Ever since the Coronavirus pandemic hit in 2020, live music and touristic foreign travel have been halted until the situation improves. This means that when we can begin travelling again, many of us might base the destination on how well it scratches our live music itch and Amsterdam certainly ticks those boxes. So here are the top five live music spots in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam is a cultural magnet for its live music options. For the purpose of this list I have tried to include a variety of locations that cater as many musical tastes as possible. This is by no means a complete list but hopefully you find something you like!
Image source: Holland.com
1. Melkweg, Capacity: 1,500
Beginning our list with a particularly diverse option is the Melkweg, located in Leidseplein, one of the most popular nightlife areas in Amsterdam. It is found inside a renovated and rustic dairy (Melkweg translates to ‘Milky Way’), the venue is divided into separate spaces of varying sizes and functions.
There are four halls dedicated to a variety of music genres, including hip-hop, electronica and jazz. Not only this, but the venue also features club nights, theatre performances and features an in-house cinema and restaurant. So the Melkweg has everything you need for a complete nightlife experience in one prime location.
Image source: AllThingsLoud
2. Paradiso, Capacity: 1,500-1,750
Another venue at a unique historical location, Paradiso is situated inside a 19th-century church. Although the building has undergone a dramatic transition from its original purpose, it has preserved a lot of its original aesthetics and charm such as several illuminated church windows and high ceilings.
With several stages over several floors, the Paradiso has hosted a multitude of iconic acts. David Bowie, AC/DC, Arctic Monkeys and Guns ‘N’ Roses are just a fraction of the names that have graced this iconic rock venue. Situated in Weteringschans, near Leidseplein, it is in a central location in a bustling nightlife district.
Image source: Viator
3. Het Concertgebouw, Capacity: 2,000+
Now for something a bit different, Het Concertgebouw (“concert building”) is a neoclassical concert hall located at Museumplein, a public space that houses various cultural centres. The Concertgebouw is regarded as one of the finest classical music venues in the world as a result of its uniquely wonderful acoustics.
The site also features several subsections including a designated recital hall and choir hall; pushing the overall capacity to over 2,000. This venue is also the home to the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. Considered one of the most significant symphony orchestras in the world.
Some of the best acoustics and musicians in Holland? A winning formula for any classical music fan looking for a Dutch experience.
Image source: Wikipedia
4. Ziggo Dome, Capacity: 17,000
he largest venue on this list by a country mile, the Ziggo Dome is an indoor arena located in the Bijlmermeer neighbourhood and stands at a whopping 17,000 capacity. It is primarily used for live music however a variety of shows such as the final of the Korfbal League as well as ice skating, tennis and other sporting events.
In regards to notable music acts, this flashy venue has hosted the very biggest in the business. Madonna, Bruno Mars, U2 and RHCP are just a few examples. Think of any commercially successful, global artist and they are probably on the Ziggo Dome’s resume’. Definitely a venue to plan your Dutch trip around if you can time your schedule to a tour.
Image source: TripAdvisor
5. Maloe Melo, Capacity: N/A
The last option on this list is the most casual of all. Located in Lijnbaansgrach, this family-run blues bar is internationally renowned as a spot for an authentic, live music experience. An impressive feat considering Maloe Melo is the least ‘commercial’ venue on the list.
Maloe Melo welcomes you in with its friendly atmosphere and unique wall and ceiling art. The venue is plastered with photos of iconic blues and rock artists that have graced the stage in this unique ‘hidey hole’. While most acts will be lesser-known local and travelling artists, it is definitely worth paying a visit to if you are in the area.
Final Words
While this list barely scratches the surface, it demonstrates the variety of choices for live music experiences in Amsterdam. The Dutch capital caters to fans of all genres and tastes but you will be particularly impressed if you are a fan of blues or jazz, as these appear to be prominent scenes in the city.
So there you have it, The top five live music spots in Amsterdam. Whether you want the polish and glamour of a commercial arena, get down and dirty in a local blues bar or somewhere in between. Amsterdam has you covered. Stay tuned for more travel-related content coming soon! Or if you prefer visual art, we have you covered!
