Seek and find
It's the most wonderful time of the year! And because team Yourlbb is also taking a few weeks off, I've compiled the best Christmas and festive tips for Amsterdam for every weekend during the Christmas holidays. Read this full Festive guide. Amsterdam Weekend Guide with the best tips for Christmas in Amsterdam, Old or just the Christmas holidays.
As you may have noticed Instagram As you've seen, I'm going to Egypt this Christmas. It's a great way to clear my head and come back full of new plans to make 2026 a wonderful year together. I can't wait! I really want to thank you for your support this past year <3.
What I'm really looking forward to this coming week? Enjoying the festive vibes in Amsterdam and catching those few last-minute Christmas movies I haven't seen yet (and surprisingly, I've been so busy this year that I have a whole to-watch list for the first time in years!). There's certainly no chance of boredom during the holidays in Amsterdam. I've created this incredibly comprehensive Christmas guide with my best tips for fun things to do this Christmas in Amsterdam. Read on for lots of cozy things to do this holiday season, so you can hang your own decorations and (if you're feeling up to it) go out every day to do something fun!
For now, happy holidays! May it be a wonderful year for you and your loved ones.
With love, Anne
Christmas in Amsterdam: the ultimate guide with tips for fun things to do
Enjoy the hundreds of tips to make sure you won't be bored for a moment these coming weekends <3. PS: There's a separate guide for each week, but because events often span multiple weekends, there might be some overlap.
- The trusted Amsterdam Weekend Guide with tips for December 18, 19, 20 & 21 >>
- In this article you will find tips on what to do in Amsterdam during Christmas week :-)
- And would you like to look ahead? Read the best tips for December 31st, New Year's Day, and January 2nd, 3rd, and 4th in Amsterdam here >>
Kid-friendly tips for the Christmas holidays
Especially for families, we've compiled two fantastic lists with tips for fun outings in Amsterdam and beyond. Curious about what's happening?
- Check out the kid-friendly tips for the Christmas holidays in Amsterdam here >>
- Check out the best family-friendly tips for the Christmas holidays throughout the Netherlands >>
FUN THINGS TO DO DURING THE HOLIDAYS IN AMSTERDAM
Winter Market – Pure Market Christmas Market
This Sunday market in Amsterdam, just like the Funky Xmas Market, always remains one of my favorites. The last edition this year will take place in Park Frankendael on Sunday, December 21nd. Perfect for doing something fun with friends just before Christmas. To have drinks or pick up some tasty items for the visitors who will be visiting this Christmas. During this edition, there are again many stalls and of course the long swing bench where you can sit comfortably, watch the people and have a bite to eat! Just like the Sunday Market, this will be one of the Christmas markets in Amsterdam not to miss in 2025. Kids can have fun on the swing carousel during this Christmas market.
Date: December 21, 2025
<strong> More info: </strong> puremarkt.nl
The Sustainable Ceuvel Christmas Market
Last year, the Sustainable Ceuvel Christmas Market was a huge success! At the Sustainable Ceuvel Christmas Market, you'll find food, drinks, harvests for your home, and green items for your Christmas tree. The café and terrace will also be decorated with beautiful lights and a dazzling Christmas tree! There will be cozy music playing, and you can enjoy warm drinks and delicious winter treats, like pea soup, by one of the fires. More info >>
Dates: December 20 & 21, 2025
Funky Xmas Market – Sunday Market Christmas Market
This Christmas market remains an annual favorite! This year, the special Funky Xmas edition of the Sunday Market will take place again at the Westergas site. With numerous stalls offering delicious artisanal products to take home or enjoy, and plenty of places to enjoy drinks with friends. There are also stalls for gift shopping, from jewelry to items for kids.
