From brutalist bunkers to former squats, these are the best clubs in Amsterdam right now. Get ready to go out out (out)
Amsterdam is a hedonist’s haven, a city of pub crawls, coffeeshops and neon red lights that have long attracted party people like the proverbial moth to the flame. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that a night out in Amsterdam is a gimmick though, far from it. The best clubs in Amsterdam are every bit the equal to those found across the continent, and at times it can feel as though the Dutch capital has taken the best bits of Berlin, Barcelona and Budapest and smashed them together to create a night out you’ll never forget. From brutalist bunks and former squats to sleek modern stunners, follow our lead (and that of the nachtburgemeester, a night mayor) for the perfect night on the tiles in Amsterdam.
What is it? OT301 sounds like it should be a ‘Star Wars’ droid, and this club is just as stellar. Originally a squat, it’s now a legal venue in Overtoom for artists and DJs.
Why go? There’s a genuine free-party vibe here, providing a welcoming space to let loose and party to underground sounds. Plus, it’s the cheapest venue in the ’Dam to nab a beer, so be sure to prep your liver beforehand.
What is it? An industrial haven for ravers in an unassuming slab of the city’s Nieuw-West district. Expect a banging sound system and ‘mini parties’ that kick off in the underground smoking room.
Why go? It hosts the kind of pulsating techno that clobbers clubbers around the face and leaves them drenched in sweat from non-stop dancing. The club also has a 24-hour licence, meaning the dancing really can be non-stop. Take it from us; this is a seriously big night out. Oh, and you can even cop an ice lolly at the bar to cool down.
What is it? As you might have guessed, De School is in a former school. It even has the markings of the old gym hall on the floor. More importantly: it’s a titan of the city’s nightlife scene.
Why go? It holds the same mythical status as Berghain for Berlin or Fabric for London, as it is as heady as a Dutch pint and is consistently pouring out quality parties. You’ll find huge international bookings here and supremely cool cats aplenty.
What is it? After dinner, the seventh floor of this former newspaper office – now a hotel, bar and restaurant complex – is cleared of tables and transforms into one of the city’s coolest clubs.
Why go? If your dancing feet are feeling the strain, grab a cocktail and head out onto one of the terraces to enjoy panoramic views across the city. The music caters to a fashionably young, multicultural audience, entrance is free, and there are even hot tubs on the roof (though they’re not always in use).
What is it? NYX is known for its cracking drag and LGBTQ+ nights, but every night here is gloriously welcoming to all. Expect three floors of dancehall, Dutch hip-hop and pop tunes.
Why go? With a playlist of crowd-pleasing anthems and a friendly atmosphere, NYX is guaranteed to plant a toothy grin on your face. Plus, there’s a DJ in the open-plan bathroom – where else has that?
What is it? If you like a side of vintage with your night out, you’ll love this 1940s bunker. Tucked beneath a bridge, the Vondelbunker space was originally constructed as an atomic bomb shelter in the wake of the Second World War.
Why go? Two words; free entry. There’s an all-inclusive DIY vibe here, allowing for some truly punk nights.
What is it? As versatile as they come. First used as a canteen for market stallholders, De Marktkantine has also functioned as a theatre and arts space. Now it’s a multi-room techno club that is all about pioneers and Pioneer.
Why go? We reckon we might have saved the best till last, here. The regular Friday night Cantina is a kaleidoscopic fusion of thumping beats, drag queen performers and a hatch selling tasty snacks.
What is it? An exclusive two-floor club with an Asian-themed bar and a dancefloor lit by more than 12,000 bulbs that pulse in time to the music. Clubbing really doesn’t get more stylish.
Why go? The ultra-hip surroundings are only half the story – Jimmy Woo really knows how to throw a party. COCO is the best R&B and hip-hop night in town, while the Thursday Back To The ’90s party is a riot of guilty pleasures. Be warned, though – the door policy is strict, and it isn't clear what the criteria are.
What is it? Brutally brutalist, Shelter looks and sounds like it’s been stolen from Berlin and plonked in the Dutch capital. Find it in the basement of the A’dam Toren, a ferry away from Centraal.
Why go there? Head to Shelter for an intense, unforgettable night out. It’s not for the faint-hearted. A 24-hour licence, all-black décor and a bassy sound system at ear-drum-perforating levels make this club one for the ’eads. So much hertz it hurts (in a good way).
What is it? Amsterdam’s biggest and brightest super-club is a household name and a feast for all the senses. If you enjoy clubbing on a ridiculously massive scale, this place is for you.
Why go? The cutting edge R&B, hip-hop, and dancehall sets sound magnificent on the custom Void systems, which many say are the best in town. Add in state-of-the-art lighting, an LED wall, five bars and three separate rooms, and it’s easy to see why this behemoth is so well regarded.
What is it? A hotel and club 50 metres up a crane. Need we say more?
Why go? Visit for a vista of the ’Dam that won’t dent your Visa too painfully. You’ll have to message them on Facebook to nab yourself an invite, but it’s worth it. Warning: if you hate heights, you’ll probably want to get on the Dutch courage train well in advance.
