14 Things to Do at Night in Amsterdam to Experience the City Like a Local
When the sun sets, it might seem like the city’s winding down, but don’t be fooled—Amsterdam is just getting started!
While some spots may close up, there’s still a whole lot to see, do, and explore after dark. From cozy cafés to lively bars and unique experiences, the city truly comes to life once the lights go down.
We’ve put together this list to help you make the most of your nighttime adventure in Amsterdam, so you can experience the city’s vibrant nightlife just like we do!
1. Enjoy a music-filled night at Paradiso
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Address: Weteringschans 6-8, 1017 SG
Contact details: +31 20 626 4521
Operating hours:
- Monday: 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Tuesday: 6:00 PM – 3:00 AM
- Wednesday to Thursday: 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Friday: 6:00 PM – 3:00 AM
- Saturday: 11:00 PM – 3:00 AM
- Sunday: 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Price: $$
Paradiso started as a church in 1880 but turned into a music venue in 1968. It’s been a big part of Amsterdam’s culture and nightlife ever since.
The main hall is amazing, with high ceilings and beautiful church windows that can fit up to 1,500 people. The sound quality is also top-notch, making every concert feel special.
It has hosted some absolute legends, like The Rolling Stones, Nirvana, and Adele. The lineup is always diverse, featuring everything from rock and folk to electronic beats. They even throw in club nights and festivals like the London Calling Britpop Fest to keep things fresh.
To visit, you’ll need a small membership, which costs about €4 and can be bought online or at the door.
Pro tip:
Event tickets are priced differently depending on the show, but it’s a good idea to get them directly from Paradiso’s website.
2. Try some Dutch cocktails at Tales & Spirits
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Address: Lijnbaanssteeg 5-7, 1012 TE
Contact details: +31 6 55356467
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 5:30 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday to Monday: Closed
Price: $$
Tales & Spirits is a go-to spot in Amsterdam for creative cocktails, tasty food, and a cozy vibe. The place has loads of charm, with its antique decorations, vintage glassware, and quirky layout. It feels relaxed and welcoming, making it a great choice to kick back after a day out.
The cocktails are fun and full of surprises. Crowd favorites include the “Pear Necessities,” a mix of Irish whiskey, pear liqueur, spices, and citrus. Their “What If?” cocktail also shows off an adventurous side.
If you’re feeling hungry, the food here is just as good. They’ve got snacks like bitterballen, a classic Dutch treat, and other creative dishes that go perfectly with your drinks. Plus, the kitchen stays open late, so you can take your time and enjoy the night.
Pro tip:
Take your time exploring the cocktail menu—it’s packed with both classics and creative concoctions. Don’t be shy about asking the bartenders for recommendations or even off-menu surprises; they love showcasing their skills!
3. Have an evening museum visit at the Van Hogh Museum
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Address: Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ
Contact details: +31 20 570 5200
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Friday: 9 AM – 9 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Price: $$
The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is a must-see if you’re into art or curious about Vincent van Gogh’s life. It’s right next to other famous spots like the Rijksmuseum and the Stedelijk Museum, so it’s easy to add to your itinerary if you’re exploring the area.
The museum holds the largest collection of Van Gogh’s work in the world, with over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters. These give you a glimpse into his thoughts and how he approached his art. It’s like stepping into his mind and seeing what inspired him.
The layout makes exploring a breeze. The exhibits take you through Van Gogh’s life step by step, so you can see how his art changed over time. There’s even a section full of his self-portraits, which feels like a personal introduction to the artist himself.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the museum café for a quick bite and the gift shop for unique Van Gogh-inspired keepsakes. For a richer experience, grab an audio guide to uncover the stories behind the masterpieces as you explore.
4. Attend the Amsterdam Light Festival
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The Amsterdam Light Festival is a winter event that turns the city’s canals into a beautiful display of light art. With over 25 glowing artworks by talented artists, the festival brightens up Amsterdam, creating a stunning contrast against the winter darkness.
The best part? It’s free! The lights are on every day from 5 PM to 11 PM, with longer hours on weekends.
And it’s not just about the lights—you can also enjoy food walks and special events that make the whole experience even more fun. It’s the perfect mix of art, culture, and cozy vibes, making it a must-see during the winter months in Amsterdam.
Pro tip:
Dress warmly and wear comfy shoes since you’ll be walking outdoors in chilly weather while checking out the art installations along the canals.
5. Visit the Anne Frank House
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Address: Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV
Contact details: +31 20 556 7105
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 10 PM
Price: $
The Anne Frank House is a powerful museum that honors Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who hid with her family during World War II to escape the Nazis. It keeps Anne’s legacy alive through her diary, which is one of the most important accounts of the Holocaust.