Date: December 21, 2025
Times: 12.00am – 17.00pm
<strong> More info: </strong> sundaymarket.nl
the Christmas market on Museumplein
The Christmas Village Amsterdam Christmas market is open again at Museumplein until December 26th. I went last weekend, and I have to say it's really nicely set up around the skating rink. The bridge over the skating rink is back this year, which adds to the atmosphere. The entire square is once again filled with wintery chalets selling artisanal food and handmade (lifestyle) products. The Christmas market is open weekdays from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM and on weekends from 11:00 AM. PS: I also love that this market is also open on December 25th and 26th. So it's perfect for a quick chat before Christmas dinner, with your date, lover, or the whole family if you don't want to stay inside all day.
| TIP: Check out many more tips for Christmas markets that are also great for a day trip >>
Christmas Market Museum Square © Your Little Black Book
The Hortus winter evenings
When was the last time you visited the Hortus botanicus in Amsterdam? Perhaps never? Then discover the magic of the Hortus botanicus this winter. Hortus Winter EveningsIn the evenings, you can enjoy a walk through the greenhouses until 19 p.m. Afterward, you can relax by the campfire with mulled wine or hot chocolate (with or without a splash of rum).
When: December 27, 28, 29, 30 and January 2 & 3
Where: Hortus Botanicus
For more information, please visit the website: dehortus.nl
© Hortus winter evenings
World Christmas Circus
The World Christmas Circus at the Royal Theatre Carré is a true Christmas tradition and a perfect activity for the holidays! Yourlbb's Anne has been kicking off the Christmas holidays with it on Friday afternoons for years. Such a fun tradition. From December 18th to January 5th, you can enjoy an award-winning program full of spectacle. Fun for the whole family or a cozy duo date with one of the kids. Tickets are going fast, so be sure to book early. It's also ideal for planning after Christmas for a magical end to the holidays!
When: December 18, 2024 to January 5, 2025
Where: Amsterdam
For more information, please visit the website: carre.nl
Eating out at Christmas in Amsterdam?
It's wonderful and delicious to see so many restaurants in Amsterdam serving special holiday menus this year. Many restaurants are also open on Christmas or Christmas Eve. Which ones are they?
- I have listed 46 good restaurant tips for Christmas in Amsterdam for you >>
- And don't feel like being stuck with an extensive menu? Then you'll want to know this list of tips >>
| FESTIVE TIP: Are you still looking for delicious recipes for the holidays? View all YLBB tips and Christmas menus here >>
visit the Amsterdam Light Festival
Amsterdam Light Festival Foodwalks
The Foodwalk is BACK during the Amsterdam Light Festival! This year you can book even more different walks with friends, your partner, colleagues, or family. From Street Food to Oysters en Cocktails Your voice has been heard and the offer is even better than last year.
And if you are in Amsterdam as a tourist? Then the new 'Amsterdam Walk'Highly recommended. Enjoy!
All WALKS include the Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99).
- Street Food Walk | Thu–Sat | 4 bites included | €43,50 | tickets >>
- Oyster Walk | Thu–Sat | 8 oysters included | €43,50 | tickets >>
- Cocktail Walk | Wed–Sat | 3 cocktails included | €35,50 | tickets >>
- Amsterdam Walk | Sun–Wed | 3 drinks + Dutch bar snacks included | €33,50 | tickets >>
New: Early Dinner or Late Night Dinner during the Amsterdam Light Festival
Would you prefer a sit-down dinner before or after your Amsterdam Light Festival stroll? Then book the two-course Early Dinner or Late Dinner menu.
Early Dinner
The Early Dinner is for anyone who prefers a sit-down dinner and then wants to explore the Amsterdam Light Festival at their leisure. You'll start the evening promptly at 5:00 PM with a delicious two-course meal (starter and main course) at one of the partner restaurants, after which you can stroll into the city to view the light artworks. The menu, including the Amsterdam Light Festival app, costs €41. More information about the menus and reservations >>
Late Night Dinner
The program Late Night Dinner It's perfect for anyone who wants a bite to eat after strolling through the Amsterdam Light Festival. End your evening at 9:00 PM with a delicious two-course meal (main course and dessert) at one of the partner restaurants. We bet you'll have plenty to talk about after seeing all those beautiful artworks! The menu, including the Amsterdam Light Festival app, costs €41. More information about the menus and reservations >>
© Your Little Black Book
the best times for boat trips during the Amsterdam Light Festival 2025/2026
Because the boat trips and canal cruises around the festival are also back, there are Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Tours With various departure locations, boat types, and packages available. You can book either a semi-open or fully enclosed boat. I always find the best time is around 6:30 or 7:00 PM, when it's really dark. Then you can head straight to a nice restaurant or cozy pub!
⋙ Cruise on a semi-open boat (and therefore perfect for photos!)
