Amsterdam Things To Do December

Amsterdam is a beautiful city with a lot of culture and history. It is located in the Netherlands and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. With its stunning canals, vibrant nightlife, and abundance of festivals, Amsterdam is a great place for a December holiday. In this blog post, we’ll look at some of the things to do in Amsterdam during the December months, from seasonal activities to must-see attractions.

Christmas Markets

If you’re looking for a festive way to experience Amsterdam in December, then you won’t want to miss out on the Christmas markets that take place throughout the city. One of the most popular is the Amsterdam Light Festival, which has been running since 2012 and is held at the end of November through early January. During the festival, you’ll find light installations, interactive art, and live music throughout the city. Other popular Christmas markets in Amsterdam include the Winter Parade, which takes place in the city centre and features over 250 stalls, and the Amsterdam Christmas Market, which features classic Dutch food, drinks, and entertainment.

Ice Skating

One of the best ways to embrace the winter season in Amsterdam is to take part in some outdoor activities. Ice skating is one of the most popular winter activities in the city and there are plenty of outdoor rinks to choose from. One of the most famous is the Jaap Eden ice skating rink, located in the east of the city. The rink is open from November until March and is open late into the evening, so you can enjoy a romantic ice skating session under the stars.

Canal Cruises

Amsterdam’s canals are one of the city’s most iconic attractions, and what better way to experience them than with a canal cruise? During December, there are plenty of canal cruises on offer, from romantic dinner cruises to night-time tours. Taking a canal cruise is a great way to explore the city and get a unique perspective on Amsterdam’s stunning 17th century architecture. There are plenty of companies offering canal cruises in Amsterdam, including Lovers Canal Company and Amsterdam Canal Cruises.

Museums

Amsterdam is home to a large number of museums, ranging from art galleries to history and science museums. During December, many of the city’s museums are open, so it’s a great opportunity to explore some of Amsterdam’s iconic museums. The Rijksmuseum is one of the most famous museums in Amsterdam and it is home to a large collection of Dutch masterpieces, from Rembrandt to Vermeer. The Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art is another must-visit museum, with a large collection of contemporary works from international artists.

Festivals

Amsterdam is well known for its vibrant festivals and December is no exception. One of the most popular festivals is the Bijlmer Winter Festival, which takes place at the end of December and features a range of activities, from traditional Dutch food to live music and performances. Other popular festivals include the Amsterdam Light Festival and the Amsterdam Winter Parade. Both festivals are held in December and offer a range of activities and entertainment, from art installations to live music.

Food and Drink

Amsterdam is a great place to enjoy some traditional Dutch food and drink. During December, many of the city’s restaurants and cafés are open, so it’s a great opportunity to sample some of Amsterdam’s famous cuisine. One of the city’s most popular dishes is stamppot, a traditional Dutch dish made with mashed potatoes, vegetables, and smoked sausage. Amsterdam is also home to a number of breweries and distilleries, so it’s a great place to sample some Dutch beer or spirits.

Conclusion

Amsterdam is a great place to visit in December, with plenty of seasonal activities and attractions to enjoy. From ice skating and canal cruises to Christmas markets and festivals, Amsterdam is a great destination for a winter holiday. You’ll also find plenty of traditional Dutch food and drink to sample, so it’s a great way to experience Dutch culture. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a festive celebration, Amsterdam is the perfect destination for a December holiday.

Insider’s Guide to Amsterdam: Things to Do in December

December is an ideal month to visit Amsterdam; the city is beautifully decorated with Christmas lights, festive spirit is in the air, and there is an abundance of things to do. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an experienced traveler, here’s an insider’s guide to help you make the most of your trip.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems That Only Locals Know About

While Amsterdam is famous for its canals and museums, there are plenty of lesser-known attractions worth discovering. Start with the Hortus Botanicus, a beautiful botanical garden, or the Cromhouthuis Museum, which is housed in an 17th-century canal house and gives you a glimpse into local life through the ages. You can also take a stroll through the charming garden of Begijnhof, one of the city’s oldest courtyards.

Another must-see is the charming neighborhood of De Pijp, home to the famous Albert Cuyp Market, which sells everything from traditional Dutch delicacies to vintage clothing. This area is known for its eclectic mix of street art, boutique shops, and trendy bars.

Dining Spots: Traditional Cuisine and Interesting Anecdotes

When in Amsterdam, skip the fast food joints and explore the city’s culinary scene. Start with the iconic Stroopwafel, two thin waffles with a caramel filling that you can buy from street vendors- legend has it that they were first made by a baker who wanted to use up leftover dough.

For a heartier meal, head to Amsterdam’s oldest restaurant, De Waag, to try some traditional stamppot (a mashed potato dish) or hutspot (mashed potatoes with vegetables). For those looking for something more novel, try Bar Fisk- a contemporary take on Jewish cuisine, or the vegan Cafe de Ceuvel.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions, Festivals, Art, Music, and Customs

The holiday season transforms Amsterdam into a winter wonderland. Be sure to shop at the Christmas markets in Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein, sample local delicacies, and try your luck on the ice rink. You can also attend a performance of The Nutcracker at the National Opera & Ballet or the Amsterdam Light Festival, a stunning display of illuminated artworks throughout the city.

For a glimpse into Amsterdam’s rich artistic heritage, visit the Van Gogh Museum, which contains the largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh, or the Rijksmuseum, which has some of the world’s most renowned pieces of art.

Local History: Captivating Stories About the City’s Past

Amsterdam has a fascinating history, and there are plenty of interesting stories to discover. For example, did you know that the red light district was once the city’s Jewish Quarter, and the prostitutes were rabbis’ wives? Or that Amsterdam played a significant role in the Second World War and was home to many resistance movements?

Explore the Anne Frank House and the Homomonument, a memorial for LGBT victims of persecution, and discover Amsterdam’s complicated history of religious and cultural tolerance.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Tips for Unique and Unforgettable Experiences

To experience Amsterdam like a local, rent a bike and ride through the Vondelpark or around the Jordaan neighborhood. Or take a canal tour on a historic boat and see the city’s waterways from a unique perspective.

For a truly unforgettable experience, take a day trip to Haarlem, a picturesque medieval city just 15 minutes by train from Amsterdam. Admire local architecture, visit a local brewery, or explore the Frans Hals Museum, which has a spectacular collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings.

Conclusion:

Whether you’re looking for art, history, food, or adventure, Amsterdam has something for everyone. Take advantage of this insider’s guide by experiences the city’s hidden gems, local food, cultural traditions, local history, and off-the-beaten-path activities, and you are sure to have an unforgettable trip.