MUSIC & PERFORMANCES FOR FREE IN AMSTERDAM


Concerts at the Royal Concertgebouw

  • Overview: The Royal Concertgebouw is one of the most prestigious concert halls in the world. While many events require tickets, it offers free lunchtime concerts on Wednesdays from September to June.
  • Highlights: Classical music performances, exceptional acoustics, and a chance to enjoy world-class musicians.
  • Address: Concertgebouwplein 10, 1071 LN Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Website: Royal Concertgebouw
  • Public Transport: Trams 2 and 5 to Van Baerlestraat tram stop.
  • Days/Hours for Free: Free lunchtime concerts take place on Wednesdays at 12:30 PM. Arrive early, as it can get crowded.

De Nieuwe Anita

  • Overview: De Nieuwe Anita is a cozy and eclectic cultural venue in Amsterdam. It hosts various events, including live music performances, open mic nights, and art exhibitions.
  • Highlights: Live music, open mic sessions, art displays, and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Address: Frederik Hendrikstraat 111, 1052 HN Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Website: De Nieuwe Anita
  • Public Transport: Trams 3 and 10 to Frederik Hendrikplantsoen tram stop.
  • Days/Hours for Free: Some events, like open mic nights and exhibitions, may have no or minimal cover charges. Check their website for event details.

The Waterhole Live Music Bar

  • Overview: The Waterhole is a popular live music bar in Amsterdam, known for hosting live bands and jam sessions. While some events may require a cover charge, they often have free entry.
  • Highlights: Live rock, blues, and jam sessions in a lively setting.
  • Address: Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 49, 1017 PW Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Website: The Waterhole
  • Public Transport: Trams 1, 2, and 5 to Leidseplein tram stop.
  • Days/Hours for Free: Entry to certain live music events is often free, but it’s best to check their website or social media for details.

Openluchttheater Vondelpark (Vondelpark Open Air Theatre)

  • Overview: The Vondelpark Open Air Theatre is a delightful outdoor venue in the heart of Vondelpark. It hosts a variety of free cultural performances, including music, theater, and dance during the summer months.
  • Highlights: Open-air performances, diverse cultural events, and a beautiful park setting.
  • Address: Vondelpark 5A, 1071 AA Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Website: Vondelpark Open Air Theatre
  • Public Transport: Trams 1, 2, and 5 to Leidseplein tram stop or tram 3 to Van Baerlestraat tram stop.
  • Days/Hours for Free: During the summer season, the Vondelpark Open Air Theatre offers a range of free performances. Check their website for the schedule.

Muziekgebouw aan ‘t IJ

  • Overview: Muziekgebouw aan ‘t IJ is a contemporary music venue with a mission to showcase a wide range of musical genres. It often hosts free lunchtime concerts and events.
  • Highlights: Contemporary and classical music performances, beautiful modern architecture, and a scenic waterfront location.
  • Address: Piet Heinkade 1, 1019 BR Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Website: Muziekgebouw aan ‘t IJ
  • Public Transport: Trams 26 and 10 to Muziekgebouw/Bimhuis tram stop.
  • Days/Hours for Free: The venue occasionally offers free lunchtime concerts and events. Check their website for details and schedules.

Westergas

  • Overview: Westergas is a cultural and creative hub in the Westerpark area of Amsterdam. It hosts a variety of events, including live music performances, exhibitions, and more, some of which are free.
  • Highlights: Live music, cultural events, art exhibitions, and a unique industrial setting.
  • Address: Pazzanistraat 33, 1014 DB Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Website: Westergas
  • Public Transport: Trams 3 and 10 to Van Limburg Stirumstraat tram stop.
  • Days/Hours for Free: Westergas hosts both paid and free events. Check their website for the latest event listings.

Roest

  • Overview: Roest is a creative and cultural space in Amsterdam that often features live music, DJ sets, and artistic events. While some events may have entry fees, others are free.
  • Highlights: Eclectic events, live music, waterfront terrace, and an artistic vibe.
  • Address: Jacob Bontiusplaats 1, 1018 PL Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Website: Roest
  • Public Transport: Trams 7 and 14 to Dijksgracht tram stop.
  • Days/Hours for Free: Roest hosts a mix of paid and free events. Check their website or social media for updates on upcoming free events.

Amsterdam Central Library (OBA)

  • Overview: The Amsterdam Central Library, or OBA, often hosts free cultural events, including music performances, lectures, and exhibitions.
  • Highlights: Diverse cultural events, rooftop terrace, and stunning views of the city.
  • Address: Oosterdokskade 143, 1011 DL Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Website: OBA Amsterdam
  • Public Transport: Trains to Amsterdam Centraal Station or trams 26, 9, 16, and 24 to Amsterdam Centraal or Kadijksplein tram stops.
  • Days/Hours for Free: OBA regularly offers free cultural events. Check their event calendar for details.