Every year I make a resolution to… go to a beautiful theatre in Amsterdam more often! To really keep an eye out this year for which theatres can be found in Amsterdam and what shows are on, I’ve compiled this overview for you. Because going to a theatre performance for an evening out is truly wonderful! Incredibly relaxing and enjoyable, especially if you grab a bite to eat beforehand. These theatres bring stories to life or treat you to the most exquisite live concerts. In a world city like Amsterdam, there are, of course, plenty of theatres to be found. That’s why I’ve put together this overview of 16 of the best theatres in Amsterdam, so you’ll know where to go for your next night out. Keep reading and discover everything about the best theatres in Amsterdam. Also, it’s worth noting that many of these theatres and music venues offer special programs for families.
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16 X Theatres in Amsterdam you want to visit (more often) this year
Koninklijk Theater Carré
Koninklijk Theater Carré is undoubtedly the most famous theater in Amsterdam. Located perfectly along the Amstel River, the theater seamlessly blends culture with nature and history. Its exclusive lineup includes shows spanning across all possible genres, from cabaret to international operas and circus performances. Royal Theater Carré offers its visitors an unforgettable and magical experience, making it the dream of every stage performer, actor, or singer to perform in this iconic building.
Amstel 115, Amsterdam – carre.nl
KONINKLIJK THEATER CARRÉ
Internationaal Theater Amsterdam (ITA)
The International Theater Amsterdam, formerly known as Stadsschouwburg, is a unique building situated at Leidseplein. ITA boasts a rich history and has evolved into one of the leading hubs of Amsterdam’s culture. The program includes performances by both well-known international figures and emerging talents. Moreover, ITA itself houses an impressive ensemble of actors who captivate audiences with spectacular performances. The International Theater Amsterdam is a magical place where the audience witnesses the finest Dutch performing arts.
Leidseplein 26, Amsterdam – ita.nl
© Internationaal Theater Amsterdam (ITA)
De Kleine Komedie
For over 200 years, the Kleine Komedie has thrived. Established in 1786, it remains the oldest theatre in Amsterdam and continues to be one of the city’s finest venues. Initially focusing on cabaret (hence the name “De Kleine Komedie”), the theatre primarily catered to this genre, gaining recognition among comedians. However, nowadays, the venue has expanded its scope to appeal to a broader audience. Renowned Dutch figures like Hans Teeuwen and Brigitte Kaandorp frequently perform here, and it also provides a platform for emerging talents.
Amstel 56, Amsterdam – dekleinekomedie.nl
© De Kleine Komedie
More Theatres in Amsterdam to visit this year
THE CONCERTGEBOUW
The unparalleled acoustics make The Concertgebouw one of the most important and popular theatres in Amsterdam. The building ranks among the absolute world’s finest, having hosted numerous legendary concerts. Richard Strauss, Louis Armstrong, and Sting are among the names that have graced this venue. The Concertgebouw pays immense attention to its offerings and ambiance. Every concert is of exceptionally high quality and well worth your time.
Concertgebouwplein 10, Amsterdam – concertgebouw.nl
© Het Concertgebouw
DeLaMar
A visit to DeLaMar is an incredible experience. This magnificent theatre brings each story to life in a vibrant manner, creating a unique experience with every performance. After the show, you can enjoy a drink and a bite in the foyers while appreciating the exceptional photography collections. DeLaMar is a theatre that prioritises quality. Its offerings encompass the finest musicals, theatrical productions, and comedies. Furthermore, the theatre is a project of the VandenEnde Foundation. This cultural fund supports the development of new talent and regularly provides young individuals with the opportunity to showcase their skills to the audience.
Marnixstraat 402, Amsterdam – delamar.nl
© DeLaMar
DeLaMar West
In Bos en Lommer, you’ll find the new theatre DeLaMar West. This theatre primarily focuses on talent development, especially in the musical genre. The performances usually consist of contemporary music productions by promising artists. What’s appealing is that a significant portion of the shows is specifically developed for DeLaMar West. Additionally, this theatre serves as a convivial meeting place where numerous educational and cultural activities are organized.
Laan Van Spartaan 4, Amsterdam – delamar.nl
© DeLaMar West
Amsterdamse Bostheater
Watching a captivating theatre production under the open starry sky holds a touch of magic. At the Amsterdamse Bostheater, this experience is available throughout the entire summer. This cultural gem nestled in the Amsterdamse Bos is the perfect spot to relish concerts, movie nights, and theatre performances. The lineup includes exclusive productions as well as works from renowned companies. After the show, you can unwind and extend the experience with a delightful drink or a sumptuous dinner at the Zomerterras.
