Hire Outdoor Venues in Amsterdam

1) The Best Styles of Outdoor Event Spaces in Amsterdam

The first and most crucial decision is choosing the style of your outdoor venue in Amsterdam. So, with that in mind, here are the very best styles in the city for you to choose from: 

1. Classic Canalside Charm: One of the standout features of Amsterdam is its picturesque canals. Hosting your event along these historic waterways means you're immersing your guests in the city's centuries-old charm. Imagine sipping cocktails on a canal-side terrace with elegant Dutch townhouses as your backdrop. These buildings, dating back to the 17th century, showcase the iconic gabled facades that make Amsterdam's architecture instantly recognisable.

2. Green Oases Amidst Urbanity: Amsterdam's urban landscape boasts beautiful parks that provide a serene escape from the bustling city life. Vondelpark, for instance, is a prime example of a lush oasis within the metropolis. Hosting your event here means enveloping your attendees in a natural setting featuring meandering paths, tranquil ponds, and serene lawns. The park's landscape reflects the Art Nouveau era, blending harmoniously with nature.

• Check out our guide to the best Idyllic Retreat Venues in Amsterdam to see what we mean! 

3. Industrial Chic and Modern Elegance: For those seeking a more contemporary backdrop, Amsterdam offers transformed industrial sites and modern venues. Consider the Westergas area, a former gas plant turned creative hub. Here, you'll find adaptive spaces with a mix of industrial architecture and sleek modern design. These venues evoke a sense of innovation and creativity, providing a perfect setting for forward-thinking events.

4. Royal Grandeur: Amsterdam's royal palaces bring a touch of regal grandeur to any event. The Royal Palace on Dam Square is a prime example of neoclassical architecture that exudes elegance and history. Imagine hosting an open-air gala or a cocktail reception in the shadow of this majestic structure, transporting your guests to a bygone era.

5. Contemporary Minimalism: Amsterdam also boasts minimalistic, contemporary venues that let your event take centre stage. The Eye Film Institute, resembling a futuristic ship on the waterfront, is a prime example. With its clean lines and modern design, it's a blank canvas that adapts to your vision, allowing your event's theme and activities to shine.

2) The Best Areas for Hosting an Outdoor Event in Amsterdam

The next question you need to ask is, where is the best area for my outdoor party in Amsterdam? Well, according to our local experts, these are your top candidates: 

1. Amstel Riverbanks: Along the scenic Amstel River, you'll discover elegant venues that provide a private and serene atmosphere. These venues often offer spacious terraces overlooking the water, creating a picturesque backdrop for corporate dinners, cocktail receptions, and intimate gatherings.

2. Zuidas District: Amsterdam's business hub, known as the Zuidas District, houses sophisticated venues that cater to private events. Rooftop terraces and stylish gardens provide a modern and upscale setting for networking receptions, product launches, and executive meetings.

3. Jordaan Neighborhood: For a more intimate and cosy atmosphere, the Jordaan neighbourhood boasts hidden courtyards and charming gardens that are perfect for private events. These hidden gems offer an authentic Amsterdam experience, making them ideal for boutique weddings, private luncheons, and artist showcases.

4. Waterfront Venues in Noord: Across the IJ River, Amsterdam Noord is home to venues with breathtaking waterfront views. These spaces provide a sense of seclusion while offering panoramic vistas of the city skyline. They're well-suited for private galas, outdoor concerts, and upscale celebrations.

5. Beach Venues at IJburg: The man-made beach areas in IJburg offer a unique setting for private events by the water. With sandy shores, beach clubs, and spacious outdoor areas, these venues are perfect for summer parties, casual networking events, and team-building activities.

6. Parks with Private Spaces: Several of Amsterdam's parks offer private event spaces that can be reserved for exclusive use. These spaces are adaptable and can cater to a range of events, from corporate workshops to outdoor team-building exercises.

Bonus Reading: If we’ve tickled your interested, you can read more on our recommended private party venues in Amsterdam.

3) How Much Will an Outdoor Venue in Amsterdam Cost?

Now, on to the fun part. How much will it cost to hire an outdoor location in Amsterdam? Good question. Here are some estimates for you to work with: 

• Intimate Gardens or Patios: For smaller outdoor areas that can accommodate around 10-20 people, prices can range from €150 to €300 per hour. These spaces are ideal for cosy gatherings.
• Rooftop Terraces or Canal-Side Decks: If you're aiming for a mid-range option with scenic views, comfortable seating, and possibly outdoor heating, expect prices to start around €300 to €500 per hour.
• Exclusive Waterfront Venues or Botanical Gardens: For high-end outdoor venues with breathtaking settings, advanced technology, and top-notch service, costs can go upwards of €500 to €800 per hour or more.
• DIY Picnic Spots: If you're looking for a more budget-friendly outdoor experience, consider hosting a picnic-style event in a park. This can cost around €50 to €100 for permits and setup.

