Karaoke in Amsterdam: Singing Through the Canals
Amsterdam, often celebrated for its canals, historic buildings, and liberal spirit, has another vibrant facet to its nightlife: karaoke. Over the years, this Japanese-born entertainment has found a cherished place in the Dutch capital, resonating with the city’s inherent penchant for fun, music, and camaraderie. Whether you’re a seasoned crooner or a shower singer itching to take your vocals to a stage, Amsterdam’s karaoke scene promises an evening of joy, laughter, and maybe a bit of friendly competition.
A City Embracing Musical Diversity
Karaoke in Amsterdam isn’t just about belting out the latest chart-toppers or classic rock anthems. True to the city’s cosmopolitan nature, the playlists span multiple languages and genres. Whether you’re in the mood for a Dutch ballad, an English pop hit, a Spanish classic, or even a Bollywood number, chances are you’ll find it in an Amsterdam karaoke joint. This broad spectrum not only serves the city’s diverse populace but also the legions of tourists wanting to leave a musical mark.
Top Karaoke Spots
Several venues have carved a niche for themselves in Amsterdam’s karaoke culture:
- The End Karaoke: Located in the heart of the city, this place is often buzzing with energy. With a vast songbook and a lively ambiance, it’s no surprise that it remains a top choice for many.
- Casablanca: Situated on the Zeedijk, this venue combines karaoke with live music, offering patrons a mix of singing themselves and enjoying performances by others. Their vintage decor adds to the charm.
A Night to Remember
Karaoke nights in Amsterdam aren’t just about singing; they’re experiences. The backdrop of historic canals, the spirited audience cheering you on, and the eclectic mix of songs ensure that it’s not just another night out but a story worth sharing. Many venues go the extra mile, with themed nights, competitions, and special events. So, whether it’s a birthday, a hen’s night, or just a random Tuesday, there’s always a reason to sing.
Tips for First-Timers
If you’re new to the world of karaoke or a bit hesitant, here are a few tips to ensure a good time in Amsterdam:
- Choose Familiar Tunes: Start with a song you love and know well. The confidence will shine through.
- Enjoy the Experience: Remember, it’s all in good fun. It doesn’t matter if you miss a note; it’s about enjoying the moment.
- Hydrate: Amsterdam’s lively atmosphere might tempt you to indulge. Drink water alongside any alcoholic beverages to keep those vocal cords in top shape!
Top 6 Karaoke Bars in Amsterdam
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Duke of Tokyo
Looking for some Karaoke in Amsterdam? Duke of Tokyo has quickly become one of the most popular karaoke bars in Amsterdam. The great design of this spot in Reguliersdwarsstraat gives you the feeling that you are walking through the streets of Tokyo. While enjoying delicious cocktails and bites, you can sing the stars of heaven in one of the private karaoke booths.
Duke of Tokyo is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 5:00 pm to 1:00 am. On Friday and Saturday from 5:00 pm to 3:00 am. And they are closed on Tuesdays.
Ginger
Want to do a private karaoke session? You are at the right place at Ginger Amsterdam! Here you can karaoke like the Japanese do: private. Ginger has three closed karaoke rooms, where you can party with up to 24 friends. No other people screaming through your number and no pushers. The rent costs nothing, as long as the bill exceeds € 250. You can also dine in the same room (all-you-can-eat spare ribs on Thursdays for € 15). Ginger has good news for fans of Dutch-language music: that range has recently been expanded.
Ginger is open Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 5:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. On Friday and Saturday from 5:00 pm to 3:00 am and on Sunday from 12:00 pm – 12.00 am. And they are closed on Tuesdays.
The End
Many people from Amsterdam roll in here in the late hours, because when other bars close you can still have a beer at The End. But more importantly, the karaoke installation is always on. When busy, the microphones and stage are shared, and often everyone sings along whether they know the text or not. Looking for some Karaoke in Amsterdam? This is definitely your spot!
The End is open Monday til Thursday from 10:00 pm to 3:00 am. On Friday and Saturday from 9:00 pm to 4:00 pm and on Sunday from 10:00 pm – 3:00 am.
Karaokebar 24K
Karaoke bar 24K is a karaoke bar around the corner from Rembrandtplein. The karaoke bar is aimed at a wide and international audience because you can request songs in ten different languages here! Of course, there are hits in Dutch and English, but you can also sing in Taiwanese, Japanese, or Mandarin.
24K is open Monday to Thursday from 7.30 pm to 1.00 am. On Friday and Saturday from 6:00 pm to 3:00 pm and on Sunday from 6:00 pm – 1:00 am.
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Bar Karakter
At Bar Karakter you can eat and drink. There is a karaoke room in the basement. It is best to go here with (at least) 8 people and choose a package that suits you best – eat and drink as much as possible. Just check on their site.
Bar Karakter is open from Tuesday til Thursday from 5.00 p.m. to 1.00 a.m. On Friday and Saturday from 5:00 pm to 3:00 pm and on Sunday and Monday they are closed.
Café Plan
At Café Plan West you can have a drink at the bar or at the (open in good weather) window. You can also eat something and they even have a special 5-course menu for only € 34.50. But you can also enjoy karaoke here! Under the case is a huge space with a separate bar where you can go completely crazy. You can rent this space for € 25 an hour and you can use it with many people. Sounds perfect right?
Café Plan is open on Tuesday til Thursday from 5.00 pm to 1.00 am. On Friday and Saturday from 5:00 pm to 3:00 pm and on Sunday from 1:00 pm to 1:00 am. On Mondays, they are closed.
finally
Amsterdam’s karaoke scene mirrors the city’s spirit – lively, inclusive, and always up for a good time. It’s a celebration of music, individuality, and community. So, the next time you find yourself wandering the streets of Amsterdam as the night sets in, let the distant sound of music guide you. Step inside, grab a mic and add your voice to the symphony of this wonderful city.
