Christmas in Amsterdam is my favourite time of the year! And it seems to get better and more festive every year. Early December, all the festive lights are back in the shopping streets. From the huge Christmas tree on Dam square to the artworks from the Amsterdam Light Festival? If you are visiting to celebrate Christmas or NYE in Amsterdam this year, there’s no need to figure everything out yourself. I made a complete guide for you with all the best things to do during the Christmas Holiday.
Fun things to do during the holidays in Amsterdam
Winter Festival at the H’ART Museum
Experience winter during the Winter Festival at H’ART Museum! Enjoy live music, movie nights, and a beautifully lit garden. With a warm hot chocolate or a glass of mulled wine in your hand, winter feels even cosier at the H’ART Museum.
When: December 19, 20, 21, 22, 28, 29, 2024, and January 3, 4 & 5, 2025
Where: H’art Museum, Amsterdam
For more info, visit the website: hartmuseum.nl
© H’art Museum
Boozy brunches in Amsterdam
Volare // December 21: The monthly boozy brunches at Volare are a tradition, and for good reason. This hotspot on Admiraal de Ruyterweg in West is definitely a place to remember for aperitivo, Italian dinner, or an after-dinner drink at the in-house cocktail bar Bomboloni’s. Normally, Volare opens at 5:00 PM, but during the monthly bottomless brunch, you can join between 11:30 AM and 12:00 PM for a delightful afternoon. Think of a table full of antipasti, primi, pizza, dolci, and bottomless prosecco for you and your friends (or a date!). You can stay and dine until 4:00 PM, and entertainment is also provided. Reserve a table here for the next edition >> Admiraal de Ruijterweg 79, Amsterdam
Louie Louie // January 1: At Louie Louie, they kick off the new year with their annual Bottomless Brunch on January 1. They serve a delicious three-course menu, unlimited cava for three hours, and you get a cocktail of your choice, while continuing the New Year’s party with DJ Randy West. Hangover or not, you won’t want to miss this brunch (which is also just €45 including drinks). Reserve here >> Linnaeusstraat 11A, Amsterdam
| TIP: Check out the YLBB shortlist with the best boozy brunches in Amsterdam >>
Hortus by Night
When was the last time you visited the Hortus in Amsterdam? Maybe never? Then discover the magic of Hortus by Night this winter! In the evening, you can enjoy a walk along the light installations, designed by artist Tim Vermeulen. His light art takes you on a journey through time, from the Big Bang to primeval plants, showing how everything is connected. After the walk, you can relax by the campfire with a mulled wine or hot chocolate (with or without a splash of rum).
When: December 19–23, December 27–30, 2024, and January 2–5, 2025
Where: Hortus Botanicus
For more info, visit the website: dehortus.nl
© Hortus by Night
Amsterdam Light Festival
The Amsterdam Light Festival turns the city into a magical light spectacle every year. From the end of November to mid-January, you can enjoy impressive light installations throughout the city. Choose a walking route or view the artworks from the water during a boat tour on open or closed boats. Want to make your experience extra special this year? Upgrade your visit with Le Food Walk! This culinary walk combines the Light Festival with 5 stops at different restaurants, where you get 5 bites and 1 drink. Perfect for a unique outing with friends or a cozy date. Walk through the illuminated Amsterdam and enjoy delicious surprises along the way – an evening full of atmosphere, good food, and beautiful artworks!
Since boat tours and canal cruises around the festival are back, there are Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Tours with various departure locations, types of boats, and packages. You can book both semi-open and fully enclosed boats. I personally always find the best time around 6:30 or 7:00 PM when it’s really nice and dark. You can then go directly to a great restaurant or cozy pub!
⋙ Canal cruise in an enclosed boat
⋙ Canal cruise with a semi-open boat (perfect for photos!)