⋙ Cruise with unlimited drinks
Admire the Christmas tree on Dam Square & visit the palace
It's a shame the Christmas tree on Dam Square was delayed again this year due to a state visit, but it will be up starting December 17th! A real reason to visit Dam Square. The Palace is open throughout the Christmas holidays (except December 25th and January 1st).
In the Royal Palace There's plenty to do for children and (grand)parents during the Christmas holidays, thanks to special audio tours. For younger children, there's the Prince Louis treasure hunt. For older children, there's an exciting search for the stolen peace branch. As a reward, there's a fun surprise waiting at the end of the tour to take home! Extra fun: Admission including audio tour is free for children up to 18 years old.
Prince Louis (ages 5-8): Children are guided on this tour by Prince Louis, son of King Louis Napoleon. He tells them about the building and how his father transformed Amsterdam City Hall into a palace in 1808. Each child also participates in a sticker scavenger hunt with this audio tour.
Jacob's Adventure (ages 9-12): This interactive audio tour takes you back 350 years. Something terrible has happened… the peace branch has been stolen! Who did it and why? Join Jacob on this adventure. Along the way, you'll discover all sorts of things about the building's art and history.
Christmas tree on Dam Square © Your Little Black Book
festive concerts in Amsterdam
During the holidays, various theaters organize beautiful Christmas concerts, ranging from classical music to modern performances. This is such a charming way to get into the Christmas spirit. It's best to check the schedule to see if tickets are still available. On Christmas Eve, you can Christmas Eve service Attend a concert at the Concertgebouw, with music and the traditional Christmas story. I've already selected some tips for you, but Check out the complete YLBB shortlist of beautiful Christmas concerts in Amsterdam that we compiled earlier this month >>
Candlelight: Christmas Classics
Christmas classics by candlelight? Yes please! The Candlelight Concerts have become a household name in Amsterdam, and during the holidays, they become extra special. In the beautiful Posthoornkerk, you can listen to well-known songs like "Last Christmas," "Let It Snow," and "Silent Night," all performed live for 60 minutes, surrounded by hundreds of candles. Perfect for a night out with friends or as a gift to yourself!
Where: Posthoornkerk, Amsterdam
When: December 27, 2025
For more information & tickets, visit the website: Candlelight concert >>
Christmas Eve Service Christmas Carols
Celebrate Christmas Eve or Christmas Day in a traditional and festive way with the Christmas Eve & Day service at the English Church in the Beguinage. The service begins at 10:00 PM with the singing of Christmas carols, a beautiful and peaceful way to ring in the holidays.
Where: English Church, Amsterdam
When: December 24 & 25, 2025
For more information & tickets, visit the website: erc.amsterdam
Christmas in the Muziekgebouw
As an Amsterdammer, a concert at the Muziekgebouw is a must-do, and how wonderful to do so during the holidays! Do you prefer more classical music? Then you won't want to miss the Christmas concerts at the Muziekgebouw. a festive midnight mass to it Christmas playCurious about other concerts? Check the schedule on the website.
Where: Muziekgebouw, Amsterdam
When: All month of December
For more information & tickets, visit the website: muziekgebouw.nl
© Concertgebouw
The Amsterdam Winter Paradise
This winter wonderland event has become a fixture in December. And to extend the Christmas spirit, it runs until the end of December. This makes Het Amsterdamse Winterparadijs a perfect alternative to a Christmas market in Amsterdam to visit during the holidays! This year, the Christmas festival is even more grandiose, with plenty of live music, various bars, fun for kids, and more.
Dates: December 13, 2025 to January 3, 2026
go ice skating in Amsterdam
Ready to lace up your skates? You don't have to wait for natural ice!
- Luckily, the ice rink at Museumplein is back! Kids can even take skating lessons there during the Christmas holidays. Read all about the Ice Rink at Museumplein here >>
- And if you'd like to conveniently combine a round of ice skating with your festive shopping, there's an ice rink at Amstelveen's city center again this year!
- Want to know where else there are ice skating rinks in Amsterdam? Then also check out this list of 7 tips >>
Museumplein Ice Rink © Your Little Black Book
Inspiration for the Christmas menu or for NYE
Do you already know what you're going to make for the Christmas menu? You'll find tons of recipes on Your Little Black Book!
