Amsterdam By Night: 10 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam at Night
Amsterdam is a lively city no matter the time of day or year, but it becomes much more vibrant at night. There are many fun things to do and exciting places to go.
Although Amsterdam is great during the day, experiencing Amsterdam at night is a must while you’re visiting.
And, listen, I’m not a huge partier. I’ve been to Amsterdam plenty of times and have spent many a night wandering around the city. Let it be known that you DON’T have to be big on parties or the Red Light District to enjoy the city’s nightlife.
There are plenty of interesting nighttime activities for all types of personalities in Amsterdam.
This post will help you make the most out of Amsterdam at night, giving you all my top tips on places to visit, things to do, and how to have the best experience.
Without further introduction, let’s get started!
Amsterdam By Night
Nightlife in Amsterdam is very varied, with clubs, bars, and other more relaxed venues to suit everyone’s tastes and preferences.
Most people may just picture the Red Light District when they think about Amsterdam’s nightlife, but there are so many fantastic city areas for a great night out.
And, no, they don’t all involve debauchery! Ha!
While everyone has their own ideas of what to expect from the city, there is so much more to Amsterdam’s nightlife than smoking cannabis, visiting adult-only shops and shows, or drinking a little too much Dutch beer!
Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein are two areas you should check out if you want to experience the best of Amsterdam by night. I absolutely love both of these areas and frequent them during my own personal visits to Amsterdam.
Neither have as many tourists as the Red Light District, but they do have great bars, street food, a lively atmosphere, and access to Dutch and international food and drinks.
For a more alternative scene, head to neighborhoods like Jordaan or De Pijp, where quirky bars and laid-back cafés have a more intimate vibe.
10 Best Things To Do In Amsterdam At Night
It can be difficult to figure out what’s safe, fun, and worthwhile to do in Amsterdam in the evening. Here are 10 of the best things to do at night-time while visiting Amsterdam:
1. Take in the City Views at A’DAM Lookout
At night, the popular A’DAM Lookout offers breathtaking panoramic views of Amsterdam’s illuminated skyline.
Located at the top of the A’DAM Tower, this observation deck provides a unique perspective of the city’s canals, historic buildings, and modern architecture, all beautifully glowing in the night sky.
For thrill-seekers, the “Over The Edge” swing lets you soar over the edge of the tower, adding an extra adrenaline rush.
There’s almost nothing more breathtaking than seeing the city light up from above- I highly recommend this as a romantic evening stop or a thrilling nighttime adventure.
2. Cruise the Famous Canals
While exploring Amsterdam, you simply must experience its extensive UNESCO-listed canal network. Canal boat tours are very popular among tourists, and there are lots of great companies to opt for.
Some people might say that a canal thing is a touristy thing to do, but taking a canal cruise is a fabulous way of experiencing the city at night.
Many cruises offer dinner or drinks, enhancing the experience with local cuisine and wine.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy evening or a special date, a nighttime canal cruise reveals the city’s beauty from a unique perspective and is a relaxing way to spend an evening.
⭐Click here to check availability for my favorite evening canal cruise!
3. Dance the Night Away at a Club
Dancing at Amsterdam’s nightclubs is a thrilling experience, with dozens of venues catering to a variety of musical preferences.
From underground beats to energetic, electric sounds, the city’s vibrant nightlife draws in partygoers and ravers from all around the world. And, even though I don’t often frequent clubs, I’ve never felt unsafe in any of Amsterdam’s venues.
Some of the city’s best DJs spin everything from techno to house, creating atmospheres so good that crowds dance and party well into the early morning hours.
Whether you’re looking for a laid-back boogie or a high-energy party, Amsterdam’s clubs will provide an unforgettable night.
4. Explore Museums in the Evening
If you’re not a party animal and prefer to have a more relaxed evening, then exploring some of the city’s museums that are open late could be the perfect task for you.
Visiting museums in the evening is a great way to avoid the daytime crowds, allowing you to explore exhibits at your own pace and take in information in a calm environment.
