23 fun things to do in Amsterdam during winter

Looking for something fun to do this winter in Amsterdam? Whether you're looking for a romantic date, a fun outing with friends, or just want to discover something new, there's so much to do during the colder months. From ice skating to atmospheric concerts, beautiful walks, and more fun things to do to get through the colder months.

I always find winter in Amsterdam to be beautiful and cozy. Even though the days are shorter, the atmosphere is always so wonderful during the holidays in Amsterdam. And now that it gets dark so early, street lighting You see it everywhere, making it extra cozy. And there's plenty to do in Amsterdam in winter, too, so we've compiled a list of things that are extra fun to do with your friends or partner in winter. What are you up to this winter?

Have fun with these winter activities in Amsterdam!

23 fun things to do in Amsterdam during winter

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 | €38,50 | 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 >>

Ice skating on the Museumplein

All winter long, Museumplein has been transformed into a charming winter wonderland with a large ice rink. Fun for all ages, and so magical with the Rijksmuseum as a backdrop. After skating, stick around for a hot chocolate with whipped cream or mulled wine and enjoy watching all the skaters on the ice. Read our extensive article about the ice rink here >>

When: until February 6, 2026
Where: Museumplein

 | TIP: Also check out the list with 6 more tips for fun ice skating rinks in Amsterdam >>

© Museumplein Ice Rink

book a Boozy brunch

The boozy brunch has been a hit in London and Dubai for years, but now the trend has also made its way to Amsterdam. And we're thrilled about that! Start your boozy brunch around noon and linger all afternoon while enjoying delicious food and cocktails. Check out the best boozy brunches in Amsterdam here >>

© Volare

more fun winter outings in Amsterdam

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.

© Waldorf

More tips for fun things to do in Amsterdam in winter 

go treasure hunting at the IJhallen

The IJ-hallen is a huge flea market where both private individuals and professionals sell their clothing and homeware. Often for next to nothing, and hidden gems guaranteed. In winter, the market is held indoors in the former shipyard, making it a fun outing even on a rainy day!

Winter walk in Artis

During the winter months, Artis offers special winter tours. Discover how animals prepare for the cold and experience the cozy winter paradise of the zoo.
Plantation Kerklaan 38-40, Amsterdam 

Book tickets

More Fun Activities During Winter in Amsterdam 

go to a museum

Amsterdam boasts an infinite number of excellent museums, and for good reason. The choice at Museumplein alone is staggering, but also explore the museums along the canals, such as Museum Van Loon and the Embassy of the Free Mind. Looking for inspiration? Then check out the YLBB museum lists.

• These are the exhibitions on display in Amsterdam this month >>
• 22 museums in Amsterdam you must visit at least once >>
• 10 modern art museums in Amsterdam >>

© Van Gogh Museum

More tips for fun things to do in Amsterdam in winter 

attend a theatre performance

When was the last time you went to the theater? Especially when it's cold and bleak outside, a theater visit Very nice and cozy. Curious about what's happening in Amsterdam right now? See all the shows in Amsterdam you don't want to miss here >>

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 >>

Enjoy a Cheese Fondue

Winter, of course, calls for winter food. And since it's still a few months before you need to be bikini-ready again, you can enjoy cheese fondue guilt-free. And the options are endless: with truffle, blue cheese, Gruyère... we love it! Check it out! here our list of our favorite spots for cheese fondue in Amsterdam.

Melt © Your Little Black Book

More tips for fun things to do in Amsterdam in winter 

Take a nice (city) walk in the north

Walking through Amsterdam and discovering new places never gets old, if you ask me. Especially for anyone who enjoys seeing more of Amsterdam than just their own neighborhood, we've created a fun walking tour through Amsterdam Noord. View the route here >>

Walking in the Amsterdam area

Visit the Amsterdam Forest or go for a walk near Amsterdam, for example at one of these sixteen walking areasPerfect for getting some fresh air during a day of cocooning at home in winter.

Wine tasting at Chateau Amsterdam

Are you familiar with urban winery Chateau Amsterdam? I've written about it before, but if you've never been to Noord to visit this winery, now's the perfect time to do so. Especially in the fall when the new harvest arrives. Just imagine: in the wine warehouse at Chateau Amsterdam, some 44.000 kilos of grapes from seven different countries are being processed into wine. At the new location, you can not only enjoy delicious Italian food at Chateau Amsterdam, but you can also enjoy a wine tasting!

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 18 for you in Amsterdam >>

more Amsterdam tips

Vooges © Your Little Black Book

December tips for winter in Amsterdam 

visit the Amsterdam Christmas markets

In December, and often even in early January, Amsterdam's Christmas markets are an absolute must-visit! From Ice Village on Museumplein to the Sustainable Ceuvel Christmas Market and the Funky Xmas Market at Westergas, you'll find stalls everywhere overflowing with winter treats like bratwurst with sauerkraut, oliebollen (Dutch doughnuts), and mulled wine to warm up with. Browse the stalls to find original Christmas gifts and fully immerse yourself in the warm Christmas spirit. Check out our list of all the Christmas markets in Amsterdam this December >>

© Sunday market

World Christmas Circus

The World Christmas Circus at the Royal Theatre Carré is a true tradition for December and January! From December 17, 2025, to January 4, 2026, you can enjoy an award-winning program full of spectacle. Fun for the whole family or a fun date. Tickets often go quickly, so be sure to book early. 

When: December 17, 2025 to January 4, 2026
Where: Amsterdam
For more information, please visit the website: carre.nl

Walking through Vondelpark & ​​poffertjes

This park isn't just fun to stroll through in the summer. It looks especially inviting and magical in the snow! A great way to start your day, don't you think? And what's even better: these days you'll find several coffee carts with fresh coffee and hot chocolate. A delight for all ages! See also these addresses near the Vondelpark and then enjoy a bite to eat and a drink. Also fun this winter: every Sunday there's hot chocolate and a poffertjes stall at the Blauwe Theehuis in Vondelpark!

Hortus Winter Evenings

When was the last time you visited the Hortus Botanicus in Amsterdam? Perhaps never? Then discover the magic of the Hortus Winter Evenings this winter! The garden and greenhouses are open until 19:00 PM, with a campfire on the terrace, a storyteller, and of course, delicious mulled wine and hot chocolate.

When: December 27, 28, 29, 30, 2025 and January 2 & 3, 2026
Where: Hortus Botanicus
For more information, please visit the website: dehortus.nl

© Hortus winter evenings

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 >>

Book tickets

 | TIP: See more Christmas concerts in Amsterdam here >>

The Amsterdam winter paradise

The Amsterdam Winter Paradise at the RAI is the perfect place 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 rink, or a thrilling descent on the Boomerang rink. For a real festive atmosphere, visit the après-ski bar or sing along to the best songs in 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 13, 2025 to January 3, 2026
Where: RAI Amsterdam