- champagne cocktails >>
- recipes to create a vegan Christmas menu >>
- amuses to start the evening >>
- starters for the Christmas menu >>
- main dishes that are delicious for Christmas >>
- delicious Christmas desserts >>
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 closer look now, because even if you think you know Amsterdam inside and out... I'm sure you'll discover new culinary shops. And definitely do your holiday shopping with these local businesses. For yourself, of course (because it's oh so delicious!), but definitely for them too:
- You'll want to know these delicatessens >>
- View the tips for fresh cheese fondue at home here >>
- View all international supermarkets here >>
- You'll want to know these specialty beer shops >>
- Here you can find everything for an Asian-inspired dinner >>
- You want to know these fish shops >>
- View the best butchers in Amsterdam here >>
- Here you will get really good advice for a delicious cheese board >>
Have a festive dinner delivered or pick it up in Amsterdam
Curious which national restaurants can also have a Christmas dinner delivered to your home? View the complete list here >> Below I already give you a preview!
- Ron Gastrobar: Ron Blaauw believes that his guests should eat well, without unnecessary fuss. It shouldn't be any different at home, and with his culinary home boxes He gives you a nudge in the right direction. He calls it "eating out at home" – and rightly so. Besides the classic box, you can also Indonesian rice table Order: a festive box full of authentic flavours with which you can prepare a rice table dinner at home.
- Daalder: At Home with Daalder is creating a culinary menu this Christmas that you can easily serve at home. What can you expect? Seasonal signature dishes with a unique twist. Whether you choose the vegetarian menu or the meat version, each dish is a taste experience in itself.
- Aan de Poel Festive Menu: With the festive menu at Aan de Poel restaurant, you bring a Michelin-starred experience into 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 the festive atmosphere whenever it suits you.
- 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 only need to heat up the appetizers and main courses. They also have something special for New Year's Eve: a drinks box full of treats to end the year in style.
NEW YEAR'S EVE TIPS
NYE restaurants in Amsterdam
Want to enjoy a delicious New Year's Eve dinner with friends and linger at the table afterward? I've compiled a wealth of great tips for you in the YLBB shortlist of the best restaurants for NYE. So you can go as wild as you like ;-). View 21 restaurants open on December 31st here >>
more tips for New Year's Eve in Amsterdam
Are you already preparing for New Year's Eve? Here are my tips to help you!
- Fancy a New Year's Eve party? In this list you will find the best parties in Amsterdam >>
- Always useful: some more practical information about New Year's Eve in Amsterdam, such as the countdown at Museumplein. Read more information about celebrating New Year's Eve in Amsterdam here >>
- The tastiest oliebollen in Amsterdam? As far as I'm concerned, you can buy it here >>
- Want to make your glass of bubbles extra special? Tips for easy champagne cocktails >>
Things to do on New Year's Day
Looking for something fun to do in Amsterdam on January 1st? But have no idea what's on or what's open? Then this YLBB shortlist with 10 tips is for you >>
THE 'ALWAYS' GOOD CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY TIPS
'Old-fashioned' to the cinema in Tuschinski
Tuschinski is still my favorite cinema! When was the last time you went to the cinema? Exactly ;-)! That's why this tip has to be on this list of fun things to do during the holidays in Amsterdam. Because what gives you more of a Christmas feeling than red velvet? Enjoy a bowl of popcorn and a drink while enjoying the beautifully renovated cinemas in this iconic Amsterdam cinema. Click here for the film schedule >>
Take a walk around the Lindengracht and Noordermarkt
This remains one of my favorite things to do in Amsterdam on the weekend. Especially in winter, when so much beautiful produce is harvested. Wander around the Lindengrachtmarkt and Noordermarkt and pick up some delicious treats to take home. Did you know these markets also have several stalls where you can find delicious treats to eat right away? Read here which culinary stalls we never miss >>
Free things to do in Amsterdam
I get you if December is a very expensive month! Chances are you'll want to save a bit 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! View all tips here >>
Go oyster picking in the Netherlands
Do you have time to get out of town? Then I highly recommend all oyster lovers to try their hand at oyster collecting. Perhaps in Zeeland! These oysters are a bit larger than you'd normally eat in a restaurant. I find them perfect for gratinating or preparing them Asian-style. Curious where you can find them? I explain this in this post about oyster picking >>
Coffee date during the Christmas holidays?