⋙ Canal cruise with unlimited drinks
⋙ Canal cruise in a salon boat
When: until January 19, 2025
Where: Amsterdam
© Amsterdam Light Festival 2024
Festive concerts in Amsterdam
During the holidays, the Concertgebouw organizes various Christmas concerts, ranging from classical music to modern performances. A great way to get into the Christmas spirit. Dance to the songs of Berget Lewis during her Celebrate Christmas with Berget Lewis and Friends concert, enjoy the jazzy sounds of Winter Wonderland with the Jazz Orchestra, Madeline Bell, James Carter, and Marjorie Barnes, or dive into the magic of Christmas Classics at the Movies. On Christmas Eve, you can attend the Christmas Eve Service, with music and the traditional Christmas story.
In addition to beautiful Christmas concerts at the Concertgebouw, there are also many other musical evenings at various locations. We’ve made a list of the performances that stood out for us! Check out the YLBB shortlist with great Christmas concerts in Amsterdam >>
© Concertgebouw
Go ice skating in Amsterdam
Feeling like putting on your skates? You don’t have to wait for natural ice to form!
- Luckily, the ice rink at Museumplein is back! During the Christmas holidays, kids can even take skating lessons here. Read all about the Ice Rink at Museumplein >>
- And if you want to combine skating with holiday shopping, there’s also an ice rink at the Stadshart in Amstelveen this year!
- Want to know where else there are ice rinks in Amsterdam? Check out this list with 7 tips >>
| FESTIVE TIP: Looking for delicious recipes for the holidays? Check out all YLBB tips and Christmas menus >>
World Christmas Circus
The World Christmas Circus at the Royal Theatre Carré is a real Christmas tradition and a perfect activity for the Christmas holidays! YLBB’s Anne has kicked off the Christmas holidays there every year on Friday afternoon. Such a fun tradition. From December 18 to January 5, you can enjoy an award-winning program full of spectacle. Perfect for the whole family or a fun date with one of the kids. Tickets sell out fast, so make sure to get them in time. It’s also perfect to plan after Christmas for a magical end to the holidays!
When: December 18, 2024 to January 5, 2025
Where: Amsterdam
For more info, visit the website: carre.nl
Delicious: Cheese fondue in the Jansz. Winter Garden is back
The doors of the heated winter garden at Jansz. are open again! All winter long, you can join for the ultimate cheese fondue experience in the heart of Amsterdam. Enjoy the famous fondues from De Kaaskamer: Dutch, Swiss, or Italian, and pair it with a good glass of wine and Jansz’s side dishes. Stay warm under blankets and heaters and melt away those winter blues. Open all winter, from Thursday to Sunday, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. More info and reservations: Jansz. Winter Garden.
Visit Fabrique des Lumières DESTINATION COSMOS
Have you ever been to Fabrique des Lumières at Westergas? Whether it’s your first time or you’ve already experienced several of the immersive exhibitions… Destination Cosmos: The Immersive Space Experience is a must-see and will be available throughout the Christmas holidays. This spectacular exhibition takes you to outer space. In about 40 minutes, you’ll be launched from Earth for a journey through planets, nebulae, gas clouds, and supernovae, experiencing just how vast the universe is. Good to know: in the morning, the Dali exhibition is showing at Fabrique des Lumières, and in the afternoon and evening, this new exhibition. More info >>
| TIP: Tickets are available through Tiqets and Get Your Guide, and sometimes they even have discounts!
More festive tips around the Westergas
- Cheese fondue at Restaurant Smelt: The cheese fondue phenomenon Smelt is back at Westergas! I’ve been and it’s delicious again, read the full review here. During the dark winter months, Smelt will serve all its classics for the visitors of Cultuurdop Westergas, such as Swiss fondue made from beautiful mountain cheeses and the Dutch version made from local cheeses like Le Petit Doruvael and Twentse Bunkerkaas. This year, the Italian fondue will again be made from Provolone Piccante, Parmigiano Reggiano, Fontina, and Taleggio. All fondues are served with crispy sourdough bread from Fort Negen and freshly steamed seasonal vegetables. More info & reservations >>
- Vroeg Pieken: Want to catch a fun party this year but don’t want it to be too late? Check out Vroeg Pieken at Westerunie on December 20. Read all about the event & grab tickets >>
Dining out for Christmas in Amsterdam?
