Amsterdam
What Are the Best Things to Do in Amsterdam for Christmas?
Writen By: Ramsha Rehan
Amsterdam
Christmas in Amsterdam is quiet, atmospheric, and beautifully festive rather than loud or commercial. As December arrives, the city’s canals glow with lights, historic squares turn into winter gathering spots, and seasonal events bring locals and travelers together. Visiting Amsterdam at Christmas offers a unique blend of festive markets, cultural traditions, dazzling light displays, and cozy indoor experiences that evoke a distinctly Dutch ambiance.
If you’re planning a winter trip, here’s a detailed look at the best things to do in Amsterdam for Christmas, focusing on the places and events that truly define the season.
Visit Amsterdam’s Most Famous Christmas Markets
One of the biggest highlights of Christmas in Amsterdam is exploring its seasonal markets, each set in a unique and historic part of the city.
The Ice Village Christmas Market at Museumplein is the most iconic. Located between the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, this market feels especially festive after sunset when the buildings light up. Wooden stalls sell handmade gifts, winter decorations, and traditional Dutch snacks. Ice skating is a major attraction here, making it one of the most popular destinations for families and first-time visitors to experience an Amsterdam Christmas market.
From
€258.03
Enchanting Amsterdam Ice Village: A Christmas Market Tour with a Local
Amsterdam Christmas Market Tour immerses you in the Ice Village around Museumplein. Enjoy ice skating, traditional shopping, and spiced aromas, guided by a local expert. This private tour offers customized insights into Amsterdam's festive spirit, creating unforgettable Christmas memories. Experience the magic!
Book NowAnother well-known seasonal market appears at Westergas, a former industrial area turned cultural hub. During Christmas, Westergas hosts festive events that combine food stalls, winter drinks, live music, and creative pop-ups. This area is particularly popular with locals and travelers looking for a less touristy Christmas experience in Amsterdam.
Experience the Amsterdam Light Festival Along the Canals
The Amsterdam Light Festival is one of the city’s most important winter events and a major reason travelers visit during Christmas. From late November through January, light installations by international artists are displayed along the canals, bridges, and historic streets.
Walking through the illuminated canal routes in the evening feels magical, especially around areas like Herengracht and Prinsengracht. Many visitors also choose a canal cruise to experience the festival from the water, which offers a warmer and more relaxed way to enjoy the displays. This event adds a unique artistic dimension to Amsterdam at Christmas and is unlike anything else in Europe.
From
€240
Amsterdam Light Festival: A Private Canal Cruise with Festive Cheer
Experience the Amsterdam Light Festival on a private saloon boat, built in 1912, with a welcome drink. Float through the canals and discover illuminated sculptures with insights from your captain/guide. An intimate setting for up to 8 people, offering a unique and historic perspective.
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From
€25.2
Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise: Snacks & Hot Drinks
Experience the Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with Dutch Snack and (Hot) drinks, a unique way to see the city's illuminated art. This canal cruise lets one admire 27 stunning light art installations created by talented artists, designed specifically for Amsterdam's waterways. It's a feast for the eyes!What to Expect: Glide along the famous Amsterdam Canals and witness the spectacular Art Installations created just for the festival (available for a limited time). The cruise also passes iconic landmarks like the Basilica, the NEMO Science Museum, and the charming Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug). Guests can also see the historic Herengracht Canal and the Haarlemmer Sluis.This experience includes snacks and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. An English and Dutch-speaking guide will be on board to provide insights. Please note that specific items beyond these inclusions are excluded. The boat departs from right in front of Amsterdam Central Station. Depending on weather conditions, the cruise will be on either a half-open or covered boat for comfort.
Book NowTake a Winter Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Canal cruises are popular year-round, but during Christmas they become especially atmospheric. Boats are often decorated with subtle holiday lighting, and the city’s reflections on the water feel calmer and more intimate in winter.
