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Unique event venues

Historic buildings, castles, museums and zoos – Amsterdam has them all. If you’re planning a meeting that demands a unique setting for a memorable event, we’ve listed a few of the locations that will delight and inspire your guests.

Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam

Grand Hotel Amrâth exterior Amsterdamse School architecture
Image from Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam

In Amsterdam's Maritime Quarter stands the iconic 1916-built Shipping House (Scheepvaarthuis) – a venerated example of the Amsterdam School of architecture. As a former headquarters for six international shipping companies, it exhibits distinctive nautical motifs throughout, such as wave-patterned flooring and stained glass depicting ships' silhouettes and company symbols. In 2007, its transformation into a luxury hotel – the Grand Hotel Amrâth – incorporated modern amenties but preserved its history and unique maritime themes. Conveniently near Amsterdam Central Station, this versatile gem will impress delegates with visual richness and ease of access.

Largest room: 150

ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo

Nature, culture and heritage come together at ARTIS, one of the oldest zoos in Europe. Home to butterflies, penguins and leopards – plus everything in between – and surrounded by historical architecture dating back to its founding in 1830, ARTIS provides an inspiring and enchanting venue for meetings and events. Options vary from small rooms connected by a courtyard to the larger Grand Entrance Hall or palatial Aquarium, with its tranquil watery backdrop – perfect for grander occasions. The nearby café-restaurant de Plantage is perfect for both business lunches and elegant dinners.

Largest room: 600 in theatre style

ARTIS | Plantage Kerklaan 

Muiderslot Castle

Muiderslot Castle in the snow in Winter
Image from Melanie Lemahieu Photography

Just outside Amsterdam lies Muiderslot Castle – a gem among medieval fortresses. Initially built as a stronghold circa 1285 by Count Floris V, it evolved in 1878 into a national museum. The castle was once home to Dutch literary luminary P.C. Hooft: the Netherlands' answer to Shakespeare. A rare Dutch castle with panoramic views, Muiderslot provides insight into mediaeval and 17th-century life, with well-preserved rooms, a moat, an orchard and an organic garden. Only a 15-minute drive from Amsterdam, Muiderslot is a perfect backdrop for hosting inspiring events, boasting over seven centuries of history and awe-inspiring ambience.

Largest room: 100

Muiderslot | Herengracht

Rode Hoed

Rode Hoed event spaces and meeting rooms
Image from Rode Hoed

Behind three 17th-century canal houses lies the oldest and largest preserved clandestine church in the Netherlands. The main hall seats up to 450 people in theatre style, besides five smaller chambers, altogether making the Rode Hoed a unique and flexible location for events, conferences, meetings and dinners. Meeting planners can benefit from in-house catering, quality tech and production services all under one roof. And all this situated within the picturesque Amsterdam canal belt, meaning guests can even arrive or leave by boat via the Rode Hoed’s jetty. 

Largest room: 450

Rode Hoed | Keizersgracht

SugarFactory

SugarCity event space

Located in nearby Halfweg stands the striking SugarFactory, a sugar production facility from 1863 to 1992. The former factory has been carefully preserved to showcase its rich industrial heritage while also undergoing modernisation efforts to make it more sustainable. This versatile venue now serves as a unique, industrial backdrop for events – from product launches to conferences. Easily accessible by car or public transportation, this transformative location presents numerous possibilities, accommodating gatherings of up to 8,000 guests across five distinct areas tailored to your unique gathering requirements.

Largest room: 4,100

SugarFactory | Kristalpromenade

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