It’s wonderful to see so many restaurants in Amsterdam offering a special holiday menu this year. Many restaurants are also open on Christmas or on Christmas Eve. Which ones?
- I’ve listed 44 great restaurant tips for Christmas in Amsterdam for you >>
- Not in the mood for a full-course menu? Then you’ll want to check out this list with tips >>
Inspiration for your Christmas menu or for NYE
Do you know what you’re going to make for the Christmas menu? On Your Little Black Book, you’ll find plenty of recipes!
- 3 X champagne cocktails >>
- 6 X recipes to create a vegan Christmas menu >>
- 6 X amuse-bouches to start the evening with >>
- 6 X appetizers for the Christmas menu >>
- 6 X main courses that are perfect for Christmas >>
- 6 X delicious Christmas desserts >>
Grocery shopping for the holidays?
If you’ve been following Your Little Black Book for a while, you’ve probably seen these lists before. But take a really good look at them now, because even if you think you know Amsterdam well… I’m sure you’ll discover new culinary shops. And definitely do your holiday shopping at these local businesses. Of course for yourself (because they’re oh so delicious!), but also for them:
- 21 X delis and traiteurs in Amsterdam >>
- 10 X international supermarkets in Amsterdam >>
- 5 X Asian supermarkets in Amsterdam >>
- These are my 9 favorite markets in Amsterdam and the best stalls >>
- The 11 best farm shops in the Netherlands near the Randstad >>
Order a festive dinner or pick it up in Amsterdam
- LARS: Due to great success, Lars Amsterdam is again offering an extensive Christmas menu this year, easily prepared at home with a simple step-by-step plan. Enjoy fine dining at Michelin star level, but at your own dinner table. larsamsterdam.nl
- Ron Gastrobar: Ron Blaauw believes that his guests should eat well, without unnecessary fuss. That should be no different at home, and with his culinary home boxes, he gives you a push in the right direction. ‘Dining out at home’ is what he calls it – and rightly so. In addition to the classic box, you can also order the Indonesian rice table: a festive box full of authentic flavors that will help you set up a rice table dinner at home.
- Daalder: With Daalder at home, this Christmas brings a culinary menu that you can easily serve at home. What can you expect? Seasonal signature dishes with a special twist. Whether you choose the vegetarian menu or the meat version, each dish is a taste experience on its own. daalderamsterdam.nl/thuismetdaalder
- Aan de Poel festive menu: With the festive menu from restaurant Aan de Poel, you bring a Michelin experience to your home, created by top chef Stefan van Sprang. Expect a menu full of luxurious ingredients and surprising flavor combinations. The menu will be delivered to your home throughout December and the first week of January, so you can enjoy it at your convenience. aandepoel.nl
- Brasserie van Dam: Brasserie Van Dam makes the holidays extra easy with a 4-course Shared Dining Christmas menu. All dishes are fully prepared; you just need to heat the side and main courses. They also have something special for New Year’s Eve: a snack box full of treats to end the year in style. vandambrasserie.nl
Curious about which national restaurants also offer Christmas dinners to be delivered at home? Check out the complete list here >>
Admire the Christmas tree on Dam Square & visit the palace
It’s a shame that the Christmas tree on Dam Square was delayed again this year due to a state visit, but it’s finally up! A good reason to head to Dam Square. While you’re there, a visit to the Royal Palace is worth it, as they have a brand-new Mokumtour in collaboration with Ommetje with Tom. The palace is open throughout the Christmas holidays (except on December 25 and January 1).
At the Royal Palace, there are also plenty of activities for children and (grand)parents during the Christmas holidays, thanks to special audio tours. For the younger children, there is the Prince Louis scavenger hunt. For the older children, there’s an exciting search for the stolen peace branch. As a reward, a fun surprise awaits at the end of the tour! Bonus: Access, including audio tour, is free for children under 18 years old.
