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22 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam at Night in 2024

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam and love hitting the town after dark then this post about the best things to do in Amsterdam at night is for you.

After all, I have been to Amsterdam countless times and always love enjoying the best things to do in Amsterdam at night.

Yeah, Amsterdam is just incredible once the sun sets since the city is filled with epic clubs, awesome bars, and amazing jazz joints.

So, if you’re not sure what to do in Amsterdam at night then stick around. Because this article is filled with expert tips and hidden gems that you will adore!

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Best Things to Do in Amsterdam at Night

1. Embark on an Evening Canal Cruise

A view of the canals of Amsterdam all lit up in the evening, It's stunning and a boat trip through th canals is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night.

⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5.0 (994 Reviews) Price: $27.25 per person Duration: 1 hour 📍Meeting Point: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 230 Operator: Starboard Boats Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Cruising through the picturesque canals of the city is hands down one of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night.

And, there are tons of tours to – ahem – navigate your way through.

But, I’ve done the hard work for you and can confirm that this evening canal cruise with drinks is the cream of the crop.

See, they have a covered canal boat for winter and open boats for the summer. Plus, you have multiple evening departures available with the last one setting sail between 10 pm and 10:30 pm.

“Jay and his captain who I forgot the name of were great tour guides. It was an awesome experience I highly reccomend to anyone! Perfect for adults who want to see Amsterdam and learn a bit about the history. I asked the tour guide about sites we saw and he was SO informative. Thank you guys!”

Eve (read more reviews now)

Plus, the itinerary is epic and has you hopping from canal to canal.

So, leaving from Oudezijds Voorburgwal, you’ll float past the Red Light District and the NEMO Science Museum.

The standard option covers you for two alcoholic drinks onboard. But, a modest surcharge upgrades you to unlimited drinks. Yeah, go for the unlimited drinks because it is well worth it.

Although, this Amsterdam boat tour is only an hour long. So, keep that in mind when selecting the best tour for you.

However, the length of this cruise makes it the perfect addition to any Amsterdam itinerary.

Pro Tip: Based on the season, there are often themed cruises. Like the mega epic Amsterdam Light Festival…

ProsCons
Includes unlimited drinks or at least two drinksNo hotel pick up offered
Has a variety of departure times to suit all schedulesHard to see out of the front of the boat
Very well-priced tour
Fun, party vibe that is enhanced by nice guides

2. Experience the Amsterdam Light Festival in Winter

Stunning blue lights that sit on sticks along the shores of the canals in Amsterdam. These are the lights from the lights festival in winter which is one of the best night activities Amsterdam has to offer.

⭐️ Rating: 4.3/5.0 (280 Reviews) Price: $43.06 per person Duration: 75 minutes 📍Meeting Point: See website Operator: Starboard Boats Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

The what? The Amsterdam Light Festival is a special winter festival that occurs only in January and February.

In a nutshell, the whole city center is illuminated with twinkling light installations and artistic displays that make this one of the best night activities in Amsterdam.

Yeah, it is one mega epic tribute to art, creativity, science, and modern tech.

Experiencing this magical festival is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night in winter.

And, it’s way better from the water with this Amsterdam Light Festival cruise with unlimited drinks.

Bundled up under a cozy blanket, you’ll sip beer, mulled wine, or soda while journeying past 20 of the best light installations.

“Iris and Paul were absolutely fantastic. Iris our guide was amazing and explained everything so well and was willing to answer questions. So engaging and so friendly. A lot of drink on board which was great. The education behind the light show is fascinating. I would 100% recommend as my boyfriend and I had an amazing time on this cruise!!!. The light show is beautiful.”

Abi (read more reviews now)

Plus, the tour price includes the ticket price for the festival as well as the cruise.

ProsCons
Includes the fee for the lights festivalCan be delayed due to traffic on the water
Get unlimited glühwein, beer, and soft drinks with this tourLight installations can sometimes be hard to see
Quick and easy way to see 20 of the best light installations
You can open the window to get a better look if it rains

3. Walk through the Red Light District

View of the red hue of the red light district in the evening.

⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (515 Reviews) Price: $21.75 per person Duration: 50 minutes 📍Meeting Point: Club BonTon, Stadhouderskade 64-1, 1072 AD Operator: Tour de Bonton Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Now, Amerstam’s Red Light District has garnered quite a reputation over the years.

In fact, De Wallen earned its nickname in the 19th century when brothel owners used gas lights to show customers what type of business they had.

After all, the Red Light District comprises of sex clubs, sex shops, peep shows, and even a sex museum that is a cool hidden gem in Amsterdam.

And while roaming around De Wallen after hours isn’t for everyone, this brothel tour with a former sex worker is an interesting way of going about it.

See, this tour takes place in the VIP rooms of Bonton – a high-end strip club that draws a mixed crowd.

There, your guide – an ex-sex worker – shares funny anecdotes plus an insightful history of legal prostitution in the Netherlands.

“Very interesting and informative tour – completely changed our perspective of the sex worker industry! Angel was a fantastic guide, she told us her story and shared her experiences as a sex worker. Would absolutely recommend this tour! Thank you Angel!”

Hannah (read more reviews now)

Plus, they’ll talk about what it’s really like to work in the sex industry and how women are kept safe.

At the end, you’re invited to try your moves on the strip poles (it’s totally private, FYI). So, yeah, this is clearly one of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night.

ProsCons
Get a unique perspective on the inner workings of the sex industry from a former sex workerExperience discussed can sometimes feel generic
Entry to an exclusive brothel with access to VIP roomsSometimes the guide doesn’t talk much and gives you too much time to explore on your own
Get to try out the stripper pole
Guides are open, honest, and very friendly

4. Relax at a Coffee Shop

View of the green letters that say coffeeshop on a brick building in Amsterdam.

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (2011 Reviews) Price: $39.79 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: Varies Operator: :Trigger Tours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Yup, there’s more than flat whites on the menu at coffee shops in Amsterdam.

See, these ganga cafes are an institution and one of the most popular things to do in Amsterdam at night.

Obviously, you can always dedicate an evening to touring these independently as you enjoy the best nightlife in Amsterdam.

On the other hand, you can always sign up for a Red Light District and coffee shop tour.

Available as a private or shared tour, this evening activity in Amsterdam combines history and nightlife.

“Our tour guide was simply amazing! Our tour on November 24th was changed from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. due to the illness of our actual tour guide – but that was really great 👍👍👍 because our support at 6:00 p.m. was very entertaining, funny, flexible and really easy to understand. I wish we always had such positive people who would bring us closer to the city. We are still thrilled! 🤩 Thanks for that!”

Petra (read more reviews now)

The itinerary focuses on coffee shops but the commentary chronicles the city’s liberal attitude towards recreational drugs and legal prostitution.

And, since you’re with a local guide, you’ll walk away with secret tips on where to continue your night out after the tour.

So, this tour is perfect for cannabis-curious travelers and regular consumers alike.

Pro Tip: It’s legal to enjoy marijuana in coffee shops in Amsterdam. But, that doesn’t extend to other bars, pubs, clubs, and public spaces.

And if you get hungry after your visit, try some of the best desserts in Amsterdam.

ProsCons
Guided tour through the Red Light District with a local guideCan be difficult to hear the guide in a large group
Get to see a lot of major landmarksCan spend significant time just sitting in a bar and chatting with your group
Very knowledgable guides who have great info to shareA tour can sometimes feel hurried and end before 2 hours are over
Get to see ten different landmarks, including the most famous coffeeshop in Amsterdam

5. Bike Through Amsterdam at Night

A line of bikes sitting on a bike rack next to a set of row houses in Amsterdam.

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (123 Reviews) Price: $13.77 per person Duration: 3 hours – 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Varies Operator: MacBike Bike Rental Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Ahh, Amsterdam, and bikes go together like cheese and crackers.

So, biking along the canals is an absolute must-do and it’s one of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night.

Plus, this is one of those activities that works just as well for Amsterdam solo travelers as well as couples and families with tiny tots.

