Does it snow in Amsterdam at Christmas?

It's possible to see snow in Amsterdam at Christmas, but a true "white Christmas" with significant snow cover is rare, though recent years have seen snow closer to the holiday season, making it a possibility. Expect cold, wintry weather with chances of rain, frost, and occasional snowfall, with average temperatures around 1-7°C (34-45°F).

Does it snow in Amsterdam during Christmas?

It may snow from time to time, but seldom a lot. And a white Christmas in Amsterdam is a rare occurrence.

Does Amsterdam have White Christmas?

According to the the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI), there have only been 8 official white christmases since records began in 1901. These came in 1906, 1938, 1950, 1964, 1981, 2009, and 2010.

Is Christmas a good time to visit Amsterdam?

There is NO bad time to visit Amsterdam. The prices in December for airfare and lodgings will be far less than Summer, and less crowds. In December there will be the beauty of Holiday decorations and lights everywhere and it's a great place to do Holiday Shopping for gifts.

What is Amsterdam like on Christmas Day?

December 25 – Christmas Day is an official public holiday in the Netherlands. Most businesses and shops are closed but the majority of tourist attractions in Amsterdam are open.

[4K] Amsterdam's Winter Magic in Snow | 4K Winter Walking Tour | HDR 60fps

What is the most Christmassy town in the Netherlands?

Did you know that in 2025, Christmas Town Valkenburg received the award for Best Christmas Parade in Europe, Best Christmas Market in the Netherlands and placed 7th in the competition for European's Best Christmas Market.

How to dress for December in Amsterdam?

Packing list for Amsterdam in winter. Winter can be quite grim in the Netherlands, if it's not snowy then it's usually just grey, cold and often rainy. Make sure you have warm layers, waterproof shoes and a proper water-proof coat with a hood rather than bothering with an umbrella.

What day is everything closed in Amsterdam?

Traditionally, shops and markets are closed all day Sunday and Monday mornings. According to the law all shops in Amsterdam are allowed to be open every day from 6:00 (6am) to 22:00 (10pm). This also applies to Sundays and most public holidays. There are 3 days when all shops must be closed from 19:00 (7pm):

Is Amsterdam really cold in December?

Amsterdam's winter weather will be the most challenging part of any December visit for anyone not used to harsh winters. Expect it to be cold and wet, dress appropriately, and you'll be fine. Temperatures range from highs around 43°F to lows that dip to 36°F.

Is Amsterdam still Christmassy in January?

Yes, Amsterdam retains a festive winter atmosphere into early January, thanks to the extending Amsterdam Light Festival, cozy winter vibes, and the end of some Christmas markets (often until Jan 3rd/5th) with their lights and skating, though the main holiday rush and full market setup winds down after New Year's. You'll find twinkling lights, fewer crowds, and seasonal treats like oliebollen, making it charmingly festive but less intense than December.
 

Does Amsterdam get a lot of snow?

On average it snows between 20-30 days per year in The Netherlands. However, snowfall here is often a sign that temperatures are rising. Thus, finding Holland covered with a thick blanket of snow is quite exceptional.

What is the 30 rule in Amsterdam?

The 30% ruling means that 30% of the gross salary can be paid out tax-free as a non-taxable allowance. This is intended to cover the additional costs an international employee incurs when working and living in the Netherlands. The most common way this scheme is applied is by reducing the employee's gross salary by 30%.

What is the Dutch three kiss rule?

The 3 kisses

The Dutch greet close friends and family with three kisses. The tradition goes like this: women kiss each other on the cheeks—first on the right, then the left, and back to the right. Men shake hands with each other and then kiss women lightly on the right, left, and right cheek.

What not to bring to Amsterdam?

What not to pack for a trip to Amsterdam

• Blowdryer (if you have a different plug type than the EU): These little machines will often burn out if you try to use them with a classic travel adaptor. ...
• Stiletto heel: Not all high heels are the same. ...
• Over-the-counter medicine: ...
• Cash: ...
• Pocket knives:

What is the most magical Christmas town in the world?

Rovaniemi, Finland (Santa Claus Village)

Often called the best Christmas town in the world. Village Inspiration: Snowy rooftops, log cabins, Santa's Workshop.

What do Dutch eat at Christmas?

Christmas is after all what you make it. But in traditional settings, and on the menu of Dutch restaurants that offer a multiple course diner on Christmas Day, you'll find a similar pattern as the one described above. The main course is often wild, or game meat: venison, deer, or smaller game like hare or rabbit.

Which nationalities don't celebrate Christmas?

Countries in which Christmas is not a formal public holiday include Afghanistan, Algeria, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bhutan, Cambodia, China (excepting Hong Kong and Macau), the Comoros, Iran, Israel, Japan, Kuwait, Laos, Libya, the Maldives, Mauritania, Mongolia, Morocco, North Korea, Oman, Qatar, the Sahrawi Republic, ...