Autumn in Amsterdam is wonderful. The canals shimmer under golden leaves, cosy cafés invite you in from the crisp air, and the city hums with culture, music, and creativity. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning to soak up the charm, autumn is the perfect time to explore. Here’s your guide to the must-see and must-do experiences in October and November.

Why Amsterdam in Autumn?

There’s something special about this season in the city. The soft light and cooler air make wandering historic streets, hopping on a canal cruise, or ducking into a hidden gallery even more enjoyable. Autumn also brings a fantastic line-up of events, from world-class exhibitions to lively festivals, that give visitors a real taste of Amsterdam’s vibrant spirit.

October Highlights

Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) | 22–26 October
Even if you’re not a dance floor regular, ADE is a city-wide spectacle worth seeing. Top DJs, buzzing venues, and streets alive with energy make it a unique way to experience Amsterdam after dark.

Amsterdam Art Week | 17–20 October
Discover the city’s art scene beyond the tourist favourites. Galleries and museums in Jordaan and De Pijp showcase installations, talks, and exhibitions, giving you plenty of inspiration and culture to soak up.

Van Gogh: Roulin Family Exhibition | 3 October–11 January
Step into Van Gogh’s world through this rare exhibition of the Roulin family portraits. It’s intimate, moving, and gives you a glimpse of the friendships behind the masterpieces.

Tilda Swinton Exhibition at EYE | 28 September–8 February
Film lovers, this one’s for you. Screenings, masterclasses, and installations celebrating Tilda Swinton’s career make for an immersive and memorable visit.

Tip: Both the Van Gogh and Tilda Swinton exhibitions continue into November, so you can plan your visit around other autumn events.

November Highlights

IDFA – International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam | mid–late November
Documentary fans, this is your moment. IDFA brings hundreds of films from around the world, offering stories that inform, inspire, and sometimes challenge you—all across the city’s top venues.

Amsterdam Art Weekend | 23–25 November
Amsterdam’s galleries and museums pull out all the stops for this weekend. Special exhibitions, open studios, and creative events make it the perfect chance to discover new artists—or see old favourites in a fresh light.

Amsterdam Light Festival | late November onward
As the nights get longer, Amsterdam shines. The canals are transformed with breathtaking light installations, best enjoyed on a cruise or a stroll. It’s the kind of magical experience that makes autumn evenings in the city unforgettable.

Make the Most of Autumn in Amsterdam

Autumn in Amsterdam is about atmosphere as much as it is about events. From world-class exhibitions to lively festivals and cosy strolls, there’s something to delight every visitor. Wander the golden streets, enjoy the art and music, and let the city work its autumn magic—you won’t forget it.

Discover the Netherlands with Pillows Maurits at the Park

The Netherlands has so much more to offer beyond the capital. Our concierge team at Pillows Hotels Maurits at the Park is here to help. From well-known highlights to hidden gems, we are delighted to recommend, reserve and arrange, so you can make the most of your time in Amsterdam and beyond.

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