Architects Cees Dam and Wilhelm Holzbauer examining a building model during a meeting at the Muziektheater

Nationale Opera & Ballet

Nationale Opera & Ballet Amsterdam: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Travel Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

The Nationale Opera & Ballet (NO&B) in Amsterdam is a leading cultural institution, renowned for its world-class opera and ballet performances, innovative productions, and historical significance. Situated in the iconic Stopera building along the Amstel River, NO&B is not just a performance venue but a vibrant hub for artistic innovation, community engagement, and cultural exploration. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know before visiting—from history and architectural highlights to ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions—ensuring your experience is as seamless and memorable as possible (Wikipedia; Amsterdam.info; operaballet.nl).

Wilhelm Holzbauer and Cees Dam at Bouw Stadhuis Muziektheater Meeting on 25 September 1981

Historical Foundations & Evolution
The Stopera: Architecture & Venue Facilities
Artistic Leadership & International Recognition
Performance Schedule & Repertoire
Visiting Hours & Booking Tickets
Accessibility & Visitor Amenities
Getting There & Travel Tips
Guided Tours & Special Events
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Key Takeaways & Planning Tips
References & Useful Links

Historical Foundations & Evolution

The roots of NO&B trace back to the post-World War II period, reflecting a spirit of cultural renewal and ambition. The Dutch National Opera began as a repertory company, touring extensively and later evolving into De Nederlandse Operastichting in 1964, adopting a stagione system that invited guest soloists and creative teams for each production (Wikipedia). The Dutch National Ballet was established in 1961, born from a merger of the Nederlands Ballet and Amsterdams Ballet, and quickly developed into one of the world’s leading ballet companies (Dutch National Ballet).

Over the decades, both companies have become synonymous with artistic excellence, renowned for their diverse repertoire, technical mastery, and a tradition of innovation that has shaped Dutch cultural life (balletherald.com).

The Stopera: Architecture & Venue Facilities

Opened in 1986, the Stopera is a landmark of modern Dutch architecture, combining Amsterdam’s city hall with the performance venue. Designed for openness and transparency, the building features expansive glass facades, a spacious foyer with river views, and a main auditorium acclaimed for its acoustics and sightlines (seating approximately 1,600 guests). The venue also houses Studio Boekman, a flexible performance space for experimental works and educational programs (operaballet.nl).

The Stopera’s central location near Waterlooplein and the Amstel River makes it a key part of Amsterdam’s urban fabric, symbolizing the integration of civic and cultural life (Amsterdam.info).

Artistic Leadership & International Recognition

NO&B has been shaped by visionary leaders, including Pierre Audi and Sophie de Lint for the opera, and Ted Brandsen for the ballet. Their leadership has fostered international acclaim, innovative programming, and a commitment to nurturing talent through initiatives such as the Junior Company and the Dutch National Opera Studio (Wikipedia; Dutch National Ballet).

The Dutch National Opera was named “Opera Company of the Year” at the 2016 International Opera Awards, and the Dutch National Opera Chorus has received accolades such as Best Opera Chorus by Opernwelt (Dutch National Opera – Official Website).

Performance Schedule & Repertoire

NO&B’s season typically runs from September through June, offering a dynamic repertoire:

Opera: Classics and modern works, including “Tosca,” “Tristan und Isolde,” and Dutch premieres.
Ballet: From “Swan Lake” and “Romeo and Juliet” to innovative contemporary pieces and family-friendly shows.
Special Events: International Young Patrons Gala, Holland Festival productions, and open house days (operaballet.nl; balletherald.com).

NO&B collaborates with leading orchestras, such as the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra and Dutch Ballet Orchestra, ensuring musical excellence at every performance (Wikipedia).

Visiting Hours & Booking Tickets

Box Office & Visitor Services:
- Monday–Friday: 12:00–18:00
- Saturday–Sunday: 12:00–15:00
- Main entrance opens two hours before Main Stage performances; Studio Boekman opens one hour prior.
- Always check the official visiting hours for updates.
Booking Tickets:
- Online: Official ticket site
- Phone: +31 20 625 54 55 (during box office hours)
- At the Venue: Ticket office open on performance days
- Discounts for students, youth, CJP/Stadspas cardholders; last-minute student tickets available
- Surtitles in Dutch and English are provided for Main Stage opera performances.
- Dynamic pricing applies—book early for best rates (operaballet.nl).

Accessibility & Visitor Amenities

Physical Accessibility:
- Wheelchair-accessible entrances, lifts, and restrooms
- Designated wheelchair seating (book by phone)
- Audio induction loop for hearing-impaired patrons
- “Meet and feel” introductions and audio descriptions for ballet at least once per year
Amenities:
- Theatre Café and foyer bars (pre-order drinks online for Main Stage events)
- Cloakroom (free and mandatory for large items)
- Gift shop with programmes, CDs, DVDs, and souvenirs
- Booster seats for children available at cloakroom
- PIN/contactless payment only (no cash) (operaballet.nl)

Getting There & Travel Tips

Address: Amstel 3, 1011 PN Amsterdam
Public Transport:
- Metro: Waterlooplein station (lines 51, 53, 54)
- Tram: Lines 9 and 14
- Bicycle: Ample bike parking nearby
- Car: Limited paid parking at Stopera garage; public transport is recommended (iamsterdam.com)
Arrival Tips:
- Arrive 30–45 minutes before the show for security and seating
- No strict dress code (smart casual recommended)
- Latecomers admitted during intermission only

Guided Tours & Special Events

Guided Tours:
- Go behind the scenes with tours of rehearsal studios, costume workshops, and technical areas
- Special tours for groups and schools available on request (Opera Ballet Guided Tours)
Special Events:
- Annual Open House
- Pre-performance introductions (in Dutch, free with ticket, 45 minutes before curtain)
- Artist talks, family workshops, and educational programmes (operaballet.nl)

Nearby Attractions

Waterlooplein Flea Market: Amsterdam’s oldest market, just steps from the venue (iamsterdam.com)
Rembrandt House Museum: Explore the former home and studio of the great artist
Jewish Cultural Quarter: Includes the Jewish Museum and National Holocaust Museum
Hermitage Amsterdam: An acclaimed museum nearby
Canal Cruises: Depart from nearby docks for scenic views
Museumplein: The city’s museum quarter is a short tram ride away

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of NO&B?
A: Box office is open Monday–Friday 12:00–18:00, weekends 12:00–15:00. Main entrance opens two hours before Main Stage performances.