5 Unique Places to Visit Amsterdam In Christmas

5 November, 2025 Sadia Jabeen 0 Comments 1 category

Amsterdam, with its charming canals, historic architecture, and vibrant streets, transforms into a magical wonderland during the Christmas season. Whether you’re planning a winter getaway or looking for festive inspiration, there are plenty of unique experiences waiting for you in this beautiful Dutch city. If you’re wondering where to go and what to see, here’s a guide to five unique places to visit in Amsterdam at Christmas that will make your trip memorable.

Find out how much the air ticket may cost

1: Amsterdam Light Festival

The Amsterdam Light Festival is one of the most exciting attractions during the festive season. The city’s canals are illuminated by creative light installations from local and international artists, transforming the entire city into a bright winter dream. Visitors can explore the festival by walking along the canals or hopping on a private light boat tour.

The festival typically runs from late November to early January, providing plenty of opportunities to experience artistic brilliance. With dancing reflections on the water and the fresh winter air all around you, the Amsterdam Light Festival is truly one of the unique places to visit Amsterdam at Christmas. It’s perfect for photography enthusiasts and anyone looking to enjoy the holiday vibe.

Where to Stay at the Amsterdam Light Festival

Attending the Amsterdam Light Festival is a magical experience, and choosing the right hotel nearby can make your trip even more enjoyable. Here are some of the recommended hotels near the festival, along with approximate nightly rates to help you plan your stay:

Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam – Rates from around US$200‑230 per night for 2 adults. This hotel offers luxurious rooms and easy access to the festival canals.
Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Maurits at the Park – Rates start at about US$254 per night depending on the room type and date. Located near Museumplein, it’s perfect for visitors looking to combine comfort with convenience.
Van der Valk Hotel Amsterdam Amstel – Sample rates start at approximately US$140‑150 per night for standard rooms. A great option for travelers who want modern amenities and easy access to festival routes.

2. Ice Village Amsterdam

For a festive first-hand experience of a fairy tale, a must-visit Ice Village Amsterdam Located in the Museumplein, this charming Christmas market features ice sculptures, cozy chalets, and an ice skating rink. You can enjoy traditional Dutch desserts such as oliebollen (Dutch cakes) or warm up with a thought out wine while wandering around the market.

Find out how much the hotel room may cost

Ice Village combines the spirit of a traditional European Christmas market with modern artistic flair. Kids will love festive decorations and fun activities, while adults can enjoy shopping for unique gifts. Visiting this market is one of the most joyful ways to celebrate the season and is definitely among the unique places to visit Amsterdam at Christmas.

Hotels near Ice Village Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s Ice Village, located in the Museumplein, is one of the city’s most festive Christmas attractions. Staying nearby makes it easy to enjoy the market, snowboarding, and the surrounding cultural sites. Here are some of the recommended hotels with current deals:

XO Hotels Amsterdam – Offers a “Winter Deal” including daily breakfast and exclusive benefits when booking directly.
Hotel de Hallen – Offers packages such as “Wine O’Clock”, “Romantic Getaway”, or “Birthday Getaway” deals, located close to Museumplein.
Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam Hotel – Enjoy up to 25% discount when booking directly, just a short walk to the Ice Village.
Conscious Hotel Museum Square – Boutique, eco-friendly stay only 0.6 km from Museumplein, with competitive rates starting around €146.

Find out how much car rental may cost

3: Vondelpark Winter Wonderland

If you’re looking for a combination of outdoor adventure and holiday cheer, Vondelpark Winter Wonderland is perfect. During Christmas, the famous Vondelpark transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, seasonal food stalls, and festive entertainment. Take a quiet stroll through the snow-covered trails, enjoy live music, and even skate on the makeshift outdoor skating rinks.

Vondelpark is a favorite of locals and, during the holiday season, offers a magical escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The peaceful environment combined with festive activities makes it one of the most unique places to visit in Amsterdam at Christmas.

Nearby Vondelpark Winter Wonderland Hotel Deals

Staying nearby allows visitors to fully enjoy the park, stroll along the scenic trails, and experience live entertainment. Here are some of the recommended hotels near Vondelpark:

Van der Valk Hotel Amsterdam Amstel – Comfortable rooms with easy access to the park and special “Christmas Package” offers.
Hotel Vondel – Boutique hotel located just a short walk from Vondelpark, offering modern amenities and seasonal deals.
NH Amsterdam Centre – Centrally located hotel with convenient access to Vondelpark and the city’s main attractions.
Conscious Hotel Museum Square – Eco-friendly boutique hotel about 1 km from Vondelpark, offering competitive rates and sustainable amenities.

