Description: CENTRAL CANAL RING. Regulars and those in-the-know flock to this cozy, welcoming brown café to hear some of the city's best jazz. Each night, a mix of folks settles down to partake of the rhythms provided by top musicians. At times, there are guest performers; generally, you'll be regaled by talented local groups. Best of all, there's no cover to listen to the music. You'll just want to order a well-mixed cocktail, perhaps a Dutch beer, or some jenever and ease back into the night and the music. Performances generally begin at 10pm.

 

Description: WATERFRONT. Since opening in 1973, Amsterdam's foremost jazz venue has had all the greats shuffle onto its stage - including Charles Mingus, Art Blakey and Chet Baker (who, in 1988, mysteriously fell to his death from the window of an Amsterdam hotel room). A few years ago, the Bimhuis left its Oude Schans address and moved to a stunning new waterfront location: a black shoebox structure which juts out one side of the Muziekgebouw aan 't IJ. It stages around 300 concerts annually featuring both Dutch and international musicians and is widely regarded by those in the industry worldwide as one of the best places to catch all that jazz. Early in the week, open sessions take place; towards the end of the week, concerts are scheduled. No matter when you come, you'll be awed.

 

Description: CENTRAL CANAL RING. If you need a night of comic relief, there's no better place to get it than a Boom Chicago performance. Created by American expatriates, the shows take on Dutch life and foibles, inviting everyone to participate in a fast-paced world of wit, physical comedy and fun. Great production values, terrific food, and talented improv scenarios characterize the shows, addressing such topics as pop culture and American foreign policy and eliciting laughs galore!

 

Description: CENTRAL CANAL RING. For more than a decade, this relaxed club has plied patrons with some of the area's top live music. With a cozy interior that harks back to New Orleans, the well-attended club specializes in local talent, although it frequently brings in top-name jazz and blues performers. Gracing the venue in past years have been the Rolling Stones and Sting, for instance. Jam sessions are held regularly, and you'll find a diverse crowd hanging out most nights. Ideal for night owls and connoisseurs.

 

Description: By day, this desirable cafe offers a quiet place for patrons to sit and indulge in a drink or a bite. Come night, the 'drink and bite' part still applies, but things kick into a higher gear. The social scene picks up, and live bands play a variety of styles in the little theater at the rear. Outside, a shaded street terrace allows patrons to catch a breath of air while they nurse drinks, and the nearby Amstel River offers calming views of the water. Belgian and Dutch beers are available.

 

Description: OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. This is not the most attractive of buildings, in fact, its design looks positively ancient compared to some of the newest city developments. Located in a complex it shares with city hall, the opera house is home, since 1986, to De Nederlandse Opera and Het National Ballet. As well as first-rate performances from its resident companies (tickets for the opera here sell out almost as soon as they're announced), its inspired guest programming is a feast for contemporary culture vultures.

 

Description: PLANTAGE. Crowning the River Amstel, the grand dame of theatrical venues was originally built as a circus theatre in 1894 by the French/German circus family of the same name; stables for the animals still remain below the building. But although the circus comes to town every Christmas - and sometimes during the summer months - it now stages anything from opera, ballet, theater and musicals (mostly in Dutch). Stars such as Lou Reed, Mercedes Sosa and Bette Midler have also performed here. Renovations over the decades have seen this impressive - and plush - landmark restored to its former glory, and it's well worth keeping an eye on its programme.

 

Description: CENTRAL CANAL RING. This casual, unassuming place, complete with low ceilings, performance fliers and photos, pulls in a regular cast of locals and curious travelers. Blues music is the specialty, and any night of the week, you'll find live musicians playing to crowds. At times, well-known talents perform; otherwise, homegrown folks show off their abilities. Either way, you'll be in for a good time. Patrons are friendly and are always eager to invite another blues-lover into their fold.

 

Description: CENTRAL CANAL RING. It's no coincidence that Melkweg's name, translated, is the tongue-in-cheek 'Milky Way,' given that the complex once operated as a dairy. The revamped center-city attraction is now an entertainment and nightlife magnet, offering patrons everything from dancing and live music to theater performances and film screenings. The large venue also houses a restaurant and gallery, and it sells alcohol and hosts parties as well. If you want to be surrounded by other revelers or just require a choice of entertainments before you make a decision, Melkweg should be your first (and perhaps only) destination.

 

Description: EASTERN CANAL RING. Set just across the street from the Amstel, this lively Irish pub has much to recommend it. A selection of Irish whiskies, Guinness and Kilkenny on tap, football on the TV, a fun-loving clientele, and a casual ambience all hint at the multiple attractions. Beyond them, though, is the live Irish music, which can be found most nights and especially during Sunday's open jam session. Music ranges from traditional to rockabilly, Celtic guitar, Irish pop, and more, and you'll encounter everything from bands to single vocalists. A guaranteed good time.