When you visit, you can explore exhibits that recreate the conditions the family lived in. The Secret Annex, where they hid, is almost unchanged from Anne’s time. It gives you a real sense of how cramped and tense their lives were.
The museum also has Anne’s original red-checked diary along with other writings like her “Pen-and-Inklings.” You’ll also see personal items from the people who hid there, like photos and belongings, that show what their lives were like.
Pro tip:
Arrive early to queue at the front and be among the first to enter. This reduces wait times and creates a more personal museum experience.
6. Book a boat tour with Amsterdam Canal Cruises
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Address: Stadhouderskade 550, 1072 AE
Contact details: +31 20 679 1370
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 9 PM
Price: $$
Amsterdam’s canal cruises are a great way to experience the city’s charm. The canals are a UNESCO World Heritage site lined with beautiful 17th-century buildings and bridges.
A typical city canal cruise lasts about 75 minutes and takes you past famous spots like Montelbaanstoren, the Skinny Bridge, and some cool old canal houses. Some cruises also offer snacks and drinks to make your trip even more enjoyable.
If you want something more personal, private tours let you customize the experience. They’re great for special occasions, and you’ll get to chat with the local boat drivers.
Pro tip:
If you prefer more flexibility, hop-on hop-off boats are a great choice. With tickets good for 24 or 48 hours, you can explore the city’s top attractions at your own pace, all while cruising along the canals.
7. Watch the sunset at A’DAM Lookout
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Address: Overhoeksplein 5, 1031 KS
Contact details: +31 20 242 0100
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11 AM – 7 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 10 AM – 9 PM
Price: $$
A’DAM Lookout is this cool observation deck on top of the A’DAM Tower in Amsterdam, giving you amazing views of the city and beyond. At 100 meters up, it’s the perfect spot to check out Amsterdam’s historic center, busy harbor, and the flat Dutch countryside.
The deck has both indoor and outdoor areas so you can enjoy the views from every angle. There are telescopes to zoom in on famous landmarks too.
You can also explore interactive exhibits that tell you more about the city’s history and culture while you take in the sights.
If you’re looking for a thrill, try the Over The Edge swing, the highest in Europe. You swing right over the edge of the tower—it’s a wild experience with incredible views.
Pro tip:
Plan your visit around sunset for the best experience. This timing also lines up with the lively vibe at the rooftop bar, where a DJ often spins on weekends. It’s perfect for unwinding after taking in the views from the observation deck.
8. Try fine dining at Restaurant de Kas
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Address: Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3, 1097 DE
Contact details: +31 20 462 4562
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 12 PM – 4 PM, 6 PM – 12 AM
- Sunday: Closed
Price: $$$
De Kas is all about fresh, locally sourced ingredients that give you a true farm-to-table experience. It’s focused on sustainability and even has a Michelin star for its creative cooking.
The vibe inside feels like a garden, with trees and plants that really connect you to nature. When the weather’s nice, you can sit outside on the patio surrounded by the restaurant’s own herb and veggie gardens.
The menu changes daily, offering five to six courses for dinner. It’s based on what’s freshly picked from their garden or from local suppliers, so you’ll always get a variety of veggies.
Pro tip:
Don’t hesitate to customize your meal if you have dietary preferences. De Kas offers flexible options for vegetarians and vegans, so you can enjoy a meal that suits your needs without sacrificing flavor.
Sip some coffee at The Papeneiland Café
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Address: Prinsengracht 2, 1015 DV
Contact details: +31 20 624 1989
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 10 AM – 1 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 10 AM – 3 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 1 AM
Price: $
Café Papeneiland, located in the heart of Amsterdam’s Jordaan district, has been a part of the city since 1642. This cozy brown café really captures the Dutch spirit of gezelligheid, which means warmth, friendliness, and a welcoming atmosphere.
When you walk in, the café feels like stepping back in time with its dark wood paneling and vintage Amsterdam prints. It’s also perfectly located near Noordermarkt, so you can enjoy views of the canals while people-watching.
But what really makes Café Papeneiland stand out is its apple pie. With a flaky crust and a sweet-tart filling of apples and cinnamon, it’s something you have to try. And don’t forget the generous swirl of whipped cream on top!
Pro tip:
On a sunny day, the outdoor terrace is the perfect spot to relax and soak in the vibrant energy of Amsterdam.