See, Amsterdam is totally bike-friendly since the entire infrastructure of the city is geared toward cyclists.

“The guys at Macbike were very accommodating to us. Alternately, you have to be an expert at riding bikes to ride in Amsterdam. Riders there have that down to a science! Harder to ride in Amsterdam than we thought due to so much bike and people traffic, but it was a great experience!”

Anonymous (read more reviews now)

Additionally, bike rentals are readily available in Amsterdam. But, this bike rental firm is one of the most professional companies with awesome prices for a full day’s rental.

And – all hires include locks. I mean, you know you’ll be stopping constantly for photos and to grab refreshments from the cute little canalside bars.

ProsCons
Prices are very reasonableNeed to be a pro when renting a bike in Amsterdam
Have the option to rent for a full day or three hoursThe bikes are in really good condition
The company is very accommodating
The bikes are in really food condition

6. Stroll Along the Canals

A view of canal boats running up and down Amsterdam. The trees lining the canals are green, the sky is blue, and there is a church steeple in the background. You can see all this during one of the bets food tours in Amsterdam.

If you’d rather not cycle then your feet have you covered when it comes to exploring some of the best canals and most famous streets in Amsterdam.

Now, there is no bad time to wander along the postcard-pretty canals of Amsterdam.

See them at first light, explore them in the early morning with a coffee, or feel the buzz of people all around you in the afternoon.

But, canal wandering is definitely one of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night.

Of course, sunset is prime time because you’ll see the light change and then the twinkling street lights come on.

Although, it’s the easiest time of day to get lost and lose your bearings. Therefore, you should book this sunset canal walking tour in Amsterdam.

Your savvy local guide will take you along the prettiest canals. Like, Herengracht, Singel, Prinsengracht, and Keizersgracht. Oh, and there’ll be 16 bridges in total – great for the legs and the camera roll.

Culminating in New Market Square, you’ll graduate with sound intel on where to eat and drink around De Wallen.

7. Sip on Cocktails at a Secret Speakeasy

⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (3 Reviews) Price: $142.52 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up is available Operator: City Unscripted Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Naturally, hitting the bars is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night. I mean, this city is world-famous for its nightlife.

But where to start? Always, always, enlist a local for guidance.

This private night tour of Amsterdam speakeasies and bars focuses on the Jordaan and Amsterdam East neighborhoods.

And, your local guide will design the itinerary based on your personal interests in the best Amsterdam nightlife.

Note, the price includes small bites and three beers or two glasses of wine each.

“We had a nice time with guide Anna.”

Anonymous (read more reviews now)

Essentially, the cost per head decreases based on the size of the group. Therefore, it’s a great option if you’re traveling with a large group.

Although, you can always rustle up your dorm mates or folk from a local co-working space if you’re traveling solo or as part of a twosome.

By the end, you’ll be a pro on where to drink (and where not to) in Amsterdam.

Heck, before saying goodbye the guide will even leave you with a list of extra recommendations for secret speakeasies and offbeat bars to visit during your 3 days in Amsterdam.

ProsCons
Cheaper for large groupsExpensive for small groups
Some drinks and bar snacks are includedTransportation/additional food and drinks not included
Pick-up is available
Private tour with a custom itinerary

8. Book the Heineken Experience

View of a Heineken beer in a bar that is surrounded by pink lights.

⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (398 Reviews) Price: $65.69 per person Duration: 2.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Stadhouderskade 78, 1072 AE Operator: GetYourGuide Tours & Tickets GmbH Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

It might be the most famous beer on the planet and it all started right here in Amsterdam.

Nowadays, the Heineken Experience invites you to walk through the history of this pale lager.

Obviously, you’ll get to sample the goods as you roam through the old brewery and do a cool, interactive history tour.

“The tour is very interesting! The price is absolutely worth the VIP Experience choice. We were certainly lucky to meet Storm as a guide. The top. Great at stories, not boring at all, funny, expert and really kind!”

Matteo (read more reviews now)

In particular, this exclusive Heineken Experience VIP tour ticket is your best option since you’ll get a behind-the-scenes tour with a Heineken guru.

