Winter is a really magical time to Visit Amsterdam, with snow-covered canals and historic buildings decorated with twinkling lights making it look like a real-life fairytale. Discover the city’s fascinating past while getting into the festive spirit at Christmas markets and ice rinks galore during every winter in Amsterdam. There are so many things to do in Amsterdam in winter throughout this season – from visiting museums full of art to gracefully skating along its frozen waterways or simply snuggling up in a traditional Dutch brown cafe with hot chocolate.
Forecast for Winter in Amsterdam
However, as beautiful as it might be on the outside, there’s plenty going on inside too! Despite being colder out there, life doesn’t stop, and there are still lots of things happening all over town, even during these months. It has been said that the winters can be quite gloomy and damp but don’t let that put you off – especially if cultural activities and culinary delights are more your thing.
December, January, and February are the coldest months, with temperatures averaging around 5°C (42°F) to 6°C (43°F), dropping as low as 0°C (33°F) sometimes. The snow that falls every year will only add to the beauty of this city’s stunning canals lined by medieval buildings.
Top Musuems
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is truly magical during winter – it’s warm inside when everything else isn’t! Wander through rooms filled with vibrant paintings that can’t help but make you feel calm yet inspired at once against such a lively backdrop of each one’s story behind them told through his own words written down alongside self-portraits too.
During these colder months, there tends not to be so many people milling about, which means works like ‘Sunflowers’ or ‘The Bedroom’ may well get their own space for contemplation without someone else’s elbows nudging past yours every few seconds! The soft lighting brought about by natural daylight seeping through windows does wonders for bringing out the best in Van Gogh’s art – so all in all it’s a peaceful, mood-lifting artistic adventure not to be missed during wintertime!
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum becomes an enchanted winter wonderland. According to the museum’s description, winter is a magical season to explore the collection because darkness is illuminated, and beautiful stories are shared. Winter landscapes, ice skating, and snow vistas form part of the exhibition ‘Wonderful winter scenes’ in the Rijksstudio, which captures the beauty of this time of year through art.
During this time of year, there are some activities recommended for visitors, e.g., combining a visit to The Rijksmuseum with other experiences like an evening canal ride in Amsterdam; these will heighten your appreciation of the city’s cultural & atmospheric charms even further during the winter months!
Anne Frank House
Visiting Amsterdam’s Anne Frank House in winter could evoke deeper moments of reflection. You may find that by coming here when tourist numbers traditionally drop off, you also avoid queuing outside for too long. Additionally, certain winter activities might add another dimension to your stay, such as taking part in a UNESCO Heritage-listed Golden Age Canals canal tour and seeing different perspectives on what this city looks like today.
Dutch Christmas Market
The Dutch are known for their love of Christmas decorations, and Amsterdam is no exception. Take a wander through the city streets to see the beautiful lights and festive displays. The canals are lined with twinkling fairy lights, while the squares are adorned with giant Christmas trees. You’ll also find plenty of shops selling unique ornaments and decorations that you won’t find anywhere else. Don’t forget to stop by Dam Square to see the iconic Royal Palace lit up in all its glory.
A hot cup of Dutch Pea Soup, otherwise known as Erwtensoep, can warm you up on cold winter nights with its thick, rich flavour. This is a classic Dutch soup that everyone loves during the winter, whether they’re from Holland or just visiting! It’s made with hearty vegetables, chunks of savory ham, and fragrant smoked sausage – it’ll warm your soul from the inside out. The perfect way to warm up after spending a chilly night in Amsterdam is by sipping on some creamy Dutch Hot Chocolate topped off with whipped cream or sprinkled cocoa powder served alongside steaming bowlfuls of soup.
Explore the Waterways through Canal Cruise
Cruise down the twisting canals of Amsterdam and let yourself be carried away by the city’s winter beauty. Watch as snowflakes softly fall onto 17th-century canal houses and light them up with twinkling Christmas lights against a backdrop of picturesque wintertime scenes. Marvel at elegant bridge crossings over waterways aglow in festive splendor while sailing along them during this magical time. Take in neighborhoods lined with charming historic buildings that look especially cozy under their dusting of frosty white during this season – all while listening to tales about these houses narrated onboard.
