It’s time to ditch the bikes and plant your feet firmly on the dance floor – Amsterdam is one place where the party doesn’t stop.
The capital of the Netherlands takes its nightlife seriously and has even appointed a former club promoter, Mirik Milan, as ‘Night Mayor’ to oversee after-dark festivities (many European countries have since followed suit).
From old technology school buildings to circus tents, Amsterdam’s houses of fun come in all shapes and sizes across all regions of the city. So fetch yourself a drink (perhaps a locally brewed glass of Brouwerij het IJ?) and get ready to break it down on some of Amsterdam’s most famous dance floors.
Amsterdam after dark: Beyond the red light district
1. De School
De School, Doctor Jan van Breemenstraat 1, 1056 AB Amsterdam, Netherlands
For all educational purposes, this is Amsterdam’s premier nightlife spot. Housed in a former technology school in Amsterdam’s west, De School opened its doors in 2016 and has been a hit on the club scene ever since.
It’s the successor to Trouw – a much-loved and innovative nightclub that closed its doors after five years of operation in early 2015.
De School’s programming gives way for local house and techno DJs to spin their tunes and play extended sets. Occasionally, international guests also drop in to lay down their beats on the basement dance floor – a former bike shed.
De School holds a 24-hour licence on selected weekends. The 700-capacity venue includes artistic studios, a school-themed café, restaurant and concert venue.
De School has a strict door policy that may result in you being turned away without reason. Best way to increase your chances? Be on your best behaviour and do your research on how to get in, as this is one class you definitely don’t want to skip!
2. De Marktkantine
De Martkantine, Jan van Galenstraat 6 1051 KM Amsterdam, Netherlands
Dig out the pocket money, grab a friend and get set for the ultimate trip to the canteen. An ode to its beginnings as a market canteen – built in 1936 for Dutch traders – this venue has evolved over the years from hosting music, theatre and food to incorporating all three in one of Amsterdam’s most loved mixed spaces.
Reopened in 2014, the renovated space has proven itself popular among young Amsterdammers as a top spot to party the night away. The venue will be a temporary fixture until 2019. Skip the queue and get in early!
3. Sugar Factory
Sugar Factory, Lijnbaansgracht 238 1017 Binnenstad, Amsterdam
This place is sweet for all the right reasons. Centrally located just off the Leidseplein area, it fuses theatre, nightlife and artist spaces, supporting home-grown and upcoming talent with club and live music taking centre stage. Open seven nights a week, this hot spot plays host to a mixed bag of musical genres including jazz, techno, disco and more. Time to treat yourself!
4. Thuishaven
Thuishaven, Contactweg 150, 1014 BW Amsterdam
Welcome to the circus where, instead of clowns, it’s the partygoers making this colourful and animated dance space something to rave about. With a seasonal schedule of parties, featuring DJs, stilt-walkers and more, this hidden festival has been a key fixture on the clubbing circuit since its inception in 2013.
The venue, on the western outskirts of Amsterdam, has a case of a split personality. Come summertime, the floor is covered in sand, outdoor seating is scattered around and the space is transformed into an indoor beach oasis.
When winter arrives, Amsterdam’s most thumping circus tent becomes ‘Het Wintercircus’ (Winter Circus). This is a party haven like no other.
If you are planning a trip view our tips how to stay safe in Amsterdam. Or if you are keen to experience some of the best night spots view our selection of party tours where you’ll get to make new friends and enjoy some of the wildest nights of your life.