As an enthusiast of traveling, I love to explore new places. And this time, I am here with mesmerizing places you can visit in Amsterdam in the cold days of the winter season. I think winter in Amsterdam is the best time to dodge the crowds. And there are some unique winter activities in Amsterdam that I always love to visit. Stay tuned for why you should see Amsterdam in winter, the best activities to do in Amsterdam, and some extra tips for going to Amsterdam in winter.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN AMSTERDAM IN WINTER?
Amsterdam is surprisingly average, so the temperature doesn’t fall as dramatically as many imagine. Nevertheless, winter in Amsterdam arrives with heavy breezes and rainfall. Enough so that you’ll desire to dress warmly. You will demand something that will give you the most comfort. And in this context, nothing can beat the warmth and relaxation that the staggering Vintage Chicago Bulls Bomber Jacket gives you. It is a fantastic jacket that provides you with all the comfort on cold days of the winter season.
Why Visit In Winter?
Winter is the ideal time to visit Amsterdam as there are many seasonal activities to do in Amsterdam. Don’t be scared to visit Amsterdam in the winter season. You’ll find many entertaining things to go for in Amsterdam in winter. It seldom snows in Amsterdam. That stated, it’s better to sidestep biking in Amsterdam if it drops below freezing. Biking on cobblestones can be hazardous, especially if you’re not a professional bicyclist. And you can glide on black ice. Generally, Amsterdam bikes do not have snow tires.
The temperature in winter is around 4 and 9 degrees Celsius, with a standard of rain transpiring on about 23% of the days. Typically, the rain doesn’t stay very long, but it’s better to have an umbrella if you’re paying attention. Just be alert that it can feel freezing due to the wind chilliness.
Where To Dwell In Amsterdam
As it will be cold, I suggest confirming that your hotel connects well with public transit. Some parts of the ring need a slightly more prolonged walk to bus/tram stops.
Consider dwelling at the Pulitzer Hotel, built within a league of twenty canal houses and just a block away from one of the well-interconnected bus/tram stops. Those on an allotment might like to think about CocoMama. It is a boutique hostel just strolling space from the best eateries in De Pijp and the trams.
The Best Things To Do In Amsterdam In Winter
Most of the fun activities on a regular itinerary for Amsterdam are possible in winter. That said, you might be more worried about seating outdoors for an elongated period in Vondelpark or another part. Here, I’ll be concentrating more on the seasonal things in Amsterdam that you can’t do the whole year, as well as my favorite spots to conceal from the cold.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES IN AMSTERDAM DURING WINTER
Amsterdam Light Festival
In between December and mid-January of each year, Amsterdam lights up. The Amsterdam Light Festival is a tremendous open-air statue festival that adorns Amsterdam’s scenic trenches.
You can see the light statues from the water and the land. Although some are specifically prepared to be seen by boat only. It’s free to relish the lights, so walk or bike along the troughs at twilight. Plus, a leather jacket will add more classiness to your overall look.
Canal Cruise
A lot of people don’t know that most canal cruises are covered and heated. If you’re are stressing that it won’t be warm enough to see the famous canal houses on the water, don’t worry. As part of the price, many cruises even include complimentary tea or hot chocolate. You should note that you can cruise along the canals during the day or at sunset. You can consider wearing a leather jacket if the weather is too cold.
Ice Skating
In the winter, ice skating is popular in Amsterdam. Ice skating is one of the best winter activities in Amsterdam, even though canals rarely freeze. Skating on Amsterdam’s canals may be in your dreams, but it has only happened twice in the past ten years. However, there are ice skating rinks all over the city. You shouldn’t worry that ice skating on the canals will get cold enough. Despite its small size, I find the one near Museumplein most picturesque. And a leather jacket outfit would be a plus point to this spot.
Walking Down The Canals
This is simple, but since Amsterdam isn’t too cold, don’t be afraid to take advantage of the sunny weather. And walk down the canals. Herengracht is my favorite canal to photograph because it doesn’t have the crowds of Prinsengracht or the inner canals. But it does have some of the most stunning canal houses. Look for a warm tea or a local beer at a brown bar or a cozy dutch bar when it gets too cold.
