Christmas in Amsterdam

Experience Amsterdam in the Christmas spirit

In December, Amsterdam takes on a special atmosphere. The streets and canals are lit up, squares are transformed into winter gathering places, and all over the city you’ll find Christmas markets, music, hot chocolate and cosy cafés. From ice-skating on Museumplein and strolling through a Christmas market to an evening walk along the illuminated canals: Amsterdam is perhaps at its most atmospheric during the festive season. Stay at Hotel Nicolaas Witsen and discover the city from a peaceful, intimate spot in the heart of Amsterdam.

What to expect

Amsterdam ablaze with lights: In December, the city takes on a whole new atmosphere as soon as night falls. The canals, bridges and historic streets provide an atmospheric backdrop for a winter stroll. The Amsterdam Light Festival will also run from 26 November 2026 to 17 January 2027.

Christmas markets: Throughout Amsterdam, you’ll find various Christmas markets in December, offering local produce, gifts, food and hot drinks. One of the best-known venues is Museumplein, where a Christmas Village is organised every year.

Ice skating on Museumplein: From 24 November 2026 to 16 January 2027, there will be an ice rink on Museumplein. A classic Amsterdam winter experience, surrounded by the Rijksmuseum, the Concertgebouw and the cosy atmosphere of Oud-Zuid. I amsterdam

Christmas concerts: December is also a great month to catch a concert or a show. The Concertgebouw has a programme of various concerts and family shows during the Christmas period.

Explore the local area

Top 5 Tips

Go to Museumplein

This is one of the best places to soak up the Christmas spirit. Combine a visit to the Christmas market with a trip to the ice rink, and then pop into one of the museums around the square. In 2026, the ice rink will be open from 24 November to 16 January.

Take a stroll along the canals

In the evening, put on your warm coat and take a stroll towards the historic city centre. The illuminated canals and bridges are stunning during the dark winter months. Why not combine your walk with a visit to the Amsterdam Light Festival?

Visit a Christmas market

For a real Christmas atmosphere, the Christmas markets are highly recommended. Museumplein is a popular choice, but Westerpark also organises a Funky Xmas Market in December, featuring local craftspeople, art and design. In 2026, it is scheduled for 20 December.

Visit the Jordaan

Take a stroll through the charming streets of the Jordaan and discover little shops, cafés and restaurants. Around the festive season, the narrow streets and canals are decorated in a particularly festive style. Perfect for a peaceful winter stroll away from the main crowds.

Find a cosy café

Christmas in Amsterdam isn’t just about activities. Head out, find a cosy traditional pub or an atmospheric wine bar, and warm up with a glass of wine, a hot chocolate or a good coffee. You’ll find plenty of cosy spots, particularly in De Pijp, the Jordaan and around the Negen Straatjes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

One of the best-known Christmas markets is the Christmas Village on Museumplein. There are also smaller, creative Christmas markets at various locations around the city.

One of the most popular spots is the ice rink on Museumplein. For the winter of 2026/2027, it is scheduled to run from 24 November to 16 January inclusive.

There’s plenty to do over the festive season too. Take a stroll through the city, visit a museum, go ice-skating, take a boat trip or admire the light displays along the canals.

Yes. The Amsterdam Light Festival runs for much of the winter, from 26 November 2026 to 17 January 2027. The light art installations are spread across various locations throughout the city.

From the end of November onwards, Amsterdam gradually takes on a Christmassy atmosphere. December is the peak month for Christmas markets, ice skating, winter events and festive illuminations.

Absolutely. From the hotel, it’s easy to get to the canals, Museumplein, De Pijp and Amsterdam’s main cultural attractions. After a day out in the wintry city, you’ll return to the peaceful and welcoming atmosphere of this family-run hotel.