Prince Louis (5 – 8 years): Children are guided through this tour by Prince Louis, son of King Louis Napoleon. He tells the story of the building and how his father transformed the Amsterdam Town Hall into a palace in 1808. In this audio tour, each child gets a sticker scavenger hunt.
Jacob’s Adventure (9 – 12 years): With this interactive audio tour, you travel 350 years back in time. Something terrible has happened… the peace branch has been stolen! Who did it, and why? Join Jacob on an adventure. Along the way, you’ll discover everything about the art and history of the building.
Christmas Market at Museumplein
The ice rink at Museumplein may not be happening this year, but the Christmas market Ice Village Amsterdam is open. It’s full of winter chalets with artisan food and handmade (lifestyle) products. What I also love is that this market is open on December 25 and 26, so it’s perfect to visit before Christmas dinner, with your date or loved one, or the whole family if you don’t want to stay indoors all day. This will be one of the best traditional Christmas markets in Amsterdam in 2024, and it’s also fun to visit with kids!
Dates: until December 26, 2024
More info: icevillage.nl
© Your Little Black Book
FOSBURY’S FESTIVE FINDS // 16-22 December
Fosbury & Sons is organizing the second edition of Fosbury’s Festive Finds this Christmas, the largest Christmas pop-up in Amsterdam. Think of 50 brands from Dutch soil: a mix of emerging brands, sustainable products, as well as recognized names in the industry. It promises to be the place where you can shop all your Christmas gifts at once, and also a unique opportunity to see brands in real life that usually only sell online.
From warm hats by Le Bonnet, the crocheted bags of Marie Marie, a varied selection of perfumes by Parfumado, Ekster’s wallets, lovely home accessories by Suite702, and even gifts for the little ones from the Archive Store. From sustainable clothing to jewelry, beauty products, and tableware, there’s something for everyone. The newest books by Anke de Jong and Yeliz Çiçek (including a signing session!), delicious treats by Pantopia, mulled wine served by Grape Jane, and a game corner where games like Open Kaart can be found. In short, there’s everything to experience, and a gift for every family member to place under the tree.
Fosbury & Sons Amsterdam, Prinsengracht 769
Opening hours: from 11:00 to 19:00
The pop-up is located on the ground floor (Prinsengracht side)
Amsterdam Genesis Lightshow
Experience the story of creation in a completely new way during the Amsterdam Genesis Lightshow. In the Oosterkerk, you’ll be taken on a journey through the origin of our planet. With light and sound effects, you’ll discover in a 30-minute show how light, air, water, nature, animals, and humans come to life. A fun experience where technology and art are brought together in a unique setting.
When: various dates in December 2024 and January and February 2025
Where: Kleine Wittenburgerstraat 1, Amsterdam
For more info, visit the website: Facebook event
© Amsterdam Genesis lightshow
Het AmsterdamsE Winterparadijs
Het Amsterdamse Winterparadijs at the RAI is the place to be to get into the winter spirit during the Christmas holidays. There are plenty of fun activities to enjoy, such as ice skating on the indoor or outdoor rink, curling on the curling rink, or an exciting descent on the Boomerang slide. For the real festive atmosphere, head to the après-ski bar or sing the best songs at the karaoke bar. In the evening, enjoy live performances by artists like Xander de Buisonjé, Tino Martin, and Yves Berendse. In between, you can enjoy delicious winter snacks at the stalls.
When: December 18, 2024 – January 4, 2025
Where: RAI Amsterdam
For more info, visit the website: hetamsterdamsewinterparadijs.nl
© Het Amsterdamse Winterparadijs
MORE KID-FRIENDLY TIPS FOR THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS
Want to do something fun with the little ones during the Christmas holidays in Amsterdam? There are plenty of cozy things to do in and around Amsterdam in the coming weeks.
