places to visit in amsterdam during winter

What to do in Amsterdam in Winter – 20 Fun Activities

Updated April 29, 2024

// By Margherita

Is it worth it to visit Amsterdam in winter? A lot of people wonder if the weather will be too cold or if there are things to do in the winter. To answer that, yes, there are many things you can do in the city, even during winter!

No time to read? Book your perfect activity to enjoy Amsterdam in winter here!

We love booking tours with GetYourGuide – the company offers a variety of activities, flexible booking, and 24/7 support!

• Amsterdam: Light Festival Boat Tour with Snacks and Drinks – the best way to enjoy the festival!
• Amsterdam Winter Walking Tour – including a Christmas snack and gluhwein!
• Amsterdam: Icebar Entry Ticket with 3 Drinks – make sure you book your entry tickets in advance!
• Amsterdam: Smoke and Lounge City Boat Cruise – explore Amsterdam’s iconic canals
• Amsterdam: Luxury Cruise with Beer, Wine, & Cocktail Option – BEST RATED Amsterdam cruise!

This guest post was brought to you by Ask the Dutch Guy , your go-to guide when it comes to The Netherlands. The goal of Ask The Dutch Guy is to showcase the beauty of The Netherlands and to inspire others to explore the country – follow him on Facebook and Instagram for more Netherlands info!

Are you wondering whether it’s worth to visit Amsterdam in winter? The answer is YES! There are many unique events you can enjoy in the coldest months, along with winter activities that can last for a whole season.

Regardless of when you visit Amsterdam – whether it’s in winter 2023 or not – you will definitely fall in love. The winter is when the city is transformed into a charming and fairytale-like city that you shouldn’t miss.

Yet, before we look at all the fun things to do in Amsterdam in winter, let’s just answer a very common question – how cold is Amsterdam in winter?

Weather in Amsterdam in Winter

First things first – don’t come to Amsterdam in winter if you are looking for sunshine and palms! Amsterdam is located in north-central Europe , and the climate is typically continental – chilly in the winter, and warm in the summer. 

However, despite what many people think, Amsterdam isn’t the coldest European city – places like Helsinki and Berlin have much colder temperatures, especially at night. 

Similarly to other places in Central Europe, when talking about winter in Amsterdam people refer to the period between November and March. The coldest months are December, January and February, with average highs around 6-7°C (42-48°F), dropping around 0°C (32°F) at night.

November and March are usually a few degrees warmer both during the day, and at night – to get an idea, here you’ll find average temperatures for each winter month in Amsterdam. 

November Amsterdam Temperature: high 10°C (50°F), low 4°C (39°F)

December Amsterdam Temperature: high 7°C (44°F), low 2°C (35°F) 

January Amsterdam Temperature: high 6°C (42°F), low 1°C (33°F) 

February Amsterdam Temperature: high 6°C (42°F), low 0°C (32°F)

March Amsterdam Temperature: high 10°C (50°F), low 2°C (35°F)

It rarely snows in Amsterdam in winter, but it’s often rainy – November, December and January are the rainiest month of the year, with an average of 12/13 rainy days per month. You may also find strong wind , so make sure to layer up!

Last but not least, when visiting Amsterdam in winter, don’t forget that the sun sets quite early, especially in December and January. By 4.30 PM it’s usually already dark, but luckily there are plenty of fun winter acivities in Amsterdam to keep you entertained when the sun sets. Keep reading to know more!

20 Things to do in Amsterdam in Winter

1) go ice skating.

Yes, you can ice skate on the frozen canals … but only if the conditions are right. If you get to see it frozen, you’ll see the world’s most beautiful ice rink.

Don’t worry, even if the canals don’t freeze over this year, there are other places where you can go outdoor ice skating in the city —such as the ICE*Amsterdam , which sits outside the Rijksmuseum.

A stop in an ice-skating rink is included in this Amsterdam – Christmas Lights and Festive Delights tour!

2) Enjoy the Light Festival

During the winter months, the annual Amsterdam Light Festival takes place. At this time, you will see the magical light installation that adorns the streets, canals, and landmarks start from November to January.

The best way to enjoy this is to go on an Amsterdam Light Festival boat tour – this one includes an open bar!

3) Shop at the Winter Markets

If you are looking for a place to shop, you will love the winter markets in the city. Every weekend, leading to Christmas, markets are popping up in and around the city.

The best thing about these markets is they are all different—from traditional to trendy, meaning there’s something for everyone!

Amsterdam is also located within day-tripping distance from Münster, home to some of the best Christmas Markets in Germany. You can visit them easily on this Christmas Markets of Münster day trip by bus from Amsterdam!

4) Grab Some Oliebollen

During the winter months, particularly in December and early January , you will find oliebollen stands all over the city.

Oliebollen are similar to donuts and they are a traditional New Year’s Eve snack of the Dutch. Don’t hesitate to ask for powdered sugar on top!

5) Be There on National Tulip Day

Every third Saturday of January is National Tulip Day where over 200,000 tulips are brought to Dam Square. The best part about this is that it’s 100% free to enter. But of course, it’s best you get in line early so you can have your pick of tulips to bring home with you.

6) Walk Along the Canals

Yes, you can walk along the canals in the wintertime and you don’t need to worry about it being too chilly! The city isn’t that chilly, so you’ll be comfortable walking even in the coldest months.

While you’re at it, I suggest you head to the Herengracht where you can see the most beautiful canal houses. 

The canals are truly spectacular at night, so don’t be deterred by the winter darkness and head out on a Red Light District Tour at night , including a walk along the canals!

7) Go Cheese Tasting

There are a lot of places in the city where you can get “cheesy!” You can check out the Cheese Museum or check out specialist shops that deal with a lot of cheese, such as Abraham Kef Fromagerie that offers cheese and wine tasting sessions for individuals and groups.

Alternatively, you can do cheese and wine on a cruise in the city’s most famous canals, or combine the wonderful worlds of cheese and beer on this tour!

8) Spend Time at a Brown Bar

The Dutch call their most traditional pubs ‘brown bars’, because they’re traditionally made of wood.

You will find a lot of these brown bars in the city, where you can also enjoy local and international beers on tap. Amsterdam is also a great place for craft beer, and some of the best brews in town can actually be enjoyed in brown bars! Check out our Amsterdam craft beer guide to know more!

You can find the city’s most popular brown bars in the Red Light District. Brown bars can sometimes be hard to find, so this Amsterdam Brewery Tour with tastings is a good option to check out some of them!

9) Visit the Usual Tourist Attractions

There’s nothing wrong with enjoying the tourist attractions in the city despite the cold weather. What’s good about this is that the city is less crowded during this time, which means you’ll be able to visit the museums and monuments with less hassle.

You can easily visit tourist hotspots like Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Rijksmuseum in the winter without having to worry about crowds and long queues!

If you don’t have much time in Amsterdam, this Walking Tour and Canal Cruise is the perfect introduction to the city and its main sights!

10) See the Christmas Exhibition Museum

At this time of the year, a special exhibition pops up at the Willet-Holythuysens Museum , showcases how the upper-class family celebrated their Christmas in the 19th century.

The preserved furniture, architecture, and history create a fascinating window into the past that only few others will have experienced.

11) See a Fashion Show

Mercedes-Benz FashionWeek takes place in the city twice a year, during January and August. It is one of the most important fashion events in the whole Benelux region.

Normally you need to have an invite to be allowed in, but special events are sometimes open to everyone – or else, you can try your luck on the door!

12) Experience Museum Night

Museum Night is an annual event in the city, which happens every November. On this night, over 50 museums in the city stay open after hours and host various exhibitions.

You will see multiple offerings as well in every museum, such as live DJs, special events, food and drink parties, and many more.

13) Witness the Sinterklaas Parade

Sinterklaas is similar to Santa, and he comes around once a year. Every year, Amsterdam hosts the biggest Sinterklaas Parade globally, which starts on the canals and Sinterklaas sails through the city.

Keep in mind that this is a big parade, that attracts over 400,000 visitors.

14) Catch the International Documentary Film Festival

The International Documentary Film Festival happens once a year in the city, in November. So, if you love documentaries, this is going to be your paradise for almost two weeks.

The event has been around for years, particularly since 1988, and it is the biggest documentary film festival in the world. It tells stories about life from all corners of life. During this time, you will find a lot of the films taking place indoors and even outdoors.

15) See the Christmas Decorations at de Bijenkorf

If you are on a budget, yet you still want to enjoy and experience the festive season in the city , then you should head over to de Bijenkorf, a chain of luxury department stores. In Amsterdam, there’s one right next to the Royal Palace!

Here you can find various Christmas displays and decorations—and you can view all them for free.

16) Shop on the 9 Streets

The 9 Streets is a popular area in the city for shopping. They are located in the Jordaan district , which are made up of little streets that connect Keizersgracht, Herengracht, and Prinsengracht.

All of the buildings on these streets are filled with unique shops, selling local clothing, jewelry, designer items and many more. You can visit 9 Streets and some other fun Amsterdam sights on this Guided Bike Tour of Central Amsterdam !

17) Enjoy Some Pepernoten

Pepernoten is a traditional Dutch sweet that is associated with the winter season. It is small, round, and cookie-like that comes in a variety of flavours.

The base is gingerbread-flavoured , but many people choose to mix and match it with various other ingredients. Make sure you don’t miss this delicious treat while you’re here in the winter.

18) See the Chocoa Festival

If you’re here in February, you should catch the Chocoa Festival that happens every year and is all about chocolates. The festival will show you about the processes that go into making chocolate. Aside from that, you can discover new chocolate flavors and explore other food pairings.

19) Stay Warm & Cozy in a Cafe

Amsterdam has a lot of cafes , and if you want to experience the rich culture of the city, you should definitely spend some time in one of their local cafes.

During winter, spending time in a café is a great idea to escape the cold and darkness, while drinking delicious coffee and hanging out with the locals. CT Coffee & Coconuts is a cool place, with a stunning location in an old cinema, while Winkel 43 in Jordaan is believed by many to be the best place in Amsterdam for appeltaart (apple cake)!

20) Go Street Art Hunting

Last but not least, Amsterdam has a great street art scene! Check out our Amsterdam street guide for more info and don’t forget to add places like the NDSM and Wijdesteeg/ Colourful Street to your list of things to do in Amsterdam in winter!

Here are the other events you need to watch out for if you’re visiting Amsterdam in winter!

• WinterParade: taking place in November, this event kicks off the winter season with celebrations, food and theatre around a 120-meter long table
• International Queer & Migrant Film Festival: with feature films, short movies and documentaries about the queer and migrant world.
• Valhalla Festival: a two-day dance music festival that takes place at the RAI convention centre the week before Christmas.
• Tango Train : a celebration of tango music, which is perfect for locals and international visitors.
• Meesterlijk: this is the Dutch word for masterfully, and this event is all about crafts, design, and many more.
• L&B Whisky Weekend: the event is held over three evenings in the middle of January where you can try whisky and whisky products by well-known makers and new kids on the block.
• IMPRO Amsterdam: a festival dedicated to improvisational theatre.
• Amsterdam Hotel Night: Similar to Museum Night, this event is when several hotels in the city open up to host parties and events in one night.
• Christmas Tree Bonfire: This is when all the Christmas trees used in December will be burned at the Museumplein one evening in January.

Are you ready to explore the city of Amsterdam in winter? You should, because it’s definitely something you shouldn’t miss! The city will feel like magic during this time!

15 Top-Rated Things to Do in Winter in Amsterdam

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated Mar 23, 2023

While spring and fall are the most popular seasons to vacation in Amsterdam, there are a slew of perks and rewarding things to do awaiting those who visit during winter. In addition to cheaper rates on everything from airfare to accommodation, winter travelers can enjoy crowd-free museums, skate on the canals (if it gets cold enough), and chow down on the most delectable wintertime treats.

Visit during December or early January to witness the magic of Amsterdam aglow with festive lights, charming Christmas markets, and more fresh flowers than you can count on National Tulip Day. Don't worry, you won't freeze. The temperature in Amsterdam rarely plummets below 34 degrees, even in February, and highs hover near 44. Don a couple of layers, and you'll be perfectly comfortable.

Plan your visit to the lovely Dutch capital with our list of the best things to do in winter in Amsterdam.

1. Be Wowed by the Amsterdam Light Festival

2. pick a free bouquet on national tulip day, 3. skate on a canal or an outdoor rink, 4. get inspired (and warm) at the museums, 5. hop aboard a canal cruise, 6. attend the winter festival amsterdam, 7. fill your belly with classic winter dishes, 8. shop the boutiques along the 9 straatjes, 9. tour amsterdam's christmas markets, 10. step back in time at the museum of willet-holthuysen, 11. catch a performance of wereldkerstcircus, 12. sled, ski, or snow tube at winter paradise, 13. talk to animals at the artis amsterdam royal zoo, 14. question your existence at the groote museum, 15. catch a flick at the international documentary film festival amsterdam, map of things to do in winter in amsterdam.

If you thought the city's architecture was impressive, just wait until you catch sight of the remarkable Amsterdam Light Festival. A massive, open-air exhibition descends on the city during December and January, flanking its canals and winding streets with giant light sculptures so impressive, you'll gasp with delight.

The first festival took place in 2012 and has grown into the highly anticipated and beloved event it is today. Nearly one million visitors arrive annually to admire the incredible light sculptures first-hand, making it one of the best free things to do in Amsterdam.

From a giant house of cards to life-sized models of people sitting on a park bench to a display of bacteria fighting the E. coli virus, visitors will be amazed by the innovative creations that light the capital each winter. Some are even set to music.

Each year, the displays vary in size and theme. The walking route invites tourists to explore the dramatic works on foot, while the canal route entices them to travel by boat to gape at the intricate displays in, around, and over the romantic waterways.

While you never know exactly what to expect at the Amsterdam Light Festival, you're sure to be mesmerized. You'll never look at festive lights the same way again.

While many associate tulips with the arrival of spring, those in Amsterdam like to appreciate this cheerful flower much earlier in the year. The third Saturday of January plays host to National Tulip Day, or Nationale Tulpendag , as it's known in Dutch.

At 8am, locals begin unloading their trucks and arranging over 200,000 tulips into a temporary garden in Dam Square . At 1 pm, they open the garden to the public and offer everyone a chance to pick flowers for free. Watching the setup is almost as much fun as picking the flowers yourself, so arrive early.

Insider's tip: Be prepared to stand in line (sometimes for an hour or more) if you're hoping to leave with flowers. This is well known as one of the best free things to do in Amsterdam in winter.

If you're hankering for more beauty, head to Keukenhof , the gorgeous estate of Keukenhof Castle set just 30 minutes outside Amsterdam. Its colorful spring blooms are spectacular, but it isn't open until the end of March.

While skating on one of Amsterdam's famed Golden Canals is one of the most romantic ways to tour the city, this happens very rarely. Sections of the Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht canals last froze enough to support the weight of skaters during the "big freeze" in March of 2018. Prior to that, the canals hadn't frozen in over six years.

If you aren't lucky enough to visit during a deep freeze, take a swirl around one of the city's winter ice rinks. ICE*Amsterdam offers outdoor skating in one of the most picturesque settings: Museumplein , a spectacular venue for a glide. Skaters are blessed with incredible views of the Rijksmuseum from mid-November to March 1 st .

Leidseplein also boasts an outdoor rink from mid-November to early January. Rental skates are available at both rinks, as are warm drinks and snacks, which you can enjoy before and after your session. Skating is a fun thing to do with the family, so be sure to bring the kids along.

For a more professional experience, lace up your skates at Jaap Eden Ijsbaan , which is open from October to March.

Amsterdam is home to some of the world's best museums, which are generally packed during the high season. Winter travelers get to experience the impressive exhibits found in these tourist attractions without the hassle of crowds.

Take advantage of the relative quiet, and explore the unmissable Rijksmuseum (a.k.a. National Museum) the scenic heart of Museumplein. This historic building is home to a vast collection of ancient and modern art and artifacts.

While in town, do not miss a visit to the Van Gogh Museum . Art buffs will be captivated by both the building itself (a modern creation designed by Gerrit Rietveld) and the incredible paintings by Van Gogh himself. Home to the largest collection of the artists' works, you'll find letters, etchings, and paintings on display.

The Ann Frank House is another important place to visit. Located on the Prinsengracht , this hauntingly unforgettable museum is housed in the home in which the Frank family hid from the Nazis during World War II. Inside, you'll find the hidden staircase to their living quarters and other items that remain as they were when Anne and her family hid here.

Dubbed the "Venice of the North," Amsterdam is perhaps best known for its romantic, tree-lined canals. And what better way to explore the city's sparkling stars than by getting up close and personal - on a boat cruise? Book one for New Year's and you're in for an unforgettable night!

With over 100 kilometers of canals (a.k.a. grachten) winding their way through the city, there's no shortage of places to cruise. That said, the most popular (and touristy) canals are Prinsengracht , Herengracht , and Keizergracht . Many cruises include a hot chocolate to warm your fingers, although most boats are heated, so you shouldn't feel chilled.

Multiple cruise companies (over 120 to be exact) have made a good business out of shuttling visitors between Amsterdam's tourist attractions or simply touring them around the waterways, pointing out architectural marvels and enlightening them on the area's history along the way. You'll have plenty of options to choose from.

Plan your cruise during the Amsterdam Light Festival for an even more memorable excursion.

The Dutch love winter, and who can blame them? Romantic canals reflect twinkling lights, the narrow streets are lined with festive markets, and restaurants dole out delicious warm dishes.

Evening canal cruises, ice-skating, snowball tosses, and cross-country skiing are just some of the activities on offer at the city's beloved Winter Festival Amsterdam, an event created to celebrate this cool and wonderful time of the year.

One of the best points of interest in winter, this popular festival attracts thousands of tourists from late-December through early January (around the 18 th to the 8 th ).

Famous Dutch artists will perform on the stage, tasty treats will be on offer, food trucks will hover, and visitors can ride a Ferris wheel or carousel when they're not twirling around an indoor or outdoor rink.

Official site: https://winterfestivalamsterdam.com/winter-festival-amsterdam/

Warm and inviting cafés line Amsterdam's streets, enticing visitors to step in from the cold for a warm bowl of soup ( Snert is a thick and hearty pea soup served with rye bread), stamppot (mashed potatoes and veggies served with meat), fondue, or a broodje (a.k.a. sandwich).

Once you've finished your meal, it's time to enjoy some of the tastiest treats on offer in Amsterdam. Oliebollen are the most famous winter dessert and are only available at this time of year. Eating these scrumptious, deep-fried dough balls is a delicious and beloved New Year's tradition, not to mention one of the most enjoyable things to do in winter. These are essentially donuts covered in powdered sugar, and are sold in stalls known as oliebollenkramen , which are positioned throughout town.

Appeltaarts (apple pie), Dutch pancakes , and Poffertjes (pancake-like treats doused in powdered sugar and butter) are also on offer at this time. Wash it all down with a mug of hot chocolate, and you'll be reenergized for a day of sightseeing.

Engage in some retail therapy among the eclectic boutiques of Amsterdam's 9 Straatjes (a.k.a. nine little streets). This unique shopping area consists of nine scenic streets, which lie within the city's most prominent neighborhoods: Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht. Each neighborhood houses three of the streets. Part of the fun is crossing bridges over the canals to reach the other side.

No matter what you're searching for, you'll find it here. Each street is lined with art galleries, designer shops, cafés, restaurants, and vintage clothing stores. You'll also find jewelry boutiques, book shops, and flower stores. Also, it wouldn't be Amsterdam without design stores and a bevy of shops selling lingerie.

Around Christmas, the streets are beautifully decorated, adding to their picturesque allure. Be sure to bring a camera, and allocate some extra spending money before you head into this land of temptation.

There's no shortage of festive markets in Amsterdam in winter. Boasting hand-made crafts, delectable treats, and skating rinks, these markets up the fun factor of any cold-weather Dutch vacation. A few faves include the Ice*Village Amsterdam , which surrounds the skating rink in Museumplein and features vibrant lights and dozens of vendors selling festive treats and wares.

In pure Amsterdam style, the traditional Sunday Market in Westergasfabriek is transformed into the Funky Xmas Market for one day in mid-December. Quirky handmade goods are on display by their unique vendors.

Pure Winter Markt Amsterdam is the perfect place for the environmentally conscious shopper. Sustainability is the theme here, which is what makes this such a rewarding place to visit. In addition to purchasing guilt-free gifts, the market - with 70 percent of its space devoted to food vendors - features the freshest local dishes around. This is a traveling market, so check their site to determine where they'll be when you're in town.

For a truly Dutch experience, head to Leiden , an adorable town about 40 minutes away, for their floating Christmas Market . Multiple stalls and food stations are set upon a floating platform on the Nieuwe Rijn , creating a majestically festive aura.

A perfect example of a historic canal home, the Willet-Holthuysen museum is located on the Herengracht. Last home to Abraham Willet and Louisa Holthuysen, this attraction serves as an enchanting example of what life was like for wealthy members of Dutch society (and their staff) in the mid-1800s.

From December to early January, the house is converted into a 19 th -century festive wonderland as part of the Christmas Exhibition . The museum is decorated with trinkets and festive décor from the time of its last inhabitants. The remarkably decorated Christmas tree, complete with unwrapped children's gifts is a stunning centerpiece.

Visit during the last week of December, and you'll be graced with live music, including Christmas songs, and a reading of Christmas stories. Coffee, tea, and board games are on hand during these times, which will tempt you to prolong your stay.

Acrobats, white horses, contortionists, Trapeze artists – if you can dream it, the Wereldkerst Circus Carré likely has it – and the shows don't disappoint. A much-loved tradition, the World Christmas Circus (a.k.a. Wereldkerstcircus) has been gracing Amsterdam's stages since it began as a one-man show with circus performer Oscar Carré in 1887. Locals flock to see this exciting performance at the Royal Theatre Carré each holiday season.

Much larger and more diverse than its original show, today's Christmas circus includes thrilling acts featuring circus performers from across the globe. If you're used to attending The Nutcracker ballet or a performance of Handle's Messiah to get in the holiday spirit, you'll be amazed by the fun you'll have ringing in the season at this entertaining event.

Performers from across the globe gather in Amsterdam from late December to early January (for just over two weeks) to thrill tourists with their unique acts. Not surprisingly, visiting this exciting Christmas attraction is one of the best things to do with the family in Amsterdam.

Hold your breath as you watch trapeze artists fly through the air and acrobats fling themselves around the stage. Contortionists, jugglers, clowns, and the "Italian Horse Whisperer" are a few of the featured acts.

Each year, over 60,000 people bombard the theater to be wowed by the amazing feats performed in this historic venue, which was built by Oscar Carré in 1887 to host circus performances. Be sure to book your tickets early.

Each December, the RAI and its surroundings are transformed into a wonderland of wintery goodness. We're talking real snow, tube slides, sledding, curling, and multiple skating rinks (both indoors and outside).

No matter the weather, Amsterdam's Winter Paradise (a.k.a. Het Amsterdamse Winterparadijs) brings the best parts of the season to its guests. Board the giant 40-meter-high Ferris Wheel for a spectacular view of the city, cross-country ski around Christmas trees, or have a snowball fight with friends. In need of a rest? Put your feet up as you enjoy a Christmas movie at the Christmas Cinema .

When hunger strikes, roast marshmallows over a fire, or grab a bite from one of the pop-up restaurants or cafés.

If you thought visiting a zoo was a summer activity, you clearly haven't been to ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo. Home to enough creatures to keep kids and creatures of all ages happy (including lions, giraffes, penguins, and flamingos), this zoo was opened in its central location in 1838.

