Introduction: Amsterdam’s Creative Pulse

Amsterdam is known for its artistic heritage, charming canals, and iconic narrow houses with gable façades. But beyond its visual beauty, the city is a global capital for electronic music — a creative playground for open-minded, innovative people who love to dance.

Once a year, the city becomes the heart of the global scene with the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) — a week of music, talks, art, and connection. This guide blends an ADE 2018 retrospective with timeless tips for where to eat, sleep, dance, and explore during ADE 2025.

 

Transparency: in friendly cooperation with Volkshotel Amsterdam & Amsterdam Dance Event

 

ADE Highlights 2018 – The World’s Biggest Club Festival

 

What makes ADE so special?

In 2018, ADE welcomed over 400,000 visitors from 100+ countries, offering an incredible day and night program across 200 venues. Over 2,500 performing artists and 600 speakers shaped keynotes, workshops, and masterclasses.

Key initiatives included:

• ADE University, ADE Green, and ADE Dance & Brands

• Topics like sustainability, mental health, and the impact of social media

• Appearances by Bonobo, Richie Hawtin, and many others

 

Party Highlights

 

• Kompakt Pop-Up Store (Oz) – intimate basement DJ showcases by the legendary Cologne label

• Life and Death Party (Thuishaven) – DJ Tennis, Perel, Red Axes, and Roman Flügel played a magical set in a surreal open-air space

• Audio Obscura x Solomun (A’DAM Tower) – an unforgettable Sunday closing with skyline views

• A’DAM + EVE x Ibiza Sonica – with WhoMadeWho, Marymoon, Upercent, Maga, and Valentin Huedo

• Loveland Events – five ADE showcases at Mediahaven and Warehouse Houthavens featuring Dixon, Âme, Solomun, and Richie Hawtin

For more highlights, visit the official ADE website.

Best Clubs in Amsterdam for Electronic Music

 

Amsterdam embraces electronic music in all its forms. From underground techno to melodic house, these clubs are must-visits during ADE or any time of year.

De School

A cultural institution in a converted technical school — home to DJs like John Talabot, Avalon Emerson, and Job Jobse. It also hosts an acclaimed restaurant (see below).

Shelter

Located beneath A’DAM Tower, Shelter opened during ADE 2016 and quickly became an icon. Expect top-tier bookings like Amelie Lens, Adriatique, and local favorite Tsepo.

De Marktkantine

A creative hub blending music, art, and food. Its programming includes acts such as Patrice Bäumel, Boris Brejcha, and Pachanga Boys.

Gashouder

Industrial, raw, and legendary. Home to events like Awakenings ADE, featuring Adam Beyer, Joris Voorn, and Pan-Pot.

Thuishaven

An immersive playground surrounded by shipping containers and industrial art — ideal for open-air parties with acts like Loco Dice, Fjaak, and Satori.

👉 Also worth checking: Melkweg, WesterUnie, Paradiso, RADION, and Warehouse Elementenstraat.

 

 

 

 

 

Record Stores for Vinyl Lovers

 

Rush Hour

A cornerstone of Amsterdam’s underground scene. The Rush Hour store doubles as a record label and event space, offering a curated mix of local and international talent.
rushhour.nl

Where to Stay: Volkshotel

 

Once the headquarters of a newspaper, Volkshotel is now a creative community hub featuring:

• Rooftop hot tubs and sauna

• Co-working space and café

• Club nights and artist residencies

• Rooms designed by local artists (including a 360° techno projection suite!)

During ADE, the Volkshotel hosts showcases, meet-ups, and afterparties for the industry.
Listen to the podcast episode about this space.

Breakfast & Brunch Spots

 

Need a recovery breakfast or pre-party energy boost? Amsterdam’s morning scene is as creative as its nightlife.

Lotti’s (The Hoxton Hotel)

Stylish and cozy. The menu includes pancakes, banana bread, smoothie bowls, and all styles of eggs. Pair with a matcha latte or fresh juice.

Coffee & Coconuts

Australian-inspired, light-filled café offering wholesome dishes like coconut pancakes, bircher muesli, and fresh juices.

The Butcher (Sir Adam Hotel)

Breakfast with a view over the IJ. Smoothies, shakshuka, waffles, and more — ideal for brunch after a late night.

 

 

 

Dinner & Late-Night Eats

 

Balthazar’s Keuken

An open kitchen and weekly changing 3-course menu inspired by international flavors — like dining at a friend’s stylish home.

Cinema Paradiso

Romantic and authentic Italian restaurant offering lobster, truffles, and tiramisu à la mamma. Perfect for a cozy dinner during ADE.

De School Restaurant

Located in the same building as the club — a creative culinary concept offering 3, 5, or 7-course surprise menus.

De Foodhallen

A foodie wonderland combining international cuisines under one roof. Ideal for groups or those who can’t decide on one flavor.

Other standouts: Daalder (Michelin-star dining by the kitchen) and De Kas, a greenhouse restaurant serving dishes made from their own harvest.

 

Can't get enough? Read all Amsterdam Tips here.