Paradiso

Following the eviction of squatting hippies, a 19^th century church was turned into the Cosmic Relaxation Center Paradiso, a sacred space that hosted experimental musicians, artists, and other tie-dyed creatives in the 60’s. And although Cosmic Relaxation Center’s clouds of incense have long evaporated, it’s as if that hippy spirit still lingers today. PARADISO boasts an easy, anything-goes vibe that puts Amsterdam’s other big-name venues in the shade. The main hall has a capacity of 1500 and has seen the likes of the Stones, Prince, Nirvana, U2, David Bowie and many more iconic artists. Paradiso’s small hall holds 250 fans and hosts up-and-coming bands, like the garage/punk trio Radkey. Whether you’ve come to soak up Andrew Comb’s soulful songs or J.C. Satàn’s noise-rock, there’s something about the stained glass windows and galleries on cast-iron columns that truly enhances the experience. An added bonus is being able to go for a pee or a round of beers and still only be a stone’s throw from the action.