Amsterdam nightlife – so much to explore!

Thinking of taking an Amsterdam Break? There is plenty to do in Holland’s capital at night – in fact you’ll be spoiled for choice!

In addition to numerous live music venues offering something for all tastes, the city boasts one of the world’s greatest orchestras, the Royal Concertgebouw. Jazz is also popular and there are some great jazz clubs, including the Bourbon Street Club at Leidsekruisstraat.

For theatre buffs the best place to head for is the Leidseplein and Nes Street area to catch a show. Presentations are often in English, but why not add to your holiday experience by sampling a Dutch performance? There is also a casino nearby if you feel lucky!

Movie fans won’t be disappointed either, because Amsterdam has more than 50 cinemas. Films are often shown in their original languages with subtitles, so you should be OK even if you are not fluent in Dutch. Make your way to the Tuschinski – this 90 year old building is one of Europe’s finest and is designed in a breathtaking combination of Art Deco and Amsterdamse school style.

But the most unique experience of all in Amsterdam at night is a visit to the famous Red Light District at the back of the Dam square. Tourists flock to look at the girls in the windows! Just remember you are not allowed to take photographs – there is strict security.

Holland’s coffee bars are world renowned for selling cannabis. However, in December 2010 the EU ruled that tourists can be banned from using such coffee shops.

Currently, the new law only applies to border towns – which had seen a great influx of visitors from neighbouring countries – but is expected to be rolled out across the country.