A winter canal cruise is ideal if you want to see Amsterdam’s historic houses, bridges, and festive lights without walking long distances in cold weather. It’s one of the most relaxing ways to enjoy Christmas in Amsterdam, particularly in the evenings.
From
€44
Amsterdam Winter Canal Cruise: Cozy, Festive Fun!
Winter Canal Cruise in Amsterdam invites guests to experience Amsterdam's charm from its famous waterways. This cozy cruise is perfect for anyone wanting to see the city in a relaxed and friendly way.Guests can expect a scenic tour through Amsterdam's canals on a covered and heated electric boat. Fluffy blankets and warm mulled wine add to the comfortable atmosphere as the boat glides past iconic landmarks. The tour guide shares interesting stories about the city's history and culture.This experience includes alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks like mulled wine, soda, coffee and tea to keep guests cozy and warm during the tour. Gratuities are not included. The cruise provides a unique perspective of Amsterdam, highlighting its beauty even in the winter months. It is designed to be a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.
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From
€65.76
Amsterdam Canal Cruise: Dutch Treats & Local Insights Aboard Sebi's Boat Tours
Experience Amsterdam's iconic canals with Sebi Boat Tours. Enjoy a 2-hour small-group cruise aboard a classic electric boat. See highlights like the Red Light District and Amstel River. Indulge in Dutch snacks and drinks while Captain Sebi shares local knowledge. An intimate exploration of Amsterdam's waterways.
Book NowGo Ice Skating at Museumplein
Ice skating is a long-standing winter tradition in the Netherlands, and during Christmas, Museumplein becomes one of the city’s main skating areas. Skating with the Rijksmuseum in the background is a memorable experience and one of the most photographed winter scenes in Amsterdam.
This activity appeals to couples, families, and groups of friends and adds a classic winter feel to your Amsterdam Christmas itinerary.
Spend Time in Museums and Historic Attractions
Winter is one of the best times to explore Amsterdam’s cultural landmarks. The Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Anne Frank House are all popular during December, especially on colder days.
Museums provide a warm escape from the winter weather while offering insight into Dutch history, art, and culture. Visiting these landmarks helps balance outdoor Christmas activities with meaningful indoor experiences during Amsterdam Christmas travel.
From
€238.5
Van Gogh & Rijksmuseum: Skip-the-Line, Max 8 People
Explore the art of the Dutch Masters with the Van Gogh & Rijksmuseum tour in Amsterdam. This tour is great for seeing famous art. It's perfect for people who want to learn about Van Gogh and other artists from Holland's Golden Age. With only 8 people maximum, it feels like a private tour.What to Expect: On this 5.5-hour walking tour, an expert guide will take guests through the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. See famous paintings and learn about the history behind them. The tour skips the long lines, so there's more time to enjoy the art.Included are entrance fees to both museums, 5.5 hours with a professional guide, and a small group setting. Not included are hotel pickup or drop-off, and tips. This tour is not recommended for people who have trouble walking or use a wheelchair. The tour guides are experienced and the group sizes are small for a better experience.
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From
€159
Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam: Exclusive Reserved Entry Tour
Discover the world of Vincent van Gogh on the Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam Exclusive Tour. This 2.5-hour guided tour takes visitors through the biggest Van Gogh collection in the world. It's a great way to see famous art and learn about a famous artist. With a personal guide, visitors can walk through masterpieces like Sunflowers. They'll also see art that is not as well-known by Van Gogh and other artists that gave him ideas. The ticket works for the whole day, so visitors can keep looking at the art on their own after the tour. The tour includes entry fees and a guide just for the group (if the 'SAVE! BOOK SEMI-PRIVATE' option isn't picked). It's also wheelchair-friendly (unless the 'SAVE! BOOK SEMI-PRIVATE' option is picked). Please note that the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off or gratuities. Temporary exhibitions are also not included.
