Paradiso

Image from Jelmer de Haas

Housed in a former church, Paradiso is one of Amsterdam’s most iconic live music venues. With its stunning stained-glass windows, historic architecture, and world-class acoustics, it offers an unforgettable setting for concerts, club nights, and festivals. A cornerstone of the city’s music scene, Paradiso continues to attract top international and emerging talent.

Amsterdam's iconic music temple

This legendary venue first came to life in the 1960s when a group of creatives transformed the abandoned church into a cultural hub. Today, Paradiso hosts a diverse range of performances, from rock and pop to electronic and experimental music. The main hall boasts a grand, cathedral-like atmosphere, with balconies providing stunning views of the stage, while the smaller upstairs hall and basement café regularly showcase independent and up-and-coming artists.

Beyond its reputation as a music venue, Paradiso is also a space for art, lectures, and social events, making it a dynamic cultural institution. On any given night, multiple events can take place across its different rooms, such as Science & Cocktails, a recurring lecture that addresses pressing scientific questions.

Nearby

Right off Leidseplein, you’ll find the lush greenery of Vondelpark, perfect for a daytime walk before a gig. The nearby Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum features extraordinary art collections, and the International Theatre of Amsterdam next door presents world-class theatre performances (check out their program for an overview of English surtitled evenings)