Additional costs to consider: 

• Event Services: These services can add to the overall cost. A full-service package might cost around €3,000 to €10,000 or more, depending on the scale and complexity of your event.
• Permits and Licensing: Permit fees can vary and might range from €200 to €1,000 or more, depending on the scope of your event.
• Catering: A per-person catering cost might range from €30 to €100 or more.
• Decor and Setup: Costs for decor and setup might range from €1,000 to €5,000 or more, depending on your design preferences.
• Weather Contingency: Renting tents, canopies, or outdoor heaters as a weather contingency measure can incur additional expenses, averaging around €500 to €2,000.
• Entertainment and Activities: If you plan to have entertainment, live music, or team-building activities, factor in these costs.
• Transportation and Logistics: Depending on the scale of your event, these costs might vary.
• Insurance: Some venues may require event liability insurance to cover any potential damages or accidents. Insurance costs can vary based on the coverage required.

4) The Best Catering for Your outdoor Location in Amsterdam

Now it’s time for a fun one: food! And for our money, these are the best event caterers for our outdoor space for hire: 

• Rivièra Maison Catering: Known for their high-quality and stylish approach, Rivièra Maison Catering offers a range of catering options suitable for outdoor events. From elegant picnics to elaborate outdoor feasts, they can customise menus to match your event's theme.
• Moss Amsterdam: Moss Amsterdam is a sustainable catering company that focuses on using locally sourced and organic ingredients. They're known for their creative and innovative approach to outdoor dining, creating unforgettable culinary experiences in open-air settings.
• Pure Energy Culinary Services: Pure Energy is dedicated to creating unique dining experiences. With a focus on healthy and seasonal cuisine, they can tailor their menus to outdoor events, ensuring fresh and flavorful options for your guests.
• Silk Road Catering: Specializing in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, Silk Road Catering can bring a taste of exotic flavours to your outdoor event. Their vibrant dishes and rich aromas can add an extra layer of excitement to your gathering.
• Bijzonder Culinair: Bijzonder Culinair focuses on creating a culinary journey for your guests. They offer a wide range of menu options, and their flexibility and attention to detail make them a great choice for outdoor events with diverse preferences.

P.S. Seeing as you’re going to be outside, why not book one of our favourite food trucks in Amsterdam to give your guests a real surprise? 

5) What Weather to Expect for Your Outdoor Event in Amsterdam

Well, well, well. We’ve reached that time where we need to talk about the famous Dutch weather. We couldn’t talk about outdoor venues for hire in Amsterdam without crossing this bridge. The good news is, that you can host outdoor events here all year round! 

• Spring (March to May): Spring in Amsterdam can be quite unpredictable. March and April can still be chilly, with daytime temperatures ranging from 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F). May sees milder temperatures, ranging from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F). However, there can still be occasional rain showers and gusty winds. Layered clothing and having sheltered areas are recommended.
• Summer (June to August): Summer is a popular time for outdoor events. June to August sees the warmest temperatures, ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). However, rain is still possible, so having a backup plan in case of showers is wise. It's also good to note that the evenings can get cooler, so having blankets or heaters can keep your guests comfortable.
• Fall (September to November): Fall weather in Amsterdam can be quite pleasant. September still carries some summer warmth, with temperatures around 14°C to 18°C (57°F to 64°F). October and November see cooler temperatures, ranging from 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F). Rain becomes more frequent, so having covered spaces or tents is advisable.
• Winter (December to February): Winters in Amsterdam are cold, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 6°C (32°F to 43°F). Snowfall is possible, though not guaranteed. Outdoor events during this time can be challenging due to the cold and potential inclement weather. If you're planning a winter event, consider providing heaters and cosy blankets for your guests.

6) Top Vendors for Your Outdoor Space in Amsterdam

And, finally, as you know, no event planner is an island. You need friends - and fellow vendors - to host a kick-ass outdoor event in Amsterdam. Here is a smattering of our favourites for your perusal! 

1. Rent-a-Tent: Rent-a-Tent specialises in providing high-quality tents, marquees, and outdoor event infrastructure. They offer various sizes and styles to suit your event's needs, ensuring your guests are sheltered from the elements.

2. Boels Verhuur: Boels Verhuur is a one-stop shop for event rentals, offering everything from furniture and catering equipment to lighting and sound systems. They can help you set up a comfortable and functional outdoor space.

3. Flowers and Scent Events: For outdoor events that need a touch of natural beauty, Flowers and Scent Events offers floral arrangements and decor that complement your outdoor surroundings.

4. Rentuu: Rentuu offers a wide range of event equipment rentals, from seating and tables to audiovisual equipment. They can assist in setting up a comfortable and visually appealing outdoor event space.

5. Naar de Boer: For a unique outdoor experience, Naar de Boer offers the opportunity to host events at local farms in and around Amsterdam, bringing a rustic and authentic touch to your event.

Wrapping Up

And that’s a wrap! Thanks for joining us today, on our guide to hosting an outdoor event in Amsterdam. 

The rest is smooth sailing. Simply use our Ask Expert function to set our of our local event planners on the case!