Netherlands Amsterdam Amsterdam Music Venue

Melkweg

About

Melkweg, meaning "Milky Way" in Dutch, is a dynamic cultural center and music venue located at Lijnbaansgracht 234a, just off Amsterdam's bustling Leidseplein. Housed in a former dairy factory, Melkweg has been a cornerstone of the city's cultural scene since its transformation into a permanent venue in 1973. The building's industrial charm is preserved across its six versatile spaces, including The Max (1,500 capacity), the Old Hall (700), the Rabo Hall (1,400), a theater hall, a cinema, and an exhibition space. This diversity allows Melkweg to host an eclectic mix of events, from live concerts and club nights to film screenings, theater performances, and art exhibitions. Over the decades, it has welcomed legendary artists like Prince, Nirvana, and U2, often serving as a launchpad for emerging talent. The venue is easily accessible via public transport, with the nearest tram stops at Leidseplein, just a one-minute walk away. Visitors can also enjoy the on-site café MILK for drinks and meals before or after events. Melkweg's commitment to showcasing diverse artistic expressions makes it a must-visit destination for culture enthusiasts exploring Amsterdam.

Amsterdam Netherlands

Location

Melkweg is located at Lijnbaansgracht 234a, 1017 PH Amsterdam, just steps away from the vibrant Leidseplein, one of the city’s main nightlife and entertainment hubs. Housed in a former dairy factory, Melkweg has evolved since the 1970s into one of Amsterdam’s most iconic music venues and cultural centers, featuring multiple concert halls, a cinema, a restaurant, and exhibition spaces. The venue is renowned for its diverse programming, hosting hundreds of concerts, club nights, film screenings, theater shows, and art exhibitions each year, attracting a broad audience and international artists. The area surrounding Melkweg is lively and central. Leidseplein, just a minute’s walk away, offers a wide range of bars, cafes, and restaurants, as well as easy access to public transport. Other nearby attractions include the historic Paradiso music venue, the DeLaMar Theater, Vondelpark, and the city’s major museums such as the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. This prime location makes Melkweg a key destination for both locals and tourists exploring Amsterdam’s cultural and nightlife scene.