Things to Do with Christmas in Amsterdam

If you’re searching for things to do with Christmas that go beyond traditional dinners and shopping malls, you’re in the right place. From immersive art experiences to cozy markets and nighttime wanderings, this guide takes you through the most atmospheric ways to celebrate Christmas in Amsterdam and across the Netherlands.

Wander Through Christmas Markets (With a Dutch Twist)

Christmas markets in the Netherlands are more intimate than their German cousins, and that’s exactly their charm. Think twinkling lights, handcrafted gifts, local food, and a relaxed, creative vibe.

Where to go:

• Ice*Village Amsterdam, Right on Museumplein, with festive stalls and skating energy
• Royal Christmas Fair (The Hague), Elegant, historic, and beautifully lit
• Valkenburg Christmas Market, Underground caves filled with lights and tradition

Perfect for slow strolling, gift hunting, and soaking up that unmistakable Christmas atmosphere

Experience Light, Art & Emotion After Dark

Winter in the Netherlands is made for the night, and Christmas is when light becomes storytelling.

The Amsterdam Light Festival transforms the city into an open-air gallery, with glowing installations floating above canals and reflecting off historic facades. Walking or boating through it feels meditative, almost cinematic.

‍

✨ AMAZE: A Different Kind of Christmas Experience

Instead of carols and clichés, AMAZE offers a 60-minute immersive journey through light, sound, and emotion. It’s warm, enveloping, and surprisingly introspective, a beautiful counterbalance to busy December streets.

For creatives, couples, or anyone wanting to feel something this Christmas, AMAZE is an unforgettable indoor winter escape.

‍

Go Ice Skating Under the Stars

Ice skating is one of the most classic Things to do with Christmas, and the Netherlands does it with style.

Top spots:

• Museumplein Ice Rink (Amsterdam), Skate beneath the Rijksmuseum lights
• JAAP EDEN IJsbaan, For locals and serious skaters
• Temporary pop-up rinks across Dutch cities close to shopping malls.

Even if you’re not graceful on the ice, the atmosphere alone is worth it, music, lights, laughter, and cold air turning cheeks rosy.

Take a Winter Canal Cruise

Amsterdam’s canals feel different in December. Quieter. Softer. More reflective.

A Christmas canal cruise lets you see the city from a warm, glowing boat while lights shimmer on the water. Some tours include hot drinks or storytelling; others simply let the city speak for itself.

It’s one of the most romantic and relaxed Christmas activities, ideal after a long day of walking.

Step Inside Museums & Immersive Spaces

Cold days call for warm interiors, and the Netherlands excels at indoor culture.

Christmas-friendly cultural stops:

• Rijksmuseum & Van Gogh Museum (quiet winter atmosphere)
• Contemporary art spaces and pop-up exhibitions at NDSM
• Immersive experiences like AMAZE, where weather doesn’t matter

These moments indoors add depth to your Christmas trip, grounding the festive sparkle with reflection and creativity.

Taste the Season: Dutch Winter Comfort Food

Christmas isn’t just something you see, it’s something you taste.

Look out for:

• Oliebollen (Dutch doughnuts dusted with sugar)
• Erwtensoep (snert) – Thick pea soup, perfect after cold walks
• Hot chocolate with slagroom
• Seasonal menus in cozy cafés and brown bars

Walk, Get Lost, Let the City Lead

Sometimes the best thing to do with Christmas is… nothing planned.

Walk through:

• The Jordaan at night
• Quiet canals outside the city center
• Residential neighborhoods glowing softly in windows

Christmas in the Netherlands rewards those who slow down. You don’t need fireworks, just curiosity and time.

‍

‍

‍

‍