The diversity of attractions in the city extends to many, from unconventional museum experiences to underground party hubs, night cruises, and more
When it comes to nightlife in Amsterdam, the Netherlands’ capital is known to encapsulate a universe of its own. While the Red Light District dominates most of the headlines, the diversity of attractions in the city extends to many more, some popular and some the lesser-known yet equally feisty. A vibrant and inclusive nature of the city that is inherited from its cultural legacy and historical chronicles is, too, exuded through its nightlife in the more unconventional thrills. India Outbound explores some of the many fascinations in the city’s nightscape:
Radion
In a striking contrast, Radion is housed in a former medical office building
In a dramatic twist, an unassuming vegan café by the day transforms into a popular, licensed club every night and is home to pulsating techno music which echoes for long after the party is over. Art, music, dance and other cultural events are hosted at this alternative and underground atmosphere, which is housed in a former medical office building in Amsterdam’s Nieuw-West neighbourhood. Adding an extra dimension to the venue, Radion also hosts various community and cultural events.
Erotic Museum
Erotic expression throughout the ages find a platform in its art gallery
Located in the vivid Red Light District, visiting the Erotic Museum in Amsterdam can be an enriching and sensitive experience for those interested in exploring human sexuality, erotic art and the history of it all. Erotic expression throughout the ages find a platform in its art gallery that archives a thought-provoking collection of sculptures, paintings, drawings, photographs and other artwork. Walking into this museum is a live demonstration of how eroticism has been celebrated, embraced, or censored in various cultures, shedding light on the diversity of human sexual expression.
Club Air
Club Air is known for its multi-tiered dance floor that hosts a lineup of attractions for music enthusiasts of varied genres
Host to an avant-garde nightclub with multi-tiered dance floor and five jazzy bars located in Amstelstraat area, this club is known for a lineup of attractions for music enthusiasts of varied genres. From techno to hip-hop, an entranced crowd and exceptional music programming that features renowned DJs and artists from the electronic dance music (EDM) scene, its modern design and layout add another layer to a comfortable and enjoyable clubbing experience.
Night canal cruise
Many canal cruises provide informative commentary about the city’s history, architecture and landmarks
After dark, Amsterdam allure exudes ravishing new colours. A nighttime canal cruise entails a smart way to explore it. Amsterdam’s nightscape is all lit up against an evening sky, dotted with thousands of glittering lights that illuminate hundreds of bridges and canal houses. While navigating the beautiful city, many canal cruises provide informative commentary about the city’s history, architecture and landmarks and on offer is also an assortment of curated culinary experiences.
Underground party
There are several late-night establishments in the city that cater to various musical tastes
Bustling with late night venues, Amsterdam has a reputed underground party scene replete with numerous secret and pop-up parties taking place in unconventional venues such as abandoned buildings, warehouses, and industrial spaces. These gatherings frequently have avant-garde decor, experimental music, and a cosy atmosphere, distinguished for its fun parties and clubs. There are several late-night establishments in the city that cater to various musical tastes, from electronic dance music (EDM) to underground and alternative scenes.
Late-night museum visits
Late-night museum visits uncover many a new dimensions to the exhibits, while offering a quieter exploration
Many of the city’s museums, such as the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum organise special events after hours. These ‘Night at the Museum’ occasions often involve live entertainment, theatrical productions, and special exhibitions, offering a unique cultural experience. Since late-night museum visits attract fewer visitors compared to daytime hours, it is possible to explore the museum’s exhibits and artwork in a more peaceful and serene environment and delve into its nuanced layers.
Sugar Factory
From theatre, live music, cabaret and poetry in the day, Sugar Factory transforms into a beehive of party junkies after dark
Located in central Amsterdam, the Sugar Factory is open to all and free of cost. When arriving earlier in the evening, before the space turns into a dance floor, visitors can watch other type of performances such as theatre, live music, cabaret and poetry, whereas after dark, the venue is a beehive of party junkies attuned to live music concerts, DJ sets, theatre performances, art exhibitions and more. The Sugar Factory is well renowned for its late-night celebrations that frequently last into the wee hours of the morning.
A’dam Lookout
Adam Lookout is appreciated for allowing visitors to enjoy unparalleled views of the city’s skyline
Located in the A’dam Tower, A’dam Lookout is an immersive experience to see the city from high up, with views of the sparkling lights of the city, the lit-up canals, and the iconic landmarks. A’dam Lookout offers a panoramic view of Amsterdam from its observation deck. The lookout is open from 10:00 to 22:00 hours, with last admission at 21:00 hrs. The venue allows visitors to enjoy unparalleled views of the city’s skyline, especially during sunset and after dark.