- Club Abbey: The club of well-meaning parents who are a little bit lost. That’s how they describe themselves at Abbey in East! Kids can play while you enjoy a good cup of coffee. More info >>
- Poolbar at the Kanarieclub: This is definitely one of the best spots for drinks with kids. The Poolbar at the Kanarieclub is now decorated in festive Christmas style. Available for private parties, and if not, it’s open for drinkers. More info >>
- Spot Penguin Eggs at Artis: It’s that time of year again! The cute penguins at Artis have laid their eggs and are proudly sitting on top of them. And if you’re lucky, you might even see some chicks walking around! More info >>
- Circus Zanzara at Westerpark: Circus Zanzara has set up camp at Westerpark, and if there’s one thing we know in our household, it’s that a circus performance is guaranteed to be a hit with the little ones. You can see the new performance *Felix Terra* until January 5th. More info >>
- Spongebob – WONDR Experience: Nickelodeon and WONDR Experience Amsterdam are celebrating the 25th anniversary of SpongeBob with a SpongeBob Special! Dive into the colorful world of Bikini Bottom, where you can take an underwater journey with SpongeBob and his friends. An interactive experience full of fantasy and fun. More info >>
‘Old-School’ Cinema at Tuschinski
Tuschinski remains my favorite cinema! When was the last time you went to the cinema? Exactly ;-)! That’s why this tip must be included in this list of fun things to do during the holidays in Amsterdam. What gives you more of a Christmas feeling than red velvet? Enjoy a bucket of popcorn and a drink while you take in the beautiful renovated halls of this iconic cinema in Amsterdam. Click here for the movie schedule >>
| TIP: 41 X Christmas movies that are fun for the whole family >>
Go Culture Sniffing (with the kids)
Maybe your New Year’s resolution was to do more art and culture in the city. I definitely recommend buying a Museumkaart for 2024. It’s always so inspiring to visit the beautiful museums in Amsterdam. Plus, in recent years, many cool art experiences have been added, like Fabrique des Lumières that I’ve recommended before. Here are a few more tips for places I regularly visit:
- STRAAT, the street art museum in Amsterdam-Noord.
- MOCO, for Banksy and more modern art.
- Rijksmuseum, during the Christmas holidays there are many fun activities for kids.
- H’ART Museum, have you been to the ‘Hermitage’ since the name change? During the Christmas holidays, they have a full program.
- Allard Pierson, do you have kids who are in that ‘Egypt phase’ like my own son? This museum in Amsterdam has a room full of mummies!
- Huis Willet-Holthuysen, during the Christmas holidays, kids can go on an adventure in the museum with the little dog Sammie. Also nice: entrance for kids is free. More info >>
Here’s a handy shortlist you’ll want to know:
- Here are the exhibitions to see this month in Amsterdam >>
- 22 x museums in Amsterdam that you should visit >>
- 10 x modern art museums in Amsterdam >>
The Christmas Movie Guide for 2024
With the tips from these lists, you won’t have to be bored any night this December! From Christmas series to new and classic Christmas movies. Enjoy your binge-watching!
- 7 X new Christmas movies on Netflix in 2024 >>
- 66 X Christmas movies on Disney+ >>
- 41 X fun Christmas movies for kids >>
- 97 X Christmas movies and series on Netflix >>
- 172 X cozy Christmas movies on Videoland >>
- 72 X Christmas movies on Amazon Prime this year >>
NYE Restaurants in Amsterdam
Do you want to have a great meal with friends on New Year’s Eve and then linger over drinks? In the YLBB shortlist with the best restaurants for NYE, I’ve gathered many great tips for you. You can make it as wild as you want ;-). Check out 21 restaurants that are open on December 31st >>
More Tips for New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam
Are you already preparing for New Year’s Eve? Here are some tips to help you out!