Fantastic museums and venues like the Anne Frank House, the Heineken Experience, FOAM, the Melkweg Expo rooms, and Madame Tussauds stay open into the evening hours on select days, allowing you to enjoy art, history, and culture long after the big crowds have gone home.
Check the museum websites for information on opening times. You may also want to double-check whether the museums you’re headed to are included on the Amsterdam City Card (You get free entry!).
5. Experience One of Amsterdam’s Coffeeshops
Cafés and coffeeshops are distinctly different in Amsterdam, and you should definitely know the difference!
Coffeeshops are locations where you can indulge in local snacks and refreshments along with cannabis, whereas cafés align with the typical definition of a coffee house that you might expect.
Nights at local Amsterdam coffeeshops are pretty relaxed and are often popular with travelers. They are very welcoming to both locals and tourists and offer a safe environment to unwind, often with cozy decor and warm lighting.
As an experienced visitor or a curious first-timer, an evening at a coffeeshop is a unique and casual way to experience Amsterdam’s relaxed way of life. I’ll admit, the first time I walked into one was a little bit intimidating, but everyone is really so friendly and welcoming!
⭐ Psst: If you’d feel more comfortable visiting a coffeeshop with a guide, this tour is a great option!
Make sure to always be responsible if you want to partake in the cannabis culture, sticking within your limits. Don’t allow yourself to be peer-pressured into anything you are uncomfortable with.
Some people prefer to avoid certain activities and that is completely okay, but you can also indulge in one of Amsterdam’s most cultural experiences if you’re up for it!
6. Watch a Movie at the Royal Theatre Tuschinski
The Tuschinski Theatre in Amsterdam has some of the city’s finest Art Deco architecture and is such a beautiful venue.
Built in the 1920s, the historic theatre has a unique cinema atmosphere with plush seating and elegant golden chandeliers. Watching a movie at this location will definitely make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time and is a great option for nighttime entertainment.
The theatre shows the latest blockbuster films alongside smaller indie films, mainly in English with Dutch subtitles, catering to a wide audience of locals and tourists.
Watching a movie at this theatre would be the perfect date idea if you’re traveling with a partner, especially seeing as there are dedicated “love seats” within the theatre that seat two people, allowing you to get cozy during your screening.
Make sure to reserve your tickets in advance if you’d like to avail of this popular amenity.
7. Wander Through the Red Light District
Wandering through Amsterdam’s Red Light District at night offers a unique glimpse into the city’s history and open-minded culture.
While often misunderstood, this area is more than its reputation. There is so much more to the Red Light District than you might think. And, I have to admit, I recommend that every visitor at least go take a quick walk through the area- just for culture’s sake.
The Red Light District is filled with beautiful canals, historic architecture, and a lively atmosphere. It particularly comes alive at night, with glowing red lights and bustling streets.
While most people won’t want to “avail of the ladies in their windows,” the district is a great region of the city, with lots of great pubs and bars to enjoy.
The Red Light District is far from something to avoid. In my experience, it’s a safe, well-patrolled area of the city, and an evening stroll through it offers an authentic peek at Amsterdam’s unique culture.
⭐If you’re a little uncomfortable at the thought of exploring alone, try taking this popular tour of the Red Light District or this guided RLD pub crawl!
8. Try Local Cuisine at Foodhallen
Foodhallen is a foodie’s paradise where you can sample a huge variety of international dishes all under one roof. It is a great spot for having dinner and one of my favorite spots in the city!
Located in a trendy converted tram depot, Foodhallen is the best indoor food market in Amsterdam, offering everything from sushi and curries to traditional Dutch snacks and foods you must try (like stroopwafels or bitterballen).
There are over 20 stalls at the food hall, making it the perfect place for a group to visit and indulge in delicious foods from all over the globe as a delightful evening meal.
My personal favorite are the brick oven pizzas from Renato’s, but visitors should absolutely try the bitterballen flight from De Ballenbar, where you can try a variety of different bitterballen- a traditional Dutch dish.
9. See a Live Comedy Show
Catching a live comedy show is a great way to enjoy your night in Amsterdam with guaranteed laughs and lots of fun.
