Amsterdam is a great year-round destination, and the city really comes into its own in winter, when its famous canal network twinkles with fairy lights, cobbled streets are illuminated by bright Christmas windows and cosy cafés invite visitors in out of the cold. With great Christmas markets also on offer, it is an ideal place to pick up some unique Christmas gifts. From November, many markets offer traditional Dutch fare while the Ice Village on Museumplein turns into a winter wonderland, complete with ice rink, chalets and food stalls. In this guide we take you through some of the best places to visit in Amsterdam this winter. From top restaurants to cool cafés and winter events, these are the things to have on your to-do list in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam is a great city for a European winter getaway. With top Christmas markets, cosy café culture and pretty cobbled streets, it is an ideal place to go for those looking for a romantic getaway or Christmas shopping trip. Take a look at some of the best things to see and do in Amsterdam this winter, here
Christmas lights at de Bijenkorf
The bright lights of de Bijenkorf are a sure-fire way to get you into the festive spirit this winter. The huge department store is just as impressive on the inside as it is on the outside – one of the best places to shop in Amsterdam, it offers an impressive selection of exclusive labels such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Burberry and Saint Laurent. Whether you want to discover the latest designer trends or are looking to do some top Christmas shopping in Amsterdam, de Bijenkorf is a must-visit destination.
De Bijenkorf, Dam 1, 1012 JS Amsterdam, +31 (0)88 245 3333
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Indulge in stroopwafels
The crispy stroopwafel is a traditional treat in the Netherlands and would make a delicious souvenir of your time in Amsterdam. The delicious delicacy is found all over the city and is a great way to reward yourself after a day of sightseeing. Van Wonderen Stroopwafels has reinvented the traditional snack, making its version fresh on site with a variety of exciting toppings, from Oreo to M&Ms, marshmallows to pistachios. Hot drinks are also available and this is a top winter hotspot to know about.
Van Wonderen Stroopwafles, Kalverstraat 190, 1012 XH Amsterdam, +31 (0)2 737 1064
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Vondelpark
With its range of hearty, rich dishes, Dutch cuisine was made for cold days and nights. Work up an appetite with a brisk walk around Vondelpark. One of the finest and largest parks in Amsterdam, it is a must-visit so wrap up warm and take a romantic stroll around the grounds. If you need to warm up, head to the Groot Melkhuis café, located in the middle of Vondelpark, for some hot chocolate and traditional bitterballen meatballs.
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Noorderlicht Café
Noorderlicht Café is a great reason to venture out of Amsterdam city centre this winter. Reached by ferry, the café has a quirky greenhouse-style structure that makes it one of the coolest eateries in the city. The café offers a fun schedule of events, from live bands to silent discos, and is located opposite the famous IJ-Hallen, the biggest flea market in Europe. In December the café will be offering a special group menu featuring a selection of traditional winter dishes.
Noorderlicht Café, NDSM Plein 102, 1033 WB Amsterdam, +31 (0)20 492 2770
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Graphite
Those wishing to escape the busy streets of Amsterdam this winter should be sure to book a table at Graphite. Netherlands first speak-easy restaurant, Graphite is located behind an unassuming door, found only by those in the know. Seating only 20 guests per night, Graphite is the perfect place to escape from the cold and the Christmas crowds. It offers three fixed set menus, ranging from the small, with 10 dishes served over several courses, to an evening-filling programme of more than 20 dishes. Alternatively, guests can pick from the a la carte menu with dishes created from ingredients sourced from the Netherlands.
Graphite, Paardenstraat 11, 1017 CX Amsterdam, +31 (0)6 1882 9580
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Christmas shopping
Amsterdam is a great city to shop in and, come winter, the stores are filled to the brim with covetable ideas for Christmas presents and souvenirs. Head to De Negen Straatjes – Nine Streets – to find some of the best independent boutiques in Amsterdam. Those looking for luxury gifts from top international brands should make a beeline for PC Hooftstraat for stores including Prada, Dior and Jimmy Choo.
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13 December: Cinderella
Going to the ballet is surely one of the most magical ways to celebrate the Christmas season. From the 13 December 2018 to 1 January 2019, the Dutch National Ballet will present choreographer Christopher Wheeldon’s modern take on the classic tale of Cinderella. With staging based on the original version popularised by the Brothers Grimm, the ballet offers a wholly new look at this traditional story, with high-fashion costume design, puppeteers and projections.
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17 November: Ice Amsterdam
Ice Amsterdam returns this November with its spectacular ice-skating experience in front of the Rijksmuseum. The famous ice rink has become a firm favourite in Amsterdam’s winter line-up and is sure to get you in the Christmas mood. Don your skates and take to the rink or watch all the action from the charming wooden chalets around the outside – serving top Dutch and international dishes, they are the perfect place to keep warm this winter.
Ice Amsterdam, Museumplein, 1071 DJ Amsterdam
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29 November: Amsterdam Light Festival
The Amsterdam Light Festival is a great way to see the city in a new light this winter. From 29 November 2018 to 20 January 2019, Amsterdam’s famous canals and city centre will showcase spectacular illuminated sculptures, designed by a host of Dutch and international artists. Walk, boat or bike your way around the city and marvel at the various displays.
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30 November: Meesterlijk design fair
From 30 November–2 December, some of Amsterdam’s best product, fashion and food designers will be sharing their talents at Meesterlijk. During the three-day event, established craftsmen, from goldsmiths to carpenters, will be offering unique products and, with everything from fashion to bags, jewellery, furniture, glass and crystal for sale, the event will be the perfect place to pick up unique Christmas gifts.
Meesterlijk, Westergasfabriek, Polonceaukade 27, 1014 DA Amsterdam
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