- Want to go to a New Year’s Eve party? In this list, you’ll find the best parties in Amsterdam >>
- Always handy: more practical information about New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam, like the countdown at Museumplein. Read more about celebrating New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam >>
- Where to get the best oliebollen in Amsterdam? I think these are the best places to get them >>
- Are you planning to gourmet on New Year’s Eve? Then you’ll want to know these pro tips >>
- Want to make your glass of bubbles extra special? Here are 3 easy champagne cocktail tips >>
- Are you going for a weekend getaway in the Netherlands for New Year’s Eve? These are the 23 best oliebollen stalls in the Netherlands >>
What to Do on New Year’s Day
Want to do something fun on January 1st in Amsterdam? But not sure what’s on or what will be open? Then this YLBB shortlist with 10 tips is for you >>
Throwing a Party on New Year’s Day?
- Breakfast Club: The First Dance
Kick off 2025 dancing at The First Dance from Breakfast Club and RADION. Party, enjoy a morning brunch at sunrise, and start the year in style!
Breakfast Club, Amsterdam – breakfastclub.nu - Thuishaven The New Year’s Dance
Dance into the new year at Thuishaven’s New Year’s Dance! With Job Jobse, D. Tiffany, and more, enjoy the best house and trance vibes.
Thuishaven, Amsterdam – thuishaven.nl
(New Year’s) Drink Plans?
For everyone who wants to hang out with friends, go on a date, or just enjoy a drink in the city during the Christmas holiday, here are some tips. Want to grab a drink on January 1st?
- Badhuis Amsterdam: Badhuis at Javaplein is also a great spot on January 1st. You can start from 10 am to eat and drink. With a relaxing atmosphere and beautiful interior, it’s the perfect place to recover from New Year’s Eve. Their drink menu never disappoints, and the dinner menu is just as great: their black tiger shrimp from the charcoal BBQ is now a legend, and the farm chicken is a must-try. Javaplein 21, Amsterdam – badhuisamsterdam.nl
- Ami: On January 1st, Café Ami in De Pijp opens its doors at 11 am – perfect for a long brunch to start the new year relaxed. Later in the day, you can enjoy their famous cheese fondue. Cozy, cheesy, and exactly what you need after a festive night. And did we mention their delicious Esma’s? Just saying! You can also grab a New Year’s drink here later in the evening. Eerste van der Helststraat 51, Amsterdam – ami.amsterdam
- The Foodhallen: Want to enjoy a New Year’s drink at the G&T bar and have a snack with friends? Head to The Foodhallen in West, which is open from 12 pm on January 1st! Whether you’re in the mood for a hot dog from Bulls & Dogs, slurping festive oysters at Mer du Nord, or a good burger from The Butcher – they’ve got something delicious for everyone. The perfect place to kick off the new year with bites and fun! Hannie Dankbaarpassage 16, Amsterdam – foodhallen.nl
- Marcella: One of my favorite spots to meet up with friends who have kids the same age. While the boys play at Amstelveld, you can enjoy a New Year’s drink on the heated terrace and keep an eye on them. And if you have a New Year’s date, you should head here in the evening for drinks and snacks. Amstelveld 21, Amsterdam – cafemarcella.nl
- Cafe Nieuw Amsterdam: Start the new year at Café Nieuw Amsterdam, a modern bistro where you can enjoy a meal with friends and a good glass of wine. Whether you’re in the mood for a drink at the high tables or at the cozy bar, this is the place for a New Year’s drink with friends in the heart of Amsterdam. Haarlemmerstraat 75, Amsterdam – cafenieuwamsterdam.nl
- Check here for the complete list of even more tips for places open on January 1st >>
These YLBB shortlists are also good to know. Just make sure to double-check if they’re open ;-).
- The coziest brown cafés in the city >>
- 5 X cafés with their own beer tap at the table >>
- 18 X great cocktail bars in Amsterdam >>
- Over 30 tips for places to have a drink and dance after dinner >>
- 5 x the best whiskey bars in Amsterdam >>
- 25 X heated terraces in Amsterdam >>
- Want to discover a new wine bar in Amsterdam this Christmas holiday? I’ve listed 7 favorites for you >>
- Want to brunch with friends on January 1st? Or still want to catch a party? Several cafés are hosting events! For example, Louie Louie or Arie.