Snuggle up on board a boat cruising down pretty canals
Get cozy on a charming canal boat – perfect for a romantic evening – snuggled up beneath a soft blanket. Take some time before setting sail to unwind and enjoy the calmness that descends over Amsterdam during wintertime. Let yourself be soothed into peacefulness by the rhythmic swaying of the boat against the quiet backdrop provided by snow-dusted waterways lined with leafless trees. Look out for hidden gems such as ice skaters gliding across frozen lakes or locals leisurely strolling along beautiful quaysides en route.
Enjoy Festive Concerts
If you’re a fan of classical music, head to Concertgebouw for concerts:
Concertgebouw is one of Amsterdam’s most prestigious concert halls and it’s sure to transport you into the world of soaring classical sounds. Step inside this architectural masterpiece and join other music lovers as you bask in its internationally renowned acoustics.
Throughout winter, watch with awe as some of the planet’s finest orchestras, conductors, and soloists grace its stage. With its rich history and incredible acoustics – there really is no better place than Concertgebouw to experience the magic of live classical performances, from Mozart concertos to Beethoven symphonies.
Embrace Winter Sauna Bliss
Escape the cold weather at traditional Dutch saunas and spa centers. Seek refuge from the chilly air and give your body & mind a well-deserved treat in these tranquil oases. These inviting spaces are adorned with wooden furnishings and soft lighting, offering saunas with different temperatures ranging from dry heat to invigorating steam rooms. Indulge in this time-honored wellness tradition and feel cleansed by the sauna, relieved of muscle tension all over your body, and refreshed from head to toe.
Winter Markets Sales Event
Take a walk down the lively shopping strip Kalverstraat, where you’ll find numerous famous international brands alongside well-known Dutch retailers. Update your wardrobe or buy gifts for loved ones during winter, as many stores offer attractive discounts and promotions around this time of year! Soak up the bustling atmosphere along this street as you go along, reveling in the joy of finding perfect items at bargain prices.
The De Negen Straatjes area, also known as The Nine Streets area is great for boutique shopping if you want something a little bit different. Situated in the heart of Amsterdam’s canal belt, this beautiful neighborhood is brimming with unique shops, boutiques, and specialty stores. During winter sales, you can get local designer wear at discounted prices, as well as hidden gems in specialist boutiques. Whether you are looking for fashionable clothes, quirky accessories, or one-of-a-kind homeware items, it’s all here in The Nine Streets.
Neighbourhood Boutiques to Stock Up on Winter Wear
Why not celebrate the arrival of winter in Amsterdam by treating yourself to some new threads? Amsterdam’s vibrant boutique culture is famous for its high-quality local designs, trendy pieces, and unique accessories that can be found nowhere else on earth. Fashion-conscious shoppers should take their pick from cozy knits, stylish coats, and fashionable accessories – all carefully selected by independent retailers who know what works best for their customers during colder months! Amsterdam’s local stores boast an array of choices when it comes to winter outfits – from cutting-edge runway looks right through to environmentally friendly and fair-trade fashion options.
Ice Sculptures
Amsterdam hosts some of the most stunning ice sculptures anywhere in the world. Witness water froze into forms that defy natural laws – shapes so intricate they almost seem impossible! Admire each piece not only for its artistry but also because every detail has been carved with such astonishing precision. From enormous creations meant to awe viewers down to miniature delicate ones designed only close inspection could reveal all their secrets… these works represent true brilliance and skill which deserves nothing less than complete reverence and admiration
Planning a trip to Amsterdam Light Festival
Each winter, during wintertime months, an enchanting event called ‘The Light Festival’ takes place here, transforming this already magical city into a wonderland beyond compare! Artists from all corners contribute beautiful light installations along canals and streets, making it appear as if they were always meant to be there.