De Duizendmeterweg 7, Amsterdam – bostheater.nl
© Amsterdamse Bostheater
the best Theatres in Amsterdam to visit this year
Scala Foodbar & Theater
A unique concept that’s definitely worth trying out. Scala Foodbar & Theater hosts performances that last 20 minutes. It covers a wide range of genres, from cabaret to mini-concerts and stand-up comedians. You get to choose which acts you’d like to see and you can easily catch multiple shows in one evening. Additionally, you can indulge in delicious tapas and cocktails before, during, or after the cultural activities. A great idea if you’re looking to try something different!
Van Hallstraat 286, Amsterdam – scala-amsterdam.nl
NATIONAL OPERA & BALLET
A ballet performance or an opera is a unique and breathtaking experience. In the semi-circular auditorium of the National Opera and Ballet, the entire audience enjoys an exceptionally good view of the performance, instantly immersing themselves in the captivating story. The National Opera & Ballet building hosts shows of international allure, making it one of the key institutions in Amsterdam’s cultural scene. In one of the numerous foyers offering impressive views of the Amstel, you can leisurely enjoy a drink after the show.
Amstel 3, Amsterdam – operaballet.nl
© Nationale Opera & Ballet
Boom Chicago
Tourists often rave about Boom Chicago. In this theatre, you’ll witness the best English-language comedy shows. The dynamic performances are a blend of live music, dry wit, and sharp improvisation. The talented cast is brimming with skill, and their shows are legendary. Over the past 25 years, Boom Chicago has built an outstanding reputation and has hosted numerous international stars. The theatre provides the perfect setting for a fun and relaxing evening in vibrant Amsterdam.
Rozengracht 117, Amsterdam – boomchicago.nl
MEERVAART THEATer
A theatre visit is an enriching experience that provides numerous new insights. Theater de Meervaart recognizes the importance of theatre in society and aims to offer Amsterdammers the opportunity to culturally develop themselves. Situated in Amsterdam-West, this spacious venue provides a highly diverse program. In addition to performances by well-known acts, you can also witness local cabaret performances. Moreover, Theater de Meervaart provides activities for young people, allowing them to fully develop their theatrical talents.
Meer en Vaart 300, Amsterdam – meervaart.nl
© Meervaart Theater
MUSIC BUILDING ‘aan het ij’
The quintessential concert hall in Amsterdam is undoubtedly the Music Building ‘aan het IJ’. Located beautifully along the banks of the IJ River with its modern architecture, the building is striking. The concert hall aims to inspire all Amsterdammers and, therefore, offers a highly diverse program. The acoustics can be adjusted according to the type of music, allowing for various arrangements. The combination of these unique features with an adventurous program makes the Music Building on the IJ one of the finest theatres in Amsterdam.
Piet Heinkade 1, Amsterdam – muziekgebouw.nl
© Muziekgebouw aan het IJ
Meer Theatres in Amsterdam to visit this year
Flemish Cultural Centre De Brakke Grond
Flemish Cultural Centre De Brakke Grond introduces innovative Flemish art to Amsterdam. Established in 1981, the theatre is funded by the Flemish government. Their programme encompasses various art forms, including literature, theatre, music, and dance. De Brakke Grond aims to promote Flemish identity. Through collaborations, they enhance the cultural relationship between the two countries and assist Flemish talent in expanding their careers in the Netherlands.
Nes 45, Amsterdam – brakkegrond.nl
Theater Bellevue
Theater Bellevue has become a true institution in the Amsterdam theatre scene. Its three auditoriums each have their own programming, drawing a diverse audience to the theatre. The Grote Zaal is the most versatile space, hosting dance performances, puppet theatres, and plays. Klein Bellevue, on the other hand, focuses on cabaret and small-scale artistic performances. During your lunch break, you can visit the Paloni Zaal, where Bellevue Lunch Theatre takes place—a platform for emerging talent with a contemporary perspective on theatrical repertoire.
Leidsekade 90, Amsterdam – theaterbellevue.nl
© Theater Bellevue
Vondelpark open-air theater
Every Amsterdammer immediately associates the Vondelpark Open-Air Theatre with summer. Throughout the summer, this beautiful park hosts concerts, family theatre, dance performances, and other shows. Moreover, the park does all this entirely for free. This wonderful concept attracts over 100,000 people annually. It’s no wonder, considering that many well-known names also grace the stage. In the past, artists like Freek de Jonge and Willeke Alberti, for instance, have performed here at no cost.
Vondelpark 5, Amsterdam – openluchttheater.nl
© Vondelpark Openluchttheater
Theater De Krakeling
Theater De Krakeling is the perfect day out for the whole family. The performances at this theatre cater to a younger audience. The programme of this youth theatre includes shows suitable for all age groups. Throughout the performances, the theatre challenges young people to see the world in a different light. Through puppet shows, dance performances, and theatrical productions, they bring the most delightful stories to life. After the shows, children can fully enjoy themselves in the adjacent Westerpark.