With more than 750 species calling this zoo home, this attraction remains one of the best places to visit for families in Amsterdam , even in winter.

When your toes are feeling the cold, head inside to the insectarium, butterfly garden or planetarium. There's also an aquarium on-site for those who'd like to explore the underwater world more closely. In all, there are over 25 historic buildings and enough animal enclosures to keep you busy for at least a half day.

Nearby, you'll find the Micropia museum . Tourists are granted an unsurpassed view into the world of microbes in this interactive space. Trust us, this is way more interesting than it sounds. In fact, it's astounding, and grossly intriguing; you won't want to miss it.

Address: Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, Amsterdam

Official site: https://www.artis.nl/en/

Ever wonder how you're connected to the world? Head to the Groote Museum in Artisplein to discover the multitude of ways in which you're linked to other life on Earth. From playing games to conducting experiments in tents, there are plenty of ways to beat the cold and stay intrigued inside this one-of-a-kind attraction.

Dubbed the "museum of big questions," the Groote Museum was designed to encourage tourists to deepen their perspective on everything around them. A unique space filled with interactive exhibits, this new museum (it opened in May of 2022) is housed in the main building of its predecessor, which was open from 1855 to 1947.

Today, the museum houses 14 zones in two galleries, each of which focuses on one part of the body. Each zone uses an array of methods to teach, including photographs, videos, and hands-on exhibits. They help show visitors the various ways in which one small section of the body is connected to the universe.

Insider's tip: While kids under 12 are free, this museum is best experienced with children who are eight and up.

Address: Artisplein, Plantage Middenlaan 41, Amsterdam

Official site: https://www.grootemuseum.nl/en

It's easy to feel cozy when cuddling up to a movie. When that movie is a documentary shown at the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam, you're in for a real treat.

Held over 12 days in November, the IDFA is the world's largest documentary film festival. It's been hosted in Amsterdam since 1988 and is held in various cinemas and other venues throughout the city.

Each film shown at this famed festival has been chosen for its ability to help change the way we understand the world. The movies are shot from a non-Western perspective, and feature cultures you don't find on the Blockbuster screens we frequent at home. They're thought-provoking, beautiful, and inspired.

In addition to films, the festival hosts talks, immersive and interactive projects, and performances. Be prepared to be wowed, moved, and happily entertained. Insider's tip: Book early as over 290,000 tickets are sold to these events.

Official site: https://www.idfa.nl/en/

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European Places to Visit in Winter: Amsterdam isn't the only winter wonderland in Europe. Prague is a fantastic winter destination if you are looking for cities to visit. Germany boasts spectacular, snow-covered landscapes and expansive Christmas markets. Austria is another must-visit in the colder months. Ski down (or across) majestic mountains, and visit a snow-dusted castle.

More on Netherlands

15 Fun things to do in Amsterdam in Winter

Amsterdam is at the top of many people’s bucket lists. It’s a city packed with exciting things to do, see, and explore. Amsterdam in winter is cold, very cold, and it rains… a lot! Theoretically, it shouldn’t be that great to visit Amsterdam in Winter, but you’ll always find cool things to do in Winter, even if it rains and feels -10ºC.

Amsterdam’s liberal culture is widely known and only adds to its allure, though we always need to remember that there’s so much more to Amsterdam than Coffeeshops and the Red Light district. Check here all the things Amsterdam is known for .

We have been to Amsterdam quite a few times… besides Portugal (our home country), it’s possibly the destination we visit more often, and we still feel like we want to return. Despite not speaking the language, we feel at home in Amsterdam.

Page Contents

How’s the weather in Winter in Amsterdam?

The weather is why more people don’t go to Amsterdam in winter. It’s cold, sometimes very cold; it’s rainy and snowy, and the wind makes it feel even colder. During winter, you shouldn’t expect to see many sunny days. On average, there are only 2-3 sunny days from November to February.

It usually rains 10-13 days a month during winter, so if you stay for a few days, it’s very probable that it will rain, but it’s even more probable that you’ll get some rain and many cloudy days.

Average temperatures are about freezing (0ºC) at night and a few degrees above during the day. The humid wind usually makes it feel even colder. Snowfalls are frequent but generally not abundant. Light snow can typically accumulate on the ground if it’s cold enough.

Should you travel to Amsterdam in Winter?

We believe that Spring is the best time to visit Amsterdam. It’s a little warmer and more comfortable. However, there are very few tourists during winter, making it much more fun to explore everything without waiting in a long, long line.

Furthermore, Amsterdam becomes more romantic, charming, and magical when it snows. Finally, many of the best things in Amsterdam are indoors, or at least can still be done if the weather isn’t too friendly.

The big secret is to mix outdoor and indoor activities and always include strategic stops to warm up. A nice coffee, hot chocolate, or tea will feel heavenly. Plus, don’t forget to bring very warm clothes, an umbrella, and at least one warm and dry waterproof jacket .

Best things to do in Amsterdam in Winter

#1 rijksmuseum.

The Rijksmuseum is dedicated to history and arts, with a huge collection of paintings of the Dutch Golden Age. Its vast and impressive collection of artworks makes it the most important museum in the Netherlands . It’s located in the museum quarter close to the Van Gogh and the Stedelijk Museum, though we don’t recommend seeing them all on the same day. It would be too much,

The most famous paintings in the Rijks are The Nightwatch of Rembrandt (1642), the milkmaid of Vermeer (1660), and Couple in a Garden: Wedding Portrait of Isaac Abrahamsz. Massa and Beatrix van der Laan of Frans Hals (1622).

However, you can find there plenty of other paintings from these and other famous artists. The Rijksmuseum has 800 years of history and arts of the Netherlands, distributed on four floors and 80 rooms.

Furthermore, it has an Asian pavilion with artworks from China , Japan, Indonesia, India , Vietnam , and Thailand , ranging from 2000 BCE to 2000 CE. So, as you can understand, you can easily spend a full morning or afternoon there. There’s plenty to see.

Obviously, it is a very popular museum. Thus long queues are more than possible, even in Winter. Therefore, we suggest you buy a skip-the-line ticket! It is also what helps make the “I Amsterdam card” worth it for most tourists.

#2 Take a Canal tour

With more than one hundred kilometers, almost 100 islets, and 1,500 bridges, the canals are one of Amsterdam’s most important features. Besides being a prominent tourist attraction, the city was built around the waterways. The 17th-century ring area, which includes Keizersgracht, Jordaan, Prinsengracht, and Herengracht, has been a UNESCO heritage site since 2010.

One of the best ways of exploring the canals is by boat and cruise. You may wonder if it will be too cold for it, but the cruise boats operating in winter are covered and heated. So, they are perfect for very cold days when you just don’t want to endure the low temperatures.

There are cruises for every taste, at every hour, during the day, at night, or sunset. Maybe, with a meal or even a show. However, you should note that most cruises offer complimentary tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.

Taking a Canal Tour is something we suggest to everyone, even in winter or if you are only there for a long layover or a weekend in Amsterdam .

Book here an Amsterdam cruise

#3 The Heineken experience

This is another indoor activity, ideal for a freezing day. The house of Heineken is located in the heart of Amsterdam. The building where the original brewery was located was renovated and transformed into the Heineken Experience when it was moved to Zoeterwoude.

Now you can visit the historic factory and see the old copper tanks where the beer was produced, the very interesting old company advertisements, and you can even draft your own beer. In the end, you have two complimentary drinks in the bar. Non-alcoholic drinks are included.

We strongly advise you to buy the tickets online, as there can be long queues in the ticket office, particularly if you plan to visit on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

#4 Go to Anne Frank House

Visiting Frank’s House and Museum is one of the most popular things to do in Amsterdam, whatever the season you visit. The tragic story of Anne Frank became well-known when her diary became a best-seller . If you want to learn more about it, check this.

Going to this museum is a touching experience, particularly if you have read the book and can see many things you have imagined firsthand. Though, you don’t need to have read the book to understand what happened, as the exhibits will take you through the history of WWII in Amsterdam and, in particular, the struggle of the Frank Family.

The house is located in the center of Amsterdam, only 1.5km from the central station, and relatively close to many attractions on this list. Please note that lines can be huge here, and you really should buy tickets in advance. If you don’t, you probably won’t be able to enter, even in winter. Besides visiting the house, there are a few tours about the story of Anne Frank that may interest you.

#5 Van Gogh Museum

The Rijksmuseum is the most popular museum in Amsterdam and one of the most famous landmarks in the Netherlands , but the Van Gogh Museum is our favorite. We already liked Van Gogh, I mean, who doesn’t like the “starry night”? Or any of the paintings from southern France?

He is one of the most famous painters in history. Yet, after visiting the museum, we fell in love with van Gogh and the Impressionist movement. The museum does an amazing job of explaining his evolution as a painter, the techniques, the motifs, and the meanings…

The Van Gogh Museum houses the biggest collection of Van Gogh paintings in the world, which is a delight for fans. Though it also features artworks from other Impressionist and post-Impressionist masters like Paul Gauguin, Georges Seurat, Édouard Manet, Claude Monet, and even sculptures from Rodin and Dalou.

Needless to say that once again, this is a very sought attraction and you should buy the tickets beforehand. You can book them here.

#6 Red Light District

You can’t go to Amsterdam without going to the Red Light district… can you? Well, you can’t! The red light district is much more than the windows with naked women and all the sex shops, sex-related shows, and museums.

The red light district is located in de Wallen, the beautiful medieval center of Amsterdam, with small canals and alleys. It’s one of the city’s oldest and most historical parts, with many tourist attractions that you can’t and shouldn’t skip. Some of the most important are the Oude Kerk (an old church now used to host cultural events), Beurs van Berlage (the former building of the stock exchange), and the Ons’ Lieve Heer Op Solder Museum (which used to be a catholic church hidden in an attic in the XVII).

The downside of going to the Red Light District in winter is that it’s really cold, particularly at night it comes to life. Though, there are many restaurants, bars, and coffee shops where you can warm up when needed. Plenty of interesting tours also take you to the different sides of the Red Light District.

#7 Go to a coffee shop

Since we are talking about the liberal culture of the Netherlands and Amsterdam, we might also suggest you try going to a coffee shop in Amsterdam. We are not suggesting you try soft drugs, that’s entirely up to you, but you really should enter one and check the vibe and experience the unique liberal culture of Amsterdam.

You should note that Amsterdam’s coffee shops and cafes are very different things. A coffee shop is where soft drugs are legally sold (plus coffee, tea, juices, and sandwiches), while a cafe is the same, but it doesn’t sell soft drugs.

If you don’t feel comfortable going to a coffee shop by yourself, plenty of tours will take you and explain everything you need to know about the cannabis culture in Amsterdam.

#8 Go to Christmas markets

One of the best times to go to Amsterdam in Winter is before Christmas. In December, the city comes to light, with many Christmas markets where you can buy things and enjoy traditional food and crafts.

The Ice Village in Museumplein is probably the most famous market. With a perfect setting in front of the Rijksmuseum, you can buy all kinds of Christmas accessories and unique gifts. Yet, the best of all is that you can ice skate on the ice rink.

#9 Amsterdam light festival

The Amsterdam light festival occurs during December and January, so it’s one of the things that you can only do in Winter in Amsterdam. During this period, the city literally comes to light. Dozens of light sculptures are placed along Amsterdam’s canals and other parts. These light installations are a feast for the eyes.

Going on a night boat cruise during this period is almost mandatory, as many of the installations are built to be seen from the canals. Plus, the whole experience is a great night out for families, couples, or groups of friends!

#10 Eat an Oliebollen

An Oliebollen is a Dutch delicacy… one that’s most traditional on New Year’s Eve, but you’ll be able to find it from Christmas to early January. You’ll discover Oliebaollen stands spread all over the city during this period.

But what’s an Oliebollen? It’s simply a deep-fried dough ball dusted with sugar. With the size of a tennis ball, it’s delicious, especially when warm. Don’t be shy, have one… or a few!

#11 Visit Body Worlds

The Body World is an exposition available in several cities worldwide where you can discover the secrets of the human body through real anatomic models. It’s awe-inspiring and something we really enjoyed doing. We have never been to others in other cities, but the one in Amsterdam was entertaining and educational.

The Body Worlds is conveniently located about 500 meters from Amsterdam central on the Damrak, so it’s perfectly located to visit on any trip to Amsterdam. Being an indoor activity, it’s perfect for wintertime.

Book here your ticket to Body Worlds

#12 The Sinterklaas parade and debate

Sinterklaas is not Santa Claus, though the similarities are obvious – he has a white bear, wears red, and brings presents to the children. Sinterklaas is Saint Nicholas, a bishop from 9th century Turkey, though the Dutch legend says he comes from Spain on a Steamboat.

The celebrations start on the 13th of November when Sinterklass arrives in Amsterdam by steamboat and ends on the 5th of December, Sinterklass Day. On this day, children receive their gifts, poems, and treats from Sinterklaas. A few other celebrations include this unique character between the 13th and the 5th of December.

So, why is Sinterklaas so controversial? Well, It’s not really Sinterklaas, but his helper Zwarte Piet (“Black Pete”). Zwarte Piet is dressed in Moorish clothes, has his face painted black, and basically works for Sinterklaas. Well, I think you can take it from here to understand the huge racism/not racism debate every year.

We will leave it up to you if you feel comfortable participating in the parade and other celebrations. Anyhow, it’s a very Dutch thing and a fun holiday!

Things to do in Amsterdam in Winter, if you get lucky with the weather

#13 ride a bicycle.

There’s nothing more Dutch than riding a bike around Amsterdam ! Hot, cold, snow, nothing separates the Dutch from their bicycles. They ride to work, study, go out with friends, shop, with children, toddlers, you name it… Thus, what better way to explore Amsterdam than on a bike? Plus, a bike is much faster than walking, so you can cover more of the city in less time.

The downside? Well, we are not Dutch, and riding the bike in rain, snow, or simply in the cold can get really cold and uncomfortable. Though, if it’s warm enough and not raining, we strongly suggest you do it.

There are two ways of exploring Amsterdam on a bike. You can easily rent a bike and explore it by yourself . For example, going to the museum quarter and Vondelpark on a bike is interesting. We had great fun doing it the first time we went to Amsterdam in winter.

Or you can join a bike tour . There are plenty in Amsterdam, and they will take you to some of the best spots. Either way, it will be fun if the weather helps!

#14 Go to Vondelpark

Vondelpark is the most famous of Amsterdam’s parks, and it’s basically on every list of things to do in Amsterdam. The only problem is that it can be a little chilly to wander around the park in winter, and you can’t really have a picnic or simply lay on the grass to sunbathe and relax. Vondelpark is also a great place for meeting people in Amsterdam , as it’s informal and fun.

So, we suggest enjoying a stroll in the park or jogging if the weather is warm enough. If not, skip it, and leave it for another visit to Amsterdam on hotter days.

#15 Ice skating in the canals

Can you imagine a cooler thing than skating around the city through the canals with all the locals? It sounds like the best thing ever. The only problem? Well, it only happens a few days every couple of years. Plus, we have never done it; we have never been lucky to be in Amsterdam when the canals freeze.

Though, if you are lucky enough to have the opportunity, take it! Cancel anything else (because it can be done at another time) and go ice skating in the canals of Amsterdam.

Where to stay in Amsterdam in the winter?

During winter it’s even more important to choose the accommodation wisely. Location becomes even more important, and staying close to the actions means less walking, public transport, or taxis. On the other hand, in winter, hotels are cheaper, so you can probably find better deals closer to the center and/or main attractions.

Dam Square is our favorite area to stay in Amsterdam, as it’s close to almost everything.

Best hotel for a romantic winter trip to Amsterdam

Our favorite option for couples seeking a romantic escapade in Amsterdam in Winter is the Doubletree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station . It’s a wonderful hotel, with huge comfortable rooms and an amazing breakfast. It’s perfectly located by the central station, which means it’s very close to the historical center of Amsterdam. It’s on the expensive side, but it’s well worth it. Check if it’s available during your trip.

The Park Plaza Victoria is an excellent alternative to Doubletree .

Best accommodation for a family trip

For a family trip, we usually suggest an apartment. It gives all the privacy you need, and you don’t need to rent several rooms, making it usually cheaper. The Eric Vökel Boutique Apartments – Amsterdam Suites is our favorite apartment in Amsterdam. It’s modern, with all the comfort a family needs, and ideally located, so you don’t need to walk too much. Check rates & availability here .

If you prefer a family hotel, the Park Plaza we mentioned earlier may be the best option.

Best budget option for backpackers

Backpackers on a budget have difficulty saving in Amsterdam, particularly on accommodation. It was pretty expensive. If you want a hostel, check the heading below. If you prefer a cheap hotel, we suggest Budget Hotel Ben .

It’s one of the cheapest options in central Amsterdam, and despite the reviews not being great, it does the job (if all that you want is a place to sleep). Check if it’s available and book as early as possible because it sells out!

Best hostel in the center of Amsterdam

Our favorite hostel in Amsterdam is the Flying Pig . It’s the typical hostel with both dormitory and private rooms. It’s on Nieuwendijk Street, only 3 minutes away from the Central Station. It’s perfect for travelers who want a hostel with a lively bar and a place to mingle with other people. Again, book as early as possible, because this kind of cheap accommodation sells out quickly.

Or you can search by yourself on the map below

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Love and Road

Amsterdam in Winter: how to plan the perfect 3 days itinerary

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Amsterdam, I love you every season, but there is something special about Amsterdam in winter. (Guide updated in December,2023)

We have visited this incredible city many times, and there is always something new to see and do, and each season brings a unique experience. So the first thing I can tell you is three days in Amsterdam will fly by, trust me!

Most of the places to visit in Amsterdam, Netherlands , are open all year round, so why should you choose to travel to Amsterdam in November, December, or any other winter months?

The answer is easy:

Amsterdam in winter is stunning! Plus, you can avoid the huge summer crowds, experience that lovely Christmas feeling, and be part of a beautiful festival.

There are many cool things to do in Amsterdam in winter, in fact, Amsterdam is one of our favorite cities in Europe! It’s open-minded and packed with art, culture, good food and incredible architecture.

How many days in Amsterdam? 

On our many trips to Amsterdam, we spent different amounts of days, from a weekend getaway to over seven days there.

I can say that by spending 3 days in Amsterdam you can explore the city’s best attractions and some local spots. But of course, if you can stay longer the better.

Now let’s get down to business. Here is our 3-day Amsterdam Winter itinerary, a mix of tourist spots, personal recommendations, winter activities and travel trips.

Important Info: this is a long Amsterdam Winter Guide and we’ll answer:

• What are the top things to do in Amsterdam in winter?
• Where to stay in Amsterdam during the colder months?
• How cold does it get in Amsterdam? How to be prepared?
• How to get around Amsterdam?
• Why you should buy an I Amsterdam city card? How to use it?
• More travel tips to Amsterdam.

Things to do in Amsterdam Winter Season

As I said, there are tons of things to do and places to visit in Amsterdam, especially in the coldest months. 

Our list is a selection of fun things to do in Amsterdam, unique experiences, and incredible museums we visited there and that we think are worth adding to your itinerary.

We’ll start with one of the most iconic winter activities in Amsterdam, and later we talk about museums, architecture and more.

Ice Skating in Amsterdam

During Amsterdam winter some of the canals become an ice skating rink and it’s an incredible experience. But keep in mind that not every frozen canal is an ice rink, you need to be sure it’s safe and that you can do it, better to follow the locals and keep an eye on the news.

On the other hand, the ICE* Amsterdam opens every winter and it’s fun for all ages. The beautiful ice rink is located at the Museumplein (Museum Square) in front of the Rijksmuseum Museum.

You can go there for ice skating, to have some drinks with friends and Dutch winter food. Even if you don’t like (or don’t know how to ) ice skating it’s still great fun.

Amsterdam Light Festival

During our winter trip to Amsterdam, we experienced the Amsterdam Light Festival which happens from December to January. And I would recommend you to visit it as many nights as possible.

Big and colorful light installations brighten up the canals at night, the bridges and some buildings. You can follow the illuminated walking route and discover some of the light sculptures on foot or do a boat tour to see the installations.

There are many installations all over the city, it’s quite hard to see all of them in one night unless you are brave enough to spend many hours walking in the cold nights.

What we did was have dinner and a few drinks, then go to see the lights from the Festival and also the Christmas festive lights. We spent all our nights doing this, and it was amazing.

Another option is to join one of the Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with Unlimited Drinks , click on the name to check out the tour. 

Walk around the city and explore the unique architecture

Amsterdam has a distinctive architecture, narrow buildings with big windows and leaning facades. The city is a perfect example of architectural pornography, with pretty buildings, cute bridges, floating houses and beautiful people everywhere.

I know we are talking about traveling to Amsterdam in wintertime, but one of the things you must do is to walk around and contemplate the unique beauty of the city.

My suggestion is to stroll around the city and have some strategic stops at the museums we are mentioning below. This way you can have a break from the cold temperatures and experience Amsterdam as a whole.

Don’t forget to wander around Jordaan, Pijp neighborhoods, and Dam Square, which are close to the Amsterdam city center. 

Our fave museums in Amsterdam

Below is a list of the best museums in Amsterdam, you can choose the ones that you like the most and add to your trip. The list starts with famous museums and then we add our faves.

Some of them are included on the I Amsterdam Card which is a money-saving option. I’ll explain more about the card later on. 

Talking about saving money, don’t forget to read our Amsterdam Travel Costs Guide here . Now back to the museums.

• Rijksmuseum

Rijksmuseum is the largest collection and most famous of all museums in the Netherlands. Its collections and exhibitions will surpass your expectations. The museum is crowded even during winter, so buy your ticket online to save time. 

The best times to visit the museum are before 10 AM and after 3 PM. There is also an online booking that allows you to skip the line .

Free entrance with I Amsterdam Card

• Van Gogh Museum

Another place that you need to visit during your 3 days in Amsterdam. The Van Gogh Museum treasures a stunning collection of over 200 paintings, sketches, drawings and notes left by one of Netherlands’ favorite painters. Divided into 7 different periods, the collection presents the progress of the artist, as well as his mental collapse.

You can buy your Van Gogh ticket in advance here .

• Rembrandt House Museum

Rembrandt House Museum is a very interesting place to visit, especially for art lovers and fans of the famous painter. The museum consists of the old Rembrandt house where he lived in the 17th century.

• Anne Frank Museum

Visiting the Anne Frank Museum is a very special and touching experience. This famous writer described in her personal diary the horrors three Jewish families went through during the Holocaust, hiding from Nazis in a house in Amsterdam.

A visit to the Anne Frank Museum is one of the top things to do in Amsterdam and the queue to buy the tickets and enter the museum are huge and last for hours. The smartest option is to book the ticket online and arrive early, if you miss your visit slot you will need to queue to enter.

The tickets are sold out one month in advance, so as soon as you buy your flights to Amsterdam go online and make your booking for the Anne Frank Museum. In addition to the museum, consider joining this tour to learn more about Anne Frank .

If you like history and different museums, the next ones are really interesting and not so famous among tourists. Even better, they have free entrance with the I Amsterdam Card and you can reach them by tram or a few minutes walking through the old town.

• Foam – Photography Museum

Foam is a photography museum in Amsterdam where you can find all kinds of photography and different genres by local and international artists. The museum is inside a traditional Dutch canal house, perfect to get to know a bit more of Amsterdam’s iconic architecture.

• Amsterdam Museum

Amsterdam Museum (click here to get your skip the line ticket) gives you a unique experience of discovering the city through time, getting to know its past, present and future. The different exhibitions, tours and presentations will help you understand why Amsterdam is such a unique city.

