On our doorstep
You didn't come to Amsterdam to sit in your room. We didn't pick this spot by accident — the venues that gave the city its sound are a short walk from the front door.
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Melkweg
1 min walk
The old milk factory turned legendary stage. It's right there — you could literally crawl to it. Or crawl back, whichever you prefer. Website
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Paradiso
3 min walk
Just across the Leidseplein — a hop, skip and a jump and you're at the most iconic room in the country, a converted church that's hosted just about everyone. Website
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Bourbon Street
A few minutes' walk
Late-night blues and a house band that doesn't quit. Walk in, order something brown, stay too long. Website
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Maloe Melo
A few minutes' walk
The little blues-rock dive that keeps the city honest. Sweaty, loud, exactly right. Website
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The Waterhole
2 min walk
Live music every night of the week, no cover charge, no airs. A proper rock bar a stumble from Leidseplein — loud, cheap and always on. Website
Drinks & bites to be had
All that music works up a thirst — and an appetite. Here's where we point people for a drink or a bite, from a quick one to a proper sit-down, all a short walk from the door.
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Waterkant
Waterside bar
Tropical riverside terrace serving Surinamese-inspired plates — roti, pom, satay — with cold drinks and DJ nights that tip into a proper party. Sunny-afternoon gold. Website
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De Koe
Drinks & food
Our neighbours on the Marnixstraat, and good friends for years. Café De Koe pours a proper drink and cooks an even better plate. Kitchen's shut on Mondays, so plan around it. Website
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Foodhallen
Food court
A whole indoor food court under one roof, everything from dim sum to bitterballen. Can't agree on dinner? Settle it here. Website
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Umaimon
Ramen
Japanese-style noodles right by the Leidseplein. Slurp a steaming bowl before or after the show. Website
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Ted's
Brunch
All-day brunch for when the craving hits — stacks, eggs, the works, whatever the hour. Website
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Eggs Benaddicted
Breakfast & lunch
Eggs benedict done properly — the name's not lying — plus plenty more. Breakfast and lunch only, so get there early. Website
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Café José
Tapas
Tapas in a proper old-Amsterdam café in the Jordaan — small plates, long nights, exactly the kind of place we'd send you. Website
Attractions & museums
Between the late nights, there's a city to see. These are booked straight through our own ticket desk — skip the queues and have it sorted before you arrive.