Pazzanistraat 15, Amsterdam – krakeling.nl
Amsterdam Bucketlist & Things to Do
(DIGITAL) ART EXPERIENCES IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Fabrique des Lumières
⋙ NXT Museum
⋙ STRAAT street art museum
⋙ MOCO Museum for street and modern art
⋙ Amaze, an audiovisual labyrint
FOOD EXPERIENCES IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Food Tasting Tour of Jordaan area
⋙ Albert Cuyp Market Food Tour
⋙ Sightseeing Boat Cruise with unlimited drinks
⋙ Pancake Cruise
⋙ Micro Brewery Beer Tasting Tour
BEST BIKE TOURS IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Fatbike e-bike tour (also to Amsterdam North)
⋙ Rent a bike by yourself and explore like a local
⋙ Outside of Amsterdam: windmills & Zaanse Schans
⋙ 3 hour biketour: backstreets & hidden gems
FIRST TIME VISIT TO AMSTERDAM – MUST SEE & DO’S:
⋙ Private Canal Boat Tour
⋙ Rijksmuseum with the Dutch masters
⋙ Van Gogh Museum, a staple in Amsterdam
⋙ Stedelijk Museum for modern art lovers
⋙ Canal Cruise in the evening
INSTAGRAM MUSEUMS IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Discover the Instagrammable experience WONDR
⋙ Youseum
⋙ The Upside Down
DAY TRIPS FROM AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Get out of town and into the Dutch country side of Giethoorn
⋙ Drive-it-Yourself Tulip Fields GPS Audio Tour
⋙ Catch a direct train from Amsterdam to Antwerp, Brussels, London or Paris, starting at € 20,-! Check tickets & prices >>
AMSTERDAM WITH KIDS:
⋙ Visit Artis Royal Zoo
⋙ Go an a bike tour with the kids
⋙ NEMO Science Museum
SPIRNG / SUMMER IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Paddle board tour on the canals
⋙ Go for a kayak-tour in Amsterdam
FALL / WINTER IN AMSTERDAM:
⋙ Amsterdam Light Festival boat tour
⋙ Amsterdam Light Festival bike tour
| TIP: Buy an I amsterdam City Card. Save money on entrance fees to museums and attractions, public transport and profit from discounts on everything from restaurants to concerts. You can also skip some lines to make the most of your time in Amsterdam! You can buy a card for 24 hours up to 120 hours. Check the prices here >>
Our favourite hotels in Amsterdam:
TOP LUXURY // €€€
☾ Pillows Maurits at the Park: this newly opened hotel is all about luxury.
☾ Pulitzer Amsterdam: on the canals at the border of the Nine Streets and the Jordaan.
☾ L’Europe: recently renovated, this hotel has the best spa with a view in Amsterdam.
☾ Conservatorium Hotel: located in one of the most beautiful buildings in town.
☾ Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam: if you have something to celebrate this is the one.
☾ W Amsterdam: with lively restaurants and a posh rooftop bar with swimming pool.
VERY VERY NICE // €€
☾ The Hoxton: favourite lifestyle hotel right on the canals with great all day bar.
☾ Hotel Jakarta: the most sustainable hotel ánd great value for money with a spa.
☾ Hotel V: with two locations and a great restaurant, in the city center and East.
☾ Sir Adam: with the coolest view over Amsterdam from the North side.
☾ Sweets: a unique stay in former bridge houses.
☾ Hotel Dwars: small scale and around the corner of the trendy Utrechtsestraat.
☾ Hotel Mercier: pretty new hotel in the cosy and historic Jordaan district.
☾ INK Hotel: lifestyle hotel in the heart of the city by MGallery.
☾ Morgan & Mees: boutique hotel with restaurant in Amsterdam West.
☾ Conscious Hotel Westerpark: in a beautiful building at the industrial Westergas area.
☾ Ruby Emma: eco design hotel with a great skybar near Amstel station.
AFFORDABLE (FOR AMSTERDAM PRICES) // €
☾ Generator Hostel: the best poshtel of the city located in a park.
☾ The Social Hub budget proof in trendy East district close tho the subway.
☾ Het Volkshotel: affordable and with a cool rooftop bar.
☾ CitizenM: all you need is that XL bed (location near Amstel is great).
☾ Motel One: budget design hotel with several locations in Amsterdam.
Let’s get social
I really hope you enjoy your time in Amsterdam! On my Instagram account @yourlbb and @yourlbb.amsterdam you can find more recommendations and new hotspots in town.
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