You’ll also score access to one of the site’s hidden bars and sip on premium varieties of the beloved brand.

Naturally, this is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night for beer lovers from all around the world who are also looking for the best nightlife in Amsterdam.

ProsCons
Get to sample five premium beersThe food can be mediocre
Get to explore secret bars that regular visitors won’t get to seeThe beer tasting can feel a bit fast
A selection of snacks are included with the tour
A selection of snacks is included with the tour

9. Join the Orginal Amsterdam Pub Crawl

A series of three neon signs on the exterior of a brick building in Amsterdam. The signs have pink and turqouise lettering and advertise the best bars in Amsterdam.

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (21 Reviews) Price: $33.66 per person Duration: 6 hours 📍Meeting Point: The Waterhole Operator: Original Amsterdam Tours Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Taking a pub crawl is a right of passage for any traveler exploring Europe.

And, the Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night for social butterflies.

Led by the friendliest folk in the city, you’ll experience Amerstam’s most cherished pubs, bars, and clubs.

As a minimum, you’ll hit one of each. Plus, this epic tour gives you VIP entry to the club.

“Went on a cool pub crawl with fun guides! The rest of the people on the tour were super great! My wife and I met loads of them and had a great time in our short stay in Amsterdam.”

Misha (read more reviews now)

So, don’t worry because you’ll never have to wait in line on a nippy winter’s night in Amsterdam.

Furthermore, you’ll receive freebie shots and mega-cheap drinks too.

Of course, the pub crawl is epic for solo travelers eager to mingle. But, it’s super inclusive to existing groups and couples as well – especially if you only have a day in Amsterdam.

ProsCons
Get to visit 3+ cool barsNot wheelchair accessible
Get VIP access to an epic club
Great way to meet other travelers
Get free shots and cheap drinks

10. Drink Polar-Themed Cocktails at Amsterdam IceBar

⭐️ Rating: 4.2/5.0 (5346 Reviews) Price: $27.05 per person Duration: 45 minutes 📍Meeting Point: Amsterdam Ice Bar Operator: Tours & Tickets Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Experience the “coolest” drinking venue in Amsterdam. Everything at Amsterdam IceBar is made from ice , including the walls, the seats, and the glasses!

Essentially, 35 tons of natural ice have been used to make the bar. Although the temperature is kept at 14°F (-10°C), you’ll feel super warm in the gloves and jacket that they give you.

Now, only this Amsterdam Icebar entry ticket covers admission plus three drinks. So, that means a welcome cocktail plus two further libations of your choosing.

“We loved our visit to the Ice bar. The price was worth it. We got there a little early and were able to go in and take our time to enjoy our first drink. The drink options were fun and good variety. They called our group time and we went into the actual ice bar and stayed for about 20-30 minutes. They probed coats and gloves. If you need them. The ice bar drinks were great. We did a shot then the ice cold beer. So much fun. A unique and fun experience. We loved it and recommend. Afterwards you can purchase the photos they took of you in the ice car or purchase the vodka they gave as shots. We bought the vodka because it was so good! And the photos. We were within walking distance of our hotel so we didn’t need transportation.”

Chanel (read more reviews now)

Plus, this ticket guarantees you the time slot of your choice.

Sure, ice bars are a growing trend all over the world. But, it’s still one of the b-b-best things to do in Amsterdam at night.

ProsCons
Three drinks are included with the price of admissionYou can only book a ticket if you are 18 or older
One of the most unusual things to do in AmsterdamCan get cold and crowded in the bar
Get gloves and a jacket to keep you warmCan only visit during your designated time slot
Lots of fun types of drinks to choose from

11. Save Lots of Euros with the Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket

View of the bright lights and canals of the Red Light District in Amsterdam in the evening.

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (2 Reviews) Price: $29.81 per person Duration: 2 days 📍Meeting Point: House of Bols; Paulus Potterstraat 12, 1071 CZ Operator: The New Event Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Now, if you’re all about enjoying the best nightlife in Amsterdam then get acquainted with the Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket.