• Stadsarchief Museum

Stadsarchief Museum or the Amsterdam City Archives is a place where you can dig into the history of the city, relevant documents and important historical papers that shaped Dutch culture and life. You can also find temporary exhibitions and different activities.

Book your visit in advance here!

• NEMO Science Museum

NEMO Science Museum is an experience that will bring fun and joy to the cold Amsterdam winter. No matter if you are an adult or a kid, you can take part in the exhibitions and experiments that will make you feel like a child again.

Book your ticket in advance here!

Got more time in the Netherlands? Go for a day trip to Rotterdam – here is your guide

More things to do in Amsterdam in Winter

We are done with museums, let’s talk about other fun things to do in Amsterdam during winter.

Amsterdam Boat Tour and Canal Cruise

Another must-do in Amsterdam in winter is to go on a boat tour through the canals. I would suggest doing the boat cruise around 4 pm so you can see the sunset from the boat.

The boat tour itself is a delightful experience, but it becomes even more special when the soft light of the sun makes the big windows of the beautiful canal houses shine like gold.

The boat rides are a good break from Amsterdam’s chilly weather, as the covered boats are heated and cozy.

Many companies offer boat cruises in Amsterdam canals and many of them will give you an hour cruise for free with I Amsterdam Card . It’s a quick tour that will take you to the famous canals and it’s worth doing.

However, if you fancy something truly special, you can do an evening Pizza Boat Cruise or a Cheese Boat Tour . Another possibility is The Bulldog Boat Smoke-Friendly Winter Cruise . In Amsterdam the possibilities are endless.

Heineken Experience

Heineken Experience is a true national monument in Amsterdam and a part of the European industrial heritage. When the brewery moved from here to Zoeterwoude, the building was completely renovated and turned into the Heineken Experience.

You can book your tickets in advance here , or if you have the I Amsterdam Card the simple visit is free. Keep in mind that Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays are the busiest days so you might need to queue for a bit.

For an extraordinary experience check out this Amsterdam: City Canal Cruise and Heineken Experience Ticket or this Exclusive Heineken Experience VIP Tour Ticket .

Visit the Dam Square

A trip to Amsterdam is not complete without one (or more) stop at the iconic Dam Square.  You will find at this central square many places to visit, and a meeting point for locals and tourists.

Here are the landmarks and activities that happen at Dam Square and you can’t. miss:

• Royal Palace: it’a a 17th century palace that once was Amsterdam Town Hall. Today you can visit its interior and have a glimpse of the opulent past of the city.
• Nieuwe Kerk: it dates back to the 15th century, it was a regular church where coronations and royal weddings happened, but today is a place for exhibitions, concerts and events. We saw amazing photo exhibitions there including the World Press Photo Exhibition. This place is incredible.
• National Monument: It’s an obelisk commemorates the Dutch victims of World War II. You will see that it is a meeting point for younger people with many street food carts around.
• A place to shop: there are many shops around Dam Square selling everything you can imagine, from souvenirs to local brands and boutique shops. The De Bijenkorf is a famous department store and a must-visit for shopaholics. Take a stroll down Kalverstraat, Amsterdam’s main shopping street, or explore the luxury boutiques in the nearby Magna Plaza shopping center.
• Don’t miss the winter events: as we are talking about winter in Amsterdam, Dam Square is a must-visit. There you can find one of the many Christmas Markets in Amsterdam in December. It’s also one of the places to see the Light Festival and in other seasons it’s a meeting point for the Pride Amsterdam and other events.

Stroll around Vondelpark

Vondelpark is a natural oasis of the city and its largest park. Less crowded in the winter, it’s nice to walk around or sip a cup of warm coffee in some of the nearby cafes. You will see many couples strolling around the park, Amsterdam is a romantic city after all. 

The park becomes a winter wonderland when it’s snowing. Saturdays and Sundays are perfect for watching artists performing, so keep an eye on the Vondelpark event calendar because there is always something happening at the park.

IJ-Hallen Flea Market

IJ-Hallen Flea Market is a place where you can find countless second-hand items at affordable prices. If you like treasure hunting and love to bargain, this is the place for you.

It is one of the biggest flea markets in Europe and it happens once or twice a month. When planning your itinerary for 3 days in Amsterdam, check on their website when it will be the next market and book a ticket. There is a small entrance fee.

Red Light District, Coffee Shops and Cannabis

We can’t plan a trip to Amsterdam without talking about the Red Light District and the Coffeeshops.

Amsterdam is a melting pot of cultures, beliefs and behavior. Doesn’t matter if you like it or not, you should look at it with open eyes and no prejudice.

The iconic Red Light district has shining windows and ladies offering a warm welcome to the city. During your days in Amsterdam, take one evening and go explore the streets of the district, drink a beer at one of the bars, visit the local design shops and appreciate some of the oldest buildings in town.

The Red Light District is not only about sex and prostitution, there are many more interesting things in this area. Just be aware of pickpockets, respect the girls and have fun!

Wanna get high in one of the coffee shops? Go for it!

Remember, buying weed inside the coffee shops is legal, smoking weed within the premises of the coffee shops is legal too.

Buying truffles at the head shops is also legal, but be careful of what you buy and how you use them. There are many weed and truffles specialist shops, before buying ask all the questions, and have all the info you need to have a fantastic time in Amsterdam.

Look after yourself, respect your limits, and follow the rules. Amsterdam is great fun, but don’t ruin your trip to this amazing city because you get wasted or break the law.

If you have any doubt about coffee shops, soft drugs and cannabis in Amsterdam read this easy guide: Amsterdam Rules and Regulation .

Amsterdam Clubs and Bars

Amsterdam has bars and clubs for all styles of travelers, check Resident Advisor   and this page from I Amsterdam events for the best night out. If you are looking for techno clubs in Amsterdam, De School is a great option. Just be careful to not miss your flight the next morning. (not that happened to us. lol) 

Where to eat and drink in Amsterdam Winter

In Amsterdam the options for food, drinks and bars are endless.

The city is very democratic and you can find places from high-end restaurants, to hipster cafes and unpretentious bars. Choose your style and go for it.

We discovered in our last 3 days in Amsterdam a few nice places, and I believe you might like them too. Check them out:

TEDS: good food and a local vibe

If it’s Sunday you must go to TEDS for brunch, if it’s another day of the week you should go there too. Delicious food, reasonable prices, and a great local atmosphere.

It’s a small cafe, so you might need to wait for a table, don’t give up, you will be rewarded with yummy food, and lovely drinks.

Café de Jaren: a great place for breakfast, lunch, and a quick bite

Located in the center of Amsterdam with canal views, Café de Jaren is a great place for a meal or a quick bite.

Apart from the beautiful location, the menu has something for everyone, from snacks to lunch and dinner, international cuisine and Dutch food, like the famous Bitterballen (crip meatballs) that goes really well with local beers. 

Keep in mind that if you are traveling in a group, or if you want to have lunch or dinner during the weekend, reservation is advised. Also, they only accept cards. 

FoodHallen: for lunch, happy hour and dinner

The first indoor food market in The Netherlands, the FoodHallen is a hip complex of gourmet street food (international and Dutch cuisine) served in a historical building. Go for lunch, afternoon snacks or happy hour.

You will find locals, expats, and a few tourists there.

Now that you know what to do in Amsterdam, places to add to your itinerary, and delicious places to eat, let’s talk about traveling to this incredible city in winter.

Where to stay in Amsterdam in Winter

If you travel to Amsterdam in winter you need to choose your hotel location wisely. On cold days you don’t want to spend a lot of time walking back to your hotel after a long day visiting Amsterdam tourist spots.

Also, you don’t want to spend a lot of time taking taxis or public transport, especially if you only have a weekend or 3 days in Amsterdam.

Even if you are traveling to Amsterdam any other season, a well-located hotel/accommodation can save you time and money (apart from public transportation, taxis and Uber in Amsterdam can be expensive).

The best bet is to choose a hotel in Amsterdam Centrum district. This is the central part of Amsterdam and comprises small neighborhoods like:

• Dam Square: dating from 1270 it’s packed with historic buildings and attractions. 
• Jordaan: a picturesque and trendy area.
• Grachtengordel or Canal Belt: the famous houses lined up in front of the canal ring. Anne Frank House is located in this area.
• Spui: it offers a good mix of restaurants, cafes, and trendy shops and it’s close to the Amsterdam Museum, Flower Market, and Beginjhof, the historic wooden house.
• Rembrandtplein: it’s a lively place famous for its nightlife. Here you can find many bars, theaters and cafes. We stayed here on our last trip.

Of course, there are other areas to stay in Amsterdam that are unique and interesting. Also, as far as you go from the city center the cheaper hotels, apartments and hostels will be.

We travel in an affordable luxury style and love boutique hotels that don’t cost a fortune, so we choose to stay at Albus Hotel and love it.

Our hotel in Amsterdam

First I will give you my impressions about the Albus Hotel and why I think it’s one of the best places to stay in Amsterdam. Then I will give other options, hotel/hostels we also stayed in and others we visited.

Albus Hotel Amsterdam City Center – 4 star hotel (Very Good on Booking.com)

Located in the heart of Amsterdam, Albus Hotel is close to many museums, a walk distance to the central train station and Red Light District. What I liked was the sexy and intimate décor, so Amsterdam!

The service is great and you can have your own Heineken Torp machine in the room, perfect to get in the mood for your tour at Heineken Brewery.

Seriously, it can’t get better than this: comfy room, coffee machine, beer tap, and delicious breakfast. We stayed at the Large Family Suite and had a great time, the 2 PM check-out was a bonus too.

The Best hotels in Amsterdam

Pulitzer Amsterdam – 5 star hotel (Fabulous on Booking.com)

Treating yourself with a nice trip to Amsterdam, or maybe traveling as a couple? Then check out Pulitzer Hotel. The property consists of 25 interlinked canal houses from the 17th and 18th centuries. 

It was newly restored and you can feel the 5 star touch and comfort everywhere. 

A great mix of traditional and modern Dutch design, that you can see from the room decor to the restaurant menu. 

Location is perfect, only 15 minutes walking to Anne Frank House, Dam Square and the Jordaan neighborhood.

Hotel Aalders – 3-star hotel (Fabulous on Booking.com)

The Aalders Hotel is a great option for those who want a strategic location for a good price. Rooms are on the small side, but the hotel is only 3 minutes walking to Van Gogh Museum and 6 minutes to Vondelpark.

You can book your room with or without breakfast, and the hotel offers a bar and free wifi. 

Van Gogh Hotel – 3 star hotel (Very Good on Booking.com)

If you are traveling to Amsterdam on a budget, this might be a good option. On our first trip to Amsterdam, we stayed at the Van Gogh Hotel and liked it a lot, and the central location is great.

Clean, spacious, safe and close to 3 of the most visited museums in town (Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam). Plus you will be close to the outdoor rink for ice skating.

That time we were traveling with friends, so we got a 4-bed room and had it just for us. They also have private rooms.

Stayokay Hostel Amsterdam Vondelpark (Very Good on Booking.com)

For those who really want to save on accommodation, hostels are your best bet. But do your research because private rooms in hostels cost almost the same as in a hotel where you can have better amenities. 

However, if you prefer to stay at a hostel in Amsterdam not only because of costs but also to interact with other travelers, then Stayokay Hostel Amsterdam Vondelpark is worth checking out. 

It’s located in the city’s main park and only 8 minutes on foot to the Van Gogh Museum. It offers private rooms for singles and groups of people, and also mixed dorms. Don’t forget your padlock for the lockers.

If on your last day, you want to stay close to the airport to catch an early flight, there are a few hotels near Amsterdam Schiphol Airport that you can book. 

If none of the Amsterdam hotels above shook your boat, my suggestion is to keep searching at Booking.com or Agoda , they have many options for accommodation in Amsterdam, and you can find some winter or mid-season deals.

Amsterdam in winter, how cold does it get?

In winter the temperatures in Amsterdam are between 0º to 5º C but the real feel can be as cold as -10ºC. When it snows, Amsterdam looks magical, like a fairytale city.

You will need a good winter coat, thermals, wool socks, and good gloves. But don’t fear the cold, if we – two Brazilians who were living in Thailand – survived the Amsterdam winter, you can do it too.

Here are the average temperatures in Amsterdam during the winter months and the average of rainy days per month:

November: 10° / 4° – 13 rainy days

December: 7° / 2° – 13 rainy days

January:  6° / 1° – 12 rainy days

February: 6° / 0° –  9 rainy days

As you saw above in the guide, there are plenty of things to do in Amsterdam in winter, the secret is to plan an itinerary mixing outdoor and indoor activities, some strategic stops to warm up, and have a coffee or beer.

How to get around Amsterdam during wintertime

Amsterdam is world-famous for bicycles and they are everywhere. Locals ride their bikes throughout the winter, facing the cold and snow, on the other hand, tourists tend to avoid them during the freezing months.

If you get a bit of sunshine during your 3 days in Amsterdam go for a bike ride, it’s a must. But don’t rely on it as a transportation mode, during the Amsterdam winter public transport is the best option.

Trams, buses, metro, trains, and ferries connect the whole city and Amsterdam attractions. It’s super easy to get around the city.

Before boarding a tram or bus you need to buy the ticket at the machines. To avoid the hassle and to travel freely across the city the best option is to purchase the I Amsterdam City Card, it saves time and money.

How to get and use the I Amsterdam Card

For our 3 days in Amsterdam, we got the I Amsterdam Card 72 hours ,enjoyed free public transportation, free entrance to many of Amsterdam’s attractions (most of the places we mentioned above), and discounts on others.

If you are planning to visit more than 3 attractions in Amsterdam and use public transportation within the city, the investment on the card is worth it.

They have city cards from 24 hours up to 5 days.

It’s easy to get the card, you order it from the GetYourGuide website (where you can read the reviews) or from the I Amsterdam website, and choose which one you want [24h, 48h, 72h, 96h or 120. hours] and pay via credit card.

How to use the Amsterdam City Card:

• The I Amsterdam City Card is digital and after the purchase, to use it you need to download the I Amsterdam City Card App.
• You only activate your card when you are in Amsterdam and ready to use it, so you won’t lose any time.
• Some attractions, especially museums, require a timeslot to visit. Timeslots can be booked in advance (before activating your city card). Book your visits well in advance.

Travel Advice:

Don’t forget your Travel Insurance! You don’t want anything to ruin your trip, right? So don’t take the risk! Reliable travel insurance can help you in case of travel issues, from accidents to health problems, travel delays, and lost luggage.

There are many insurances in the market, our picks are  HeyMondo  and  SafetyWing . We used both and always had a good experience. Click on the insurance names to get a quote.

Getting to Amsterdam, Netherlands

The last thing you need to know is how to travel to Amsterdam.

International and budget airlines fly to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. To search for the best flights use Skyscanner .

From the airport, there is a train that runs directly to the Amsterdam Central Station, and from there you can get a bus, tram or taxi to your hotel.

For those who are already in Europe and like to travel by train or bus, keep in mind that Amsterdam is very well connected. 

Check the prices and timetable for buses and trains to Amsterdam on OMIO , Bookaway or 12Go . We use these websites to book our buses and trains across Europe.

Now you know what to do in Amsterdam in winter, the best hotels, and how to get around, it’s time to pack your bags and enjoy winter, the festive season and Amsterdam Christmas!

FYI, if you are traveling around the Netherlands, read all our Netherlands Guides and Travel Tips here .

Leave your thoughts and doubts in the comments below, and happy travels!

Love this Amsterdam Winter Guide? Pin it for Later!

28 thoughts on “Amsterdam in Winter: how to plan the perfect 3 days itinerary”

Never visit Amsterdam in Winter but it look gorgeous!

Its wonderful! If you have a chance, pls go 🙂

wonderful. Amsterdam is one of the most amazing places I have visited. I hope a lot of people will find it the same.

Agreed! Amsterdam is amazing!!!!

one of our favourite city in Europe.. its never a dull place even though we visited for so many times.. even our children love it… especially when they go on a bicycle ride during winter… 🙂

Hi Meilany! That’s so true, we never get tired of Amsterdam! So cool that you kids love the city too. All the best, Nat

I’d love to see this place in the winter guys. My wife visited during warmer months and adored the place. I’d enjoy seeing it blanketed in snow. Nice little change up from the hot, steamy places I tend to visit in SE Asia and Central America as I am blogging from paradise 🙂

Hi Ryan, It is really amazing! Even better that there aren’t many tourists. Cheers,

Hi good morning! I’m from the Philippines. My family is planning to visit Amsterdam Jan 1-5, 2018 coming from Paris and Brussels. This is our first time to travel Europe. With me is my husband and 2 sons 17 and 21 yrs old. Will it be snowing by that time? We would welcome any tips or suggestions.

Thanks Edna

Hello Edna, We visited Amsterdam on the first week of January and got 2 nights of snow 🙂 It’s hard to predict the snow but for sure it will be very cold! Enjoy your travels!

Very happy to have found this post. I am researching Amsterdam for a trip in December. This destination was my 21 years old request and I was reluctant because its winter time, but I am now looking forward to seeing Amsterdam. You provided quite a bit of helpful information

Hi Brenda, Glad you liked it and enjoy Amsterdam! Cheers

Good read, there’s some great tips in here! 🙂

But just a heads up it’s not actually ‘legal’ to smoke weed in the streets here, although it is quite liberal here. It’s also frowned upon by locals and can be quite disrespectful if ppl are smoking right next to you when you’re trying to have lunch.

Hi Alicia, I meant that you are allowed to smoke within the coffeeshop premises, just re wrote to make it clear 😉 And agreed that is disrespectful. Cheers,

I will be landing in Amsterdam on Christmas day this year, staying for two days before leaving for Paris. This Article is great! I am travelling alone, and it is my first time overseas, so this will be a big help! Thank you.

Glad to help Stefan! Enjoy Amsterdam!

Hi guys, We are planning to visit Amsterdam for 2 days during the first week of December. We are family of four, with two girls, 1yr and 4 yr…. is not too cold for the girls???. We are from Mexico…. We visited Europe with my oldest girl when she was 1yr during Winter (February) but we were in Madrid, South of italy and the coldest city was Paris, I’m taking Paris weather in February as reference. I’ll appreciate your comments….

Hola Roberto, December in Amsterdam is usually between 0C to 10C. If you guys survived Paris during February I believe you will do fine 😉 Buenas viajes!

Winter in Netherlands are quite warm and it doesn’t snow too much. That why last year I traveled to Warsaw. Here I can really feel this magical Christmas atmosphere in the town covered with snow and beautiful decorations all around the streets. Moreover I spend super cool NYE night in New Orleans Club. One of the best clubs I’ve ever been to.

Warsaw is awesome indeed!

Thanks for the good info 🙂 I will be in Amsterdam from 20Dec-24Dec. So wondering if a Palladium boots with water resistant spray is good enough walking in the city?

Hi Joanne, I would suggest getting thermal socks as well.

hello Rob glad to see you are replying each asking. We are members of four. My boy is just 5 months and my Daughter is 5 years. can you suggest about weather condition in december and places to visits and photography. We are from France. Thanks buddy Cordially paul

Hi Paul, It will definitely be cold, expect temperatures ranging from 2C to 10C. The places to visit and photos we listed in the article above. Enjoy Amsterdam!

Great Article. Too many advrts. Difficult to read

The ads help us to pay the bills ?

I absolutely love your articles! Gets me so excited about planning a trip to Amsterdam 😀 Your tips and experiences are SOO helpful

Hi!! We are glad you like the travel tips. Amsterdam is an amazing destination and one of our fave cities in Europe! Have fun!

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Why winter in Amsterdam is the ideal time to visit

Oct 25, 2021 • 3 min read

If you're lucky, you may be able to skate on Amsterdam's Golden Age canals fokke baarssen / Shutterstock

The world has long been awake to Amsterdam’s charms, and ever-skyrocketing visitor numbers mean the city can feel uncomfortably crowded in summer. While you might not be guaranteed good weather in winter, it can be a more pleasant time of year to discover this atmospheric European gem. Here are the best things to do in Amsterdam in winter.

Get cozy in a brown cafe

With winds blowing in off the North Sea, the Dutch capital can get awfully chilly during the winter season, but fear not – the Dutch have the perfect cozy sanctuaries where you can warm your cockles in the form of old-fashioned brown cafes. These traditional bars are at their best during the winter months and invite you in from the cold with their warm, yellow glow. Inside you’ll often find an inviting jovial atmosphere, wood paneling aplenty, candles and copious amounts of beer. The cafes are scattered throughout every corner of the city with some of the oldest located in the Jordaan neighborhood . If you’re a craft beer fan, don’t miss 't Arendsnest on the Herengracht, which serves only Dutch brews.

Top things to do in Amsterdam

Make the most of one-off annual events

The Dutch capital’s events calendar is pretty jam-packed, but there are some things that you’ll only get to witness if you visit Amsterdam off-season. National Tulip Day takes place in late January and sees the huge Dam  square transformed into a rainbow-colored tulip garden where you can pick your own flowers to take home. 

Ice-skate amid Amsterdam’s beautiful architecture

While the Dutch might be known for their year-round love affair with bicycles, their second greatest passion is reserved for the colder months only. Ice-skating is considered a national sport, but you don’t have to be a pro (or even very good) to join in the fun. If you’re extremely lucky and visit Amsterdam during a significant cold spell, you might have the opportunity to skate on the Golden Age canals; however, this only usually happens after multiple days and nights of sub-zero temperatures and is a rarity these days (it was last possible for a couple of days in February 2021, March 2018 and prior to that it had not been possible since 2012). Fortunately, there is a number of skating rinks erected throughout the city during the winter months, including ICE Amsterdam located in the scenic Museumplein . 

Warm-up on winter eats

Dutch cuisine comes into its own during the winter months, with hearty traditional recipes making an appearance on menus. If you’re looking to warm up, don’t miss erwtensoep – a thick split pea and vegetable soup complete with traditional smoked sausage. You’ll find this on the winter menu in most bars and cafes during the colder months. For a home-cooked Dutch dinner that won’t break the bank, pay a visit to the homely Hap Hmm , which serves up simple yet tasty dishes including rich stews with boiled seasonal vegetables (their schnitzel was also voted the best in Amsterdam by Dutch newspaper Het Parool).

Be illuminated at Amsterdam Light Festival

Taking place every winter from late November to early January, Amsterdam Light Festival sees the city’s canals illuminated with light installations by local and international artists. Although many of the displays are visible on foot, most are designed to be seen from the water. Canal cruise companies operate special after-dark tours which follow the festival route and include commentary on each piece as well as general Amsterdam history. 

How to spend a perfect weekend in Amsterdam

Enjoy a quieter city center and attractions 

Amsterdam is popular all year round, but during the summer months, the central areas and museums become overcrowded with visitors. Amsterdam is a small city with plenty of narrow streets, so a visit during the winter months means you’ll have more space to navigate. Museums and galleries remain popular, so it’s always a good idea to book in advance and avoid waiting in queues.    

You might also like:  The 6 best day trips from Amsterdam Love walking and cycling? You'll love getting around Amsterdam Amsterdam's loveliest parks and open spaces

This article was first published Sep 13, 2019 and updated Oct 25, 2021.

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Amsterdam in winter: The best 10 things to do in Amsterdam by resident

January 28, 2020 by Karen Turner 9 Comments

As an ex-resident of Amsterdam, I believe that winter in Amsterdam is a great time to avoid the crowds and there are some unique winter activities in Amsterdam that I always love to visit. Keep reading for why you should visit Amsterdam in winter, the best things to do in Amsterdam, and additional tips for visiting Amsterdam in winter.

• 1 What is the weather like in Amsterdam in winter?
• 2 Where to stay in Amsterdam
• 3.1.1 Amsterdam Light Festival
• 3.1.2 Canal cruise
• 3.1.3 Ice Skating*
• 3.1.4 Walking along the canals
• 3.1.5 Christmas Markets
• 3.1.6 Eat oliebollen
• 3.1.7 National Tulip Day in Dam Square
• 3.2.1 Get into a massive debate over Sinterklaas and Zwarte Piet
• 3.2.2 Drink gluhwein
• 3.2.3 Cuddle with cats at the Kattenkabinet or the Poezenboot
• 3.2.4 Step into the Rijksmuseum
• 3.2.5 Learn about history at Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder
• 3.3 What to wear in winter in Amsterdam
• 4 Have you visited Amsterdam in winter?

What is the weather like in Amsterdam in winter?

Amsterdam is surprisingly moderate, so the temperature doesn’t drop as dramatically as many people assume.  However, winter in Amsterdam comes with heavy winds and rain, enough so that you’ll want to dress warmly. It’s best to try to waterproof yourself.

It rarely snows in Amsterdam and prior to last year, the canals in Amsterdam had not become frozen over for eight years. That said, it’s good to avoid biking in Amsterdam if it drops below freezing as biking on cobblestones can be dangerous, especially if you’re not an experienced bicyclist, and you can slide on black ice…  Typically, Amsterdam bikes do not have snow tires.

The weather in winter is between 4 and 9 degrees Celsius (the low 30s to high 40s Fahrenheit) with an average of rain occurring on about 23% of the days. Generally, the rain doesn’t last very long, but it’s good to have an umbrella if you’re concerned.  Just be warned that it can feel colder due to the windchill.

• Where to stay in Amsterdam

As it will be chilly, I’d recommend ensuring that your hotel is well-connected with public transit as some parts of the ring require a slightly longer walk to bus/tram stops. 

Consider staying at the Pulitzer Hotel , which was built within a block of twenty canal houses, and sits just a block away from one of a well-connected bus/tram stops.   Those on a budget might want to consider CocoMama , a boutique hostel just walking distance from the best restaurants in De Pijp and the trams.

The best things to do in Amsterdam in winter

Most of the activities on a normal itinerary for Amsterdam are 100% possible in winter.  That said, you might be more apprehensive about sitting outside for an extended period in Vondelpark (or another part).  Here, I’ll be focusing more on the seasonal activities in Amsterdam that you can’t do the entire year as well as my favorite places to hide from the cold…

Outdoor activities in Amsterdam during winter

Amsterdam light festival.

Between December and mid-January of each year, Amsterdam lights up.  The Amsterdam Light Festival is a huge open-air light sculpture festival that decorates Amsterdam’s scenic canals.

You can see the light sculptures both from the water as well as the land although some are specially designed to be viewed by boat only… It’s completely free to enjoy the lights, so be sure to stroll or bike along the canals at night.

Canal cruise

Many people don’t realize that most of the canal cruises are covered and heated, so don’t worry if you’re worried that it will be too cold to enjoy the iconic canal houses on the water.  Many cruises even include free tea or hot chocolate as part of the cost.  It should be noted that you can take a day time or sunset cruise along the canals.

Ice Skating*

You might be dreaming of skating on the canals of Amsterdam, but it’s only occurred twice in the last 10 years.  Don’t get your hopes up too high that it will get cold enough to ice skate on the canals as it’s unlikely to happen, but luckily there are ice skating rinks around the city.  I find that the one close to Museumplein is the most picturesque although I find the rink small.

Walking along the canals

This is so simple, but as Amsterdam isn’t too chilly, don’t be afraid to enjoy the non-rainy weather and stroll along the canals.  One of my favorite canals to photograph is Herengracht, which holds some of the most beautiful canal houses without the crowds of Prinsengracht or the inner canals.  When you get too cold, just look for a brown bar, a cozy Dutch bar, to step into for a warm tea or a local beer .

Christmas Markets

Often overshadowed by Germany, the Netherlands has lovely Christmas markets.  Amsterdam has a number of Christmas markets in the weeks leading up to Christmas. 

Although the Ice Village in Museumplein is the most well-known Christmas market, you’ll find a number of smaller Christmas markets in the various neighborhoods on weekends spread out through December.  It’s romantic to stroll through with a loved one and a cup of gluhwein.  (Be sure to bring cash!)

Click to read about the best Christmas markets in the Netherlands!

Eat oliebollen

During December and early January, you’ll find oliebollen stands all around the city.  These fried balls of deliciousness (similar to donuts) are a traditional Dutch New Year’s Eve snack.  Be sure to eat them when they’re warm and don’t hesitate to ask for powdered sugar on top.

National Tulip Day in Dam Square

On the third Saturday in January is National Tulip Day.  You might not know about this event, however every year, over 200,000 tulips are brought to Dam Square.  It’s typically put in an intricate design, which you can view from a ladder above.  It’s 100% free to enter although I recommend getting in line early to have your pick of tulips to bring home with you!

The best things to do in Amsterdam indoors during winter

Get into a massive debate over sinterklaas and zwarte piet.

What is December without a fierce Sinterklaas debate?  I kid, but  everyone has an opinion about this controversial Dutch holiday tradition that has been condemned by the UN.  Around the time of Sinterklaas (December 5th), I think that it’s impossible to avoid hearing about it.

Some of the other winter in Amsterdam guides recommend going to the Sinterklaas parade (which is improving within Amsterdam), but I recommend reading up about it first in order to make an informed decision.

Drink gluhwein

Ahhh gluhwein.  I’ll admit that sitting in an old brown cafe sipping on a gluhwein is my winter activity of choice. Like many European countries, the Dutch have a delicious alcoholic drink that is perfect for winter.  Gluhwein is a mulled wine with cinnamon and oranges.

To be fair, I’ve had some terrible gluhwein, so make sure that wherever you’re getting it from has made a fresh batch recently as it can get too bitter if the oranges sit inside too long.  I really like the gluhwein at Cafe Papeneiland .

Cuddle with cats at the Kattenkabinet or the Poezenboot

Is there anything as wonderful as having a cuddly cat climb into your lap when you’re cold? Luckily, Amsterdam is full of cat-friendly places, including a floating cat shelter on a canal boat and a museum dedicated to cat-related art (with real cats) .  You don’t even need to go to either to find friendly cats in Amsterdam as many shops (and coffeeshops ) have a friendly shop cat to keep the mice away.

Step into the Rijksmuseum

On the coldest of days, consider stepping into the Rijksmuseum. The Rijksmuseum is one of the largest museums in the Netherlands and it holds thousands of pieces. 

It’s easy to spend a whole day here, so if it’s raining (or snowing) the entire day, don’t be afraid to hide inside until the weather improves.  There are countless famous pieces within the museum including Rembrandt’s Nightwatch, to be seen. I also like the dollhouse that inspired the Miniaturist . 

Click to buy tickets ahead to avoid waiting on line.

Learn about history at Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder

If you’ve purchased the iAmsterdam pass, which is a steal if you’re visiting at least a few museums, consider stepping into my favorite museum in Amsterdam, which is included in the card. Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder is a museum composed of three canal houses with a secret two-story church in the attic! This museum is the perfect place to warm up for 1-2 hours while soaking up the history and epic views of the canals….

What to wear in winter in Amsterdam

Simply, dress as you would in fall/winter in a colder climate.   I’d recommend a pair of waterproof shoes (as it does rain a fair amount), a sweater to put over your clothes as needed, and a good jacket for winter.

I usually wear a peacoat with a sweater, jeans, and boots along with a hat/scarf as it doesn’t get that cold and layering is helpful if you’re visiting different locations.  Click for a complete packing list for winter in Amsterdam.

Have you visited Amsterdam in winter?

• First-time itinerary for Amsterdam
• The best museums in Amsterdam
• What to wear in Amsterdam
• The best Christmas Markets in the Netherlands
• Secret Amsterdam: 25+ Places that you’ll want to visit  

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

May 31, 2019 at 8:42 pm

Hello Karen, I would love to be able to work and live in Amsterdam or the Hague for the Summer. I have a TEFL English teaching certificate. Can you suggest anything else. I’m in the UK just now but looking for adventure after my 30 year marriage broke up from a Spanish man. I have been loving in Madrid for the last 16 years.

May 31, 2019 at 11:04 pm

Hi Yvonne, Teaching is quite competitive in the Netherlands and most people I know who work in this field (International Schools) have Masters and significant work experience. Unfortunately, I don’t know you, but you will hopefully find some other jobs suitable. There are often always service industry jobs in the summers here.

Kind regards, Karen

September 4, 2019 at 11:23 pm

Hi Karen I plan on visting Amsterdam week of Christmas this year. Do you have more recommendations and any other Christmas related activities I may check out? How is Christmas in Amsterdam? Will be stuck in my hotel/Airbnb or can I still go explore?

September 6, 2019 at 12:35 pm

It’s actually fairly quiet and things should be open besides on Christmas itself. Most of the things mentioned in this post should be operational during the Christmas period, but I’d check the website to be sure! There should also be some Christmas markets beforehand.

February 9, 2020 at 8:40 am

In march 2018 the canals actually were frozen and people (including me 🙂 ) were ice skating on them!

February 10, 2020 at 2:21 am

Indeed. Hopefully this year as well…

January 19, 2022 at 8:08 am

This blog covers almost everything about Amsterdam. Only one thing I could find not mentioned here is the process of applying for a visa. If that would also have been mentioned here with the procedure of Netherlands visa appointment and documentation this blog was almost a complete package. Although now also it provided almost everything one should know before traveling to Amsterdam. When I went to France last year I also wrote a same blog so that people do read it and then don’t face many challenges while planning their trip to Schengen because almost everything is easy but applying for a visa is a bit complex process.

March 17, 2022 at 10:12 pm

I am not an expert here and I encourage anyone visiting to visit IND (Dutch immigration) for the up-to-date information about the process.

October 22, 2022 at 10:42 am

Hi. I will be visiting in Feb next year. Still not sure of itinerary what to do in Amsterdam.

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Visiting The Dutch Countryside

Travelblog about The Netherlands | Exploring The Netherlands beyond the crowds

Things To Do In Amsterdam In Winter: A Travel & City Guide To Visiting Amsterdam In December, January, February And March

Are you thinking of doing some sightseeing in Amsterdam in winter? Good choice! Amsterdam is filled with attractions, no matter what time of year you’re visiting. But when you are travelling here in the colder season, then this article on things to do in Amsterdam in winter will definitely help you out.

Not only will you learn Amsterdam and the winter temperature, but also what Amsterdam winter festival to visit and what Amsterdam looks like in winter with the help of photos. Whether you’re looking for things to add you your one, two or three day itinerary for Amsterdam, or am simply brainstorming, here you will discover sites and nice places to visit in Amsterdam. It also includes what things to see and do in specific months in Amsterdam, Noord- Holland, The Netherlands.

Enjoy your 24, 48 or even 72 hours in Amsterdam with these things to do in Amsterdam during winter. And learn the best tours to do in Amsterdam and find the few tourist attractions in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, you must visit. It also includes many special and different things to do in Amsterdam, that you won’t see anywhere else.

There might be affiliate links in this article, check out my full disclaimer

The things you have to do in Amsterdam in winter: Your ultimate winter travel and city blog for Amsterdam, Noord- Holland, The Netherlands

Winter in The Netherlands, and thus Amsterdam as its capital, begins around the 21st of December and finishes around the 20th of March every year. The start and end of the winter sometimes differ, as a Dutch winter can also start at the 20th or 22nd of December and finishing a bit later. However, this doesn’t mean that winter events in The Netherlands only start when it’s ‘officially winter’, because quite a few winter festivals in The Netherlands start in November. Anyway, you may forget all of this straight away.

You will find the general things to do in Amsterdam during winter below. And after that you will discover the winter events in Amsterdam that take place in specific months. No matter what part of the winter season you’re visiting Amsterdam is great. In December, January, February and March.

Does it snow in Amsterdam?

It does. It’s nowhere like you would see in the North of countries like Finland, but it snows in Amsterdam. Generally speaking it mostly snows in January, February until the middle of March. The amount of snow days we have in The Netherlands is generally 20 days out of the year. This doesn’t mean big thick layers of snow – a little layer on the streets is already included. The number of days that it snows in The Netherlands has decreased due to climate change from on average 33 snow days to 20 days. I truly love it when it snows in The Netherlands: everything is so much more cosy, people are happy and everyones inner child comes out again. I love it.

What to do in Amsterdam in winter: The things you have to do and see in winter in Amsterdam

When you’re thinking of visiting Amsterdam in winter I suppose you have quite a few questions. Think of ‘Is January a good time to visit Amsterdam’, or ‘How cold is The Netherlands in the winter’ and ‘What clothes to take to Amsterdam in January’. For these questions I will recommend you to visit two of the following articles I’ve written below. You will learn how people dress in The Netherlands in winter, but also whether Amsterdam gets cold or not. One thing I do have to say in advanced, is that it’s winter in The Netherlands, so please don’t think that it will be hot in Amsterdam in January. Because it won’t be hot.

Here you will discover everything from ‘what is the coldest month in Amsterdam’ to ‘what is the weather like in The Netherlands in January’.

10 Things You Actually Need To Pack For Winter In Amsterdam

Best Winter Coats And Jackets For Amsterdam In Winter

Keep on reading below to discover whether Amsterdam is actually fun in the winter and things to do in Amsterdam in winter.

1. Sit in front of a fireplace in Amsterdam to warm up

Dutch winter weather is confusing. Sometimes the weather is very mild and the next day you will have to wear an extra sweater because otherwise bodyparts will freeze off. There can be a strong, chilly wind that goes straight through your bones or there’s a warm gust of wind that will make you wonder when winter will arrive.

If it’s one of the cold winter days in Amsterdam then I would recommend you to go visit a cafe with a fireplace. Grab a drink, sit in front of the fireplace and enjoy the cosy atmosphere.

My favourite cafes with a fireplace in Amsterdam are De Vergulden Eenhoorn , Cafe de Wetering , Cafe Zurich and Lion Noir .

2. Visit the best Dutch brown cafes

The way the British feeling about their pubs and we do in The Netherlands about our brown cafes. These traditional, old Dutch brown cafes have an atmosphere like no other. Everyone is welcome to sit down for a drink, whether its a coffee or a beer. And when the evening slowly arrives they become more bustling with every minute that passes by.

My favourite Dutch brown cafes in Amsterdam are Cafe in ‘t Aepjen , Cafe de Druif , Cafe Chris and Cafe Brandon .

3. Enjoy a cheese fondue in Amsterdam

While cheese fonue isn’t a traditional Dutch thing to do, it is a perfect way to get warm when you’re visiting Amsterdam in winter. The melted cheese makes a perfect dinner after a long day of exploring Amsterdam and its most beautiful, idyllic streets. The all time local favourite is Cafe Bern .

4. Visit the Foodhallen

Sometimes you want to be comfortable, while at the same time having plenty of food around you. And the Foodhallen in Amsterdam are the perfect location to stay warm and fill your empty stomach at the same time. Also, there’s a cinema located in the same building. So if you’re planning on relaxing one day in Amsterdam, then visit the Foodhallen and you’re settled.

5. Enjoy an icehockey match in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is home to an icehockey club called Amstel Tigers. And while icehockey isn’t a very popular sport in The Netherlands, it’s definitely fun to witness people crashing into each other while they magically stay on their iceskates. The home matches take place in the Jaap Eden icerink in Amsterdam and take place on either a Saturday or Sunday.

The English version of the website doesn’t seem to work for me, so you can find some useful Dutch words to order ticket for the Amstel Tigers Amsterdam below.

Find tickets for the Amstel Tigers ice hockey matches

Useful Dutch words

Zondag = Sunday

Zaterdag = Saturday

Koop meteen je tickets = Buy your tickets now

6. Watch the best films in cinemas in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is filled with amazing filmhouses, theatres and cinemas. From small cinemas with art house films to theatres that house the most popular movies. There’s truly something for everyone in Amsterdam. The oldest filmhouse in Amsterdam is Filmtheater de Uitkijk , here you can see both popular and art house films. Another great and most popular cinema in Amsterdam is Tuschinski . The building itself is already spectacular and you will not mind spending a few hours there.

7. Go on a delicious food tour through Amsterdam

I know, I know. The Netherlands is not known for the best Dutch food, however we do have a staple of traditional Dutch food that you must try in Amsterdam. Think of poffertjes (small pancakes), stroopwafels (cookies with a layer of caramel), kroketten (FRIED deliciousness) and stamppot (tasty mashed winter food).

Secret Dutch Food Tours Amsterdam

But Amsterdam has more to offer than just typical Dutch food. Amsterdam is one of the cities that houses the most nationalities in the world and everyone brings their food and culture with them. So another great option is to go on a multicultural food tour through Amsterdam, which I also very much recommend.

Amsterdam: Multicultural Food tour

8. Ice skate in Amsterdam

One of the things you have to do in Amsterdam in winter is ice skating. I mean, have you had the real Dutch winter experience in Amsterdam if you didn’t fall on your butt on the ice, looked like bambi or twirled around like a superstar?

Bring a few coins of 50 cents and 1 euro with you if you are not a confident skater. At ice rinks you have chairs or something else to hold on to. The coins have to be placed in the objects, but you get that back after you return the object.

Don’t worry about not having ice skates with you, I kind of understand that they’re not a part of everyones typical winter outfit. You can rent ice skates at every icerink, but be sure to bring your id or passport. You often need to give an id and the price for the skates in exchange for the ice skates. You will always get your id back after you give the skates back. If you want to ice skate always bring gloves as you aren’t allowed to enter the ice on most ice rinks in The Netherlands without them.

The best ice rink in Amsterdam is:

• Amsterdam:  Jaap Eden Baan

9. Be a winner in a pub quiz in Amsterdam

When it’s one of those rainy winter evenings in Amsterdam, there’s nothing better than to relax. Or so you might think. I have something better for you. Take part in a pubquiz in Amsterdam and bring a trophee back home! At Cafe Thijssen there’s a pub quiz from 20:00 -23:00 every Monday.

Imagine a cosy bar, fun questions, cool people and Dutch snacks. While the rain is pouring its soul out, you’re in this cafe in Amsterdam chasing after your prize. Go get ’em tiger! The questions are asked in both Dutch and English and it costs 2,50 to participate in this pub quiz in Amsterdam.

10. Walk through Amsterdam in winter

Amsterdam is The Netherlands most visited, popular and famous city. Millions of people travel to Amsterdam every, single year. But the high season starts in April, during tulip season in The Netherlands, until the end of August. And the low season? Well, mainly in winter. Although Amsterdam is still visited often in winter, there are noticeably less tourists to bump into when exploring Amsterdam. That’s why one of the things you have to do in Amsterdam in winter is to simply visit and explore. Walk to the courtyards such as the Begijnhof, explore the Weesperarea and De Pijp neighbourhood in Amsterdam.

See the best 2 day itinerary for Amsterdam

11. Watch a show of the Dutch National Opera & Ballet

There’s something magical about watching people dance and sing. One of the best things to do in Amsterdam in winter is to witness a show of the Dutch National Opera & Ballet. Get inspired, relax and enjoy. That’s everything you need to do in order to truly enjoy their performances, because they are spectacular.

Find tickets and performances for the Dutch National Opera & Ballet

12. Visit small and lesser known museums in Amsterdam

Museums are everywhere in Amsterdam. But most people visit the most famous and visited museums in Amsterdam, such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank Huis. While those are truly wonderful to visit, there are plenty of more unpopular and less visited small museums to visit in Amsterdam that are worth it. Take a look below at some of my favourite interesting and cool museums in Amsterdam.

• Van Loon Museum
• Cromhouthuis
• Het Grachtenhuis
• Tropenmuseum
• Huis Marseille

13. Eat the best traditional Dutch winter food

If you don’t enjoy food tours and simply want to try some traditional Dutch winter food, then I would recommend you to go to a few authentic Dutch restaurants in Amsterdam. You will discover dishes such as pea soup , stamppot and plenty of other tasty and hearty dishes. My to go to Dutch restaurant in Amsterdam is Moeders .

Discover more traditional Dutch food 

14. Enjoy a karaoke in Amsterdam

Sometimes all you want to do is to sing your heart out and enjoy a fun atmosphere. And karaoke bars in Amsterdam are the perfect location to do so. Whether you can actually sing, or not ( like me ), it’s one of those things that you simply have do in Amsterdam in the evening and at night. And when the weather is cold outside, it will be a perfect place to warm up. Some of the best karaoke bars in Amsterdam are Ginger Karaoke and The End .

15. Play games in an indoor game hall in Amsterdam

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Amsterdam then Tonton club is a great place to visit. This indoor game hall in Amsterdam is where you can play all the retro arcade games and board games that you want. There are two locations in Amsterdam. One is heavily inspired by Japanese food and game culture and the other houses more common arcade games. But it’s definitely a great place to visit in Amsterdam, during winter and all the other seasons.

16. Drink the best craft beers in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the best places in the world to discover some great Dutch craft beer. The city is filled with microbreweries, so I you’d thought that I would sent you to get a Heineken or Amstel, then you’re wrong. Get a great craft beer at one of my four favourite breweries in Amsterdam and enjoy your winter day. Because honestly, the season is never bad enough to not go for a drink.

• Brouwerij ‘t Ij
• Brouwerij Troost
• Brouwerij De Prael
• De 7 Deugden

17. Play Dutch games at the Spelletjes, or Games, cafe in Amsterdam

One of the perfect ways to spend one cold or chilly day in Amsterdam is with playing board games. And the perfect location to do so is the game cafe Spelletjes Cafe – 2 Klaveren in Amsterdam. You can play every board game here, from Monopoly to Risk and Backgammon.

2 Klaveren is very popular in Amsterdam for having the perfect combination of good food, board games and a cosy atmosphere. And trust me when I say that you don’t mind spending a couple hours here.

18. Feel the warmth in one of the oldest botanical gardens in The Netherlands

Visiting a botanical garden in The Netherlands is especially nice when the weather is shit. Whether it’s raining, snowing or if there’s a storm I prefer to spend some hours in a warm and comfortable botanical garden. The Hortus Botanicus in Amsterdam is a perfect way to recharge your battery as well as the perfect place in Amsterdam to get warm.

And while the temperature is pretty nice inside the greenhouse, there are plenty of things to discover. Find rare plants, flowers and trees while you’re exploring the garden. This is a must-do activity when you’re looking for what to do in Amsterdam in winter.  

19. Flea markets galore in Amsterdam

Throughout the entire year there are flea markets to be found in Amsterdam, but they’re especially nice to visit when you want to stay try and away from the freezing wind. While it’s not the warmest area in Amsterdam, as the Ij Hallen are pretty big, it’s also not the coldest. Plus you will be able to get everything you’ve ever dreamt at the biggest flea market in Europe. From second hand clothing to paintings. And from furniture to vintage items. The perfect souvenir from Amsterdam can be found here.

Find the dates of the next flea markets in Amsterdam

Discover what things to do and see in Amsterdam 

What things to do in Amsterdam in December

Whether you’re looking for places to visit in Amsterdam, or activities to do in December, here you will discover fun things you have to do. You will see top sites in Amsterdam, but also other things to do in Amsterdam during winter and even at Christmas and on New Years Eve. Amsterdam is filled with things to do, and December is a month that is especially fun to visit.

Ice Amsterdam on the Museum square

THIS EVENT IS NOT HAPPENING IN 2023/2024 – THANKS TO THE MUNICIPALITY OF AMSTERDAM

Ice Amsterdam is a yearly winter event in Amsterdam that is located on the Museumsquare. There’s hot chocolate, traditional Dutch winter food, an icerink (plus rental iceskates) and plenty of more to enjoy. Ice Amsterdam can be visited in Amsterdam during half of the winter and it’s one of the things to do in December.

More information and tickets for the Ice Amsterdam

Amsterdam Light Festival

A must do activity in Amsterdam during winter has to be the Amsterdam Light Festival. This yearly festival in Amsterdam takes place from November until January. Every year there is a different theme where countless of national and international artists work together to create unique light sculptures in the canals. When you’re in Amsterdam in December, then this is one of the things to do. This is even one of the things you can do in Amsterdam at Christmas.

While visiting the festival itself is free, the best way to truly experience the Amsterdam Light Festival is by a canal cruise. And trust me when I say that it’s completely worth the payment.

Check availability for your Amsterdam canal cruise – that involves hot chocolate

Or go on a regular canal cruise in Amsterdam and discover the Amsterdam Light Festival by boat

Explore the best Dutch Christmas markets

There are plenty of Christmas markets to visit in The Netherlands, and it would only be weird if Amsterdam wasn’t home to a few of them. The Amsterdam Christmas markets are fun to visit and usually take place in the month of December. There are several Christmas markets in Amsterdam, but my two favourites can be found in the link below.

Find the best Dutch Christmas markets that you have to visit this December

Discover why kruidnoten are everyone’s favourite small cookie

Kruidnoten are small, round and crispy cookies that are part of the Sinterklaas festivities in The Netherlands. These delicious Dutch cookies are made of flour, butter, brown sugar, pepper, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cardamom and nutmeg.

Extra tip: Buy the kruidnoten after the 5th of December, as that’s when Sinterklaas leaves again. The kruidnoten will be on sale at every supermarket by that time. Buy the kruidnoten from the brand called ‘Bolletje’, as those are the best in The Netherlands.

Hortus by night

Another beautiful event in Amsterdam is the well-known Hortus by night. And with well-known I mean, famous in Amsterdam with the locals. During specific dates in the month of December, the Hortus Botanicus in Amsterdam opens its doors in the evening. While the beautiful botanical garden in Amsterdam is already spectacular to visit during the day, you can only imagine the way it looks in the evening when the garden is lit, there is a campfire and even gluhwein to enjoy. It’s definitely one of the fun things to do in Amsterdam in December.

Find more information about Hortus by night

Celebrate Christmas in Amsterdam

Amsterdam during Christmas time is great to visit. While many towns completely shut down during Christmas in The Netherlands, Amsterdam shuts down a little less than most. There are Christmas parties to attend, bars to visit and plenty of other things to do in Amsterdam at Christmas. So when you are thinking of visiting Amsterdam at Christmas, I would recommend you to do so.

The best cities to visit in The Netherlands during Christmas

Celebrating a Dutch Christmas in The Netherlands

Visit Amsterdam at New Year’s Eve

Amsterdam and New Year’s Eve go hand in hand. Whether there’s a central firework show or not, the street parties by itself are already a reason to visit. And if you’re looking for what to see in Amsterdam in December, then those street parties are definitely something else. Party your way into the new year with one of the hundreds of parties that are celebrated and trust me that you won’t forget this New Year’s.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in The Netherlands

Eat the best Oliebollen

One of the Dutch winter snacks you have to try is the oliebol. This is my favourite winter treat in The Netherlands and a is a ball of dough that is fried in vegetable oil until it has a crispy outer layer. Oliebollen dough is made from flour, yeast, milk, eggs and sometimes raisins.

You can find oliebollen in The Netherlands at funfairs during the entire year, but you they’re a typical winter snack in The Netherlands. During the winter months, starting in December, oliebollen stalls will be everywhere in the country. And yes, also in Amsterdam.

Discover more typical Dutch food 

What things to do in Amsterdam in January

When you’re looking at travelling to Amsterdam in January, then discovering things to do is the first thing that must be on your to do list. Below you will discover places to visit in Amsterdam, activities and more things to do in January. As well as unique things to do in Amsterdam.

Ice Amsterdam is a yearly winter event in Amsterdam that is located on the Museumsquare. There’s hot chocolate, traditional Dutch winter food, an icerink (plus rental iceskates) and plenty of more to enjoy. It Ice Amsterdam can be visited in Amsterdam during half of the winter.

As I told you in the things to do in Amsterdam in December part, the Amsterdam Light Festival stretches from November until the middle of January. This means that if you’re looking for what to do in Amsterdam in January, that this is also a great activity. Enjoy the light sculptures, get mesmerized by the beautiful decorated canals and enjoy a once in a life time experience in Amsterdam. It is simply one of the best things to do in Amsterdam in winter.

The best way to see the sculptures in the canals in Amsterdam is by canal tour. Even when you’re visiting Amsterdam on a budget it’s a great thing to do.

Book your Amsterdam canal cruise – that involves gluhwein

Or just go on a regular canal cruise in Amsterdam and   discover the Amsterdam Light Festival by boat

Find tulips during National tulip day in Amsterdam

Tulips and Amsterdam might seem like a logical combination to you, but it is anything but. While you will be able to see flower pots filled with tulips in Amsterdam during tulip season, you won’t see any tulip fields in the capital city of The Netherlands.

The only time that there is something even remotely similar to a tulip field in Amsterdam is during National Tulip Day in The Netherlands. On the 20th of January 2024 you have to visit Museumplein. There will be a tulip picking garden with over 200.000 tulips that opens at 13:00 until 16:00. National Tulip Day used to take place at Dam square, but not since last year.

If you want to see endless tulip fields in The Netherlands, without tourists, during tulip season (mid- April until 1st of May), I recommend you to check out the link below.

Find all the Dutch tulip and flower fields and its locations in The Netherlands & Holland

Amsterdam: What things to do and see in Amsterdam in February

There are many cool things to do in Amsterdam, including in February. Discover places to visit in Amsterdam in February, which includes some very fun events. If you were still wondering what there is to do in Amsterdam, then you will find some of the best events and things to do in February.

Ice Amsterdam is a yearly winter event in Amsterdam that is located on the Museumsquare. There’s hot chocolate, traditional Dutch winter food, an ice rink (plus rental ice skates) and plenty of more to enjoy. It Ice Amsterdam can be visited in Amsterdam during half of the winter.

Visit Stukafest

Stukafest is a very interesting festival in The Netherlands and takes place all throughout the country in student cities. Amsterdam is one of those cities. During Stukafest you will discover student chambers that are transformed into minitheatres. Who would’ve thought that you will discover your new favourite upcoming artist in a student room? The entire atmosphere is so incredibly special, that I can guarantee you don’t want to miss out on a chance to witness this event. It’s one of Amsterdam’s most fun activities in February.

More information about Stukafest Amsterdam

Sonic Acts Academy

This three-day festival in Amsterdam takes place at the end of February. During this festival you will discover audio-visual and performative art in combination with critical thinking. If you’re looking to get inspired and learn then this is the perfect place to do so. Discover though-provoking live showcases of many different art forms. From live cinema to concerts and other art forms.

More information about Sonic Acts Academy

What things to do in Amsterdam in March

‘What’s there to do in Amsterdam in March’, you might ask. Well, Amsterdam is not that filled with special things to do in March as the other months. However, Amsterdam in March still has some great things to do. Discover the best Amsterdam winter activities in March and other things to do below. As well as places to visit in Amsterdam in March.

Cinedans fest

I’m a big fan of dance, and if you are too, then Cinedans Festival will be great for you to visit. At the beginning of March, you will discover everything that has something to do with dance in the Eye Filmmuseum. From National and international dance movies to documentaries. And from VR dance projects to workshops, readings and debates.

More information about Cinedans fest

HELP OTHERS DISCOVER THESE BEAUTIFUL PLACES! PIN THIS TO YOUR TRAVEL PINTEREST BOARDS!

Other  Amsterdam travel blogs and guides that you’ll love

2 days in Amsterdam

Cheapest hostels in Amsterdam

10 things you actually need to pack for Amsterdam in winter

The best semi-private guided Amsterdam tours

Top Dutch beaches near Amsterdam to visit

The most useful travel apps for Amsterdam

Fun facts you have to know about Amsterdam

Full guide to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

What to do in Amsterdam when it rains

Day trips from Amsterdam in winter & things to do outside Amsterdam

One beautiful day in Haarlem

Discover the most beautiful village in The Netherlands: De Rijp

The fortified town of Naarden

Explore Alkmaar beyond its cheese market

See the magic of the city of Hoorn

Get to know the stunning Dutch town of Amersfoort

Experience the modern city of Rotterdam

Learn why you must visit the Hanseatic city of Deventer

I hope that you have found enough things to do in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, in winter and that you have found good places to visit in Amsterdam, Noord- Holland. And even things to do in Amsterdam on a Sunday. Enjoy your Amsterdam one day trip, or stay longer and enjoy places to visit in and around Amsterdam. Now you know that Amsterdam has plenty of things to do, even in winter. Share this post!!

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Your Guide to Visiting Amsterdam in Winter

Amsterdam in Winter

Although is low season, my favourite time of year to be in Amsterdam is during winter. There’s something so cozy and inviting about this city in the winter months but best of all, there are hardly any crowds. Amsterdam has become so popular that during the summer time, it is difficult to get through the streets without huge lines to museums, crowds in the 9 streets and disgruntled locals (which I can understand).

So if you’re looking for a guide to visiting Amsterdam in winter, here you are! This is my third time visiting Amsterdam in the colder months and I’m still just as besotted with the city as I was the first time I visited.

What to Pack for Amsterdam in Winter

If you’re planning your trip and wondering what to pack, look no further. Because Amsterdam is so Northern, it does get quite cold in winter. Here’s a snapshot of what I packed for a few days in Amsterdam this winter:

The first item you need to be armed with is a sweater or a thick knit . As soon as I landed I dropped in to some stores to purchase a few in white, beige and black. These didn’t come off for my entire trip!

You’ll also need a coat that is preferably long to shield your legs from the wind. On your feet I’d recommend boots, which will also act to keep your legs warm. My latest obsessions are these Steve Madden over-knees and the Common Project Combat Boots .

I’d also recommend packing a scarf , some good quality gloves and some sneakers if you plan to walk around the city.

Winter Things to do in Amsterdam

If you’re visiting Amsterdam in winter the trick is to work with what you’ve got. Make the most of the coziness and winter and embrace the best things to do when it is cold in Amsterdam.

Ice Skating at the Rijksmuseum

Start at the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam’s most famous museum both for its architecture and collection. Once you’ve warmed up inside (be sure you don’t miss the library), head outside to enjoy the ice skating.

During winter the ice skating is open 10am-9pm.

Address: Museumplein 5, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands

Shopping in the 9 Streets

Next make your way over to the 9 streets : Amsterdam’s famous shopping area. It is here where you can spend hours popping in and out of small boutiques, quaint cafes and beautiful art galleries showing local artists.

Walk the Canals

Although it is cold in Amsterdam in winter, walking is still the best way to get around. Especially in the mornings at sunrise (around 9am) and of the evenings at 5pm when locals are starting and finishing work, walking is the best option. This is because everyone cycles to work and school, so unless you’re really confident on a bike I would save bike riding for the middle of the day.

Rent a Bike

Renting a bike is essential in Amsterdam, no matter what time of year you visit. It’s the easiest and cheapest way to get around the city and you’ll find lots of places to rent a bike from. Be sure to lock up your bike or it might not be there when you get back!

Visit the MOCA Museum

I loved the MOCA Museum so much that I thought it deserved its own dedicated mention. This museum is full of contemporary, modern and street art by really famous artists like Andy Warhol and Banksy. The displays are really interactive and for street art especially, I left with a newfound appreciation.

Open 7 days, 9:00-19:00, ’til 20:00 Fridays and Saturdays

Address: Honthorststraat 20, 1071 DE Amsterdam, Netherlands

Where to Stay for Winter in Amsterdam

Pulitzer amsterdam.

My first recommendation would be the Pulitzer Hotel as it is located on the fringe of the 9 streets and therefore in one of the prettiest parts of town. The hotel itself is housed in old traditional canal houses, so it is a maze to wander around and feels very local.

Book through Pulitzer Amsterdam

The Andaz Amsterdam

My second recommendation is located within the 9 streets and is very similar to the Pulitzer Hotel but less pricey. If you can afford the upgrade, be sure to opt for a canal facing room as the views are priceless!

Book through Andaz Amsterdam

Classic Tourist things to Do

The best part about visiting Amsterdam in winter is to do as the locals do: stay cozy but still go outdoors. If you’re visiting Amsterdam for the first time however, you may wish to try a few of the hot spots as follows.

The Red Light District

It was only on my third visit to Amsterdam that I went to the Red Light District because on previous visits I had been traveling solo. Although it isn’t really my cup of tea, it is cool to see and I found the experience quite liberating. It is a lot classier and less grungy than I thought it would be.

Van Gogh Museum

I visited the Van Gogh Museum on my first visit to Amsterdam and loved seeing the collection in the flesh. I’d highly recommend a visit for art lovers (or people who would like to be).

Open 7 days, 09:00-17:00

Address: Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands

Anne Frank House

A final mention would be to visit the Anne Frank House. Although you will have to spend hours in line, this is an absolute must do in Amsterdam. It is one of the most surreal and touching experiences for a museum and will give you a really strong appreciation for the hardships endured by Jewish families during the reign of Nazi Germany.

Open 7 days, 09:00 – 19:00, ’till 22:00 on Saturdays

Address: Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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Your Trip to the Netherlands: The Complete Guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Airports in the Netherlands

Getting Around the Netherlands

Cities to Visit

Complete Guide to Amsterdam

Amsterdam's Public Transportation

Essential Dutch Phrases

One Week in the Netherlands

48 Hours in Amsterdam

Getaways From Amsterdam

Top Things to Do in the Netherlands

Castles to Visit in the Netherlands

Best Things to Do in Amsterdam

Things to Do With Kids in Amsterdam

Shopping in Amsterdam

Amsterdam's Top Markets

Live Music in Amsterdam

Amsterdam's Must-Visit Museums

Guide to the Keukenhof Flower Gardens

Must-Try Food in the Netherlands

Craft Beer in the Netherlands

Heineken Experience

Amsterdam's Top Restaurants

Nightlife in Amsterdam

December in Amsterdam: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Every December, the city of Amsterdam is awash in the holiday spirit: Famous squares turn to winter holiday markets and ice rinks and stalls reward those who brave the outdoors with sweet treats. Additionally, if you can manage to brave the brisk weather, Amsterdam has the same variety of stellar museum exhibits and live performances as it does most of the year, but with far fewer crowds —and those who can cross a few names off their Christmas list here will also find considerably emptier stores than in the United States.

Amsterdam Weather in December

Amsterdam in December is rather cold but rarely experiences freezing temperatures.

• Average high: 42 degrees Fahrenheit (5.5 degrees Celsius)
• Average low: 33 degrees Fahrenheit (0.5 degrees Celsius)

December is also the city's rainiest month, getting an average of a little over 3 inches over the course of 15 days, meaning you'll need to bundle up extra against the cold rain water no matter what time of the month you visit. Additionally, the days are also at their shortest this time of year, and by the end of December, the sun falls at around 4:30 p.m. Furthermore, the city usually experiences mostly cloudy to overcast skies throughout the month, meaning you'll only really get a few hours of direct sunlight each day—even on the best days of December.

What to Pack

Since December is wet and cold for most of the month, your packing priorities should revolve around staying warm and dry. Bring plenty of long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, pants, and clothing you can layer to adjust for the varying temperatures as well as a heavy winter coat (preferably waterproof), insulated shoes and socks, a wool hat and gloves, and an umbrella. You may also want to pack thermal undergarments if you plan to be outdoors for long periods of time, though these may not be necessary if you're used to temperatures right above freezing.

December Events in Amsterdam

Although most of the month is occupied by festive holiday celebrations—starting with Sinterklaas Eve on December 4 and lasting through Kerst (Christmas) and Oud en Nieuw (New Year's Eve)—Amsterdam offers a wide variety of events, parties, and attractions everyone can enjoy in December, regardless of the weather. 

• Sinterklaas:  To prepare for the holiday (and the arrival of the man by the same name), Dutch children will set their shoes next to the fireplace at bedtime on the night before Sinterklaas (Sinterklaas Eve, December 4) in the hope that he will reward them with treats. Popular favorites include chocolate letters and a variety of spiced cookies, from  speculaas  bricks to bite-sized  pepernoten  and  kruidnoten . The holiday culminates in family celebrations on December 5.
• Amsterdam Light Festival :  An annual celebration of illuminated art in Amsterdam's City Center takes place from early December through late January each year and features some of the largest light artworks and installations in the region.
• Kerst (Christmas Day):  On December 25, Amsterdammers also celebrate the Christian holiday—which they call Kerst—with a variety of unique and international customs. 
• Tweede Kerstdag (Second Day of Christmas):  If your holiday spirit still isn't satiated, there's yet another day of Christmas observed in the Netherlands. The Dutch take this national holiday to visit relatives or to shop, especially for furniture—a tradition that's repeated with even more fervor on the second day of Easter.
• Tangotrain:  A festival all about tango music that runs the last week of December each year and invites collaborators from around the world to celebrate this festive musical style with a variety of parades, recitals, parties, and colorful events.
• Oud en Nieuw  (New Year's Eve): Amsterdam residents ring in the new year with parties across the city. From comedy shows to music-driven dance parties, everyone can find a celebration to fit their tastes.

December Travel Tips

• Airfares and hotel rates are at an off-peak low but beware of price hikes around the winter holidays.
• The tourist crowds have vanished this month, so intrepid December visitors have the run of Amsterdam's popular attractions and restaurants.
• With Sinterklaas celebrated on December 5 and  two days of Christmas  in the Netherlands, expect special holiday events, markets, and seasonal treats all month.
• Be sure to try seasonal treats like  koek en zopie  (cake and a spiced alcoholic drink),  warme chocolademelk  (Dutch hot cocoa, richer than the American version), and  Gluhwein  (German mulled wine, also known as  wassel ) at the holiday markets—you're sure to enjoy these limited-time delicacies.
• The last days of December are also the only time of the year when fireworks sales are permitted, so stock them up and set them off with the rest of the city on the December 31.

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The 20 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam in Winter (2023)

Visiting Amsterdam in winter has benefits like avoiding crowds and saving money . And you can still enjoy cultural activities, cosy cafes, and world-class museums without the summer rush. Just remember to dress warmly – as temperatures range from 0°C to 10°C, and follow us to discover the best things to do in Amsterdam this winter!

1. Browse the festive Christmas markets

Amsterdam’s Christmas markets are a delightful winter treat. Adorned with twinkling lights and seasonal decorations, they offer a warm and cosy atmosphere to browse unique gifts, taste traditional Dutch snacks, and sip on mulled wine. There are several Christmas markets in Amsterdam, including the Christmas Village at Museumplein and the Christmas market at Westergas. 

For more information, check our list of the best Christmas markets in Amsterdam

2. Have fun at Winter Paradise

Every winter, Amsterdam RAI transforms into an ultimate winter wonderland, where you can go ice-skating indoors or outdoors under a beautiful display of lights, have a thrilling ride on a mega swing, or enjoy stunning views from a giant Ferris wheel. The evening festivities include an après-ski village and a winter party to make the most of the festive atmosphere all night long!

For more information, check their website

3. Enjoy outdoor ice skating

Outdoor ice skating in Amsterdam is a beloved winter tradition. When the canals freeze, locals and visitors alike don their skates and glide through the picturesque waterways. With the iconic architecture as a backdrop and the crisp winter air, it’s a magical experience that captures the essence of the season. Alternatively, you’ll find several outdoor rinks in the city during winter time.

4. Watch light installations at the Light Festival

The Amsterdam Light Festival is a magical winter event where the city’s canals light up with beautiful art displays. These artworks make the nighttime streets sparkle, and it’s a fun way to see famous places in a new light during the winter nights.

5. Visit the Willet-Holythuysens Museum at Christmas time

Visiting the Willet-Holthuysen Museum during Christmas is a delightful experience. The museum, once a grand canal house, is adorned with festive decorations that transport you back in time. Marvel at the elegant holiday displays and explore the historical rooms, offering a unique glimpse into Amsterdam’s aristocratic past during the holiday season.

6. Warm up with a plate of Dutch pancakes

When you’re in Amsterdam, try Dutch pancakes called “pannenkoeken” to warm up. You can find them at places like Pancakes Amsterdam , The Pancake Bakery , and Upstairs Pannenkoekenhuis . These pancakes come with sweet or savoury toppings and are a tasty way to enjoy Dutch food while staying cosy in winter.

7. Try some yummy Oliebollen

Don’t miss trying the delicious Dutch treat called “oliebollen” when in Amsterdam. These deep-fried doughnuts, often dusted with powdered sugar, are a winter favourite. You can find mouthwatering oliebollen at local bakeries like Banketbakkerij Lanskroon , Patisserie Holtkamp , and various Christmas markets throughout the city.

8. Check out the schedule for winter concerts

Amsterdam’s winter season is filled with exciting concerts to enjoy. Keep an eye on the schedule for performances at venues like the Ziggo Dome and the Royal Concertgebouw . Also, consider catching contemporary artists at the iconic Paradiso or Melkweg venues for a memorable musical experience.

9. Cosy up in a coffeeshop

In Amsterdam, cosying up in a coffeeshop is a perfect way to escape the winter chill. These establishments provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere where you can relax, read a book, or people-watch. Enjoy a hot beverage and Dutch pastries while taking a break from Christmas shopping.

Check coffeeshops near Amsterdam Central Station . Alternatively, find one of Amsterdam’s cosiest bars !

10. See the city from the comfort of a heated boat

Explore Amsterdam’s charming canals from the comfort of a heated boat during winter with popular companies like Stromma and Blue Boat Company . As you glide along, you’ll witness the city’s picturesque views and historic architecture while staying warm and cosy. Canal cruises offer a unique perspective of Amsterdam’s beauty, making it a must-do activity for any visitor, even in colder weather.

11. Get warm in one of Amsterdam’s top museums

Amsterdam’s top museums provide a cosy respite during the winter months. Places like the Rijksmuseum , Van Gogh Museum , and Anne Frank House offer a captivating journey through art, history, and culture while sheltering you from the cold. It’s a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Amsterdam’s rich heritage while staying warm indoors.

Check out our list of the best museums in Amsterdam

12. Sample Dutch comfort food

Indulge in Dutch comfort food during the winter season in Amsterdam. Try hearty dishes like erwtensoep (pea soup), stamppot (mashed potatoes with various toppings), and bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs). These warm and savoury flavours are a delightful way to experience Dutch cuisine while keeping cosy during the chilly months.

13. Visit the Keukenhof indoor gardens

While Keukenhof is famous for its springtime flower displays, you can still experience its beauty during the winter months. Keukenhof’s indoor gardens offer a delightful escape from the cold, featuring exotic plants and flowers. It’s a serene oasis where you can enjoy a touch of springtime magic in the heart of winter.

14 Celebrate National Tulip Day

National Tulip Day is a vibrant celebration in Amsterdam, usually held on the third Saturday in January. Dam Square is transformed into a colourful tulip garden where visitors can pick their own tulips for free. It’s a joyful event that marks the start of the tulip season and showcases Amsterdam’s deep-rooted love for these beautiful flowers.

15. Take a winter walk

Take a walk in Amsterdam during winter and enjoy the festive sights. In Vondelpark, you’ll find cool street art and sculptures. The streets are all decked out with Christmas decorations and pretty lights, making it a lovely way to see Amsterdam’s winter beauty. And if you’re lucky, it might even snow!

Check the best Amsterdam street art spots

16. Do your Christmas shopping

Christmas shopping in Amsterdam is a delightful experience. Explore the famous “9 Streets” (De Negen Straatjes) district, a charming area lined with boutique shops and stores offering unique gifts, fashion, and Dutch specialties. It’s the perfect place to find thoughtful presents while soaking in the festive atmosphere of the city during the holiday season.

17. Try some yummy Pepernoten

Indulge in the delightful Dutch treat called “pepernoten” when in Amsterdam. These small, spiced cookies are a winter favourite. You can find them at traditional Dutch bakeries like Van Stapele Koekmakerij and Tony’s Chocolonely Super Store , adding a sweet and spicy touch to your Amsterdam culinary experience.

18. Catch the Chocoa Festival

Don’t miss the Chocoa Festival in Amsterdam , a delicious event dedicated to all things chocolate. Held annually at the end of the year, it features chocolate tastings, workshops, and discussions about sustainable cocoa farming. It’s a dream come true for chocolate lovers!

19. Take part in the Christmas tree bonfire

Participate in the Amsterdam Christmas tree bonfire, a unique and vibrant tradition in early January. Locals and visitors gather to bid farewell to the holiday season by tossing their Christmas trees onto a giant bonfire at various city squares. It’s a festive way to welcome the new year and share warmth with the community.

20. Do something romantic on Valentine’s Day

Celebrate a romantic Valentine’s Day in Amsterdam by taking a canal cruise under the twinkling lights, sharing a cosy dinner at one of the city’s charming restaurants, or enjoying a stroll along the picturesque canals. Amsterdam’s enchanting ambiance offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable and intimate Valentine’s Day experience.

Planning a trip to Amsterdam this winter?

Stay with us at ClinkNoord , ClinkMama or ClinkCoco , or visit our group accommodation page to find out more about our rates and best deals.

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Home > Netherlands > Amsterdam in Winter: A Complete Guide

Amsterdam in Winter: A Complete Guide

By Dymphe / December 12, 2022

Visiting Amsterdam in winter is an amazing experience. In winter, the city looks magical and there are many things to do!

Furthermore, going here in winter is often cheaper than at other times of the year! And because winter in Amsterdam is quieter, you feel more like a local!

Also, Amsterdam is a city with many events in winter that are great to attend.

Here, you find everything you should know about winter in the capital of the Netherlands !

Table of Contents

What’s the winter weather like in Amsterdam?

When it's winter in Amsterdam, it can get cold, but not very cold. The average temperature in winter is about 43°F / 6°C. But sometimes it is freezing in Amsterdam.

Also, it can rain a lot during the winter. On average it rains about 11 days per month in winter. Furthermore, it can be windy in Amsterdam.

Because of the temperature, you will rarely see a lot of snow in Amsterdam. There are only a few days each winter when it is snowing.

But when it's snowing, it's definitely magical.

What to wear in winter in Amsterdam?

Since it can get cold in Amsterdam, I would recommend taking warm clothes with you. Also, because of the rain, a raincoat can be convenient as well. And don't forget to bring an umbrella!

Where to stay in Amsterdam in winter?

There are many good neighborhoods in Amsterdam to stay in. You have De Pijp, City Center, and many others.

During the colder months, it can be convenient to stay in the city center. Many sights are in the city center, so in that case, you have to travel less.

Furthermore, if it gets too cold or if you want to rest, it is easier to go back to your accommodation.

But you can stay in every district in Amsterdam in winter. It doesn't matter that much. It's very easy to get around in Amsterdam.

How to get around in Amsterdam during winter?

During winter public transport in Amsterdam is still very good. You can get everywhere very fast.

In the city, you find a metro system, many trams, buses, ferries, and local trains. All are useful in Amsterdam! For this, it can be convenient to get the Amsterdam Travel Ticket .

When you stay in the city center, you most likely only use trams. But because the city center is small, you can also walk everywhere! This is even more convenient and you can better see the beautiful city of Amsterdam in winter!

Things to do during Amsterdam in winter

There is a lot to do in Amsterdam in winter. Below you find a selection of the best activities.

1. Visit the Amsterdam Winter Paradise

A visit to the Amsterdam Winter Paradise is one of the best things you can do in Amsterdam during the winter. This spectacular festival is all about the winter season.

Every year you can go to RAI Amsterdam for an indoor and outdoor spectacle. There is a lot you can do here. There are so many winter activities!

One of the activities you can do here is ice skating. You can do so on the inside and the outside ice rink.

Another thing to do here is riding a huge Ferris wheel from which you have a better overview of the event!

Furthermore, you can go curling. There is an opportunity to ski on real snow.

You can also roast marshmallows over a fire. It's definitely amazing that you can roast marshmallows when it's winter in Amsterdam!

Moreover, there is a Christmas cinema where you can see all kinds of Christmas movies.

Also, there are many après-ski parties with lots of artists. And you can stay for dinner as many restaurants have their own pop-up restaurant here.

2. Go ice skating

You can go ice skating at the Amsterdam Winter Paradise, but there are many other places for ice skating.

For example, you can go to Museum Square for a large ice rink in front of the Rijksmuseum. There is music as well here, and there are plenty of options for food and drinks. Also, the view of the Rijksmuseum is great.

Another place for ice skating is at the Jaap Eden Ice Rink. This is a large ice rink in the east of Amsterdam that you can visit in the winter months. You'll find here a large rink and an indoor hall.

Besides these examples, there are more ice rinks in Amsterdam. And sometimes the canals of Amsterdam freeze and people skate on the natural ice. But this is very rare and the last time was many years ago.

3. Visit a museum at Museum Square

Visiting a museum is always a good idea when you are visiting the city. There are a lot of good museums in Amsterdam . Here you can learn a lot about history and see the most beautiful artworks.

But when it's winter in Amsterdam, a visit to the museums is even better! The collections are worth visiting. But besides that, the museums are a place where you can warm up.

Some of the museums at Museum Square include the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. The Stedelijk Museum and the Moco Museum are also great. Each one of these is great to visit during winter!

Even if you're only one day in Amsterdam , going to a museum is definitely worth your time!

4. Shop at a Christmas Market

When it's winter in Amsterdam, there are several Christmas markets. At many of these Christmas markets, you can shop for all kinds of products depending on where you go.

Something that all have in common is the Christmas feeling you get when you visit them!

One of the best Christmas markets for shopping is the Funky Xmas Market. You find here products of local artists.

This Christmas market is amazing! With all its Christmas decorations and special Christmas stalls, it's very unique!

5. National Tulip Day

Every third Saturday of January it is National Tulip Day in the Netherlands. This day is the start of the new tulip season! It's lovely if you like flowers.

The Tulip is the most common flower in the Netherlands. When you think of Tulips you think of the Netherlands, and vice versa.

During National Tulip Day you have to go to Dam Square! Everyone can go here to pick up their free tulip! There are about 200,000 tulips waiting for you!

6. Discover the Amsterdam Light Festival

The Amsterdam Light Festival is a festival in Amsterdam during the winter months. This is one of the free things to do in Amsterdam .

This festival is all about lighting. You find light displays throughout Amsterdam. From bridges to buildings to streets, all get light decorations.

It is not a normal festival as there is no entrance fee. There's also not one specific place where the festival is. The city becomes the festival in winter. And you can walk there!

7. Do a canal cruise

Doing a canal cruise is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam in winter. During a canal cruise, you can see the city from a large boat.

During this tour, you learn a lot about Amsterdam. Furthermore, in only an hour or so. It's a fun way to learn a lot about the city.

If you're in Amsterdam in winter, this activity is even better. And when there is snow it is the best! The winter vibes of the city are lovely to see. Furthermore, the canal houses look very picturesque!

Going on a canal cruise is also one of the most fun things to do in Amsterdam at night !

8. Eat oliebollen

An oliebol is a traditional Dutch and Belgian snack. During Christmas time you find large stalls selling them everywhere!

Oliebollen are very tasty! They are best when you top them with powdered sugar! Also, they come in two types. You can get them with and without raisins.

People often buy only one and eat them on the spot. But it is also a tradition in the Netherlands to buy a bunch and eat them with family and friends during New Year's Eve!

9. Walk through the city and see the Christmas lights

Sometimes the simplest things to do are best. Such as a walk through the city!

In Amsterdam, a fun activity is to walk along the canals in the city center. This is always a great thing to do. But during the winter months, you can see a lot of Christmas lights everywhere.

Also, if it happens to snow when you are in Amsterdam, the city looks even more beautiful. The white snow fits very well with the picturesque houses of Amsterdam! This makes the photogenic places of Amsterdam more photogenic.

10. Enjoy fireworks during New Year’s Eve!

Fireworks are an important part of Dutch culture during New Year's Eve. Every citizen can get their own fireworks and set them off themselves.

Also, the city itself organizes a firework show for all to see. This is a spectacular event with lots of beautiful fireworks.

Furthermore, you can go to a higher point in the city to see the fireworks in the Amsterdam sky. There are many restaurants and bars where you can do that. For example, the Sky Lounge at the Hilton hotel is great for this.

11. Listen to Christmas Carols

There are a few churches in Amsterdam where you can listen to Christmas Carols. This is a great Christmas experience!

Furthermore, the churches look amazing, which adds to the experience. Visiting a church during winter in Amsterdam is also a great thing to do in itself.

One example of a church where you can go for this is the Vondelkerk!

12. See the large Christmas tree at Dam Square

Every year, there's a large Christmas tree at Dam Square. This is one of the most magical things to see in Amsterdam in winter! It's the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit.

It's in the center of Amsterdam and the tree is very impressive. Also, going to Dam Square is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam in general.

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Amsterdam in December: 11 Things to Do + Travel Tips!

Planning a trip to Amsterdam in December means contending with less-than-ideal weather–but also fewer crowds and plenty of festive holiday cheer!

We loved our winter trip to Amsterdam, and would happily recommend a visit to anyone willing to trade tolerating cold, gray, and wet weather for a chance to experience one of the most iconic cities in Europe in one of its least-crowded seasons.

If you’re considering a December trip to Amsterdam, here’s everything you need to know, from what kind of weather to expect to the best things to do in Amsterdam in winter.

Table of Contents

Typical December Weather in Amsterdam

11 fun things to do in amsterdam in december, where to stay in amsterdam, travel tips for visiting amsterdam in december, what to pack for winter in amsterdam, read more about visiting europe at christmas.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Visiting Amsterdam in December means contending with the coldest, darkest weather of the year–and while that definitely has its benefits, you need to come prepared for the weather!

In December, highs in Amsterdam reach an average of 43°F/6°C, and at night, lows plunge to an average of 36°F/2°C.

December is also the most humid and rainy month of the year in Amsterdam, meaning that the cold can cut right to the bone if you’re not dressed warmly enough and that you’ll need to prepare for the possibility of rain.

In Amsterdam, it rains an average of 15 days in December.

Occasionally, it snows in Amsterdam in December, but don’t count on it during your trip!

The sun rises around 8:45 AM and sets by 4:30 PM, so you’ll have very little daylight to work with, and you can expect most of that daylight to be spent covered in clouds.

Don’t expect to see a lot of blue skies or sunshine during a December trip to Amsterdam!

All of that being said, visiting Amsterdam in December definitely comes with enough rewards to be worth the cold and dark–but you’ll need to pack well (more on that below).

Marvel at the Amsterdam Light Festival.

When visiting Amsterdam in December (or in January, for that matter), you’ll notice that the city’s famous canals have a bit of extra sparkle!

Each winter, they are decorated with some of the most innovative and stunning light displays that you can imagine.

While the Amsterdam Light Festival installations are striking from any angle, they’re best experienced from the water!

Go ice skating!

Without a doubt, enjoying some ice skating is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam in December.

If you get extremely lucky, you might even get to experience ice skating on the canals–but unfortunately, that’s not common in recent years, as they don’t have a tendency to freeze hard enough these days.

However, the picturesque ice skating rinks around Amsterdam offer a fun alternative!

This rink in front of the Rijksmuseum is one of the most iconic spots to go ice skating in Amsterdam:

Take a canal cruise.

Sound like a good way to freeze?

Don’t worry–many of Amsterdam’s canal cruises are heated and covered!

W hile that may be a downside during some parts of the year, you’ll be very glad to have a covered boat to enjoy a canal cruise in Amsterdam in December .

During my most recent trip to Amsterdam, my friends and I opted to enjoy this cozy canal cruise featuring cheese, wine, and a covered boat, and we had a fantastic time!

Book your Amsterdam canal cruise today!

Pay a visit to the Christmas markets.

While Amsterdam’s Christmas markets aren’t the most overwhelming in Europe (and the fact that we traveled from Germany to Amsterdam on our trip probably didn’t help that impression), they are fun, cheery places.

If you happen to be visiting Amstedam in December and are looking to do a little holiday shopping and indulge in some sugary Dutch treats (stroopwafels, anyone?) , then head right to the Christmas markets.

If you’d like to add even more Christmas market fun to your trip, consider taking a day trip to another town near Amsterdam, too.

L eiden, for example, puts on a unique floating Christmas market each year .

Warm up in Amsterdam’s best museums.

Winter may just be the perfect time to take advantage of exploring Amsterdam’s museums, including the famous Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum .

Not only are the crowds generally lighter in Amsterdam in December than during the summer months, but exploring the museums will also give you the perfect chance to escape the cold weather for a bit!

If you’re looking for a quick but interesting museum to visit, I also loved visiting the Our Lord in the Attic Museum , which features a formerly hidden Catholic Church.

Bundle up and wander the canals.

No visit to Amsterdam is complete without aimlessly wandering through the Old Town to enjoy beautiful canal views, and there’s no reason to let cold weather keep you away!

In fact, there’s something even more special about the canals in December (aside from the Amsterdam Light Festival, it’s probably the fact that there are far, far fewer people around!).

Wear as many layers as you need to, and enjoy some time during your trip wandering through town.

Sample oliebollen.

These Dutch doughnuts are round, deep-fried, sometimes stuffed with raisins, and are absolutely delicious.

They’re a typical cold-weather snack and a must-try Dutch food during your winter trip to Amsterdam!

… and plenty of other warm Dutch dishes.

Oliebollen isn’t the only traditional Dutch winter food you need to be sure to add to your list of what to eat in Amsterdam in December!

Also considering trying snert (split-pea soup), stamppot (potatoes and vegetables), fondue (what better use for all that delicious Dutch cheese?), and Chocomel (Dutch-branded hot chocolate).

Plus, the usual year-round treats like Dutch pancakes, poffertjes, and stroopwafels are also extra-tasty when using them to warm up on a cold day!

In general, Dutch food lends itself to cold winter weather, so enjoy the chance to soak up coziness through cuisine!

Visit a brown cafe. 

Named for their dark, cozy interiors that are typically surrounded by wood-paneled walls, Dutch brown cafes are to Amsterdam what British pubs are to London: casual, comfortable spaces serving unpretentious food, good beer, and good company.

A casual meal in a brown cafe is a must when visiting Amsterdam in winter!

Peruse the cheese shops.

No one does cheese quite like the Dutch, and what better way to warm up in Amsterdam in December than to peruse several, sampling cheese along the way and picking out at least a few to bring home?

Not enough cheese for you?

The Amsterdam Cheese Museum can be a fun stop, too!

Enjoy all the usual best things to do in Amsterdam… with fewer crowds!

One of the best things about December in Amsterdam is simply that there are few people there!

As a fairly small city that is also one of the most visited cities in Europe , the tourist crowds in Amsterdam can be oppressive much of the year.

But in December, when people more commonly head to Germany for Christmas markets or to the Canary Islands for some sun, Amsterdam has some more breathing room, which makes it even more fun to visit.

Whether you have time for a weekend in Amsterdam or a full week, you’re bound to cover more ground in Amsterdam during a winter trip than a summer one.

There’s no way around it: hotels in the Netherlands, and in Amsterdam in particular, are far from the most affordable places that you’ll find in Europe.

The good news, though, is that while Amsterdam is expensive , December is one of the most affordable months to visit.

Expect to pay more for lodging in Amsterdam than for comparable stays in many other cities in Europe during winter, but much less than you would if you were visiting Amsterdam in, say, April .

If you have mobility limitations, be sure to read the description of your hotel carefully: very steep staircases are far from unheard of in Amsterdam! 

These options all get great reviews and should give you an idea of what you can expect to spend on lodging in Amsterdam in December.

Hotel Abba — For travelers looking for something a bit nicer than a hostel dorm but still hoping to stick to a budget, the popular Hotel Abba is a reliable and excellent option!

Located within walking distance of Museum Square and much of central Amsterdam, Hotel Abba features great reviews and an included breakfast each day.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Abba!

XO Hotels Van Gogh  — A comfortable, affordable hotel with a fun design twist: that’s what you’ll find at XO Hotels Van Gogh, where rooms are decorated with creations inspired by the famous artist’s work.

With great reviews and a fantastic location practically next door to the famous Van Gogh Museum, mid-range travelers can’t go wrong with a stay here.

Check rates & book your stay at XO Hotels Van Gogh!

Maison ELLE Amsterdam Hotel  — This stunning 30-room property near Vondelpark is the perfect blend of 19th-century charm and modern amenities.

Fully updated a few years back, luxury service and luxury amenities are the norm at this charming boutique property!

Check rates & book your stay at the Maison ELLE Amsterdam Hotel!

Plan your daylight hours well.

With limited daylight to work with, plan wisely when visiting Amsterdam in December.

If you can, try to structure some of your indoor activities for after 4:30 PM –after all, it’s not “night”, but it sure will feel like it if you’re hanging out outside!

Break up your day with a variety of both indoor and outdoor plans.

Amsterdam is not only cold in December, but it also tends to be damp, making the cold weather even more uncomfortable.

Make the most of your trip to the city by mixing up indoor and outdoor activities, balancing your need to stay warm with your desire to make the most of the limited daylight hours.

Don’t expect German-level Christmas markets.

Amsterdam’s Christmas markets are lots of fun and full of tasty treats–but they aren’t the immersive, gigantic fantasylands featuring seemingly endless wood chalet stalls and mug rentals that you’ll find in places like Germany and Austria .

Luckily, Amsterdam is extremely well-connected to Central Europe by train, so if you do want to visit both Amsterdam and the best Christmas markets in the world in December, you can consider combining your trip!

Cologne, Strasbourg , Baden-Baden, Paris , Basel, and even Munich (plus so many more!) can all be reached within a day by train.

Plan ahead if you want to visit the Anne Frank House.

Visiting the Anne Frank House is an incredibly moving experience and one of the best things to do in Amsterdam in December (or any other month, for that matter), but it does require planning ahead.

The limited tickets for the house are released 6 weeks in advance and sell out extremely quickly.

Tickets must be purchased through the official website .

The good news is that by visiting Amsterdam in December, you have much better odds of snagging a ticket than someone planning a trip in, say, April .

Amsterdam doesn’t completely close on Christmas Day.

While in many European cities you’ll find all restaurants, pubs, museums, and other attractions closed on Christmas Day, Amsterdam stays a bit more open, with attractions like the Rijksmuseum remaining open on December 25.

Many places will be closed, of course, but with some museums open and a decent number of restaurants open as well, Amsterdam can be a great place to spend December 25 if you’re planning a trip to Europe over Christmas Day .

We recommend checking out our complete winter packing list for Europe before you go–but here are a few essentials to consider as you plan your trip to Amsterdam in December!

Travel Insurance  — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and this is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

Check prices and inclusions with  Safety Wing for your December trip to Amsterdam!

Travel Adapters for the Netherlands   — If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll definitely want to make sure you can plug in your electronics once you arrive!

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable.

Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

Lotion  — Winter in Amsterdam can be rough on the skin–be sure to pack a moisturizing lotion.

Lip Balm  — You know what’s not fun? Eating Dutch food with chapped lips.

Hand Sanitizer   — Christmas markets, in particular, tend to mean lots of finger foods, eaten outside, often not near a bathroom where you can wash your hands.

Bringing along hand sanitizer for your Amsterdam winter trip will make your life much easier.

Planning a trip to Europe this December and eager to keep reading?

You can browse all our blog posts about visiting Europe in winter here , or check out these guides:

• How to Celebrate Christmas in Europe: Itinerary Ideas, Tips + FAQ!
• Salzburg in Winter: A Massively Detailed Guide
• What to Buy at Europe’s Christmas Markets (Gift + Souvenir Ideas!)
• Bruges in Winter: Festive Travel Guide + Christmas Market FAQ
• 17 Spectacular Places to Visit in Switzerland (+ Map!)

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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• Happening in Amsterdam

Things to do in Amsterdam during winter

Stay warm and cosy inside a museum

Art museums.

It goes without saying, but would be remiss to omit, that each house of art in Amsterdam is a must-see at any time of the year. However, in the wintertime, you get to beat the crowds!

• The Rijksmuseum , which dates back to the year 1800 when it was located in The Hague, started its collection with the purchase of Jan Asselijn’s The Swan , for the price of 100 Dutch Guilders (approximately 45 Euro Dollars)! Today, after various moves and renovations, the museum is located at Museumstraat 1, and boasts Rembrandt’s iconic Night Watch , as well as the Jewish Bride .
• Speaking of Rembrandt, how about visiting the painter in his own home and studio at the Rembrandt House Museum ? Familiarise yourself with the many sides to the painter’s work, including his tronies .
• The Vincent Van Gogh Museum , unsurprisingly, offers the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh paintings in the world. Visit this museum, if only to view the Pototo Eaters , in which, the painter harmonises shades of the earth with potato growers, their potatoes, and their consumption of their produce. Van Gogh forces one to see the beauty of this seemingly unattractive painting when he declares that a “ peasant girl is more beautiful than a lady “.
• Are you available on a Thursday night during your winter stay in Amsterdam? Take a free guided tour of the photography exhibitions at the Foam Museum . Join workshops, create your own photographs, and derive inspiration from contemporary, as well as classic photographers.

Cheese and piano players

When you visit the Amsterdam Cheese Museum , you get to sample the cheese, while travelling through the time-line of cheese-making in Holland. Make sure you take the opportunity to “ say cheese ” by dressing up as a Dutch cheese farmer and posing for the camera!

Are you ready to show off your talent as a concert pianist, without any prior musical background? Play to your heart’s content on the large selection of piano players at the Pianola Museum in Westerstraat, a 15 minute walk from the Central Train Station. The museum is small, but hosts an intimate atmosphere, and at least 10 working automatic pianos, some of which you can also play in the conventional manner.

Amsterdam outdoors is so cool in winter!

Ice skating.

The ice-skating season in Amsterdam runs from October to March. With no shortage of ice rinks in Amsterdam, you’ll warm up quickly!

• Jaap Eden provides three options: a 400-metre oval-shaped outdoor rink, a section set aside for beginners, and an indoor rink.
• Oliebotten, anyone? You’ll never regret ice-skating in the Rembrandt Plein because of the wonderful delicacies you can purchase to replenish your supply of energy while skating! Oliebotten are delicious fried-in-oil dough balls that really hit the spot if you’re not too concerned about all that oil. Skating along the compact outdoor 15 x 20 metre rink simply adds to the warm atmosphere from the beautiful lights surrounding the rink.
• The two rinks at Ice Rink Haarlem are professionally prepared and maintained. The 400-metre oval rink is ideal for speed and endurance training. It is partially covered, giving you the best of both worlds, allowing fresh air to enter and protection when needed. A smaller, rectangular rink is provided for amateurs. It encourages beginner skaters and children by providing racks for support, to aid practising.
• There is a chance that you may be able to walk or skate on the canals of Amsterdam. However, the temperature needs to be below 0 degrees C for at least three days, and then there is a wait of another three days to make sure that the ice is strong enough to hold the crowds! Recent trends indicate non-walkable canals, but to compensate, you can take a ferry ride instead!