The ‘Always Good’ Christmas Holiday Tips
Take a Walk Around Lindengracht and Noordermarkt
This remains one of my favorite things to do in Amsterdam on weekends. Especially in winter when so many beautiful local products are available. Take a stroll around the Lindengrachtmarkt and Noordermarkt and pick up the tastiest items for home. Did you know there are also various stalls where you can grab some delicious things to eat right there? Read here which culinary stalls we never miss >>
Free Things to Do in Amsterdam
I get it – December can be an expensive month! Chances are you want to save a little for the rest of the winter. That’s why YLBB’s list of the best free things to do in Amsterdam is a must-read! Check out all the tips here >>
Go Oyster Harvesting in the Netherlands
Do you have time to get out of the city? I highly recommend all oyster lovers to try harvesting your own oysters. For example, in Zeeland! These oysters are a bit bigger than those you usually eat at a restaurant. Personally, I think they’re perfect for gratin or cooking in Asian style. Curious where you can do this? I’ve explained this in my post about oyster harvesting here >>
Coffee Dates During the Christmas Holiday?
There’s a tip for the best coffee in every neighborhood of the city! Check out over 80 tips for coffee spots in Amsterdam, sorted by neighborhood >>
Walks in and around Amsterdam
Want to clear your head in the city or the forest? With these tips, you can take a different walk every day:
- I’ve never walked so much on weekends as I have in recent years! Where do we like to go in the Amsterdam area? Check out 16 tips for walking >>
- Are you like me and love walking, as long as there’s a good spot to drink after or grab a coffee? Then you’ll want to know these 12 tips for walks near places to eat >>
- Want to get some fresh air in the city during the holidays? On Your Little Black Book, there are two really fun walks that we’ve mapped out ourselves and that you really should try:
- Don’t mind driving a little for a beautiful walk in the Netherlands? Then these 12 tips with my favorite walking areas in the Netherlands are for you >>
Street Art in Amsterdam
Discover all the street art in Amsterdam with these walking or cycling routes. End the day with a visit to the STRAAT Museum at NDSM-wharf. Check out 4 street art routes in Amsterdam >>
Have an Afternoon Tea
Such a festive and cozy winter activity to enjoy a good afternoon tea. Luckily, Amsterdam offers plenty of options, from budget-friendly to super chic. One famous option is at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel, but others are also gaining popularity. Planning a tea time? Check out our list of the best afternoon teas in Amsterdam.
Cheese Fondue O’Clock
Of course… I think we’ve all stirred up a pot of supermarket cheese fondue at some point. But let’s be real… real fresh cheese fondue is 10 times tastier, right? Or maybe even 1000! These 3 addresses are where you can buy fresh cheese fondue >>
Want to go out and fondue? Then you’ll want to know these 16 tips for the best fondue spots in Amsterdam >>
Fine Dining Lunch
Dining out in the evening is wonderful, but secretly, I’ve found long lunches to be even more fun in recent years. Fortunately, there are plenty of good restaurants in Amsterdam that (especially on weekends) are open for an extended lunch. I’ve put together a list of my favorites for you! Check out all 23 fine dining lunch spots in Amsterdam >>
Hot Chocolate Date
Have you had it yet this year? When I go for a walk, I’ve noticed I tend to order hot chocolate more often than coffee during this festive period. Where can you drink delicious hot chocolate in Amsterdam? Here are 10 great tips >>
Warm Up by the Fireplace
What’s cozier than sitting by the fireplace with a warm drink? It’s cold outside, and there’s always such a cozy vibe inside with a fireplace. No fireplace at home? Luckily, there are several spots in Amsterdam with a fireplace; we’ve listed 18 spots with fireplaces in Amsterdam for you.
