Enchanting Activities to Embrace the Season
The country transforms into a magical wonderland as winter blankets the Netherlands in a pristine layer of snow. From charming Christmas markets to exhilarating outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the winter season.
Let’s explore delightful winter activities in the Netherlands, complete with details about the places to visit, activities to partake in, and nearby eateries to savor the local cuisine.
Ice Skating in Amsterdam
Lace up your skates and glide through the iconic canals of Amsterdam during the winter months. The Museumplein and Leidseplein areas often have temporary ice rinks.
Recommended Eateries: Warm up with a cup of hot cocoa at Pancakes Amsterdam, or indulge in Dutch pancakes at The Happy Pig Pancake Shop.
Winter Efteling
Experience the enchanting Winter Efteling, a fairytale theme park adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Enjoy winter-themed rides and attractions.
Recommended Eateries: Try the hearty winter stews at Het Wapen van Raveleijn or savor traditional Dutch poffertjes.
Christmas Markets in Maastricht
Stroll through the charming streets of Maastricht adorned with lights and decorations, during the magical Christmas markets.
Recommended Eateries: Warm up with a bowl of erwtensoep (pea soup) at Café Sjiek or indulge in Belgian chocolates at Friandises.
Giethoorn – The Venice of the North
Explore the picturesque canals of Giethoorn by taking a winter boat tour, or try ice fishing on the frozen waterways.
Recommended Eateries: Enjoy Dutch pancakes at De Grachthof or savor seafood at De Lindenhof.
Skiing in Landgraaf
Hit the slopes at SnowWorld in Landgraaf, the largest indoor ski resort in the world.
Recommended Eateries: Refuel with hearty Dutch cuisine at Taverne De Grenssteen or enjoy après-ski snacks at the resort.
Scheveningen Beach
Embrace the winter breeze at Scheveningen Beach, where you can walk briskly along the shore or witness the breathtaking New Year’s Dive.
Recommended Eateries: Warm up with a bowl of Dutch herring at Simonis aan Zee or enjoy seafood at Catch by Simonis.
Glow Eindhoven Light Festival
Witness the city of Eindhoven transformed into a mesmerizing light spectacle during the Glow Eindhoven Light Festival.
Recommended Eateries: Savor Dutch specialties at Usine or tapas at El Puente.
Utrecht Winter Circles
Skate under the Dom Tower in Utrecht during the Winter Circles event, which features an ice rink in the city’s heart.
Recommended Eateries: Enjoy a warm cup of soup at Broodnodig or try traditional Dutch bitterballen at Café Olivier.
Dordrecht Christmas Market
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the Dordrecht Christmas Market, one of the largest and oldest in the Netherlands.
Recommended Eateries: Indulge in Dutch street food at De Vrije Markt or enjoy a cozy dinner at Het Bolwerck.
De Uithof Ice Karting
Experience the thrill of ice karting at De Uithof in The Hague, a unique winter activity for adrenaline junkies.
Recommended Eateries: Grab a quick bite at Cafetaria De Uithof or enjoy Italian cuisine at Isola Bella.
Amsterdam Light Festival
Cruise through the illuminated canals of Amsterdam during the Amsterdam Light Festival, featuring captivating light installations.
Recommended Eateries: Enjoy a cozy dinner at Bistro Bij Ons or savor Dutch cheese at De Kaaskamer.
Winter Zoo in Rotterdam
Visit Diergaarde Blijdorp, the Rotterdam Zoo, during the winter season, where you can experience the magic of the Winter Zoo.
Recommended Eateries: Grab a coffee at Coffee Fellows or enjoy a meal at De Beren.
Winter Hiking in Veluwe
Explore the snow-covered landscapes of Veluwe National Park on winter hiking trails.
Recommended Eateries: Warm up with Dutch pastries at De Rozentuin or savor game dishes at Echoput.
Ice Sculpture Festival in Zwolle
Marvel at the intricately carved ice sculptures at the Ice Sculpture Festival in Zwolle.
Recommended Eateries: Satisfy your sweet tooth at Bonbonnerie Borrel or enjoy a Dutch pancake at De Gillende Keukenmeiden.
