Best clubs in Amsterdam

Shelter

Shelter is the name of the subterranean nightclub and exhibition space located in the basement of the landmark A'DAM Tower on Amsterdam's northern waterfront. Shelter’s programming is set on curating sounds from all types of electronic music, showcasing artists from the defining outreaches of the industry. Underground clubbing at its finest.

Music: techno.

Shelter | Overhoeksplein 1

BRET

Dousing this slightly grey corner of Sloterdijk with a much-needed splash of colour and fun, BRET is a beer bar, restaurant and urban vineyard that regularly transforms its indoor and outdoor spaces for magical club nights. The venue has a thoughtful approach to sustainability and innovation and their diverse music programming will frequently showcase up-and-coming local DJs. The bright red structure created from shipping containers, tree trunks and reclaimed materials boasts a sprawling terrace and various cosy nooks to chill out in.

Music: house, techno, disco.

BRET | Orlyplein 76

LoFi

LoFi was founded as a multidisciplinary venue in a former warehouse space with the aim of letting Amsterdammers enjoy culture, music, food and art all in one spot. The programme changes weekly with events ranging from weekend-long parties hosted by some of the biggest events programmers in the city, more intimate club nights from up-and-coming DJs and chill Sunday sessions which spill over into the courtyard.

Music: house, techno, disco, hip-hop.

LoFi | Basisweg 63

Doka

This subterranean listening bar in the basement of Volkshotel has an exceptional audio set-up and such good sound insulation you’d never know it was there. At Doka, DJs, artists, live bands and other creatives provide the early evening soundtrack as cocktails are slurped. Later on, the space transforms into an intimate, sweaty club - Doka Studio - that stays open until the sun comes up. Check the programme for visionary local talent and international guests spinning vinyl.

Music: house, disco, techno and more experimental stuff.

Doka | Wibautstraat 150

Thuishaven

In the summer, Thuishaven comes to life with various open-air stages, and dance floors set up within the constantly evolving and surprising industrial surroundings. When the weather drops, you’ll find a range of heated tents and cosy indoor spaces to get your groove on.

Music: house, disco, techno and much more.

Thuishaven | Contactweg 68

Parallel

This forward-thinking club is a the latest addition to Amsterdam’s nightlife scene. The music programming behing Parallel, located in the Tolhuistuin building, is put together courtesy of the team behind Paradiso - Amsterdam's iconic concert hall venue. Check the agenda for multifaceted club nights, concerts, exhibitions, art installations and spoken word events.

Music: all genres related to electronic music and hip-hop.

Parallel | Buiksloterweg 5C

Warehouse Elementenstraat

From hosting the first illegal gabber raves in Amsterdam to becoming a highly regarded spot for cutting edge electronic music in the Netherlands, Elementenstraat is living proof of the power and resilience of club culture. With its modular, multi-roomed interior Warehouse Elementenstraat captures the intimacy of a nightclub, combined with an indoor festival feeling. Expect parties like Hyte, Welcome to the Future, Luciano & Friends and Reaktor.

Music: techno.

Warehouse Elementenstraat | Elementenstraat 25

Club NYX

NYX is a gay club that’s open to all sexual persuasions – encouraging LGBTQ+ clubbers to take their straight friends with them. The club is spread over three floors and hosts performances and club nights catering to a range of musical tastes, from the (in)famous drag shows to grinding your way through the 90s and 00s. All your favourite guilty pleasures are played.

Read this guide to LGBTQI+ clubbing and nightlife in Amsterdam for more.

Music: all round.

Club NYX | Reguliersdwarsstraat

RADION

From yoga classes to booming techno nights: this former office block is now a multidisciplinary creative haven. RADION hosts exhibitions, cinema nights, workshops, club nights and many other events. In May 2015 RADION was granted a 24-hours permit, so stay hydrated.

Music: techno.

RADION | Louwesweg

AIR Amsterdam

Rising from the ashes of the legendary club iT in Amsterdam's city centre, AIR is a house and dance club with an interior designed by Marcel Wanders and featuring impressive VOID systems, state-of-the-art lighting and a mind-boggling LED wall. The night club has been featured mulitple times in DJ MAG's prestigious top 100 clubs in the world.

Music: all round.

AIR Amsterdam | Amstelstraat 24

Het Sieraad

Het Sieraad in West is an enchanting location with a rich history, dating back to 1904 when this former jewellery school was still full of students. Nowadays, there is little studying done and a lot of dancing. Their By Night agenda features top DJ talent from the international electronic music scene on Friday and Saturday nights.

Music: techno, house, tech-house. 

Het Sieraad | Postjesweg 1

Escape

Rembrandtplein is one of Amsterdam’s most popular areas for going out, and Escape is its centre with revellers flocking to the club for dancing through the night. Amsterdam's finest hit the decks at the club alongside world-famous DJs including Tiësto, David Guetta, Paul van Dyk and Todd Terry. For more intimate events check out the Escape Lounge, equipped with an LED-lit ceiling and a view of the Rembrandtplein.

Music: dance, pop.

Escape | Rembrandtplein 11

Paradiso & Melkweg

Two of Amsterdam's most iconic venues, Paradiso and De Melkweg are best known for their gigs and concerts. But when the live acts finish, you'll find some fantastic later evening programming with clubnights and parties catering to every music genre under the sun. After catching your favourite band, these venues provide a fantastic introduction to Amsterdam's nightlife scene. Have a read of our round-up of major music venues for more information.

Jimmy Woo

This luxurious night club at Amsterdam's Leidseplein "Entertainment Area" gained worldwide fame because of its many celebrated guests and strict door policy - though we're still not totally clear what the criteria is. Jimmy Woo is also famous for its interior and sound system, winning the ‘Dutch Design’ price and honoured for ‘best club sound in the Netherlands’.

Music: all round.

Jimmy Woo | Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 18

Garage Noord

This gritty dance floor is situated in a former car repair shop on the fringes of Amsterdam Noord. It's one of the city’s most alternative spaces, with all music genres catered to. The party clientele is as diverse as the programming, and there is a strong emphasis on the venue as a safe space. There’s also an on-site Surinamese roti restaurant that’s open until 23:00 where you can fuel up before a night of dancing.

Music: techno, breakbeat, electro, house, disco, punk, reggae - and everthing else inbetween.

Garage Noord | Gedempt Hamerkanaal 40

Other venues

Of course, Amsterdam nightlife isn't all about the house and techno heavyweights. One of the musical thrills in Amsterdam is that you can find a wide array of pop, rock, R&B, hip-hop, electronic and singer-songwriters performing on any given day. Check out some smaller venues like Bitterzoet and Chin Chin Club to find a bit of everything. For more of a sit-down musical experience, try one of the city’s many vinyl bars., or get your groove on at one of Amsterdam's smaller dancefloors.

Unlimited entry for seven days with the Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket

Free entrance to 20+ nightclubs & special events in Amsterdam? The handy Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket will get you unlimited entry to a selection of Amsterdam clubs for seven days, plus free drinks at many participating venues. And all for just €10! Find out more about the Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket.