Winter in Amsterdam: Beyond the Amsterdam Canals

It’s almost December again, the holiday season is upon us. Amsterdam is beautiful in all seasons, but winter makes this city truly special. Here are some reasons for you to visit Amsterdam in the wintertime, and also a guide to unique activities in the winter season for you to enjoy Amsterdam to her fullest extent.

A stunning wintertime city

During snow season Amsterdam transforms in to a completely different city. The snow makes the city look like a classic old-timey Christmas card ready to send. The Amsterdammers don’t see many weeks of snow in their province, which makes the snowfall all the more beautiful. Head to areas of Amsterdam like the iconic Vondelpark or het Oosterpark and experience Amsterdam at her most beautiful.

Amsterdam becomes a light spectacle

From December 1^st the sun sets at: 4:31 PM. Which means the city gets dark quickly and the days are quite short.  But luckily for us this isn’t seen as a bad situation by the city! It’s actually seen as an opportunity to make the city look even more magical. The people of Amsterdam see this lucky chance to hang charming lighting to change the ambience of Amsterdam and make it look very cozy, or ‘gezellig’ as the Dutch people would say.

Another light spectacle in Amsterdam is the Amsterdam Light Festival, from 28^th of November until the 19^th of January 2025 the city is decorated with 27 unique light artworks created by artists from all around the world. Which can be admired from either water or land. The theme of edition 13? Rituals:

“Rituals have traditionally helped us through all kinds of transformations; from past to future, from winter to summer, from youth to adulthood. Light plays a vital role in many rituals, as a vibrant symbol of joy, energy and life. We use fireworks to usher in the new year, candles to commemorate, and midsummer fires to welcome the solstice. Light adds something mystical and sacred to a ritual like no other element can. And rituals unify. Rituals bring people together.” – Amsterdam Light Festival website.

Looking to experience the Amsterdam Light Festival for yourself? Check out our Amsterdam Light Festival tours on our website and treat yourself to a fantastic and unique experience!

Skating on natural ice

Another activity that is very dear to Dutch culture is ice skating. Our homecourt advantage at the Olympics, a total of 133 medals have been conquered by Dutchies in this sport. With athletes like Ireen Wüst, with a total of 13 medals, 6 of them gold. Sven Kramer, with a total of 9 medals, 4 of them gold. It is fair to say that the Dutch know a thing or 2 about ice skating. But it’s not something we only do in the court, a Dutch tradition is skating on natural ice, as soon as it’s thick enough to stand on. And often times when it’s not thick enough too. It doesn’t happen too often, but when the canals freeze over it’s one of the most unique experiences to happen in the Netherlands.

But even if the canals don’t freeze over, there is plenty of opportunity for iceskating all throughout Amsterdam. At places like Rembrandtplein, Museumplein, Winterparadijs Ice Fair and many more.

Dutch Classics are in season

The Netherlands is celebrated worldwide for its culinary delights—or at least, that’s what we like to believe! Winter is the perfect season to enjoy Dutch classics like ‘Snert’, ‘Stamppot’, and our personal favorite: ‘Oliebollen’! These delicious fried dough balls, dusted with powdered sugar, are a mandatory winter treat for the Dutchies.

Oliebollen come in a variety of delicious combinations, offering something for every sweet tooth. You might enjoy ‘krentenbollen’, featuring raisins mixed into the dough, or the refreshing crunch of ‘appelbollen’, with apple added for an extra burst of flavor. Whichever you choose, they’re sure to bring a warm, festive touch to your wintertime experience. Eat them while their hot! To warm you up whilst discovering the city.

Winter wondertime on the canals

Winter in Amsterdam is a beautiful experience. The city offers beautiful sights for young and old to enjoy. Unique experiences tied to this season specifically. From snowy parks & old-timey illuminated canals to the festive Dutch treats. Amsterdam is waiting for you to discover her charms.

Experience the light Festival Cruise in Amsterdam on a fully electric boat. Enjoy the cozy blankets, live storytelling, and an optional open bar with beer, wine, mulled wine (glühwein), and a welcome snack. Join us for an experience you’ll never forget. We can’t wait to see you on board! See you soon!