This is a combo package that grants access to the best bars and clubs in the city. With over 20 clubs to choose from, it’s perfect for a travel itinerary revolving around Amsterdam night activities.

“Something different – a very interesting tour through the world of liqueurs.”

Harold (read more reviews now)

Additionally, you can partake in select events and experiences, like New Year’s Eve parties and that kind of thing.

So, purchase the most exclusive Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket today and enjoy two full days of nighttime fun in Amsterdam.

Plus – you get admission to the classy House of Bols + one free cocktail.

ProsCons
Valid for two full daysOnly makes sense if you’re seriously into the best things to do in Amsterdam in the evening
Get access to lots of special events
Get free admission to the House of Bols
One complimentary alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink

12. Swing by Amsterdam Museums After Hours

A self-portrait of Vincent Van Gogh in the Van Gogh Museum. He is wearing a blue short and wide brim, tan hat.

In Amsterdam, the setting of the sun doesn’t put a stop to the cultural fun!

Actually, visiting museums is a great option for anyone wondering what to do in Amsterdam in the evening.

However, not all museums are open until late so you’ll need to do some homework before you visit.

For starters, the Stedelijk Museum has ad hoc late nights each year and the Van Gogh Museum hosts semi-regular late-night Fridays.

Plus, the Nxt Museum has groovy light installations that are open until 8:30 pm most nights and until 10:30 pm from Thursday through Saturday.

Pro Tip: if museums are your thing then buy the Amsterdam City Card. It covers entry to countless museums and gives you a bunch of discounts/bonuses at various attractions and restaurants.

These include free transport (handy after a night out in De Wallen), free bike rentals, and a free canal cruise in Amsterdam.

Yup, it’s a great way to save money. Because, trust me when I tell you, Amsterdam isn’t a cheap place to vacation.

13. Watch a Movie at the Pathé Tuschinski Theater

Catch a movie at Pathé Koninklijk Theater Tuschinski and you’ll never want to spend a Friday night in your local multiplex again.

See, the Pathé Koninklijk Theater occupies a 1920s arthouse cinema in Rembrandtplein with all the Art Nouveau and Art Deco flourishes that you could ever want.

Inside, the space is filled with sumptuous, red velvet couches and shimmering gold frescoes.

On the bill, you’ll find a mix of new releases, classics, and seasonal favorites.

So, the Tuschinski Theater is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night if you’re not into partying.

Although, you can always pick up a glass of wine from the equally glamorous bar.

Pro Tip: You can also do a guided tour of the theater upon request. The tour is 90 minutes long and costs €11.50 per person.

Address: Reguliersbreestraat 26-34, 1017 CN Amsterdam, Netherlands

Hours: Varies

Price: Tickets start at €15.50 each.

How to Get There: Take the M 52 to Rokin and walk from there.

14. Eat at Foodhallen

Me holding a Stroopwafel from Albert Cuyp Market during my 3 days in Amsterdam itinerary,.

Eating at Foodhallen is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night for foodies. Especially if you’re in a mixed group with varying tastes.

Now, this gigantic food court in the De Hallen shopping complex has stalls that serve up Dutch classics like bitterballen.

However, take your pick from seafood, Mediterranean mezes, vegetarian curries, and Vietnamese banh mi. There are also beer and cocktail kiosks on-site as well as live DJs most nights.

Plus, the building itself is interesting to have a gander at as it was once a tram depot. These days, it has a great big ceiling and skylight that is atmospheric at dusk.

Address: Hannie Dankbaarpassage 16, 1053 RT Amsterdam, Netherlands

Hours: Open Monday through Thursday from 12:00 pm to 12:00 am, Friday/Saturday from 12:00 pm to 1:00 am, and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Price: Varies

How to Get There: Take tram 13 to Bilderdijkstraat and walk from there.

15. Visit a Craft Brewery

A flight of four different beers that range from light to dark. The beers sit in round glassed on a wood bar.

Heineken isn’t the only brewery in town. In fact, Amsterdam has tons of craft breweries and indie beer bars to choose from.

