What to do this winter in Amsterdam

Winter in Amsterdam is anything but quiet. The colder months bring a flurry of events and activities that celebrate creativity, culture and connection. CASA picked a few favourites to brighten up your stay:

Every winter, the city’s canals become a glowing gallery of light art. International artists transform the streets and waterways with dazzling installations that spark curiosity and conversation. Bundle up, hop on a boat or take a walk and let the city shine during Amsterdam Light Festival.

Whether you're a pro or just wobbling along, ice skating will give you instant cosy vibes. A local ice skating rink close to CASA is the Jaap Eden skating rink. Perfect if you want a nice winter work-out. Finish with a hot chocolate for a perfect afternoon.  

The Jaap Eden skating rink is open from 11 October until 22 March. 

When the chill sets in, Amsterdam’s spa and sauna scene offers the perfect escape. One gem that catches CASA’s curious eye is Badhus — a tiny sauna perched in North Amsterdam, gazing out over the water. It’s cosy, it’s quirky, and it’s wonderfully intimate. A little heads-up: this snug spot fills up fast, so booking ahead is a good idea. 

Are you looking for a bigger spa? CASA has listed 5 great spa's in Amsterdam for you.

Amsterdam offers plenty of ways to get creative. Whether it’s a sip and paint evening or a graffiti workshop, there is something for everyone. Pop into a ceramics café like Glazemade, where a warm coffee pairs perfectly with painting your own pottery. It’s simple, soothing and a perfect winter activity in Amsterdam. 

Enjoy live jazz in one of Amsterdam’s cosy music cafés, like jazz café Alto. For something a little bigger, venues like De Melkweg, Paradiso or Tolhuistuin offer live music in all shapes and sizes. Check their websites for the latest line-ups and tickets. CASA says: follow the rhythm, and see where the night takes you. 

Before and during Christmas, Amsterdam transforms into a magical place. The whole city is decorated with twinkling lights and you can find multiple Christmas markets:  

• Ice Village at Museum Square | 4-28 December 

• Funky Christmas market  at Westergas | 21 December 

• Pure markt at Park Frankendaelpark, just a short walk from CASA | 21 December

Yes, you heard that right, tulips in winter. On National Tulip Day, Museum Square turns into a colourful tulip garden where visitors can pick their own bouquet for free. It’s a cheerful celebration of Dutch florals and a bright splash of spring in the middle of winter.