10. Laugh your heart out at Boom Chicago
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Address: Rozengracht 117, 1016 LV
Contact details: +31 20 217 0400
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Thursday: 6 PM – 12 AM
- Friday: 6 PM – 1 AM
- Saturday: 4 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 6 PM – 12 AM
- Monday to Tuesday: Closed
Price: $
Boom Chicago is a popular comedy spot known for its fun mix of sketch and improv. It has played a big role in bringing English-language comedy to the Netherlands. It has helped launch the careers of comedians like Seth Meyers, Jordan Peele, and Amber Ruffin.
The venue has a few different spaces. The main theater holds 330 people, with room for 500 standing. There’s also a bar serving local beers, wines, and cocktails.
The comedy at Boom Chicago is high-energy and fast-paced. It mixes improv, clever writing, and live music. Every show feels fresh and relevant since they cover current topics like tech, social media, and politics.
Pro tip:
Get ready to join in! Audience participation is a big part of the fun at Boom Chicago, so be prepared to suggest ideas for improv skits and make the show even more entertaining.
11. Have a late night shopping at De 9 Straatjes
Address: Wolvenstraat 9, 1016 EM
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Price: $$
De 9 Straatjes, or The Nine Streets, is a vibrant shopping area in the heart of Amsterdam. It’s known for its mix of cool boutiques, cozy cafes, and unique shops. It offers a laid-back shopping experience that stands out from the more touristy parts of the city.
With over 250 shops, you’ll find everything from vintage clothing and handmade goods to galleries and tasty foods. Fashion lovers can check out boutiques offering trendy clothes and quirky vintage finds.
For something a little different, there are also stores with unique home decor and specialty foods. Cheese lovers shouldn’t miss De Kaaskamer, where you can sample some of the best Dutch cheese.
Pro tip:
After a shopping spree, take a break at one of the many cafes or restaurants nearby. For a casual bite, head to Pluk. If you’re in the mood for something more refined, try Jansz for a nice meal.
12. Enjoy a relaxing spa experience at Sauna Deco
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Address: Herengracht 115A, 1015 BE
Contact details: +31 20 623 8215
Operating hours:
- Monday: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Tuesday: 4 PM – 10 PM
- Wednesday to Saturday: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 1 PM – 7 PM
Price: $$
Sauna Deco has a cool 1920s vibe, with original pieces from the famous Parisian store Au Bon Marché. You’ll spot stunning stained-glass windows and vintage Lalique glass that create a colorful, light-filled atmosphere.
The spa spans around 600 square meters and has lots of spots to help you unwind. There are two Finnish saunas—one heats up to about 100°C, and the other is around 80°C.
If saunas aren’t your thing, there’s also a steam room with humidity between 40–50°C. You can relax in cozy areas and grab a drink from a small menu.
For a refreshing break, there’s a cold plunge pool between sauna sessions, plus infrared cabins for muscle recovery.
Pro tip:
Fully embrace the textile-free experience. The spa operates on a clothing-optional basis, so be prepared for a nude, mixed environment in all areas, including the saunas and showers.
13. Grab a bite at Albert Cuyp Market
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Address: Albert Cuypstraat, 1073 BD
Contact details: +31 62 657 4378
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Price: $
The Albert Cuyp Market is the biggest and most popular outdoor market in the Netherlands, drawing in both locals and tourists. It runs along Albert Cuypstraat, between Ferdinand Bolstraat and Van Woustraat.
There are over 300 stalls offering everything from fresh produce and seafood to clothing and household items. But the food is where it really shines.
You can try Dutch classics like stroopwafels (syrup-filled waffles) and raw herring sandwiches, plus international dishes like Vietnamese spring rolls—there’s something for everyone.
The market is also a great place to experience Amsterdam’s multicultural vibe, with products from Surinamese, Antillean, Turkish, and Moroccan communities. This mix of cultures gives the market a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Pro tip:
If you want a more relaxed experience, avoid the Saturday crowds of over 50,000 visitors by heading to the market early in the day or visiting on a weekday.
14. Explore the De Wallen or the Red Light District
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De Wallen, also called Amsterdam’s Red Light District, is a small area packed with narrow alleys and canals. The district is easy to reach, just southeast of Amsterdam Central Station.
It mixes regular homes with adult entertainment spots. The streets are lined with about 300 small cabins where sex workers work behind glowing windows, which is one of the district’s trademarks.
But De Wallen isn’t just about adult entertainment. There are also cultural places to check out, like the Red Light Secrets Museum, which tells the story of sex work in Amsterdam. You’ll also find cannabis cafés, sex shops, and theatres with live shows and adult exhibitions.
Pro tip:
When visiting, make sure to respect local customs, such as refraining from taking photos of sex workers. Be mindful of their privacy and avoid any actions that could make people uncomfortable.