17 Bucket List Things to Do in Winter in Amsterdam
Amsterdam unveils its magical side when Jack Frost comes to town. This curated list of the best winter activities will have you falling head over heels for the city’s frosty charm.
Ready to get rid of those winter blues? Let’s discover why Amsterdam might just be Europe’s best-kept winter secret!
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1. The Amsterdam Light Festival
The Amsterdam Light Festival runs from November 28, 2024, to January 19, 2025, showcasing innovative artworks by international artists.
Float along Amsterdam’s iconic canals, surrounded by dazzling light installations that completely transform the city.
As you cruise past illuminated bridges and historic buildings, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a living, breathing art gallery. The theme changes annually, keeping the festival fresh and exciting.
Insider Tip: For the best views, opt for an open boat tour rather than a covered one – the unobstructed sightlines make for incredible photos!
2. Amsterdam Winter Paradise
From December 18, 2024, to January 5, 2025, RAI Amsterdam transforms into a winter playground that’ll make you feel like a kid again.
Strap on your skates and glide across the massive indoor and outdoor ice rinks, or channel your inner Olympian on the cross-country ski track.
Feeling adventurous? Zoom down the snow-covered slopes on a tube or try your hand at curling. When you need a break, warm up with a steaming mug of hot chocolate in the cozy après-ski village.
With live music, festive food stalls, and a Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the twinkling city, it’s the ultimate winter extravaganza.
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3. Festive Treats at the Funky Xmas Market
On December 15, 2024, the Westergasfabriek comes alive with the quirkiest Christmas market you’ll ever encounter. The Funky Xmas Market is a treasure trove of unique gifts, handmade crafts, and vintage finds.
But the real star of the show? The food! Sink your teeth into gourmet versions of Dutch winter classics like stamppot and erwtensoep, or satisfy your sweet tooth with artisanal stroopwafels and spiced speculaas cookies.
With live music creating a festive soundtrack, it’s the perfect place to soak up some alternative holiday cheer.
4. The International Documentary Film Festival
From November 13-24, 2024, IDFA takes over Amsterdam’s cinemas, showcasing the best documentaries from around the globe. It’s the perfect excuse to escape the chilly weather and lose yourself in captivating true stories.
With thought-provoking Q&A sessions, masterclasses with renowned filmmakers, and interactive VR experiences, IDFA offers a deep dive into the world of non-fiction storytelling.
Plus, rubbing elbows with industry professionals at the festival’s parties might just inspire your own documentary dreams.
5. Brave the New Year’s Swim at Zandvoort Beach
Start your year with an adrenaline rush by joining thousands of hardy souls for the traditional New Year’s Swim on January 1, 2025.
Just a short train ride from Amsterdam, Zandvoort Beach becomes a sea of orange as participants don Unox-branded hats (a Dutch soup company) and charge into the frigid North Sea.
It’s a hilariously chaotic scene that’ll wake you up faster than any hangover cure. After your icy dip, warm up with erwtensoep (Dutch pea soup) and celebrate your bravery with new friends.
Insider Tip: Bring flip-flops to wear into the water – the sand can be painfully cold on bare feet, and you’ll want a quick escape route once you’ve taken the plunge.
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6. Get Cozy at the Ice Bar Amsterdam
When the winter chill sets in, why not embrace the cold at Ice Bar Amsterdam? Everything here – from the bar to the glasses – is sculpted from crystal-clear ice.
Wrapped in thermal ponchos and gloves (provided), you’ll sip cocktails in -10°C, surrounded by impressive ice sculptures. The 3D ride simulation adds an extra thrill to your arctic adventure.
Insider Tip: Order the Whipped Cream Vodka shot. It’ll warm you up from the inside out!
7. Feast On Fondue At De Vergulden Eenhoorn
Nothing says winter comfort food like a bubbling pot of cheese fondue. At De Vergulden Eenhoorn, a charming 17th-century farmhouse turned restaurant, you can indulge in this Swiss classic with a Dutch twist.
Gather around a steaming cauldron of melted Gouda and Emmentaler, perfect for dipping crusty bread, veggies, and cured meats.
The cozy, candlelit atmosphere and rustic decor make it feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale – one where calories don’t count.
Insider Tip: Ask for a table near the fireplace for maximum hygge vibes, and don’t be shy about requesting extra bread – you’ll want to soak up every last bit of that gooey cheese goodness.
8. Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Museum Market
On December 15, 2024, Museumplein hosts a special winter edition of its famous Sunday market.
This isn’t your average holiday shopping spree – it’s a curated collection of unique gifts, artisanal foods, and handcrafted goods from local designers and artists.
Browse stalls selling everything from funky jewelry to gourmet stroopwafels, all while sipping on mulled wine and grooving to live music.