In fact, splitting a flight and portion of bitterballen at the Brouwerij De Prael microbrewery is one of the best things to do at night in Amsterdam.

Plus, this laid-back tap room has an ever-changing stock of pale ales and IPAs alongside blondes and stouts. The staff are also very obliging with personalized recommendations.

But, on the other side of De Wallen, Proeflokaal Arendsnest is a bar rather than a brewery. They also offer over 100 Dutch craft beers on tap and by the bottle.

It’s also very jolly inside with lots of wood paneling. Additionally, it’s always rad to sit outside by the canal on a warmer evening.

16. See a Concert at the Concertgebouw

Another fancy option, the Concertgebouw is a landmark concert hall in Amsterdam’s Museumkwartier.

It opened in the late 19th century and sits up there with Vienna’s Musikverein as a top-notch concert venue with superior acoustics.

So, seeing a concert here is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night for a special occasion.

In truth, you’ll want to see an orchestra or symphony to get a true sense of how awesome this place really is.

However, the movie soundtrack concerts are always a huge hit – these are cool for families as well as couples and groups. Although, the Concertgebouw also hosts other types of music from time to time.

Address: Concertgebouwplein 10, 1071 LN Amsterdam, Netherlands

Hours: Varies

Price: Varies

How to Get There: Take public transport to Museumplein and walk from there.

17. Catch the Sunset at A’DAM Tower

View of the modern A'DAM Tower on the river in Amsterdam.

Who doesn’t go gooey-eyed at a beautiful sunset lighting up the sky? FYI, in Amsterdam, sunset symbolizes that twilight shenanigans are close at hand!

Now, the A’DAM Tower (A’DAM Toren) sits on the Amstel River in Amsterdam-Noord.

Therefore, the 360-degree views from the sky deck of the port, the historic center, and the canals are absolutely stunning.

And, if you’re the courageous type, you can buy a ticket to ride the swing. There is even a VR terminal too.

Just remember that catching the sunset at A’DAM Tower is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night when there’s minimal cloud coverage.

Furthermore, party animals should visit on a Friday or Saturday since the observatory transforms into a nightclub in the sky.

Address: Overhoeksplein 1, 1031 KS Amsterdam, Netherlands

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Price: €14.50

How to Get There: Take public transportation to Amsterdam Central Station and walk 10 minutes to the tower from there.

18. See a Performance at the Dutch National Ballet & Opera

Catching a show at the National Ballet & Opera is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night for culture vultures.

See, this waterfront venue is the headquarters for both the Dutch National Ballet and the Dutch National Opera. As such, it hosts the most grandiose stage shows in the city.

Plus, shows come with all the bells and whistles like costume, stage design, sound, and lighting. The country’s leading performers also stop by.

Now, the program is a mix of classics, groundbreaking new productions, and family shows.

Note, productions are often put on for only a couple of weeks at a time. Therefore, advance booking is essential.

Address: Amstel 3, 1011 PN Amsterdam, Netherlands

Hours: Varies but performances can start at 4:00 pm, 7:30 pm, 8:00 pm, 10:00 pm, etc.

Price: Varies

How to Get There: Take M 53 to Waterlooplein and walk from there.

19. Grab a Drink at Café De Dokter

A beer tasting at Torch and Crown, one of the best breweries in NYC

It goes without saying that there are millions or zillions of cool bars in Amsterdam.

But, as someone who has wound up in a lot of subpar joints, make Café De Dokter one of the places you must visit.

Why? It’s totally unpretentious and has an Aladdin’s Cave of treasures to pore over while slurping on a beer or delicious cocktail.

Meanwhile, ambient jazz sets a mellow tone. It’s also located near Rokin. So, it’s a good place to stop for a pre-drink before descending into the madness of De Wallen.

Otherwise, just settle into Café De Dokter for the night.

It’s also one of the best places to drink in Amsterdam at night among locals since the bartenders are super friendly.

Pro Tip: It’s tiny so be prepared to stand and then dash for a seat as soon as one opens up. FYI, this place was founded by a Dutch surgeon (hence the name) which only adds to the intrigue.

