Comedy in Amsterdam: clubs, shows and cabaret .

Stand-up comedy in Amsterdam

The stand-up comedy Amsterdam scene includes dedicated comedy clubs, open-mic evenings and touring comedians performing in larger theatres. Shows can range from short sets by several comedians to a complete performance by one comedian.

For international visitors, it is important to check the language before buying tickets. English-language comedy is widely available, but many Dutch comedians perform exclusively in Dutch.

Boom Chicago

Boom Chicago is one of the established names in Amsterdam's international comedy scene. The theatre is located at Rozengracht 117 in the Jordaan.

Its program includes improv, sketch comedy and stand-up, with performances primarily in English. The venue has been operating in Amsterdam since 1993 and has hosted numerous comedians and performers during that time.

If you are specifically searching for English comedy Amsterdam, Boom Chicago is one of the venues worth checking first. The program changes regularly, so check whether the performance is stand-up, improv or another type of comedy before booking.

Comedy Café Amsterdam

Comedy Café Amsterdam focuses on live stand-up and regularly features both Dutch and international comedians. Shows often feature several performers rather than a single comedian.

The language varies by event. Some nights are in Dutch, while others are organized specifically for English-speaking audiences. Check the program before choosing a performance.

For visitors searching for an Amsterdam comedy club with a traditional stand-up format, Comedy Café is one of the city's dedicated options.

English comedy in Amsterdam

You do not need to speak Dutch to see live comedy in the city. English comedy Amsterdam events take place throughout the year, particularly at venues that cater to Amsterdam's international population.

Boom Chicago has a strong focus on English-language performances, while Comedy Café and other organizers schedule dedicated English nights. International touring comedians also regularly include Amsterdam in their European schedules.

When checking an Amsterdam show, look for an explicit language indication. Do not assume that a show will be in English simply because the venue regularly welcomes international audiences.

Funny People

Funny People Amsterdam is associated with English-language comedy events and open-mic style performances in the city. These smaller nights give audiences the opportunity to see several comedians during one event.

Open mics differ from a complete theatre performance. Comedians may be testing new material, and sets are generally shorter. This makes them useful if you want to see different styles of stand-up Amsterdam during the same evening.

Always check the current Funny People Amsterdam schedule for the venue, starting time and ticket arrangements. Smaller comedy events can move between locations.

Cabaret in Amsterdam

The word cabaret can mean something different in the Netherlands than it does in other countries. Amsterdam cabaret often refers to a theatre performance combining comedy, storytelling, social commentary, music and personal observations.

Most Dutch cabaret is performed in Dutch. Language therefore matters considerably if you are visiting Amsterdam and do not speak Dutch.

De Kleine Komedie

De Kleine Komedie is a historic theatre on the Amstel. Its program includes Dutch comedians, cabaret performers, musicians and other theatre productions.

For cabaret Amsterdam, this is an important venue to check. Many performances are language-heavy and performed in Dutch, so international visitors should confirm the language before buying tickets.

Koninklijk Theater Carré

Royal Theater Carré is one of Amsterdam's larger theatres and is located on the Amstel. Its program covers comedy, cabaret, concerts, musicals and other live productions.

Comedy performances here are generally larger productions or tours rather than small open-mic nights. Carré can therefore be useful when looking for a major Amsterdam show or a performance by an established comedian.

Comedy and shows around Leidseplein

Leidseplein is best known for nightlife, theatres and music venues, but it is also a useful area when looking for Amsterdam shows. Several theatres are within walking distance of the square.

Internationaal Theater Amsterdam

Internationaal Theater Amsterdam, commonly known as ITA, is located directly on Leidseplein. Its program is primarily focused on theatre rather than stand-up comedy, but it is worth checking if you want to combine comedy with Amsterdam's broader performing arts scene.

Productions can be in Dutch or another language. Some performances offer English surtitles, depending on the production.

DeLaMar

DeLaMar is located close to Leidseplein and hosts musicals, theatre productions, comedians and cabaret performers. The program changes throughout the year and includes both shorter runs and larger productions.

If you are comparing Amsterdam shows, check the individual performance rather than the venue alone. Comedy, cabaret and musical theatre can all appear on the same program.

Comedy clubs in Amsterdam or theatre shows?

The comedy clubs in Amsterdam offer a different experience from the city's theatres. Dedicated comedy venues usually have a smaller stage and audience. A night may include several comedians performing shorter sets.

Theatres such as Carré, DeLaMar and De Kleine Komedie generally host complete performances. These are more likely to feature one established comedian, cabaret performer or touring production.

For traditional stand-up Amsterdam, start with dedicated comedy organizers and clubs. For Dutch cabaret or a larger production, check the theatre programs.

Choosing an Amsterdam show

Before booking an Amsterdam show, check the language, type of performance, starting time and expected duration. This is particularly important for comedy because much of the humour depends on language.

For stand-up comedy Amsterdam in English, look specifically for events advertised as English-language performances. For Dutch cabaret Amsterdam, theatres such as De Kleine Komedie, Carré and DeLaMar have extensive programs.

Smaller events can be useful if you want to discover new comedians, while established theatres are more suitable when you already have a particular performer in mind.

If you want to continue your evening after the show, see our guide with more Amsterdam nightlife tips, including clubs and popular party areas around the city.

Getting to comedy clubs in Amsterdam by bike

Many comedy clubs in Amsterdam and theatres are easy to reach by bike. Leidseplein, the Jordaan, the Amstel and central Amsterdam are all connected by dedicated cycling routes.

Check where the performance is taking place before leaving, especially when attending comedy organizations that use different venues. Give yourself enough time to park your bike legally and walk to the entrance.

If you have been drinking during or after a show, do not cycle. Leave the bike parked and continue by public transport or taxi. You can collect it when you are able to cycle safely again.

From our rental locations, you can easily rent a bike and reach many of Amsterdam's comedy venues and theatres without relying on a car. Check our shop opening hours and return conditions when planning an evening performance.