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9. Warm Up With a Hot Tub Boat Cruise
Who says canal cruises are just for summer? Hop aboard a HotTug – a wood-fired hot tub that doubles as a boat – for a truly unique way to explore Amsterdam’s waterways.
As you float past snow-dusted canal houses and under twinkling bridges, you’ll be toasty warm in the steaming water.
Bring your own drinks and snacks, crank up the Bluetooth speakers, and enjoy a floating spa party with your friends.
Insider Tip: Pack a waterproof phone case so you can snap selfies without fear of dropping your device. And don’t forget to bring flip-flops for the dash between the changing room and the tub!
10. Get Your Game On at TonTon Club
When the weather outside is frightful, head to TonTon Club for a night of retro gaming fun. This arcade-bar hybrid is a nostalgia-fueled playground for grown-ups, featuring classic video games, pinball machines, and old-school board games.
Challenge your friends to a Mario Kart tournament or show off your skills at the air hockey table.
With craft beers on tap and creative cocktails inspired by your favorite games, it’s the perfect spot to unleash your inner child while still feeling like a sophisticated adult.
11. Laugh Your Way Through Boom Chicago
Warm up with some belly laughs at Boom Chicago, Amsterdam’s premier English-language comedy club.
Their winter shows blend improv, sketches, and multimedia elements for a hilarious take on Dutch culture and current events. The intimate venue and interactive performances make you feel like part of the show.
Plus, their bar serves up some of the best cocktails in the Leidseplein area – perfect for sipping while you giggle.
Insider Tip: Sit in the front row if you dare – the performers love to involve audience members, and you might just become part of the next improvised scene.
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12. Unleash Your Inner Artist at the Moco Museum
Escape the cold and immerse yourself in a world of contemporary art at the Moco Museum. This boutique museum showcases works by iconic artists like Banksy, Warhol, and Kusama, alongside up-and-coming talents.
Their winter exhibitions often feature interactive installations that are perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots.
After exploring the galleries, warm up with a specialty coffee in their funky café, surrounded by street art-inspired murals.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the “Secret Garden” – a hidden outdoor space featuring sculptures and murals that’s particularly magical when dusted with snow.
13. Savor Dutch Comfort Food at Moeders
When the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like a hearty Dutch meal to warm you up. Head to Moeders (which means “Mothers” in Dutch) for the ultimate comfort food experience.
This quirky restaurant, decorated with photos of customers’ mothers, serves up traditional Dutch dishes with a modern twist.
Order a steaming plate of stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables and smoked sausage) or try the rijsttafel – a Dutch-Indonesian feast.
Insider Tip: Save room for the “Appeltaart van Moeke” (mom’s apple pie) – it’s served warm with a dollop of whipped cream and is the perfect end to a cozy winter meal.
14. Dance the Night Away at Paradiso
Shake off the winter blues at Paradiso, Amsterdam’s iconic music venue housed in a converted 19th-century church. With its stained glass windows and heavenly acoustics, it’s a truly unique place to catch a live show.
Their winter lineup features everything from up-and-coming indie bands to world-renowned DJs, ensuring there’s something for every musical taste.
The balcony offers a great view of the stage and a perfect spot to people-watch as you groove to the beats.
15. Relax at Zuiver Spa
After braving Amsterdam’s winter chill, pamper yourself at Zuiver Spa. This luxurious wellness center offers a range of thermal baths, saunas, and treatment rooms to soothe your winter-weary bones.
Float in the salt water pool, detox in the Turkish steam room, or brave the icy plunge pool for an invigorating shock to the system.
Insider Tip: Book a “Hammam Ritual” for the ultimate relaxation experience – you’ll be scrubbed until you feel like a new person.
16. Sip Craft Cocktails at Tales & Spirits
Warm up from the inside out at Tales & Spirits, a cozy cocktail bar tucked away in the heart of the Red Light District. This intimate spot serves up some of the most creative and delicious drinks in the city, each with its own unique story.
The winter menu features warming concoctions like the “Sweater Weather” – a spiced rum and apple butter dream that tastes like a hug in a glass.
The vintage decor and dim lighting create the perfect atmosphere for a romantic date or a night out with friends.
17. Embrace the Gezelligheid at Café ‘t Smalle
Experience true Dutch coziness, or “gezelligheid,” at Café ‘t Smalle. This historic brown café (traditional Dutch pub) dates back to 1780 and oozes charm with its wood-paneled walls, antique Delft tiles, and candlelit tables.
On a cold winter’s night, there’s nothing better than settling in with a glass of jenever (Dutch gin) or a locally brewed beer and watching the world go by through the frosted windows.
