Amsterdam has long been recognized as a top destination for international group and event travel, offering a diverse selection of venues to suit every occasion. But over the past years, we’ve noticed a clear shift: more and more clients are no longer looking for just another hotel ballroom, but they want an experience: something memorable, authentic, and different.
That's where we come in
As a DMC, our clients rely on our local expertise to uncover those unconventional venues that leave a lasting impression and keep guests talking for years to come. We’ve gathered our top 5 favorite unique venues in Amsterdam to help inspire your next event.
Westerkerk
What’s more quintessentially Amsterdam than its rich history? And why not let that history set the stage for your next event? One of the city’s most iconic venues, the Westerkerk offers a breathtaking backdrop steeped in heritage. Located in the heart of the Jordaan, this 17th-century Protestant church combines grandeur with authenticity. With its soaring ceilings, stunning acoustics, and flexible layout, the Westerkerk is a unique setting for conferences, dinners, and other events that aim to leave a lasting impression. Catering by Matter of Taste adds refined, contemporary Dutch flair to events at the Westerkerk, seamlessly blending culinary excellence with historic elegance.
STRAAT Museum
STRAAT Museum is one of Amsterdam’s most distinctive large-scale event spaces: an expansive, industrial hall of over 8.000 m² located on the vibrant NDSM wharf. Surrounded by monumental street art from world-renowned artists, this raw yet atmospheric venue creates a dramatic setting for events up to 1,000 guests. High ceilings, steel beams, and urban aesthetics give the space an edgy, contemporary feel and make the STRAAT Museum a bold, inspiring choice for large, high-impact events: from brand activations and product launches to award ceremonies, fashion shows, and large dinners, the STRAAT Museum can do it all.
Capital C
Capital C is a striking event venue housed in the former Amsterdam Diamond Exchange (Diamantbeurs), a historic building from 1911 located in the heart of the city. Once the bustling center of the international diamond trade, the building has been transformed into a creative hub after an extensive renovation led by top Dutch architects and designers. Today, Capital C offers a blend of heritage and innovation, featuring modern event spaces like the High Light (a glass-domed rooftop venue with panoramic city views) and several art-inspired meeting rooms. It’s an ideal location for conferences, product launches, networking events, and exclusive dinners that seek a creative, high-end atmosphere.
Felix Meritis
Felix Meritis is a landmark event venue located at Keizersgracht, one of the city’s main and was founded in 1788 as an intellectual hub during the Enlightenment. Its stunning neoclassical exterior and iconic oval Concertzaal have hosted world-class performances by, among others, Schumann and Brahms. Following a meticulous three-year restoration (2017–2020), the venue now combines historic elegance with modern flair. It offers seven distinct rooms, such as the majestic Concertzaal (400‑pax), stately Zuilenzaal, and atmospheric Shaffyzaal, each thoughtfully equipped with cutting‑edge AV, livestream capability, and flexible layout. This makes Felix Meritis an exceptional setting for large-scale conferences, product launches, gala dinners, hybrid events, and exhibitions for up to 1,000 guests when using multiple rooms or up to 400 in the Concertzaal alone.
Het Scheepvaart
museum
The National Maritime Museum (Het Scheepvaartmuseum) is one of Amsterdam’s most iconic event venues, housed in a 17th-century naval arsenal just minutes from the city center. With its striking glass-covered courtyard, historic architecture, and waterfront location, the museum offers a truly unforgettable backdrop for a wide range of events. From high-level corporate gatherings and gala dinners to product launches, the venue accommodates both intimate and large-scale experiences. The museum’s courtyard is the centerpiece: a grand, light-filled space under a glass. Various other rooms offer flexible settings for breakouts, conferences, or private meetings. Surrounded by maritime heritage and modern amenities, the museum combines history and atmosphere with professionalism and seamless event support.
While these five unconventional venues in Amsterdam offer a glimpse into the city’s creative potential, they truly are just the tip of the iceberg. At Performance Travel DMC, we treat every event brief as a unique opportunity. With our deep local knowledge and a Pandora’s box of venue possibilities, we craft bespoke solutions that align perfectly with your audience, goals, and budget. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large-scale experience, we’re here to unlock the best Amsterdam has to offer—one unforgettable venue at a time.
Have a brief or want to learn more?
Get in touch with us today via info@performancetravel.nl
