Things to Do in Amsterdam This Winter

The dark winter days are maybe the coziest time to visit the city. With Christmas decorations and fairy lights illuminating the stunning buildings, like in the Nine Streets, walking around already brings you in the Holiday spirit! Besides general sightseeing, there are plenty of activities to make your winter trip unforgettable. Here are some of our top tips!

Amsterdam?s iconic canals transform into a illuminated gallery during the Amsterdam Light Festival. Cruise along the artworks with a LOVERS Canal Cruise and admire stunning light art installations with front row seats. You will be warm and comfortable in the heated boats, where you can listen to the included audio guide.

Many pieces are custom-made for this festival, turning the city itself into a breathtaking canvas. The cruise even passes through a colorful lit-up tunnel and through an arc made out of lights.

An Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise is included in your Explore Pass! Don?t miss this opportunity, as this event is only running until the January 19!

No Dutch winter is complete without enjoying an oliebol! We have talked about them before in our blog about the beautiful Dutch cuisine, but these fried balls deserve all the praise they can get!

The deep-fried dough balls, dusted with powdered sugar, are a beloved seasonal treat that has been a staple in Dutch culture for centuries. You?ll often find them sold at pop-up stands and festive markets or at garden centers and fairs. They are an essential part of the winter experience.

An Oliebol is the perfect and quick snack while exploring Amsterdam?s holiday festivities. The typical Oliebol is a plain dough-ball or with raisins. But some Oliebollen-stands get creative and add Nutella, Pistache or even Matcha!

For a chilling and unique experience, head to the Amsterdam Icebar. This frozen wonderland is made entirely of ice, from the walls and furniture to the glasses your drinks are served in. The Icebar provides a fun, themed adventure where you can enjoy cold cocktails or mocktails in a sub-zero environment.

With your Explore Pass, you can experience this icy escape! You?ll be wrapped in warm jackets and gloves to stay warm as you soak in the ambiance. Step into a winter wonderland?and a perfect spot for unforgettable photos! Whether you?re traveling solo or with friends, the Icebar is a fantastic way to chill out, literally.

Skate under the twinkling lights on the rink at Museumplein, surrounded by iconic landmarks. The area also hosts a small winter market, offering warm snacks and festive drinks like glühwein. It?s the perfect spot to pick up last-minute Christmas gifts and soak in the holiday cheer.

The rink is open from December 12 to December 24 from 12:00 to 21:00 and December 25 to 26 from 12:00 to 18:00. (image: IceAmsterdam)

Warm up with fluffy Dutch poffertjes at Dutch Pancake Masters. These bite-sized, or fun-sized, pancakes are served with melted butter and a generous dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect after a canal cruise or as a cozy winter treat, these little delights bring a velvety sweetness to your day.

Experience the comforting winter ambiance and enjoy Dutch food at its finest ?. Dutch Pancake Masters Poffertjes tasting is a great way to taste Dutch culture!