Festival of Lights

The Amsterdam Light Festival #8 will brighten your days and nights from 28th November, 2019 until 19th January, 2020. This festival just might disrupt your vacation! But in a positive way. Titled by the catchy name, “Disrupt!”, this outdoors exhibition promises to display light as art in a kaleidoscope of media and locations. With an intriguing theme that focusses on building up after disruption, this festival is not to be missed.

See Amsterdam inside and out in winter

The artis amsterdam royal zoo.

The Artis is no ordinary zoo. No matter what season or elements of weather, you’ll be pleased that you came. Visit the animals in the park, come inside the planetarium, or enjoy the aquarium. For really tiny organisms, the Micropia invites you to a world of microbes. Located in the very centre of Amsterdam, the Artis will keep you busy, inside and outside, for many enjoyable hours.

Foodie tours

Were you concerned that we would leave drinking and dining out of the picture? Well, relax, we’ve left the best for last! Join an Eating Europe Food Tour of Amsterdam . Shed your tourist persona and mingle with the locals in their own neighbourhoods and eateries while sampling the authentic dishes of Amsterdam. A number of tours are available for you to learn about the likes and lives of the people. One example is “ A taste of life in Harlem “, which takes you to 7 stops around the district. View this photographic medieval neighbourhood from the outside, then talk to the proprietors inside their cafes. Best of all, warm up with a piece of Dutch apple pie, and then challenge yourself to eat real Dutch herring the correct way!

If you are going to visit Amsterdam during winter, here might be some fantastic and fun deals for you.

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Things to Do in Amsterdam in Winter

Amsterdam is a wonderful city to explore during the winter season, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep you entertained. Visiting museums is a popular activity in Amsterdam during the winter. The Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and Anne Frank House are just a few of the famous museums that are worth a visit. These museums offer a great way to escape the cold weather and indulge in some culture and history.

For those who prefer to stay warm, Amsterdam has many cosy cafes and bars to choose from. These places offer delicious hot drinks like glühwein and hot chocolate and provide a welcoming atmosphere to relax and enjoy the winter ambience.

Lastly, a winter boat tour of Amsterdam's canals is an exciting way to see the city's famous landmarks from a unique perspective. The boats are covered and heated, so you can stay warm while taking in the beautiful scenery.

The Rijksmuseum is a true cultural gem of Amsterdam that features an extensive collection of Dutch art and history. The museum boasts over 8,000 pieces of artwork and artifacts, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals. The museum offers a glimpse into the country's history, with collections from the Middle Ages to modern times. With audio guides available in multiple languages, visitors can take a self-guided tour and explore the galleries at their own pace. The museum's stunning architecture and interior design add to the overall experience, making it a must-see attraction for art and history lovers.

The Van Gogh Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers. It showcases the works of one of the most celebrated and renowned artists of all time, Vincent van Gogh. The museum houses the world's largest collection of Van Gogh's paintings, drawings, and letters. Visitors can explore the museum's permanent collection, which includes many of his most famous works, such as "Sunflowers" and "Starry Night." The museum also features temporary exhibitions that showcase the work of Van Gogh's contemporaries and artists who were inspired by him.

The Anne Frank House is a poignant and powerful museum that tells the tragic story of Anne Frank and her family during World War II. The museum is located in the house where Anne and her family hid from the Nazis for two years. Visitors can tour the house and see the hidden rooms where the family lived, as well as artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of their time in hiding. The museum is a moving tribute to the strength and resilience of the human spirit and a reminder of the horrors of war.

The Heineken Experience is a fun and interactive attraction that takes visitors on a journey through the history and production of one of the world's most popular beers. The tour includes a visit to the brewery's former site, where visitors can learn about the brewing process, participate in interactive exhibits, and taste different types of beer. The Heineken Experience is a must-visit for beer lovers and anyone interested in the history of the iconic Heineken brand.

ARTIS is one of the oldest and most beautiful zoos in Europe, located in the heart of Amsterdam. The zoo features a wide variety of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish, as well as a botanical garden. Visitors can explore the zoo's many exhibits and learn about the animals and their habitats. ARTIS is a great place for families and animal lovers, and it also hosts regular events and activities for visitors of all ages.

Checkout Now: Walibi Holland Tickets

Efteling is a magical and enchanting theme park that's perfect for families and couples alike. The park is inspired by fairytales and features many attractions and rides that bring these stories to life. Visitors can explore the park's many themed areas, including the Fairytale Forest, the Flying Dutchman, and the Efteling Theater. The park also hosts regular events and shows, making it a great destination for a day of fun and adventure.

Amsterdam Christmas Markets in winter is the perfect place for festive shopping and treat lovers. It is one of the most enchanting times of the year in Amsterdam when the city transforms into a winter wonderland with festive lights and decorations everywhere. The markets feature traditional Dutch crafts, gifts, and foods like stroopwafels, oliebollen, and hot chocolate. From late November until early January, the markets are held in different locations throughout the city. Visitors can stroll through the charming wooden stalls and take in the festive ambience of Amsterdam.

Must Checkout: Canal Cruise Amsterdam

The Amsterdam Light Festival is another magical winter event that brings the city to life with stunning illuminations, sculptures, and installations. It's a perfect romantic activity for couples to experience the beautiful canals of Amsterdam lit up by colourful and artistic lights. The festival is held from late November to mid-January, and visitors can either walk the route or take a boat tour through the illuminated canals.

Also Checkout: Heineken Experience Tickets, Amsterdam

Amsterdam Canal Cruises are an excellent way to explore the city from a unique perspective. The cruise provides a relaxing and scenic journey through Amsterdam's canals while offering an opportunity to learn about the city's history and architecture. The canal cruise is a popular activity among couples as it allows them to sit back and enjoy the beautiful views of the city while enjoying a drink or snack. There are several types of canal cruises available, from standard daytime cruises to dinner cruises and even themed boat rides.

What to Pack For Amsterdam in Winter?

When planning a trip to Amsterdam in winter, it's important to pack accordingly for the colder weather. Here are some essential items to pack for your trip:

• Warm clothing: Amsterdam can be quite chilly in winter, so be sure to pack warm clothing such as a coat, gloves, and a hat.
• Comfortable shoes: Amsterdam is a walking and cycling city, so comfortable shoes are a must. Make sure they are also warm and waterproof.
• Umbrella: Amsterdam is known for its rainy weather, so pack an umbrella to stay dry.
• Camera: Amsterdam is a picturesque city, and the winter season offers unique photo opportunities with the winter lights and decorations.
• Power adapter: If you are travelling from outside of Europe, be sure to bring a power adapter to charge your electronic devices.

While the colder weather may limit some outdoor activities to do in Amsterdam in winter, there are still plenty of things to do and activities to enjoy, such as ice skating, winter markets, and the Amsterdam Light Festival. By packing the right items, you can make the most of your trip to Amsterdam in winter.

FAQ's About Things to Do in Amsterdam in Winter

Is amsterdam worth visiting in winter.

Yes, Amsterdam is definitely worth visiting in winter! While the weather may be colder, the city still offers plenty to see and do, including winter markets, ice skating rinks, and beautiful winter decorations throughout the city. Additionally, visiting during the winter months can offer a different perspective on the city, with fewer crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere.

What are some of the best outdoor activities to do in Amsterdam during winter?

Best outdoor activities to do in Amsterdam during winter:

• Ice skating: Several outdoor rinks throughout the city, including at Museumplein and Jaap Edenbaan.
• Winter markets: Christmas markets at Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein offer a festive atmosphere and unique shopping opportunities.
• Amsterdam Light Festival: A must-see with stunning light installations throughout the city.
• Walking tours: Explore the city's historic canals and architecture on foot.
• Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the city's parks and neighbourhoods.

What are some of the top indoor attractions to visit in Amsterdam during winter?

Top indoor attractions to visit in Amsterdam during winter:

• Rijksmuseum: One of the world's best art collections, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
• Van Gogh Museum: Art museum dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh.
• Anne Frank House: A sobering look at the city's history and the life of Anne Frank.
• Heineken Experience: Brewery tour with beer tastings and interactive exhibits.
• NEMO Science Museum: Interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits.
• Tropenmuseum: Museum of world cultures and ethnography.

What are the best spots to see the winter lights and decorations in Amsterdam?

The Amsterdam Light Festival is a great place to see stunning light installations throughout the city. Other spots to see winter decorations include the Dam Square, Leidseplein, and the shopping streets of Kalverstraat and Nieuwendijk.

Are there any winter festivals or events in Amsterdam?

In addition to the Amsterdam Light Festival and the Christmas markets, there are several other winter festivals and events in Amsterdam. The National Tulip Day, which takes place in January, features a pop-up garden in Dam Square. The Amsterdam Winter Parade is a month-long festival with food, drinks, and entertainment.

What are some traditional Dutch winter foods to try in Amsterdam?

Stamppot is a traditional Dutch winter dish made with mashed potatoes and vegetables, such as kale or sauerkraut. Oliebollen, or Dutch doughnuts, are a popular winter treat, often sold at outdoor markets. Another winter favourite is erwtensoep, a hearty pea soup. Finally, speculaas, a type of spiced cookie, is often enjoyed during the winter months.

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What to do in Amsterdam in Winter: The Best Things to See and Do

Home » What to do in Amsterdam in Winter: The Best Things to See and Do

There is no bad weather, only bad clothing choices. Even though the Dutch winter isn’t as harsh as, say, the Finnish one, it still comes with its own set of challenges. What to do in Amsterdam in Winter: Getting from A to B is more arduous and so are the activities you can participate in. These things will be a lot tougher in Amsterdam when it’s freezing outside. But that doesn’t mean there won’t be anything to do. 

The city might not turn into an ice-coated fairy tale, but Amsterdam in winter is just as beautiful and magical as every other time of year. The streets are less crowded making it easier to get around and see a different side of this historic city. Here are our top things to do in Amsterdam during winter:

Table of Contents

Amsterdam Christmas Markets – What to do in Amsterdam in Winter

If you’re traveling to Amsterdam in December, you won’t be able to miss the Christmas markets. They are part of the city’s charm and draw in millions of visitors every year. The markets line the city center streets and are a great place to stroll around. You can take in the festive atmosphere, sample some delicious food, do some Christmas shopping and warm up with a hot mulled wine or a steaming cup of glögg . Just make sure you wrap up warm. Some of the most popular markets include the Amsterdam Christmas Market at the Beurs van Berlage , the Amsterdam Winter Market at the Museumplein , and the Amsterdam Christmas Tree Market at the Rokin . If you’re visiting in December, make sure you check out these festive events. They’re a great way to get into the Christmas spirit.

Canal Ring Amsterdam. Enjoy a lovely walk

Canal Ring Amsterdam is one of the most popular things to do in Amsterdam. It’s a long walk around the city center following the banks of the canals. The route used to be the shoreline of the Amstel River and has been a trading hub ever since the 12th century. Nowadays, it’s a popular route for tourists to admire the city’s architecture and take pictures. The route is about 7 kilometers long and can take you 2 or 3 hours to finish. It’s a lovely walk, especially during winter. You’ll pass by the famous Amsterdam bridges, like Magere Brug and Gedempte Grift , and see famous museums like Rijksmuseum and Stedelijk Museum . The route is also home to the famous Red Light District . If you’re going there, ensure you’ve dressed appropriately so you don’t attract unwanted attention.

Museumplein. Explore the museum quarter

Museum Quarter Amsterdam is one of the most famous things to do in Amsterdam. It’s full of some of the city’s best museums, such as the Van Gogh Museum , Stedelijk Museum , and the Rijksmuseum . You can also find the Concertgebouw here, which is home to the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra . The quarter is close to the city center, making it easy to get to. If you want to explore the museums, you’ll need to book tickets in advance. If you’re visiting in winter, you’ll get to see a different side of the museums. The Rijksmuseum, for example, is illuminated by thousands of LED lights. It’s a beautiful sight and a great way to get into the Christmas spirit. There are plenty more things to do in the museum quarter, but they are more dependent on the weather.

Don’t Miss: Top 20 Things to Do in Brussels at Christmas  

National Tulip Day. Celebrate the tulip season

If you’re visiting Amsterdam in January, make sure you don’t miss National Tulip Day. Every January, the city celebrates the arrival of spring and the start of the tulip season by planting flowers in the canals. The canals then become a sea of colorful blooms, attracting thousands of tourists. The flowers are carefully planted and watered by hand. The best way to enjoy National Tulip Day is to visit the floating flower gardens in the city center or Bloemendal . You can also catch the tulip boats as they sail along the canals. The boats are covered in flowers so you get a great view of the water. If you want to make the most of the festival, you should book your tickets in advance.

Amsterdam Canal Cruises. Relax along the water

If you want to enjoy the beautiful canals without walking, you can take a canal cruise. Depending on your time and budget, you can take a short or long cruise. You can take a cruise along the canals or a cruise through the famous Amsterdam locks. If you want to see the famous Amsterdam bridges, you should take a short cruise. If you want to see the locks, you should go on a long cruise. Whichever cruise you choose, you get to relax and take in the stunning sights from the water. You can even take a cruise at night, which is a great way to see the city lights. Make sure you wrap up warm, though. Canal cruises are open-air activities and aren’t suitable for cold weather.

Amsterdam Light Festival. See pristine illumination – What to do in Amsterdam in Winter

If you’re visiting Amsterdam in February, you should make sure you don’t miss the Amsterdam Light Festival. It’s one of the most beautiful festivals in Europe, celebrating art and innovation. The festival runs for six weeks, ending in mid-April. Throughout the festival, various buildings, bridges, and monuments are illuminated with beautiful, colorful lights. You can walk or take a canal cruise to see the most famous illuminations. If you’re visiting Amsterdam in winter, you’ll get to see a different side of the festival. In winter, you can only see the lights on a few buildings. That’s why it’s best to visit in winter. You get to see the city in pristine condition.

Amsterdam Brown Cafes. Unwind at a Dutch pub

If you’re looking for things to do in Amsterdam in winter and want to escape the cold, you can visit one of the famous Amsterdam Brown Cafes. They’re a great place to get out of the cold and enjoy a warm drink. The cafes are popular places for locals and tourists alike. You can even visit them during winter, as long as you wrap up warmly. The cafes are scattered across the city and are a great way to discover Dutch culture. You can choose a cafe based on its location, theme, or reviews. For example, Cafe Americain is famous for its American-inspired menu. The Cafe Elandskaai has a maritime theme. If you visit the cafes, make sure you try a traditional Dutch drink, such as Grolsch , Jenever , and Warm Bokkie .

Try Amsterdam’s Classic Winter Dishes. Eat like a local – What to do in Amsterdam in Winter

If you’re visiting Amsterdam in winter and want to try some traditional winter dishes, there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and street vendors to choose from. You can start your day with a Dutch breakfast, which usually consists of eggs, cheese, and coffee or tea. You can end your day with a traditional Dutch meal, such as a hearty stew or a piece of fish. In between, you can snack on Dutch fries or try some Dutch cheese . Amsterdam is also home to many different food markets, where you can try some local dishes and drinks. Alternatively, you can visit some of the city’s most famous cafes and restaurants. You can try some of Amsterdam’s classic winter dishes and take in the local culture.

Participate in the Amsterdam Winter Festival

The locals are in love with winter and that’s for good reason. We see everywhere wonderful canals reflecting sparkling lights, narrow streets lined with festive squares, and restaurants offering delicious hot food. Evening Channel cruises, ice skating, snowball throwing, and cross-country skiing are just some of the activities on offer at Amsterdam’s beloved Winter Festival, an event created to celebrate the most beautiful time of the year.

One of the best points of interest in winter, this popular festival attracts thousands of tourists from late December to early January. Also, famous artists will perform on stage, tasty treats will be offered, food trucks will float, and visitors can ride a Ferris wheel or carousel when not spinning around an indoor or outdoor ice rink.

Good to know: Don’t come to Amsterdam in winter if you are looking for sunshine and palms! Amsterdam is located in north-central Europe, and the climate is typically continental – chilly in the winter, and warm in the summer. 

Are you ready to explore the city of Amsterdam in winter? You should, because the city will feel like magic during this time!

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10 Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands in Winter

The Netherlands is a small country in the North of Europe, mostly well-known because of its open-mindedness, the peculiar and beautiful landscapes, as well as many more things: architecture, art, design and more. Amsterdam, its capital, is popular all year round and it is always full of people from all over the world. However, is the Netherlands also beautiful during Winter?

The 10 best places to visit in the Netherlands in the winter months are:

• Openlucht Museum (Arnhem)

Christmas Markets

Ice skating rinks, scheveningen.

If you are considering a trip to the Netherlands during the winter months, these are some of everyone’s (and my personal) favorite places during the winter. These are places that don’t lose a drop of charm during the colder months and places that are worth visiting only during winter. There is no reason to wait for the warmer weather to arrive to visit this country. It is definitely a worldwide favorite 12 months a year. If you want to get to know all these special places and what to do if you visit during winter, keep reading.

Winter in the Netherlands: What to Do

The Netherlands is a country in the Northern hemisphere, which means that the colder months are from October until March (earlier or later depending on the year). As it is well-known, it is a very cold country all year round because of its northern location in the map and the proximity to the Northern Sea and rainy weather forecast.

However, the Netherlands is a great country to visit both during summer and winter. People believe that the best period to visit the Netherlands in spring, which is true if you are looking for tulip fields. Even though this is the most popular period, winter is a little bit calmer, tourists wise, and even though it is cold, it doesn’t necessarily mean snow and storms.

I personally enjoy the Netherlands in winter just as much. It is true that it is not always nice to be outside or to get wet, however, what I enjoy the most about the Netherlands in winter is Dutch people. They are so used to this weather that nothing stops them, literally. A Saturday in the middle of January means a walk in the park, ice skating in the canals or going to a theme park OUTDOORS. Cold is no excuse, they are unstoppable.

There are many places and activities you can do during the Netherlands in winter: cities to visit, winter-related activities, nature, parks and more. If you want to know more about how to enjoy and make the most out of the cold, here it is my list of MUST-visit places.

Winter in the Netherlands: Cities you Should Visit

I personally recommend visiting as many cities as possible when traveling to the Netherlands: I find them all utterly charming, fairytale-like, special and very photogenic. However, these three cities are my favourite to visit during the winter months, each for a different reason: these are Amsterdam, Maastricht and Groningen.

This had to be the first reason to visit the Netherlands in winter. Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, the number one destination in the country and one of the most famous cities in the world. Here there are some reasons why you should visit Amsterdam during the winter months:

• Less tourism : Since I have worked at a hotel in Amsterdam, I can confirm that during the period between November and December (before the Christmas Holidays) and from January until February (right before the first traces of spring) it is low season. This means it is cheaper to travel to this very expensive city and that there are fewer queues, higher chances to visit your favourite places without having to wait or accommodate to a different schedule, etc.
• Cheaper : you can easily find cheaper flights to Schiphol, cheaper accommodation both in hotels and Airbnb’s because of the low demand. Something to really take into consideration in such an expensive city.
• Visit Museums: one of the main reasons to visit Amsterdam is its museums. These are just as interesting during winter as they are during summer (with the advantage of fewer people inside during the winter). The best museum in the Netherlands is in Amsterdam, the Rijksmuseum (read why here ) as well as the Van Gogh Museum , the famous Anne Frank Museum-House and many many others. You can check out the list of free museums you can see as well as the best deals and promotions to make the most out of your visit with the IAmsterdam card, the Museumkaart of the HollandPass (comparison here ).
• Shopping : not so long ago I made a list of the best places to do shopping in Amsterdam, including shopping centres, retailer stores, streets and areas. Besides, during the month of November and from January until the first weeks of February, in the Netherlands you have SALES and you will be able to find discounts in most of the stores. It is a good plan for a rainy day, isn’t it?

If you want to know more about winter in Amsterdam: When does Amsterdam Christmas Market Start?

In any case, in this article, I will keep going all about the Light Festival in Amsterdam, the many Christmas markets and activities you will be able to do here and more. Therefore, keep reading!

So far I haven’t written anything about Utrecht, even though it is one of my favourites cities in the Netherlands. I lived there my first year here, while I was doing my Erasmus and I fell in love with it, all four seasons included!

What can you do in Utrecht during the Winter?

• Climb the Dom Tower : this is definitely one of my favourite activities all year round. The Dom Tower is iconic in Utrecht, you can see if from everywhere in the city and the best part is, if you climb it, you can see the whole town from above. If you happen to visit Utrecht in a crispy frozen morning, you will have the best view, all-white roofs and streets, chimneys and white parks.
• Explore De Haar : not so long ago I wrote an article about the 100 most beautiful castles in the Netherlands . The biggest one in the Netherlands, one of the best-preserved and most beautiful ones, it is in Utrecht. One can only imagine if De Haar is impressive and beautiful all year round, can you imagine how beautiful it looks during winter while snowing? Transport yourself directly to a medieval movie, just 10 minutes away from the city of Utrecht. Definitely worth your time!
• Explore Utrecht’s Canals: walking next to them or on a boat, it is a beautiful view!
• Saturday Market : Utrecht’s Bloemenmarkt is an all-year-round favourite. Every Saturday morning by Janskerhoof, in the centre of Utrecht, the nicest flower market takes place. Even though you would think that during the winter, seeing flowers wouldn’t be such a nice activity, you will be able to find the Christmas tree market, decorations out of natural flowers and leaves, Christmas wreath and all the cute things.
• Shopping : yes, Utrecht is also a great city to do some shopping and also get to know some more Dutch stores that are not everywhere in Europe. It is a great opportunity because also here you will find that everything is on sale.

Groningen is the Northernmost province in the Netherlands and the capital city takes the same name. The city of Groningen is one of the underrated beauties of the Netherlands.

We are talking about one of the most Scandinavian-looking cities in the Netherlands. During the winter months, it is the closest place to the sea, the weather is crispy and cold and the days are even shorter than in the rest of the country.

Groningen gets covered on fairy lights, its canals with boats and churches all illuminated with a white light that gives a very calming and soothing vibe. It is an ideal city to enjoy a retreat, see the Netherlands from a different perspective and more:

• Visit Groninger Museum for modern exhibitions
• Enjoy the Eurosonic Noorderslag in the month of January
• WinterWelVaart in the old centre, a music event by the beautiful old ships.

Winter in the Netherlands: Outdoor Activities

Once again, I must admit that it took me a while to understand who everybody would keep doing almost the same things they would do during the summer, but during the cold winter!

If you care to observe the behaviour of Dutch people, you can understand that even though they live in one of the rainiest countries in Europe, they are always out and about with their bikes. It is easy to imagine that if rain doesn’t stop them, neither does winter. I have been surprised to see them doing many outdoor activities that I wouldn’t have considered winter appropriate. Here are some of my favourite ones for all the family:

Efteling is a theme park, the Disney Land of Dutch people, a little retreat for children and adults to enjoy for a full day (or more) from a lot of attractions, food, activities, nature, the whole environment and more. It is a little fairytale, fairies, gnomes and charming songs.

I actually really enjoyed going there, even though most of the attractions were outdoors and some of them were closed because they don’t work under 0 degrees. In any case, even though it was that cold, it was packed!

Plenty of parents and their children enjoying outdoors, making the most out of a clear sky on a weekend. Isn’t it great?

In any case, Efteling is a much recommended little day trip, even if like me, you are going there without any little one. It is close to Den Bosch.

Openlucht Museum

Another favourite of mine! The Openlucht Museum is an open-air museum in the province of Arnhem. The whole idea of this museum is to recreate the whole Netherlands in a park, in a forest.

