{"id":18437,"date":"2025-11-29T09:02:04","date_gmt":"2025-11-29T09:02:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pureboats.com\/?p=18437"},"modified":"2025-11-29T16:36:50","modified_gmt":"2025-11-29T16:36:50","slug":"best-things-to-do-in-amsterdam-in-december-the-ultimate-guide-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pureboats.com\/nl\/best-things-to-do-in-amsterdam-in-december-the-ultimate-guide-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Things to Do in Amsterdam in December: The Ultimate Guide [2025]"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Visiting Amsterdam in December is just magical. Think: the lights along the streets and canals, hot chocolate or Dutch brown beers, and cute winter markets to stock up on fluffy winter clothing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

December time also means lots of fun events and activities take place in the city of Amsterdam. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take you through the ins of outs when visiting Amsterdam in December!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Big Events in Amsterdam December 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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Amsterdam Light Festival \u2013 Until 19 January 2025<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The city\u2019s canals turn into a glowing art gallery during this world-famous festival. Artists from across the globe design dazzling light installations that shine brighter against December\u2019s long nights. The ultimate way to experience it is by boat \u2014 Pure Boats offers cozy, covered cruises<\/strong> with hot drinks, making sure you don\u2019t miss a single sparkle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udccd Along Amsterdam\u2019s canals
\ud83d\udcb6 Price: Around \u20ac20\u2013\u20ac30 (cruise prices vary)
\ud83d\udd17 Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Nighttime<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Christmas Markets (Throughout December)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

From the Ice Village at Museumplein to smaller local fairs in neighborhoods like Amsterdam Noord, the city buzzes with festive stalls. Expect mulled wine, Dutch oliebollen (fried dough balls), and plenty of holiday gifts. Even if you don\u2019t buy anything, the atmosphere makes it worth a visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udccd Museumplein + various locations
\ud83d\udcb6 Price: Free entry (food & drinks extra)
\ud83d\udd17 Ice Village Amsterdam<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Ice Skating at Museumplein<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of the most Instagrammable winter traditions. A rink is set up in front of the Rijksmuseum, with twinkling lights and music in the background. Warm up with hot chocolate or Gl\u00fchwein after skating \u2014 whether you\u2019re a pro or a beginner, it\u2019s a must in December.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udccd Museumplein, Amsterdam
\ud83d\udcb6 Price: \u20ac7.50 entry + \u20ac6.50 skate rental
\ud83d\udd17 Ice Amsterdam<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Outdoor Things to Do in December<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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Take a Winter Canal Cruise with Pure Boats<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even in chilly weather, the canals are magical. Imagine wrapping yourself in a blanket, sipping mulled wine, and gliding past festive lights and historic houses. Pure Boats\u2019 covered and heated boats mean you\u2019ll stay warm and cozy while still enjoying the views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udccd Departure: Herengracht 386
\ud83d\udcb6 Price: From \u20ac42.50 per person
\ud83d\udd17 Book your Winter Cruise<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Walk Through the Jordaan<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In December, this charming neighborhood feels even more atmospheric. Golden fairy lights string across the narrow streets, caf\u00e9s glow warmly, and boutique shops make holiday shopping extra fun. It\u2019s a quieter escape from the city center crowds.
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Discover Amsterdamse Bos in Winter<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Need a breath of fresh air? Head to Amsterdam\u2019s largest park for misty winter walks. You may even spot Highland cows grazing or stop for hot chocolate at the Boerderij Meerzicht pancake house.
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Cosy Indoor Ideas (When It\u2019s Cold & Rainy)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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Visit the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

December is perfect for diving into Amsterdam\u2019s art treasures without the heavy summer crowds. Explore masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh in peace \u2014 and take your time. Up for more museum visits? Check our Best Museums in Amsterdam<\/a> blog!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udccd Museumplein, Amsterdam
\ud83d\udcb6 Price: Rijksmuseum \u20ac22.50 | Van Gogh \u20ac20
\ud83d\udd17 Rijksmuseum<\/a> | Van Gogh Museum<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Rijksmuseum<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Caf\u00e9 Hopping in Brown Caf\u00e9s<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Amsterdam\u2019s traditional brown caf\u00e9s are perfect winter hideouts. Head to Caf\u00e9 Chris (Jordaan) or Caf\u00e9 de Dokter (the smallest bar in the city) for a beer or a jenever in authentic surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udccd Jordaan \/ Centre
\ud83d\udcb6 Price: Drinks from \u20ac3\u2013\u20ac5<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Try Dutch Winter Comfort Food<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

December is the season for erwtensoep (pea soup)<\/strong>, stamppot (mash + sausage)<\/strong>, and hot chocolate. Pop into local eateries or street stalls for the full Dutch experience \u2014 warm, hearty, and perfect for cold days. Make sure to try these three Dutch treats:<\/p>\n\n\n\n