The Best Jazz & Blues Bars in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has one of Europe's richest jazz scenes, from a world-renowned concert stage to tiny bars with live music every single night. Here's where to find it.

Bimhuis

The Netherlands' most important jazz venue, on the IJ waterfront beside the Muziekgebouw. Running since 1974, it hosts international greats and local talent in a sleek hall with superb acoustics and river views — and a famous free jam session every Tuesday.

Bourbon Street

A storied live music bar just off the Leidseplein, going strong for more than three decades. Founded as a blues and jazz joint, it now spans funk, soul, folk and rock, with live acts every night until the early hours and usually a small cover at the door.

Maloe Melo

Amsterdam's self-styled oldest blues bar, in the heart of the Jordaan. Live music every night of the week from 21:00 into the small hours, free entry, and regular jam sessions — gritty, intimate and the real thing.

Café Alto

A classic, intimate jazz café on a side street by the Leidseplein — a walk-in bar with nightly live jazz, low ceilings, low lights and the kind of close-up atmosphere that's getting rare. Arrive early for a good spot.

Most of these are walk-in and free or nearly so, so you can easily string a couple together — and on a Tuesday, the Bimhuis jam is unmissable.