Is Amsterdam too cold in December?

Yes, Amsterdam is cold in December, with chilly, damp, and often dark conditions, featuring average temperatures around 1-7°C (34-45°F) and frequent rain, though heavy snow is rare. It's essential to pack warm, layered clothing like wool sweaters, scarves, hats, and waterproofs for the brisk, wintry atmosphere, perfect for enjoying cozy cafes and festive lights despite fewer tourists and short days.

Is December 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.

Will it snow in Amsterdam in December?

The weather in Amsterdam in December is cold with average temperatures of around 5 °C. The colder temperatures bring with them the chances of snow and there are as many as 11 days of snowfall to be expected in December and January. Wind speeds also pick up in December which can make the temperatures feel even colder.

Is it worth going to Amsterdam for Christmas?

Highly recommend visiting Amsterdam at Christmas, its abit on the chilly side, but in some ways that's what makes it even more majestic, and picturesque than ever... ❤ Amsterdam at Christmas. A must see if you like Christmas Lights. Amazing Festivities always on...

Is Amsterdam cold at Christmas?

December - February

Winters in Amsterdam are cold, but it's arguably the coziest time to visit the city. Frozen canals, the chance of snowfall, and the holiday season make it a magical time of year. Plus, the annual Amsterdam Light Festival lights up the city's canals between November and January.

16 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Amsterdam 🇳🇱

How to dress in Amsterdam in December?

What to pack for Amsterdam in winter

1. Good winter boots. ...
2. Warm socks. ...
3. Jeans or warm legging. ...
4. Thermal underlay. ...
5. Long sleeve and short sleeve top. ...
6. Jumpers/ sweaters. ...
7. Warm waterproof jacket. ...
8. Hat, scarf, gloves, umbrella.

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.

Can I see tulips in Amsterdam in December?

Best time to see tulips in Amsterdam

Don't expect to see any tulip fields in December, January, or February. While it's very rare, you might get lucky and see a blooming tulip field in March. The blooming of Holland's flower fields is weather-dependent.

Is everything open in Amsterdam in December?

Most businesses and shops are closed but the majority of tourist attractions in Amsterdam are open. December 26 – Boxing Day – is also an official bank holiday in the Netherlands.

Is 3 days in Amsterdam too long?

Three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in the city. Amsterdam is quite small, so you don't have to be here for a long time to see all the best attractions. If you're wondering what to do in Amsterdam in 3 days, this is the article for you.

What is the best European city to visit in December?

December is perfect for winter holidays in Europe. Cities like Copenhagen, Hamburg and Vienna offer stunning Christmas markets, winter activities and festive traditions, making it a magical time to visit.

Is the Amsterdam Flower Market open in December?

The Amsterdam Flower Market is open all year round.

Is December too late for tulips?

And if you thought it was too late to plant bulbs, think again. Tulips grow well when planted between September and December. The key is to plant as soon as you can after buying or receiving by mail order so the bulbs don't deteriorate before they go in the ground.

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 Europe?

The 10 Most Magical Christmas Towns in Europe

1. Strasbourg, France. ...
2. Vienna, Austria. ...
3. Prague, Czech Republic. ...
4. Cologne, Germany. ...
5. Budapest, Hungary. ...
6. Tallinn, Estonia. ...
7. Basel, Switzerland. ...
8. Edinburgh, Scotland.

Is there a Christmas market in Amsterdam?

The Christmas Market is located at Museumplein in downtown Amsterdam. So combine a visit with a visit to the ice rink or one of the world-famous museums around the square. Below is a list of the museums and attractions close to the Christmas Market.

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.