Amsterdam may be famous for its tulips and summer canals, but the city transforms into something truly magical when winter arrives. Crisp air, glowing lights, cosy cafés and cultural buzz make it one of Europe’s most underrated cold-season destinations.
For those looking for an iconic European city to visit during the colder months, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines shares four reasons why Amsterdam deserves a spot on your winter travel list.
Better Deals and Fewer Crowds
Winter is generally the off-season for tourism in Amsterdam, with the exception of the busy Christmas and New Year period. From early January through February, accommodation prices drop noticeably compared to the summer peak, offering excellent value for travellers. With fewer visitors and shorter queues, you can enjoy major attractions at a more relaxed pace, whether you’re exploring the Anne Frank House, wandering through the Rijksmuseum, taking a peaceful winter canal cruise, or cycling along quieter city streets.
The Amsterdam Light Festival
From late November through January, Amsterdam becomes a dazzling, open-air gallery thanks to the annual Amsterdam Light Festival. This event transforms the city’s historic canals and bridges into a canvas for international artists. Instead of just looking at architecture, travellers are invited to experience it. The best way to view the complex installations is from the water itself. Taking a Light Festival Canal Cruise brings travellers closer to the illuminated art pieces, offering a perspective that is impossible to replicate on foot. It’s a magical, festive experience that truly lights up the darker winter evenings.
Ice Skating and Festive Markets
While the city’s famous canals rarely freeze solid enough for public skating anymore, Amsterdam sets up spectacular temporary ice rinks that capture the old-world winter spirit. The most iconic rink is often found at the Museumplein, directly in front of the illuminated Rijksmuseum. The city also hosts a number of festive markets like Winter Paradise and the ice village at Museumplein which offer everything from churros and glühwein to live entertainment, making it the perfect winter outing.
Experiencing Amsterdam’s Winter ‘Gezelligheid’
No winter trip to Amsterdam is complete without experiencing gezelligheid – that uniquely Dutch sense of warmth, comfort and togetherness. When the air gets colder, the city leans into its cosy side: glowing windows, busy cafés, and the kind of friendly, intimate atmosphere that makes you want to linger a little longer. Slip into one of Amsterdam’s iconic brown cafés, where wooden interiors, soft lighting and welcoming locals create the perfect escape from the chill. Whether sipping something warm or sharing classic winter treats like oliebollen or bitterballen, that easy charm that makes Amsterdam in winter so special is undeniable.
For South Africans, Amsterdam is wonderfully accessible, and getting there is part of the experience. KLM operates daily flights from both Johannesburg and Cape Town straight to Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, making your winter escape seamless from the moment you take off. With world-class service, convenient schedules and effortless connections, KLM takes the hassle out of long-haul travel. To explore routes or book your next adventure, visit www.klm.co.za.