Kinderdijk Windmills
Admire the iconic windmills of Kinderdijk against a backdrop of snow-covered fields.
Recommended Eateries: Savor Dutch cheeses at Kaas- en Notenhandel J.C. Biemond or enjoy pancakes at De Pannekoe.
Groningen Winterwelvaart
Experience the historic Winterwelvaart festival in Groningen, featuring a Christmas market along the canals.
Recommended Eateries: Enjoy local cuisine at De Buren or try Indonesian specialties at De Kleine Moghul.
Heineken Experience in Winter
Tour the Heineken Experience in Amsterdam and enjoy a unique winter twist to the brewery experience.
Recommended Eateries: Grab a burger at Cannibale Royale or enjoy Dutch fries at Manneken Pis.
Texel Winter Market
Visit the Texel Winter Market to explore local crafts, food, and festive entertainment.
Recommended Eateries: Savor seafood at De Oude Vismarkt or enjoy Texel lamb at Bij Jef.
Leiden Ice Sculpture Festival
Marvel at breathtaking ice sculptures at the Leiden Ice Sculpture Festival, a winter spectacle for art enthusiasts.
Recommended Eateries: Satisfy your sweet cravings at IJscafé Danice or enjoy a cozy dinner at Annie’s Verjaardag.
Amersfoort Winter Glow
Discover the charm of Amersfoort during the Winter Glow event, featuring light installations and festive activities.
Recommended Eateries: Savor Italian cuisine at La Salute, or enjoy Dutch snacks at Stadscafé De Observant.
Tips when visiting the Netherlands during the winter season:
Visiting the Netherlands during the winter can be a magical experience, with charming Christmas markets, winter sports, and festive events.
Here are seven tips to make the most of your winter visit:
Dress in Layers
The Dutch winter can be cold and damp, so dressing warmly is essential. Wear layers to stay comfortable, and remember to wear a waterproof outer layer to protect against rain or snow.
Explore Christmas Markets
Experience the festive atmosphere by exploring Christmas markets. Cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Maastricht host charming markets with stalls selling crafts, holiday treats, and unique gifts. Take advantage of the opportunity to try Dutch holiday specialties like oliebollen (deep-fried dough balls) and stroopwafels.
Enjoy Winter Sports
If you’re a winter sports fan, consider visiting areas like Limburg or the Ardennes for skiing and snowboarding. Even if you’re not into winter sports, these regions offer beautiful winter landscapes for a peaceful getaway.
Visit Ice Skating Rinks
Embrace the Dutch tradition of ice skating. Many cities set up temporary outdoor ice rinks during the winter months. Skating in iconic locations like the canals of Amsterdam or the historic town squares can be a memorable experience.
Experience Dutch Cuisine
Warm up with hearty Dutch winter dishes. Try erwtensoep (split pea soup), stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables), and Dutch-style hot chocolate. Many restaurants feature seasonal menus with comforting dishes to keep you warm.
Explore Festive Illuminations
Enjoy the festive lights and decorations that adorn Dutch cities during the winter. Walk through beautifully lit streets, visit illuminated gardens, and enjoy the enchanting atmosphere. Amsterdam’s Light Festival is a notable event where artists showcase their light installations throughout the city.
Check Event Calendars
Research local event calendars for winter festivals, concerts, and other cultural activities. From Christmas parades to New Year’s Eve celebrations, numerous events enhance your winter experience in the Netherlands.
As we bid farewell to the enchanting Winter Wonderland in the Netherlands, it’s impossible not to be captivated by the magical tapestry of snowy landscapes, festive markets, and the warmth of Dutch hospitality.
The serene canals frozen in time, adorned with twinkling lights, create a picturesque scene that lingers in the heart.
Whether you’ve indulged in traditional Dutch treats, glided across frozen lakes, or reveled in the cozy ambiance of winter festivities, the Netherlands has undoubtedly cast its spell on all who have experienced its winter wonder.
As we step back into the brisk embrace of reality, the memories of this snow-kissed paradise will continue to echo, reminding us of the unparalleled beauty and charm that define the Dutch winter wonderland.
Until next winter’s embrace, we carry with us the cherished moments and the enduring magic of this captivating seasonal spectacle.