Last Minute Festive Escapes
Have you seen the walls of your living room too many times? And by now, you can probably dream all of the above activities? Then the only thing I can offer you in this Amsterdam Christmas Guide is the escape card. If you don’t have many obligations… why not take a few days off? Here are some Christmas travel tips for you:
- Christmas Markets in Cologne. Simply because so much is happening there. 10 X great hotels in Cologne for any budget >>
- The Magical Maastricht Christmas Market is back at the Vrijthof this year. Read all about it here and book that last-minute Christmas trip in your own country >>
- In The Hague, the Royal Christmas Fair is open again. Perfect for a day trip or a short stay! Read all about it here >>
- Christmas Markets in Düsseldorf. Germany is known for its fantastic Christmas markets, and the one in Düsseldorf is definitely worth a visit. Want to combine it with a little getaway? We have all the tips for this fun city >>
- In Antwerp, the city transforms into a large winter wonderland around the holidays! With Christmas markets at various squares and other fun activities like an ice rink and a Ferris wheel. Perfect for a short getaway with your partner or with the kids! Read all about the Christmas market in Antwerp >> Want to book a great hotel in Antwerp? Check out the best hotels here >>
- Last-minute looking for a great vacation home? These tips should help you find one >>
- Hotels with great restaurants? Check this list >>
Christmas Holiday at home Tips
Binge-Watching Tips for Almost Every Network:
Not in the mood to go out? Here’s enough inspiration to relax on the couch at home with a new series or movie!
- Here are the 32 best Netflix series of all time >>
- 72 X new on Netflix in December >>
- 15 X films and series filmed in Paris >>
- 8 X series that will transport you back to New York >>
- 10 X films that will make you dream of Asia >>
- 6 X Scandinavian series that are great >>
- 10 X films that will make you want to visit nature more often >>
- 25 X the best classic series to rewatch >>
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
Our favourite hotels in Amsterdam:
TOP LUXURY // €€€
☾ Pillows Maurits at the Park: this newly opened hotel is all about luxury.
☾ Pulitzer Amsterdam: on the canals at the border of the Nine Streets and the Jordaan.
☾ L’Europe: recently renovated, this hotel has the best spa with a view in Amsterdam.
☾ Conservatorium Hotel: located in one of the most beautiful buildings in town.
☾ Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam: if you have something to celebrate this is the one.
☾ W Amsterdam: with lively restaurants and a posh rooftop bar with swimming pool.
VERY VERY NICE // €€
☾ The Hoxton: favourite lifestyle hotel right on the canals with great all day bar.
☾ Hotel Jakarta: the most sustainable hotel ánd great value for money with a spa.
☾ Hotel V: with two locations and a great restaurant, in the city center and East.
☾ Sir Adam: with the coolest view over Amsterdam from the North side.
☾ Sweets: a unique stay in former bridge houses.
☾ Hotel Dwars: small scale and around the corner of the trendy Utrechtsestraat.
☾ Hotel Mercier: pretty new hotel in the cosy and historic Jordaan district.
☾ INK Hotel: lifestyle hotel in the heart of the city by MGallery.
☾ Morgan & Mees: boutique hotel with restaurant in Amsterdam West.
☾ Conscious Hotel Westerpark: in a beautiful building at the industrial Westergas area.
☾ Ruby Emma: eco design hotel with a great skybar near Amstel station.
AFFORDABLE (FOR AMSTERDAM PRICES) // €
☾ Generator Hostel: the best poshtel of the city located in a park.
☾ The Social Hub budget proof in trendy East district close tho the subway.
☾ Het Volkshotel: affordable and with a cool rooftop bar.
☾ CitizenM: all you need is that XL bed (location near Amstel is great).
☾ Motel One: budget design hotel with several locations in Amsterdam.
Let’s get social
I really hope you enjoy your time in Amsterdam! On my Instagram account @yourlbb and @yourlbb.amsterdam you can find more recommendations and new hotspots in town.
AMSTERDAM UPDATES
Subscribe to YOURLBB'S newsletter and get the AMSTERDAM BUCKET LIST BOOK in your inbox for free.
"*" indicates required fields