Find out how much travel insurance may cost

4. The Jordaan District

For the most intimate and relaxing Christmas experience, head to the Jordan area. This historic neighborhood, known for its narrow streets and commercial shops, comes alive during the holiday season. Charming cafes offer seasonal specials such as hot chocolate and Dutch pastries, while the streets are decorated with festive decorations and lights.

When you walk through the Jordan, you can discover hidden courtyards and art galleries, giving you a more authentic sense of Amsterdam’s local culture. It’s perfect for those who like slow exploration, photography, and immersion in a festive atmosphere without crowds. The Jordan district is definitely one of the unique places to visit in Amsterdam at Christmas if you want to experience a mix of tradition and holiday charm.

Hotels near the Jordan District

Staying nearby allows visitors to explore the area at a leisurely pace, enjoy local cuisine, and experience Amsterdam’s authentic Christmas atmosphere. Here are some of the recommended hotels near Jordan:

Fletcher Hotel Amsterdam – Offers festive Christmas packages and is located just a short walk from the Jordaan streets.
Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam – Luxury hotel in the heart of the district, with elegant rooms and seasonal holiday deals.
The Toren Hotel – Boutique canal-side hotel offering charming rooms and special holiday rates.
Pulitzer Amsterdam – Historic hotel blending 25 canal houses, offering festive packages and easy access to Jordaan attractions.
Tip: The Jordaan District is popular during Christmas, so booking hotels early ensures the best rates and room availability.

Find out how much an eSIM may cost

5. Christmas at NEMO Science Museum

For an educational and family-friendly twist on holiday celebrations, the NEMO Science Museum offers an unparalleled festive experience. During Christmas, the museum hosts special interactive exhibits, workshops, and activities for children. From science experiments to hands-on demonstrations, it’s a fun way to keep kids entertained while enjoying the holiday spirit.

Even adults can enjoy creative decorations and special occasions. NEMO’s rooftop terrace offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city covered in winter charm, making it a unique spot for photography. This destination is one of the unique and creative places to visit in Amsterdam at Christmas, offering a mix of learning, fun, and holiday celebration.

Nearby Christmas Nemo Science Museum hotel deals

The NEMO Science Museum offers a fun and educational twist on holiday celebrations. With interactive exhibitions, workshops, and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of Amsterdam, it’s an ideal destination for families during Christmas. Staying close ensures easy access to the museum and other attractions in the city. Here are some of the recommended hotels near Nemo:

Hyatt Regency Amsterdam – Upscale hotel with festive dining options and holiday packages, located near NEMO Science Museum.
Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Centre – Family-friendly hotel just a short walk from the museum, offering special seasonal rates.
Room Mate Aitana – Modern design hotel on an artificial island with easy access to NEMO and the city center.
DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station – Convenient location for museum visits and offers holiday packages for festive travelers.
Tip: Book early during the Christmas season as hotels near NEMO fill up quickly due to its popularity with families and tourists.

Final Thoughts:

Amsterdam at Christmas is a city full of magic, lights, and festive joy. From the dazzling canals of the Amsterdam Light Festival to the cozy streets of the Jordan district, there’s something for every type of traveler. Exploring icy villages, winter wonders, and family-friendly museums adds layers of joy and excitement to your holiday trip.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back to experience new traditions, these 5 unique places to visit in Amsterdam at Christmas are guaranteed to create memories that will last a lifetime. Make sure to dress warmly, plan your itinerary in advance, and indulge in the magic that Amsterdam can only offer during the festive season. For the latest deals on flights and accommodations to Amsterdam, check out Nanajee Travels to plan your perfect Christmas holiday today.

Follow Nanajee (Grandpa) Travels for cheap airline tickets, great hotel rooms and best deals on car rentals.

See world, save money, use Nanajee Travels

Other travel related blogs:

A

B

C

D

E

F

H

I

J

JetBlue Deals: Save Up to $750 on Flights and Hotels

L

M

14 must see places in Tokyo JAPAN

N

P

Q

S

T

Category: Travel Tips