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From
€32.5
Anne Frank Story: Amsterdam WWII Walking Tour
Anne Frank's Story - Guided Walking Tour through Amsterdam lets you walk through Amsterdam and see it through Anne Frank's eyes during World War II. This 2-hour small group tour takes you from the Old Jewish Quarter to the Jordaan District, where the Anne Frank House is. Hear the complete story of these dark days.On this tour, visitors will explore key locations like the Jewish Museum (Exterior) and the Portuguese Synagogue (Exterior), gaining insights into Amsterdam's Jewish history. The tour also includes a visit to the Dokwerker Statue, a symbol of resistance, and the Auschwitz Monument, a place for reflection. Pass by the National Monument of Amsterdam and the Statue of Anne Frank and see the Anne Frank House (Exterior).This walking tour includes a local guide that speaks your language in a small group setting. Please note that admission to the Anne Frank House, Jewish Historical Museum, and Portuguese Synagogue are not included, and gratuities are not included.
Book NowEnjoy Traditional Dutch Christmas Food
Food plays a central role during Christmas in Amsterdam. Seasonal treats like oliebollen, which are deep-fried dough balls dusted with powdered sugar, appear at food stalls across the city. Warm drinks such as mulled wine and hot chocolate are common at Christmas markets and cafés.
Many restaurants also offer winter menus that focus on comfort food and local flavors, making dining out a key part of the Amsterdam Christmas experience.
From
€79
Amsterdam Food Tour: Dutch Treats & City Secrets!
The Amsterdam Food and Cultural Tour with Tastings is a tasty walk through Amsterdam! Come try some of the best food the city has to offer. This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to eat like a local and learn about Amsterdam's history. Get ready to taste classic Dutch foods like Gouda cheese, crispy fries, fried fish, herring, and yummy stroopwafels. As the tour explores the city, the guide shares funny stories and interesting facts about Dutch culture. Visitors will see the Amsterdam Flower Market, the peaceful Amsterdam Courtyards, learn about Dutch Monarchy History and explore the Crooked Houses of Amsterdam, Anne Frank House & Jordaan, and the charming Jordaan District. It’s a great way to see the city and fill your belly with delicious food!This fun tour includes a friendly guide, eight Dutch food samples, a bottle of water, and an Amsterdam guide E-book with favorite local spots. The experience excludes additional food or drinks beyond what is provided. This tour has even won awards for being the best food tour in Amsterdam in 2024 and 2025!
Book NowPlan Your Christmas Activities More Easily
With Christmas markets, light festivals, skating rinks, and cultural events happening across the city, organizing everything can take time. Platforms like Dyvarcity help travelers explore Christmas activities, seasonal events, and city experiences in one place, making it easier to plan without switching between multiple websites.
If you’re preparing your Christmas trip to Amsterdam, you can explore activities with Dyvarcity!
FAQs
1. Is Amsterdam worth visiting at Christmas?
Yes, Amsterdam is worth visiting at Christmas for its festive lights, Christmas markets, winter events, and the famous Amsterdam Light Festival. The city offers a cozy holiday atmosphere without heavy crowds.
2. Is anything open in Amsterdam on Christmas Day?
Yes, many attractions in Amsterdam are open on Christmas Day, including museums, canal cruises, restaurants, and public transport, although hours may be reduced.
3. Where should you go on Christmas Day in Amsterdam?
Popular places to visit on Christmas Day in Amsterdam include Museumplein, the Canal Ring, Jordaan, and winter canal cruises showcasing Christmas lights.
4. What is the best place to stay in Amsterdam at Christmas?
The best areas to stay in Amsterdam at Christmas are the Canal Ring, Jordaan, and the Museum Quarter due to their festive atmosphere and easy access to Christmas markets and attractions.
5. What is the weather like in Amsterdam at Christmas?
The weather in Amsterdam at Christmas is cold, with temperatures usually between 0°C and 7°C, making it ideal for winter walks, markets, and indoor attractions.
6. Are Christmas markets in Amsterdam worth visiting?
Yes, Christmas markets in Amsterdam are worth visiting for festive food, holiday shopping, ice skating, and seasonal experiences at locations like Museumplein and Westergas.
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