

     
  • 4

    Maloe Melo

    Maloe Melo is the home of Amsterdam's Blues and features live music daily

    Local Expert Tip: "Be on the lookout for famous musicians."

     
  • 5

    Bourbon Street

    Bourbon Street is known for its varied program seven nights a week, including blues, rock, reggae, soul and funk.

    Local Expert Tip: "You must be at least 21 years old to enter."

     
  • 6

    Muziekgebouw aan 't IJ

    The Muziekgebouw program revolves around contemporary music. In addition, the setting is absolutely beautiful, as the building overlooks the IJ River.

    Local Expert Tip: "The venue sells concert tickets for 10 EUROs if you are between the ages of 13 and 30."

     
  • 7

    Casablanca

    • Type: Bar
    • Neighborhood: Old Center / Red Light District

    Casablanca Café is one of the oldest jazz clubs in Amsterdam.

    Local Expert Tip: "The café also offers karaoke and dancing almost every night of the week."

     
  • 8

    The Waterhole

    The Waterhole is known for its great live rock music and fun, relaxed atmosphere.

    Local Expert Tip: "Stop by The Waterhole during happy hour. They have good drink deals."

     
  • 9

    Winston Kingdom

    Winston Kingdom is an underground club that features a vast assortment of rhythms and beats: indie, rock, dub-reggae, retro-pop and more.

    Local Expert Tip: "If you need a place to stay, try the Winston art hotel. You'll be right next door to the club."

     
  • 10

    Occii

    OCCII, home to alternative and independent music, is a legitimate squatted establishment.

    Local Expert Tip: "Check the program in advance so you can see who is playing."