Christmas Markets
The Netherlands has lovely Christmas markets, which are frequently overlooked in favor of Germany. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, Amsterdam hosts several Christmas markets.
Even though the most famous Christmas market is the Ice Village in Museumplein, smaller Christmas markets can be found throughout December in various neighborhoods on weekends. Walking through with a loved one and a glass of gluhwein is romantic. Also, don’t forget to wear a jacket to avoid cold and bring some cash with you!
Eat Oliblollen
Oliebollen stands can be found all over the city in December and early January. A typical Dutch New Year’s Eve snack is these scrumptious fry balls that look like donuts. Always eat them warm, and don’t be afraid to ask for powdered sugar.
National Tulip Day In Dam Square
Dam Square celebrates National Tulip Day on the third Saturday of January. Although you may not be aware, Dam Square receives over 200,000 tulips annually. Typically, it is incorporated into a complex design that you can observe from a ladder above. Although entry is completely free, I recommend waiting in line early to get your hands on some tulips to take home!
THE BEST WINTER ACTIVITIES IN AMSTERDAM
Get Into A Debate About Sinterklaas And Zwarte Piet
What is December without a debate about Sinterklaas? I’m kidding, but the United Nations have condemned this controversial holiday custom from the Netherlands. I think it’s impossible to avoid hearing about it around Sinterklaas.
The Sinterklaas parade is getting better within Amsterdam. Some guides recommend considering going to the Sinterklass parade. However, to make an informed decision, you should first read up on it.
Gluhwein Drink
Umm, gluhwein? Yeah, I’ll admit that my favorite winter activity is to drink gluhwein in an old brown cafe. The Dutch have a delicious winter-appropriate alcoholic beverage like many other European nations. Gluhwein is cinnamon mulled wine with an orange flavor. I’ve had terrible gluhwein. So make sure the place you buy it has just made a new batch. The oranges can become too bitter if they sit inside for too long. The gluhwein at Cafe Papeneiland is my favorite.
Cuddle With Cats At The Kattenkabinet Or The Poezenboot
This eccentric museum in Amsterdam is all about cats. If you’re looking for exciting things in Amsterdam, you should check out one of the best-kept Amsterdam secrets.
Nothing beats having a cuddly cat snuggle up when you’re feeling chilly. Fortunately, Amsterdam has a lot of places that are good for cats. Like a museum with real cats and a floating cat shelter on a canal boat. You don’t have to go to either of those places to find friendly cats in Amsterdam. Because many shops and coffee shops have friendly shop cats to keep mice out.
Step Into The Rijksmuseum
On the coldest days, you should think about entering the Rijksmuseum. One of the largest museums in the Netherlands, the Rijksmuseum houses thousands of objects. You can easily spend the whole day here. So if it rains or snows all day, don’t be afraid to stay inside until the weather improves. The museum contains numerous famous pieces, including Nightwatch by Rembrandt. The Miniaturist’s inspiration dollhouse is also a favorite of mine.
Know About The History At Ons’ Lieve Heer Op Solder
One of Amsterdam’s best secrets is this secret church. If you have the Amsterdam pass, which is a steal if you want to see at least a few museums. Then you should go to my favorite museum in Amsterdam, which is on the card. Three canal houses make up Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder, a museum with a secret two-story church in the attic! While taking in the museum’s rich history and breathtaking canal views, you can unwind for up to two hours. Also, don’t forget to slay in the classiest leather jacket!
What To Wear In Amsterdam In The Winter?
Dress simply as you would in the fall or winter in a colder climate. As it rains quite a bit, I suggest wearing waterproof shoes and a sweater to layer over clothes whenever necessary. And a stylish and trendy winter leather jacket to rock on the streets of Amsterdam.
The Flabergasting End
Eventually, you will know all the best places to visit in Amsterdam in the cold days of the winter season. So give these places a try and make some unforgettable memories of your life. Also, take excellent care of your clothing too. Since it doesn’t get very cold, I usually wear a leather jacket with a sweater, jeans, boots, and a hat or scarf. So give them a try and enjoy your life to the fullest!
