From fine dining to fast food, concerts to clubbing, this popular entertainment hub in the heart of the city has something for everyone.
Culture vultures, foodies and fashionistas alike will have fun in Leidseplein, the vibrant hub of Amsterdam’s entertainment scene. This elegant 17th-century square to the south west of the Canal Ring buzzes with life 24/7.During the day Leidseplein is a popular meeting place for local residents and tourists alike, especially during the warm summer months when people crowd onto the bar terraces to admire the skills of street performers and drink a cool beer or two. In winter the square is transformed into a huge ice rink, fringed with friendly stalls selling hot snacks and seasonal tipples to warm the cockles.The fun continues into the evening, when the restaurants start to fill up with pre-show diners. Choose from American-style fast food, European favourites or traditional Dutch cuisine, before heading off to enjoy a movie or a concert. Several of the nearby theatres promote comedy shows in English, or you could try something different at De Balie, a cultural centre with an eclectic programme of film screenings, drama and debates. In one of the most prominent buildings on the square, the neo-Gothic Stadsschouwburg, you’ll find a varied programme tailored to an international audience, including Dutch plays with English surtitles that help you to follow the action.The nightlife around Leidseplein is second to none, with stylish clubs such as Paradiso and Melkweg opening into the early hours. The opulent Art Deco bar of the Amsterdam American Hotel is a perfect place to splash out on a cocktail in a landmark building that’s classified as a National Monument. A short walk away is Max Euweplein, site of the world-famous Hard Rock Café and the swanky Holland Casino, so you’ll be spoilt for choice as the night goes on.Public transport serves Leidseplein late into the night, so you’re never short of options. Parking can be a challenge, especially at peak times, so it’s worth considering the park-and-ride service which enables you to park your vehicle safely and economically on the outskirts and use public transport into the centre.