There's a tip for the best coffee in every district of the city! Check out our many tips for coffee shops in Amsterdam, listed by district >>
Walking in and around Amsterdam
Get some fresh air in the city or the woods? With these tips, you can take a different walk every day:
- We've never walked so much on weekends as in recent years! Where do we like to go in the Amsterdam area? View 16 tips for walking here >>
- Do you, like me, love walking, as long as you can have a nice drink or coffee afterwards? Then you'll want to know these 12 tips for walking near catering establishments >>
- Fancy getting some fresh air in your own city during the holidays? Your Little Black Book has two fantastic walks we've mapped out that you'll definitely want to try:
- Don't you mind driving a bit for a nice walk in the Netherlands? Then these 12 tips with my favorite hiking areas in the Netherlands are for you >>
have an afternoon tea
So festive and cozy in winter to enjoy a good afternoon tea. Luckily, Amsterdam offers plenty of choices, from budget options to super chic. A famous one is the one at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel, but those at other locations are also gaining popularity. Making plans? Then check out our list of the best afternoon teas in Amsterdam.
cheese fondue o'clock
Sure... I think we've all stirred a pot of cheese fondue from the supermarket at some point. But let's be honest... really fresh cheese fondue at home is also quite cozy. You'll want to know these 12 tips for the best spots in Amsterdam >>
go for Fine dining lunch
Eating out in the evening is wonderful, but secretly, I've probably enjoyed a long lunch even more these past few years. Luckily, Amsterdam has many excellent restaurants open for a leisurely lunch (especially on weekends). I've compiled a list of some of my favorites for you! View all 23 fine dining lunches in Amsterdam here >>
Hot Chocolate Date
Have you had it yet this year? When I go for a walk, I find myself ordering hot chocolate instead of coffee more and more often during this festive season. Where in Amsterdam can you get delicious hot chocolate? Read 12 delicious tips here >>
Warming up by the fireplace
What's cozier than cozying up by the fireplace with a hot drink? It's cold outside, and a fireplace always creates such a cozy atmosphere indoors. No fireplace at home? Luckily, several spots in Amsterdam have one; We have listed 14 for you in Amsterdam.
Last-Minute Festive Escapes
Have you seen the walls of your own living room? And can you already dream of ALL the things mentioned above? Then the only thing I can offer you in this Amsterdam Christmas Guide is the escape room. If you don't have many other commitments... why not take a few days off? I've compiled a few Christmas travel tips for you:
- How about a weekend in the Ardennes? View nice hotels here >>
- Antwerp transforms into a giant winter festival around the holidays! With Christmas markets in various squares and other fun activities, like an ice skating rink and a Ferris wheel. Perfect for a night out for two, or even with the kids! Read all about the Christmas market in Antwerp here >> Want to book a nice hotel in Antwerp? Check out the best hotels here >>
- Looking for a nice holiday home at the last minute? With these tips you will probably still succeed >>
- Hotels where you can also eat well? Then check this list >>
CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY STAY AT HOME TIPS
The Christmas movie overview for 2025
With the tips from these lists, you won't have a single evening of boredom this December! From Christmas series to new and classic Christmas movies. Happy binge-watching!
- 100+ Christmas movies and series on Netflix >>
- 69 Christmas movies on Disney+ >>
- 38 Fun Christmas Movies for the Whole Family >>
- 200+ cozy (read: Hallmark) Christmas movies on Videoland >>
- 51 Christmas Movies Coming to Amazon Prime This Year >>
More binge-watching tips for almost every network:
Don't feel like going out? Here's plenty of inspiration to watch a new series or movie at home on the couch!
- Our favorite winter movies >>
- 13 X series to watch if you like SATC >>
- These are the 80 best Netflix series of all time >>
- Prefer a movie on Netflix? Then you'll want to know this list of the best movies >>
- New on Netflix in December, 55 tips >>
- The best tips for December for HBO, Prime and more >>
- 19 Movies and Series Filmed in Paris >>
- 27 Series That Will Bring You Back to New York >>
- 12 Films That Will Make You Dream Away and Want to Return to Asia >>
- 23 Movies That Will Give You Vacation Vibes >>
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
With love, Anne
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