Amsterdam has a buzzing comedy scene, with venues like Boom Chicago and The Comedy Embassy offering amazing English-language improv and stand-up performances.
You’ll find a fabulous mix of quick-witted satire and hilarious sketches that bring together local and international comedy talent.
There are shows every night across Amsterdam, so it won’t be hard to find something you love.
It’s also definitely not the most popular activity for tourists, so attending a comedy show will likely offer you a good opportunity to mix with locals too!
10. Visit a Brown Café
Brown cafés are uniquely Dutch and are lovely places to spend an evening. A visit to one is a must-do if you want to experience Amsterdam like a local.
Brown cafés are old-school, dimly lit taverns that are a pretty good equivalent to an English pub, but with their own unique Dutch charm.
With dark wooden interiors, warm lighting, and a laid-back, cozy vibe, brown cafés provide the perfect place to sip on a local beer or chat with strangers over a plate of authentic Dutch food.
You’ll find brown cafés all over the city, but some of the best include: In Het Aepjen, Checkpoint Charlie Amsterdam, Café Hoppe and Café Ruk & Pluk. Plus, they stay open pretty late into the night, so there’s no rush to leave!
Amsterdam Nightlife Guide
Amsterdam’s nightlife is pretty legendary, offering everything from vibrant, loud clubs and lively bars to laid-back cafés and live music venues.
If you’re into dancing the night away to the sounds produced by fabulous DJs, enjoying a cocktail in a trendy lounge or rooftop bar, or taking a relaxing canal cruise under the city’s twinkling lights, then there is certainly a great activity for you to enjoy in Amsterdam.
The city’s laid-back and open-minded vibe creates a welcoming atmosphere for all, making it easy to find your perfect night out.
If you want to specifically visit LGBTQ+ venues or experience some of Amsterdam’s infamous drag shows, then you’ll not have a hard time looking!
The city is home to numerous gay bars, clubs, and events where everyone is free to express themselves. Drag shows are a big part of the experience too, with lots of venues offering glamorous performances.
Amsterdam’s relaxed attitude towards things like cannabis and alcohol can be part of the appeal for many tourists, but it’s important to enjoy the scene responsibly. Tourists lacking respect in these areas have been a large push behind Amsterdam’s attempts to limit tourists in the past few years.
Keep your limits in mind, be mindful of local laws, and always respect the city’s property and its people. Public intoxication is frowned upon, and you’ll want to stay aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Best Clubs In Amsterdam
Here are a few of the best (and most unique!) clubs in Amsterdam that you should try to schedule into your nights out if you like to party!
Vondelbunker
Vondelbunker is a unique vintage venue located beneath Vondelpark and was originally constructed as an atomic bomb shelter during World War II (So geeking out over the history of this place!).
While it’s not exactly a club, it serves as a lively bar and live music space that offers an array of events, from concerts to art exhibitions.
Vondelbunker exudes a welcoming, all-inclusive atmosphere that attracts a diverse crowd of both tourists and locals.
Plus, it has free entry, making it an irresistible option for anyone looking to experience Amsterdam’s alternative nightlife scene in a truly distinctive setting.
Melkweg
Melkweg, which means “Milky Way” in Dutch, is a multipurpose cultural venue located in the city’s lively Leidseplein area, and it is one of my absolute favorite places in the city for an evening out.
The building was once a sugar refinery but has since been converted into a large venue space which hosts a wide variety of events, including live gigs, club nights, and even film screenings.
One of Melkweg’s standout features is its multiple rooms, allowing for a diverse range of club nights happening simultaneously. Unlike many Amsterdam venues that focus primarily on techno, Melkweg embraces a range of genres, from reggae to rock, ensuring that there’s always something to suit every musical taste.
Garage Noord
Garage Noord offers a unique club experience housed in an old car repair shop, transforming into a lively venue after 10.30 pm.
Located across the River IJ in the north of Amsterdam, the intimate space offers a cool, non-commercial vibe that sets it apart from other clubs.
Garage Noord features a diverse range of music and prides itself on being a welcoming environment for everyone.