We are talking about windmills, flowers, old shops with very Dutch products, old restaurants, old trains, a recreation of how they used to live since the country was established as a country.

It is a magical place where you can see everything even under the snow. Don’t you want to walk? Take the train! Do you feel like warming up? Hot wine and warm chocomelk 😉

It is a little of history, a proper entertainment for the grown-ups and a lot of fun for the little ones. A place to spend the whole day outside, even during the worst winters!

Another fun outdoor activity to do the whole family together is going to Madurodam, the Netherlands in miniature size.

This park is open even during the colder days of the winter. It is an ideal way of visiting the highlights of this country, learn a lot, take photos and have a great time. What better thing to do in the Netherlands in winter than visiting the whole country in a couple of hours?

Madurodam is located close to Scheveningen, in The Hague, another one of our winter destinations. If you want to know why, keep reading “by the Sea”!

Another MUST is ice-skating when you are in winter in the Netherlands. It sure is something beautiful and one of the advantages of coming here during the colder months. Most Ice Rinks are in the centre of the cities, the most famous one in Amsterdam is in Museumplein. Some of them are open from November until January, others until February.

If you are very lucky, once every couple of years if winters are very cold, canals all over the Netherlands freeze for a few days and people can go out with their ice skates and skate around the canals. The ice is so thick that you can throw a car or a bike on top of it and it still wouldn’t break. Last time it happened was in 2018 and it was magical.

Due to this fact and the many times the canals freezes, there is a tradition in one of the Northern provinces of the Netherlands, Friesland, called Elfstedentocht (the Eleven Cities Tour) , a tradition of very old times, dated from 1909. It basically consists of 300 participants who ice skate the 11 towns, over 200km of frozen canals, with ice deep enough to resist them all, and win a race . It has only happened over a handful of times since for years now it hasn’t been cold enough to resist the weight of 300 participants. However, if it is really cold when you are visiting, inform yourself because it is a once in a lifetime experience.

Winter in the Netherlands: Christmas Events

I have already mentioned some Christmasy Activities in this post, but I couldn’t skip mentioning some of my favourite Christmas Events that one can enjoy during the colder months in the Netherlands: Christmas markets and the Light Festivals.

You can start finding Christmas markets in the Netherlands from the beginning of December (even the end of November) until the beginning of January (and some even February). These are some of them:

• Sinterklaas Market (Amsterdam) or so-called Funky Christmas Market (opens on Sunday the 1st of December and Sunday the 15th of December)
• Amsterdamsche Kerstmarkt  (Amsterdam) opens on the 22nd and 23rd of December
• Ice Village  (Amsterdam) and it opens from the 13th of December until the 26th, included.
• Amsterdam Winter Paradise  (Amsterdam) It event open from the 21st of December until the 30th of December.
• Maastricht Christmas Market (Maastricht) from the 1st of December until the 1st of January.
• Christmas Markets in Valkenburg (Valkenburg, close to Maastricht), from the 16th of November until the 6th of January. A winter wonderland, the closest to a German Christmas market.
• Christmas Market and Dickens Festival in Deventer only on December 15th and December 16th.
• Christmas Market in Haarlem from the 7th of December until the 6th of January.
• Christmas Market in Dordrecht (Dordrecht) during December 14th, 15th and 16th.
• Royal Christmas Fair in the Hague (The Hague) for ten days, from the 14th until the 24th of December.
• Castle Christmas Fair in Heemskerk (Heemskerk) for the whole month of December.
• Winter Village Amstelveen  (Amstelveen) is open from December 7th until January 5th.
• Winter Fair Ahoy  (Rotterdam)
• Archeon Midwinter Fair  (Alphen on the Rijn) during Christmas week

In most Christmas markets you can find a lot of good Dutch winter food (such as warm apple cider and warm wine, poffertjes or mini pancakes, olieballen or sweet fried pastries and more) you will also find a lot of crafts and all the Christmas presents and decorations you will ever want, games, ice skating and more.

Light Festivals

Another one of my favourite winter activities during the winter in the Netherlands are the light festivals. For instance, Utrecht is a city with a mini light festival going on all year round. However, some other Dutch cities do it only and especially for the winter months, when it is dark and you don’t really feel like going out, to encourage people to walk around and enjoy from the cold and soothing air.

Walking by the light festival is a great excuse to be outdoors even during the whole months. Besides, this is one of the many great free activities you can do in such an expensive city. These are free social projects.

• Utrecht : it is called the Trajectum Lumen and it is open and free all year round light festival. It has been live in the city since 2010.
• Leiden : another social project happens in Leiden. It is called Rijngloed. Be ready for trees full of light, all bridges illuminated and many more nice projects in the city of Leiden. You can combine this with visiting Christmas markets or just enjoy the old city of Leiden.
• Eindhoven : this is one of my personal favourites. GLOW Eindhoven is one of the nicest light festivals ever: super colourful and fun, it is not reflected on canals like Amsterdam’s but all over town on top of the main buildings, creating pictures and reflecting art. Each year changes into a different theme where 30 artists project their ideas and inspirations. Eindhoven is the city of light of the Netherlands and its light festival a top 5 in the world.
• Amsterdam’s Light Festival: even though I have already given many reasons to visit Amsterdam during winter, the light festival is one of the best reasons to come here during the cold months. In my opinion, it is an amazing way of discovering the city and its canals, where all the light art is created. Different artists create light sculptures every year, and these are hanging in the middle of the water. It is available from the 28th of November until the 19th of January), some of the ways to visit it are:
• On a boat : getting tickets for a boat tour with the most popular cruise companies in the city.
• By foot : either on your own, following the apps created for the event or downloading a map; or with a walking tour.
• Cycling : either renting your own or following also some tours organised where they include bikes and the tour.

Winter in the Netherlands: by the Sea

I am definitely one of those crazy people who loves the sea and the beach during winter way more than summer. Finding none, the wind, the smell and the calmness are very soothing and relaxing. Living in the Netherlands has the advantage of being able to enjoy the beach during the winter in many different ways. My two favourite activities are:

Ameland is one of the Frisian islands located in the Northern part of the country, in the middle of the Northern Sea. I have had the pleasure of visiting the island not only during the summer, when it is packed but also during the winter, at the end of October, when you start feeling the cold kicking in.

Ameland is a great adventure experience for people who love outdoor activities, exploring, doing sport and anything related to nature. It is both easy and hard to find nature in the Netherlands. Ameland is the best way of combining a retreat, cute restaurants, amazing beach walks, new animals, great photography and a lot of cold and wind.

You can easily plan your trip with a car or a bus from the mainland and taking a short ferry to cross to the island. One of my favourite winter experiences.

What can you do in Ameland?

• Visit Museums : Ameland has 5 museums, one of them being the lighthouse, my favourite because of the amazing view of the forest and beaches.
• Shopping : yes, they do have a town on the island. There you will be able to find a lot of cool winter equipment as well as normal clothing shops, mostly Dutch brands.
• Cycle : by the road, you have, like in most Dutch towns, a bike path. This path goes all across the whole island making it almost a 15km path to enjoying with your bike. You will see a lot of flat fields, cows, forests and nature, great for the whole family.
• Art : the month of November is normally the “artsy month” in Ameland. Over 70 Dutch artists go to the island and expose their projects and masterpieces for everybody to enjoy.

Scheveningen is, if not the most famous, one of the most famous Dutch beaches of all times. Famous for its name since the Second World War, Scheveningen is a retreat during the summer as well as the wintertime.

This is another one of my favourite places to unwind and get back in touch with nature, something that I really need and I get to forget when I am indoors during most of the winter.

Scheveningen is a beach-city in The Hague, popular because of its long and popular dock (with plenty of restaurants as well as souvenirs and a cool view) as well as its gigantic Fair Ferris Wheel over the sea.

If you are planning on visiting the Netherlands during winter and you are like me and love the wind and the cold by the beach during the colder months, don’t miss going to Scheveningen. It is less than an hour away from Amsterdam, Utrecht or Rotterdam and just a 15 minutes tramway from The Hague. You can also take that time to go for lunch in one of the many restaurants that there are by the beach.

If you are considering travelling to the Netherlands during winter, yet you are a little worried about how much you can enjoy of this country when it is colder, don’t you worry. There are countless activities and events going on in this lively country. As you could see in this article, there are activities for both adults and children and for all types of people. There are activities with people with a higher budget (travelling around, going to theme parks and shopping) as well as many free activities if you are considering coming on a budget. The thing is, you will never regret coming!

Micaela Zaslabsky

My name is Micaela and I am an Argentinian student. I came to do my Erasmus here in the Netherlands and I fell in love with this country. Two years later I am living in Amsterdam, discovering more about the culture I love and enjoying everything this city has to offer.

Where to Rent a Bike in Amsterdam?

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10 Things To Do In Amsterdam For $20 Or Less

Discover affordable, budget-friendly adventures with our guide of 10 things to do in Amsterdam for $20 or less.

Quintessa Williams • Jul 1, 2024

Amsterdam is celebrated for its rich history, iconic canals, and vibrant culture. Despite misconceptions about its expenses, the city offers many  budget-friendly activities . From exploring world-class museums and historic neighborhoods to enjoying  local cuisine  and picturesque parks, Amsterdam is a treasure trove of experiences that won’t break the bank.

Wake Up With Toki

Toki, a cozy café in Amsterdam, offers excellent coffee, pastries, and light bites. Located in the Jordaan neighborhood, the cafe is an ideal spot to relax, enjoy the ambiance, and engage with the local community. It’s perfect for a casual meetup or a quiet moment with a book.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by T O K I (@toki.times)

• Cost:  $1 to $10
• Website:  tokiamsterdam.com
• Get more for your money:  Toki’s menu also offers vegetarian-friendly items for breakfast.

Visit The Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is  a poignant museum  dedicated to the Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. Visitors can explore the hidden annex where Anne and her family hid, learn about her life, and reflect on the impact of the Holocaust through exhibits and personal artifacts.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anne Frank House (@annefrankhouse_official)

• Cost:  $16 general admission 
• Website:  annefrank.org
• Get more for your money:  Children ages 10-17 can visit the museum for $7.

Relax At Vondelpark

Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s largest and most famous park, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the city. Visitors can stroll through its scenic paths, enjoy picnics, watch free performances at the open-air theater, and discover various statues and fountains.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vondelpark Amsterdam (@vondelpark_amsterdam)

• Cost:  Free entry
• Website:   amsterdam.info/parks/vondelpark
• Get more for your money:  The park hosts free events and performances throughout the year. 

Tour The Jordaan District

The Jordaan District in Amsterdam is a historic neighborhood known for its narrow streets, charming canals, and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés and enjoy the area’s rich cultural heritage and picturesque scenery.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by De Jordaan (@jordaanamsterdam)

• Cost:  Free (self-guided tour)
• Website:   amsterdam.info/jordaan
• Get more for your money:  Select museums and galleries in the Jordaan offer free or discounted entry.

Visit The Amsterdam Tulip Museum

The Amsterdam Tulip Museum offers a fascinating look at the history and significance of tulips in Dutch culture. Visitors can explore exhibits on tulip cultivation, the “Tulip Mania” period, and the flower’s impact on art and economy.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amsterdam Tulip Museum (@amsterdamtulipmuseum)

• Cost:  $5
• Website:  amsterdamtulipmuseum.com
• Get more for your money:  The museum shop offers a variety of tulip-related products and gifts for under $20. 

Brunch At De Carrousel Pannenkoeken

De Carrousel Pannenkoeken (Delicious Pancakes) is a beloved pancake house in Amsterdam. It serves traditional Dutch pancakes in a nostalgic, carousel-themed setting. It’s a family-friendly spot where visitors can enjoy a wide variety of sweet and savory pancakes at reasonable prices.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by De Carrousel Pannenkoeken Adam (@de_carrousel_amsterdam)

• Cost:  Many menu items under $15
• Website:  decarrouselpannenkoeken.nl
• Get more for your money:  De Carrousel offers baguettes and hot drinks for less than $7. 

Have A Family Day At The Tropenmuseum

The Tropenmuseum in Amsterdam is dedicated to the cultures of the world. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits on global cultures, artifacts, and contemporary issues, making it an enriching educational experience.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wereldmuseum Amsterdam (voorheen Tropenmuseum) (@wereldmuseum.amsterdam)

• Cost:  $17.50 for adults, $10 for children
• Website:  tropenmuseum.nl
• Get more for your money:  Children ages 13-18 can visit the museum for $9.

Dine At Foodhallen 

Foodhallen is a trendy indoor food market in Amsterdam featuring a wide range of international cuisine from various vendors. Visitors can sample delicious dishes, enjoy craft beers or cocktails, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Foodhallen Den Haag (@foodhallen.denhaag)

• Cost:  Many meals under $15
• Website:  foodhallen.nl
• Get more for your money:  Foodhallen offers special deals and discounts during happy hour, which runs from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Listen To Music At Bimhuis

Bimhuis in Amsterdam is a premier venue for jazz and world music, renowned for its intimate performances and stunning views of the IJ River. Visitors can enjoy live music by famous artists in a modern, acoustically-excellent space.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by BIMHUIS (@bimhuis)

• Cost:  Select events under $20
• Website:  bimhuis.nl
• Get more for your money:  The venue offers appetizers and desserts under $10.

Visit The American Book Center

The American Book Center in Amsterdam is a vibrant hub for literature lovers, offering a vast selection of books, magazines, and comics. Visitors can browse diverse genres, attend author events, and engage in literary discussions in a welcoming atmosphere.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The American Book Center – Amsterdam (@theamericanbookcenter)

• Cost:  Many items under $20
• Website:  abc.nl
• Get more for your money:  The book center offers special deals and discounts throughout the year. 

Amsterdam is more than just a tourist destination; it’s a city where diversity thrives and where Black travelers can experience a sense of belonging. With its inclusive spirit, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene, Amsterdam promises an unforgettable journey filled with discovery and connection.

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Amsterdam: Know Before You Go

• Last updated Jul 07, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

Amsterdam is a beautiful city filled with canals, quirky architecture, and plenty of adventure activities. It's a great city for solo travellers, with most locals speaking English. It's also walkable and easy to navigate by bike.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind when visiting Amsterdam. Firstly, it's important to book your accommodation and any tickets for attractions in advance, especially during peak season. Secondly, be respectful when visiting the Red Light District and refrain from taking any photographs. Thirdly, be mindful of cyclists and separate bike lanes when walking around the city. Finally, don't forget to pack for all types of weather, as it can be unpredictable.

What You'll Learn

Book accommodation and attractions in advance, learn the difference between coffee shops and cafes, be aware of pickpockets, pack for all weather, plan to visit other cities in the netherlands.

Accommodation

Booking your accommodation in advance is crucial when planning a trip to Amsterdam, especially if you're visiting during the peak season or staying in the city centre. The earlier you book your hotel, the better the price will be, and it's recommended to secure lodging at least four months before your trip. This is because the cost of accommodation is usually the biggest expense when travelling to Amsterdam, and hotels can be extremely expensive.

Attractions

It is also highly recommended to book tickets for popular attractions in advance, especially for the Anne Frank House, which often sells out weeks in advance. Tickets for the Anne Frank House are available six weeks before the date, and it is advised to book as soon as they become available. Other attractions, such as the Van Gogh Museum, also operate on a timeslot-based system, and it is best to book at least a few weeks in advance to secure your preferred date and time.

The I Amsterdam City Card can be a great option if you plan on visiting multiple museums and using public transport during your stay. This card offers free entrance to many museums, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, and includes unlimited use of public transport.

Restaurants

When it comes to dining, some of Amsterdam's most popular restaurants have month-long waitlists, so it is recommended to book several months in advance if you want to secure a table at a specific time.

Concerts and festivals

If you're planning to attend any concerts or festivals during your trip, it's important to stay organised and book in advance. The Dutch tend to plan their free time months in advance, so you may need to do the same to secure tickets to popular events.

Special occasions

If you're visiting Amsterdam during special occasions such as King's Day, Queer & Pride, or New Year's Eve, additional preparation is necessary. These events can result in limited availability for boat rides, parties, and hotel options, so it's best to book well in advance.

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Amsterdam is known for its coffee culture, but it can be confusing for tourists to distinguish between a "coffee shop" and a "cafe".

A "coffeeshop" in Amsterdam is a place licensed to sell cannabis products. They usually display a distinctive green and white symbol, and a notice preventing entry to those under 18. You can also buy non-alcoholic drinks and snacks at these shops.

A "coffee house" or "cafe", on the other hand, is a place that serves coffee, tea, and snacks. These are also known as koffie huis, koffiesalon, or koffiebar.

While the difference is clear to locals, tourists often get confused by the varying names. It is important to note that coffeeshops also sell coffee, which adds to the confusion. However, the primary purpose of a coffeeshop is to sell cannabis products, and the sale of coffee is secondary.

So, if you are looking for a place to enjoy a cup of coffee, you should head to a cafe or coffee house. But if you are interested in trying out the city's cannabis scene, then a coffeeshop is what you are looking for.

It is worth noting that the terms "coffee shop" and "cafe" are used interchangeably in most other cities, but in Amsterdam, there is a clear distinction between the two.

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Pickpocketing is a problem in Amsterdam, as in any major city, so it's important to remain vigilant. The city's compact downtown area, full of foot traffic, is the perfect recipe for thieves—especially in busy squares and typical tourist areas.

• Carry only what you need. Leave valuables at home or securely stored in your hotel room, and take only the minimum amount of cash with you.
• Be careful with cash. Anybody could be watching when you withdraw money from an ATM or remove your wallet to make a purchase. Always be discreet with your cash by storing it safely away before you leave the ATM or counter, and never count your cash in public.
• Thief-proof your bag. Wear a money belt to safeguard your cash and cards under your clothing. Secure your handbag by keeping it fastened at all times, shortening the strap, and wearing it across your body. If you're carrying a rucksack through a crowded place, wear it on your front.
• No phones on the table. This isn't just good manners; it's also a sensible way to stop your phone from being pinched. Phones left out on tables are easy pickings for professional thieves, so always keep your phone stored away in a zipped section of your bag or an inside pocket when you're not using it.
• Don't leave your bag unattended. Bags left hanging off the back of chairs or placed under the table are just asking to be stolen. Keep your bag secured by looping the strap around a table leg or chair, and always make sure it's fastened tightly.
• Stay alert on public transport. Pickpockets have been known to target tourists on trams, buses, and ferries in Amsterdam, taking advantage of crowded situations and the fact that people are often distracted by their journey planning.
• Don't leave your wallet in your back pocket. Keep your belongings zipped up in internal pockets at all times.

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Amsterdam's weather is unpredictable, so it's essential to pack for all kinds of weather. The key is to dress in layers that can be adjusted according to the temperature. Here are some tips to help you pack for your trip:

• Pack a variety of clothing items that can be layered, such as t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and jackets. This will allow you to adjust your outfit throughout the day as the temperature changes.
• Bring a light trench coat or windbreaker jacket for spring, summer, and autumn visits. These seasons can be cool, especially in the mornings and evenings, so a lightweight jacket will come in handy.
• Don't forget to pack a proper coat, scarf, and warm gear if you're visiting during the winter. It can get quite chilly, and you'll want to stay warm while exploring the city.
• Pay attention to the weather forecast a few days before your trip to get an idea of the expected temperatures and conditions. This will help you pack the most appropriate clothing.
• Remember that it can be windy in Amsterdam, so secure hats and scarves are a good idea.
• Comfortable shoes are a must, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. Avoid high heels, especially on the cobblestone streets.
• Pack a small crossbody bag to carry your essentials, as most museums and attractions don't allow backpacks or large bags inside.
• Check the policies of your accommodation regarding towels and toiletries. Sometimes, it's useful to bring your own travel towel and a small supply of toiletries to save space in your luggage.
• If you plan to visit any religious sites, pack modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
• Finally, don't forget to pack any necessary medications and a basic first aid kit.

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When planning a trip to Amsterdam, it's worth considering visiting other cities in the Netherlands. Here are some suggestions for places to explore beyond Amsterdam:

Haarlem is a quaint city located just a 16-minute train ride from Amsterdam and is a much cheaper alternative for accommodation. It offers the perfect opportunity to spend an afternoon exploring the Frans Hals Museum, dedicated to the legendary Dutch painter. Outside the city, you'll find endless tulip fields, providing the perfect backdrop for your holiday photos. Remember to ask the farmers for permission before snapping away!

Commonly referred to as Den Bosch, this city is known for its medieval architecture, fortified city walls, and great museums such as the Het Noordbrabants Museum and Design Museum Den Bosch. Den Bosch also boasts a vibrant market scene, with markets taking place on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, where you can sample traditional treats like the Bossche bol, a huge profiterole covered in chocolate.

Utrecht has been described as Amsterdam's cooler little sister. It offers a more relaxed and cosy atmosphere, with plenty of cool cafes, eateries, and boutiques to discover. It's the kind of city where you can quickly feel like a local. Be sure to explore the city through a canal boat tour and indulge in traditional Dutch pancakes at Theehuis Rhijnauwen. For a unique drinking experience, head to Olivier, a Belgian beer pub located within an old church.

Maastricht, with its Gothic spires and cobbled streets, feels like something out of a fairytale. This city, bordering Belgium, offers a blend of Dutch and Belgian culture and architecture. Spend an afternoon visiting Boekhandel Dominicanen, a bookshop housed in a converted medieval church, and then head to Bosch Brewery for a classic beer tasting. Maastricht is also a great base for day trips to nearby Cologne, Liege, and even Luxembourg.

Commonly known as Den Haag to the Dutchies, The Hague is the centre for global judiciary decisions. It boasts beautiful architecture and perfectly manicured gardens. It's also home to Vermeer's heart-moving painting, "The Girl with the Pearl Earring." While in The Hague, be sure to visit some of the top museums, such as Mauritshuis, Escher in het Paleis, and Gevangenpoort.

Delft is easily reached from Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. It is known for its ancient cobbled streets and gorgeous historical buildings. It was once home to the famous Dutch master Johannes Vermeer, who made the skies over Delft world-famous. Delft also plays a pivotal role in Dutch history, as it is the burial place of William of Nassau and all the Dutch royals.

Amersfoort is a charming city with cobbled historical streets, excellent museums (including the birthplace of Piet Mondriaan), quaint canals, and a lively café scene. The magnificent Koppelpoort, a beautiful old city gate, is a must-see and is one of the most photographed icons in the Netherlands.

Deventer is a colourful, vibrant, and romantic small city in the east of the Netherlands. It is one of the beautiful Dutch Hansa Towns, with a fairytale-like old city centre. Take a ferry across the IJssel river to capture the perfect view of the Deventer skyline and visit the sprawling gentrified area, Piknik, and Fooddock.

When you think of Gouda, cheese might be the first thing that comes to mind. Indeed, this Dutch city is the origin of the famous Gouda cheese. In the summer, you can visit the traditional cheese market, and year-round, you can explore the historical cheese weighing house and the Cheese Experience. But Gouda offers more than just cheese. The main church, with its stunning stained glass panels, along with the canals, cobbled streets, and beautiful courtyards, make Gouda a charming destination.

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Frequently asked questions.

Amsterdam is a very walkable city, and you can walk or cycle almost everywhere. However, if you want to go further afield, the city has a very efficient public transport system, including buses, trams, metros, and ferries.

A coffee shop is where you can buy and smoke weed or hash, whereas a cafe is where you can get a coffee or a slice of cake.

Amsterdam is beautiful all year round, but late spring is a great time to visit as the temperatures are mild and the tulips are in bloom.

• Michaela Krajanova Author Reviewer Traveller

• Karisa Garcia Author Reviewer Traveller

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