A Winter Wonderland

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A Winter Wonderland in Amsterdam

Amsterdam feels magical during the winter holidays. The city glows with sparkling lights, cheerful faces, and cozy winter vibes. It’s not only the Amsterdam Light Festival or the Christmas decorations that make the city special. It’s also the open-air ice rinks, colorful Christmas markets, the smell of Dutch treats, and a little extra kindness everywhere you go.

Don’t expect a white Christmas — snow is rare. But the festive atmosphere more than makes up for it. This year, Amsterdam feels especially joyful. The Dutch seem to enjoy Christmas more than ever!

Fun Christmas Activities

Sometimes Amsterdam’s canals freeze, turning the city into a skating paradise. But that doesn’t happen every year. Instead, you can enjoy the famous outdoor ice rinks. Rent skates at Leidseplein or visit the Christmas Village on Ice at Museumplein. Glide to the sound of Christmas songs and laughter all around you.

After skating, explore the Christmas markets. You’ll find handmade gifts, delicious snacks, and holiday inspiration everywhere. The biggest market is at Damrak and Beursplein, while Rembrandtplein offers wooden chalets with a fairytale atmosphere.

For even more shopping, stroll through the beautifully decorated Nine Streets, Haarlemmerstraat, or the lively Kalverstraat.

What can be great after this active pastime is strolling along Amsterdam Christmas markets, full of hand-crafted gifts, original holiday edibles and seasonal inspirations. The major one is at Damrak and Beursplein, but fairytale-like wooden chalets at Rembrandtplein have lots of items and a nice festive atmosphere as well. After having some joyful time there, you can go for some more fancy shopping at the beautifully decorated Nine Streets, Haarlemerstraat or very busy but nonetheless very versatile and popular Kalverstraat.

Christmas smells in Amsterdam

What does Amsterdam smell like during Christmas? Of course, there’s the scent of pine trees, mandarins, and roast turkey. But there’s more.

Follow your nose to the stands selling oliebollen – Dutch deep-fried dough balls covered in sugar. Try poffertjes, tiny fluffy pancakes made to order. Don’t miss kerststol, a sweet bread filled with raisins and nuts, or appelflappen, crispy pastries with apple inside. You’ll also find chocolate rings that taste as good as they look hanging on a Christmas tree.

If you’ve had enough sweets, go for something savory. Many restaurants serve lamb, venison, or rabbit with rich sauces. Pair your meal with a cup of spiced mulled wine in a cozy Dutch restaurant. Be sure to book a table early — Christmas dinners are very popular.

If you feel that it’s enough of sweet stuff for you this season, then maybe Amsterdam Christmas will smell to you like lamb, venison or rabbit with a delicious melt-in-your-mouth sauce. How about having it accompanied by a spicy mulled wine in a cozy Dutch restaurant? It is wise to make a dinner reservation though, as there can be quite a few people dining out during this festive season.

 

Special Events This Year

Looking for something unique this Christmas? Here are some events worth checking out:

  • Frank McComb Trio Christmas Dinner Concert at the North Sea Jazz Club (December 25–26) — perfect for jazz lovers.

  • Bach’s Christmas Oratorio by the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra (December 25). It’s a rare performance — the last one was 49 years ago!
    Missed it? Don’t worry. The Bach Choir and Orchestra of the Netherlands perform on December 26–27.

  • Winter Circus Amsterdam at the RAI (until January 3). A spectacular show for the whole family.

  • The Winterparade at Zuiderkerk — a mix of theater, art, and dining. It runs through the end of December. Most shows are in Dutch, but some have English information on IamExpat.

Last but Not Least

Some public places close on December 25 and 26, but many museums stay open — and with fewer crowds! Take the chance to explore Amsterdam’s art and history without long lines.

Don’t miss the “Christmas in Willet” exhibition at the Museum Willet-Holthuysen, where you can see how Christmas was celebrated in the 19th century.

Still in the holiday mood after Christmas? Check out Amsterdam’s New Year’s Eve celebrations at Iamsterdam.com.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from Amsterdam Teleport Hotel!
May this season bring you warmth, joy, and unforgettable memories — whether you’re skating, shopping, or simply enjoying the lights of this magical city.

This post is also available in: Dutch