The fun in Amsterdam doesn’t stop when the sun goes down, and the crowded bars and clubs are testimony to this fact. If you're out in the evening and think bars look deserted, it's only because Amsterdam's nightlife starts rather late and you're probably out too early. With most clubs not opening their doors before 11.30pm and the party not taking off until 1am, many bars and lounges are full of pre-drinkers waiting to embark on a night out. Most bars in Amsterdam are small and rather crowded, so it's often difficult to find a comfortable spot. However, the cramped nature of these venues is a result of the fact that they're housed in many historic buildings, which are charming in their own right and offer an alternative nightlife experience. The city's nightlife is concentrated around two main squares: the Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein, so you always have plenty of options. As a result, a night out in Amsterdam can be a very cultural experience - even if you can't remember it the next morning.
Lijnbaansgracht 238
Amsterdam's progressive theater...
Zeedijk 1
Amsterdam's oldest bar...
Wibautstraat 150
Hip restaurant which transforms into a club at the weekend...
Egelantiersstraat 128- 130
Quaint art deco style theatre used for new artists to try out their acts...
Spuistraat 109
The most popular mainstream gay cafe/bar in Amsterdam...
Weteringschans 6-8
Near Leidseplein
The capital's pop temple...
Marnixstraat 403
At Leidseplein
Haunt of chic regulars...
Marnixstraat 397
Hipsters and Brit Pop...
Lijnbaansgracht 234
Near Leidseplein
Performance, dance and theater in a former milk factory...
Rokin 85
Trendy Irish pub with multiple rooms and live music...
Marnixstraat 401
Lounge of the trendy...
Warmoesstraat 129
Backpacker hang out with cheap drinks...
Pijlsteeg 31
Off the Dam
Taste one of over a hundred liqueur flavors in this historic bar...
Gravesandestraat 51
Multifunctional youth hostel...
Raamsteeg 4
Off Spui
Small local bar, big atmosphere!...
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 18
Off Leidseplein
Amsterdam's Club of the Rich and Famous...
Admiral de Ruijterweg 56B
All in One: Pool, Bar, Club...
Sint Jacobsstraat 8
Down to earth friendly gay/lesbian bar with a mix of age groups...
Wibautstraat 127
Trouw
The Creative Basement...
Rembrandtplein 44
Dinner, drinks and dancing all in one upscale location...