The ‘Water Colors Cruise’ is one particular highlight where specially adapted boats showcase vibrant light sculptures projected onto buildings or reflected d off the water. However, apart from these mesmerizing displays, there are also many other art-related activities happening during the festival which celebrates creativity in its many diverse forms – so don’t miss out on what promises to be a truly unforgettable experience!
Amsterdam Brown Cafes
Amsterdam has long been famous for its vibrant culture, picturesque canals, and unique attractions. Traditional brown cafes, with their cozy atmospheres and dark interiors, provide the perfect setting for relaxation while soaking up authentic Dutch charm. These establishments serve as social hubs where people gather over drinks against the backdrop of rich historical contexts, which attracts a wide variety of crowds, both locals and tourists alike.
Whether you’re looking to spend a leisurely afternoon chatting amongst friends or hoping to sample some genuine local flavor, these hospitality establishments offer a great respite from the hustle and bustle outside the world. So next time you’re around, make sure not to pass up the chance to discover the laid-back allure associated with visiting a few such places!
A seasonal light festival is a must-see, and here are a few among the many. The Amsterdam Light Festival is held during winter where it transforms the city with magical light sculptures. You can also choose to walk or ride a boat through the canals while enjoying the enchanting views
Essential Tips for Explore Amsterdam in Winter
- When it’s not sunny outside, you can visit theatres, quirky shops, cosy cafes, and art exhibitions indoors in Amsterdam.
- Amsterdam is known for being rainy all year round so do bring an umbrella and wear a decent waterproof jacket!
- Some shops and attractions may close earlier than usual during winter, so check before visiting.
- Try some Dutch winter comfort food like oliebollen (Dutch doughnuts) and pea soup (erwtensoep).
- Don’t Ignore Safety During icy weather, watch out for slippery surfaces, especially if you’re cycling or walking, to avoid accidents.
- So remember these Don’ts and have fun exploring Amsterdam in winter!
Other things to do in winter
- Street art
- Must Join the world’s most beautiful ice rink
- Explore the red-light district
- Enjoy outdoor ice skating in Amsterdam
Conclusion
In conclusion, Amsterdam offers a plethora of exciting things to do in Amsterdam in winter to enjoy during the winter season. From exploring the picturesque canals adorned with twinkling lights to visiting world-class museums and indulging in delicious Dutch cuisine, there is something for everyone in this charming city. Whether you prefer cozying up in a traditional Dutch café or ice skating in the heart of the city, Amsterdam’s winter charm is sure to captivate visitors of all ages. So, pack your warmest clothes and embrace the magic of Amsterdam in winter!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amsterdam worth visiting in the winter?
Yes, Amsterdam offers a unique charm in the winter with fewer crowds, festive markets, and beautiful light displays.
Can I see tulips in Amsterdam during the winter months?
While you won’t see blooming tulip fields, you can visit the famous Keukenhof Gardens and its indoor flower shows during winter.
Are there any special events or festivals in Amsterdam during the winter?
Some of the special events held during winter include the Amsterdam Light Festival, Christmas markets, New Year’s Eve celebrations, and Ice*Amsterdam at Museumplein.
How cold does it get in Amsterdam during the winter?
Winter temperatures in Amsterdam typically range from 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F), with occasional colder spells.
Can I take a canal cruise in Amsterdam during the winter?
Yes, many canal cruise operators offer covered boats or heated cabins for a cozy experience while cruising through Amsterdam’s picturesque canals in winter.
What should I pack for a trip to Amsterdam in the winter?
Pack warm clothing, including layers, a waterproof jacket and shoes, gloves, a scarf, and a hat to stay comfortable while exploring Amsterdam’s sights and attractions during the winter season.
Is December a good time to visit Amsterdam?
December can be a charming time to visit Amsterdam due to the festive atmosphere created by Christmas decorations and holiday markets throughout the city. However, keep in mind that the weather can be quite cold and damp during this time of year.
What’s open in Amsterdam in January?
In January, most attractions, museums, restaurants, and shops in Amsterdam remain open to visitors. However, it’s always a good idea to check the specific opening hours of places you plan to visit as some may have reduced hours during the winter season.
