Amsterdam in December
Not the best time
December delivers Christmas magic but brutal weather. The Light Festival and markets provide warmth, but you'll spend most time indoors.
Weather
December brings winter's full force with cold temperatures, frequent rain, and winds that cut through any jacket. The city stays dark until 8:30am and night falls by 4:30pm. Humidity stays uncomfortably high, making the cold feel more penetrating.
7°C high3°C low13 rain days
Crowds & Cost
moderate crowds
~$120/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Christmas markets
- •New Year's Eve celebrations
- •Amsterdam Light Festival
- •Sinterklaas (December 5)
December Tips
- •Christmas markets like the one at Leidseplein offer warm glühwein breaks between sightseeing
- •December hotel prices jump for New Year's week - book early or avoid December 28-January 2
- •New Year's Eve gets rowdy with fireworks everywhere - stay near your hotel after 10pm
All Months
April through September offers Amsterdam at its best. Tulip season peaks in April when Keukenhof Gardens bloom and King's Day (April 27) turns the entire city orange. May and June bring perfect cycling weather and longest daylight hours. July and August see peak crowds and prices, but also outdoor festivals and canal-side dining. September offers ideal temperatures with fewer tourists—locals call it the secret best month. October brings cozy brown cafe season but unpredictable weather. November through March means shorter days and frequent rain, though Christmas markets and lower hotel prices compensate. Museum visits work year-round, and indoor attractions like Heineken Experience stay busy regardless of weather. Book accommodations early for King's Day, Amsterdam Dance Event (October), and summer weekends.
Amsterdam Scores
Solo
9/10
Couples
8/10
Families
7/10
Adventure
5/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
7/10
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