Address: Rozenboomsteeg 4, 1012 PR Amsterdam, Netherlands

Hours: Open Wednesday through Saturday from 4:00 pm to 1:00 am.

Price: Varies

How to Get There: Take the M 52 to Rokin and walk from there.

20. Check Out the Amsterdam Jazz Scene

Two men playing jazz in a dark room with cabby hats and a sax and trumpet.

There’s nothing like sipping on an old-fashioned in a dimly lit lounge with a bit of jazz in the background.

Or, chilling in a swanky joint where Champagne flows. Heck, maybe even a pumping dancehall.

Because one of the best things to do at night in Amsterdam is to hit the diverse jazz scene. This is concentrated in the Leidseplein enclave.

In particular, Jazz Café Alto has an intimate atmosphere and an eclectic feel. Sure, food isn’t available. But, the drinks are top-notch and include a mix of beers and spirits.

You can also hit Bourbon Street for a more clubby vibe. This place even hosts touring international artists and open jam session nights.

And, for a classy dinner complete with a live jazz soundtrack, book a table at Restaurant Pompstation in Zeeburg.

21. Dance at Melkweg or Bar ‘t Hartje

Looking for more of a party place? Then check out what’s going on at Melkweg.

See, this former milk factory is now the backbone of the clubbing scene in Amsterdam. In fact, this is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam in the evening if you want to dance.

Plus, nights are a real mix of techno, drum and bass, pop, reggae, K-pop, hip-hop, R&B, and Latin. They even host concerts and drag shows as well as movies and cultural festivals.

Pro Tip: Check out what’s on in advance because some events do sell out.

Right down the road, Bar ‘t Hartje is another top contender if you’re wondering where to dance in Amsterdam. Drinks are cheap, tunes are cheesy, and it’s guaranteed to be a fun night out.

22. Sing Along to Live Music at Paradiso

Of all the Amsterdam nightlife spots for big-energy music, Paradiso (like Melkweg) never fails to impress.

Originally the Cosmic Relaxation Center Paradiso, this iconic venue has been a meeting point for young locals since 1968.

Over the years, it’s welcomed David Bowie, the Rolling Stones, Nirvana, and Prince.

Furthermore, this nightclub is installed in an old church next to Holland Casino. It has unreal acoustics and is an unusual spot for singing along to a live band.

Nowadays, Paradiso has a diverse offering although it still focuses on rock, punk, indie pop, and new-age music, with regular techno nights too.

All in all, this temple of music is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night if you’re a fanatic about seeing live acts and talented DJs in quirky locations.

Address: Weteringschans 6-8, 1017 SG Amsterdam, Netherlands

Hours: Varies

Price: Varies

How to Get There: Take the N97 to Leidseplein and walk from there.

Map of the Best Things to Do in Amsterdam at Night

Map of the best things to do in Amsterdam at night with blue dots to represent the best places around.

Best Things to Do in Amsterdam at Night FAQs

Is Amsterdam Fun at Night?

Yes! Amsterdam is very fun at night. In fact, it is the place to be if you are into EDM since many of the world’s best DJs perform at clubs until early in the morning.

Can You Walk Around Amsterdam at Night?

Yes, you can walk around Amsterdam at night since it is a fairly safe city. Crime rates are low and people are fairly chill.

How Late Are Things Open in Amsterdam?

When it comes to stores, most businesses in Amsterdam are open from 9:00 am/10:00 am to 6:00 pm (or 5:00 pm on Saturdays). However, by law stores have to close by 10:00 pm.

Just be aware that most markets/shops are closed on Sundays and Monday mornings.

What is the Famous Night Street in Amsterdam?

The famous night street in Amsterdam is Leidseplein. It is home to the best nightlife in Amsterdam and is filled with hot clubs, epic bars, and cool evening activities.

That just about wraps up this guide to the best things to do in Amsterdam at night.

Tell me, did your picks for the best things to do at night in Amsterdam make the list? If not then let me know now!

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