10 things to do in Amsterdam in autumn 2018

Parks

While Amsterdam’s parks come alive with people and activities in the summer, in autumn they become a photographer’s dream, with leaves turning picturesque shades of orange, red and gold. Vondelpark is the most popular such space in Amsterdam, but those wanting a longer autumnal walk should head to Amsterdamse Bos. One of the largest city parks in Europe, it contains 150 indigenous species of trees.

Cosy café culture

Amsterdam is known for its café culture and there’s a wealth top coffee shops to choose from. For some of the coolest new offerings, head to Amsterdam-Oost. With plenty of Instagram-worthy cafés, the neighbourhood is an excellent area for sampling delicious pastries and coffee. Favourites include Boterham and Beter & Leuk whose cosy, inviting interiors are the perfect places to escape the cold.

De Bijenkorf

De Bijenkorf department store is the ultimate place to shop for designer labels under one roof in Amsterdam. Head here this autumn and shop the best seasonal trends across fashion, accessories and beauty. From 30 September to 18 November make-up artist Jemimah Ohene will be at the Nars counters, offering visitors the chance to take part in a masterclass. You will learn about the latest autumn make-up colours and trends and also pick up top new beauty products for your cosmetics bag.

Dutch pancakes

Dutch pancakes, or poffertjes, are ideal snacks to enjoy in the cooler weather. During autumn Amsterdam gets colder and crisper, and indulging in some traditional pancakes is a great way to stay warm while also sampling some of the best traditional Dutch foods. Amsterdam has plenty of top pancake houses. Read more in our guide here.

Gezelligheid

Similar to hygge in Danish, gezelligheid is the Dutch word that encompasses the feeling of cosiness, friendliness and fun. It is often used in the autumnal months thanks to Amsterdam’s wealth of inviting cafés, fun bars and old-fashioned shops and boutiques. Embrace gezelligheid activities in Amsterdam this autumn and make your way round some of the city’s cosiest cafés and most enticing restaurants.

6-16 September: Amsterdam Fringe Festival

For 11 days, from 6-16 September, the Amsterdam Fringe Festival will bring top talent across theatre and dance to more than 30 venues across the city. It is the perfect way to see more of the capital, with performances at tiny stages and hidden places. The varied programme offers more than 300 shows, from national and international names too, so you’re sure to find something that will inspire you.

15 September: classical music festival

For a great free thing to do in Amsterdam this autumn head to the Amstelveld square where an open-air festival takes place. Klassiek op het Amstelveld is open to everyone at no charge and showcases some of the best talent in classical music. For one day only the square turns into a stage, with choirs and orchestras performing top classical works. From talented soloists to uplifting ensembles, Klassiek op het Amstelveld is ideal for music lovers and those wanting a soundtrack to Amsterdam in the autumn.

10-14 October: Klik Amsterdam Animation film festival

Film lovers might like time their trip to Amsterdam to coincide with the Klik Amsterdam Animation film festival taking place in October. It aims to bring animation to a wider audience, with an exciting programme that treats animation as an independent art form. This year the festival will present a curated selection of films on the theme of the mind. With features including the Angelina Jolie co-produced film The Breadwinner, this is sure to be one to add to your list.

21 October: Amsterdam Marathon 2018

The 43rd edition of the Amsterdam Marathon takes place on Sunday 21 October. While taking part may not be for everyone, the atmosphere in the city becomes electric, with many people lining the route to cheer the runners on. The course begins and ends at the Olympic Stadium and goes past the Rijksmuseum and through Vondelpark and along the Amstel River. Watching even part of it provides a great opportunity to see the city in a new light.

3 November: Museum Night Amsterdam

Where better to spend a cold autumnal evening than some of Amsterdam’s top museums. On the first Saturday in November, Museum Night Amsterdam invites visitors to explore 50 museums around the city, all opening their doors from 7pm to 2am. Wrap up warm and make your way through a special schedule of events, workshops, concerts, tours and performances for what is sure to be a night to remember. With food and drink on hand to power you through, be sure to add this to your diary.