Amsterdam At Night Tours
Taking a guided tour is a wonderful way to spend your evening in Amsterdam, and there are so many different tours to consider. Here are three of the best on the market that I would personally recommend:
Amsterdam: Evening Canal Cruise with Pizza and Drinks
⭐ Book the Evening Canal Cruise here if you’re looking for pizza, drinks, and an incredible sunset!
The evening is arguably the best time of day to take a canal cruise as the city begins to settle, with industry workers heading home and the city lights beginning to glow. But a canal cruise with pizza and drinks is a huge bonus!
The Evening Canal Cruise is perfect for families, friends, or couples, and offers a cool perspective on the city’s UNESCO-listed sights, with some great information offered by the guides.
On this tour, you’re invited to select from five pizza options and enjoy two drinks (alcoholic and soft) as you soak in the views of beautiful Amsterdam from the water.
Amsterdam Red Light District Pub Crawl
⭐ Book the Red Light District Pub Crawl here if you’re looking for a wild night out on the town (in a safe, guided environment)!
This pub crawl is not for the faint of heart! Trust me, I’ve done it myself!
With four pub and bar visits before heading to one of Amsterdam’s biggest clubs, you’ll need to be a big party-lover for this tour!
This tour is the perfect way of discovering the best of Amsterdam’s nightlife, with complimentary drinks, free club entry, and unlimited shots. It’s perfect for socializing, meeting fellow travelers and exploring the city’s bar and club scene.
The Red Light District pub crawl continues well into the early hours, under the care of your guide, beginning in the renowned Black Tiger pub in the Red Light District.
Amsterdam: Red Light District Guided Tour
⭐ Book the Red Light District Guided Tour here to get a glimpse of the culture and history of this famous area of Amsterdam!
This tour is perfect if you want to get to grips with the history and culture of the Red Light District, and as the tour is in the evening, you’ll get to view the area at its peak.
Beginning at the Amsterdam Voyager Hotel, the Red Light District Guided Tour will walk you through the old town and Chinatown, and teach you about the Red Light District’s rich history.
As you explore the area, your guide will elaborate on what role prostitution plays in city life, the history of Amsterdam’s liberal laws, and several other fascinating facts, stopping at several sites along the way.
The main aim is that you’ll leave the tour with a new understanding and appreciation of the district’s history and its workers. Expect plenty of misconceptions to be quashed!
Amsterdam Nightlife FAQs
Is Amsterdam fun at night?
Amsterdam is a very fun city to explore at night, with so many great things to see and do. The nightlife scene is incredible, with partygoers coming from all over the world to experience the late-night raves. I could honestly spend forever in Amsterdam, I think.
Can you walk around Amsterdam at night?
Amsterdam is very safe to walk around at night; I have never felt unsafe- even if I was walking around De Wallen in the wee hours of the morning.
The city never sleeps, meaning there are constantly crowds around that can add to your sense of safety. But, like any city, it’s best to stick to well-lit areas and stay aware of your surroundings.
Can you go to Amsterdam Red Light District?
The Red Light District in Amsterdam is open to everyone to walk around and is usually heaving with crowds of tourists, especially at night. Picture the Strip in Las Vegas, but multiply it by 10.
If you’d like to go, then remember to be respectful, don’t take photographs, and do not smoke or drink alcohol in public.
How do you get around Amsterdam at night?
From midnight to 6 AM, there is a night bus service that connects the entire city of Amsterdam, allowing you get back to your accommodation late into the night.
Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are another great option for getting around the city, but I recommend only using them at night if needed.
Things to Do in Amsterdam at Night: Conclusion
Amsterdam is a fantastic city to explore by night. Even if you aren’t big on partying, you’re guaranteed to have some great evenings in this lively city.
With comedy shows, brilliant bars, late-night museums and so much more, Amsterdam has so much to offer by night and you’ll likely make some of your best memories in the city in the evening.
Club-lovers will find their paradise in Amsterdam, with so many unique venues offering a diverse range of dance music, allowing everyone to find their favorite style of party.
No matter how you plan to spend your evenings in Amsterdam, it’s important to be responsible, be mindful of your limits and always stay aware of your surroundings, especially after it gets dark.
