A guide to Amsterdam's music venues

Louisa Wenderoth, studying at the University of Amsterdam.

Whether you’re a jazz, pop, country, or techno fan, Amsterdam has it. As a singer-songwriter, it was really important for me to move to a city with cool music venues and opportunities to play
Here’s my guide to Amsterdam’s music scene:

Open mic at Café de Koe

Each Tuesday, Café de Koe opens its stage for talented locals and tourists to share original songs. The atmosphere is welcoming and friendly and if you’re playing yourself, it’s a great way to connect with other musicians and start new collaborations. It was also the first venue I played at since moving to Amsterdam and has given me some amazing friends.

De Niuewe Anita

This cosy vintage bar is very laid back, located in the west of Amsterdam. They host various concerts by smaller and bigger acts. De Niuewe Anita also throws parties of various themes, from rock ’n’ roll to drum & bass. Each Thursday, there's an acoustic night with three different acts.

De School

A must for techno fans. Previously an school, it’s been revamped into a club that attracts some of the finest electronic music artists across Europe.

Beats on a Boat

Once a month, an inconspicuous houseboat in the north of Amsterdam turns into one of the best music venues I’ve ever been to. The team put a huge effort into securing hugely interesting and talented musicians each time to play in a unique intimate atmosphere. I was over the moon when I got the opportunity to play there.
After the concert, the crowd moves on to the neighbouring Café de Ceuvel for a jam session that turns this vegan restaurant into a dancefloor. Snap up tickets on Facebook as the event usually sells out fast.

Paradiso/Paradiso Nord

This is one of the bigger venues, hosting concerts by more famous artist. The location, As a renovated old church, it’s a spectacular location and creates the most amazing sound and atmosphere.

Jazz Café Alto

A real treasure in the touristic centre of Amsterdam. The small bar hosts Jazz shows seven nights a week. Most of the musicians playing are students of the renowned Conservatorium for Jazz music - super skilled and they play amazing tunes.

Visiting some of these places not only gave me the chance to listen to awesome music but I’ve found my way into the more authentic local scene in Amsterdam. Even after six months of exploring new music, the best part is there’s still so much more to be discovered.

Louisa is a German student, studying in her first year at the University of Amsterdam.