Winter in Amsterdam: Recommendations by Concierge Michael

I always feel winter season is the time when Amsterdam reveals its softer side: crisp air, warm light, and traditions that make the city feel wonderfully familiar. In this blog, I’m sharing the winter experiences I personally return to each year, along with a few tips I love recommending to our guests. I hope they make your stay just as memorable.

A Timeless Winter Tradition: Ice-Skating on Museumplein

There’s something magical about gliding over the ice with the Rijksmuseum towering behind you. The seasonal rink on Museumplein is one of my favourite winter traditions - lively, nostalgic and ideal for a festive afternoon.

For guests who prefer a more authentic skating experience, I often recommend the Jaap Eden Ice Rink, open from October to March. Its outdoor track is beloved by Amsterdammers and always worth a visit if you’d like to experience a true local winter.

Winter Culture: Three Exhibitions Worth Exploring

Winter is one of the best times to immerse yourself in Amsterdam’s cultural scene. These three exhibitions each offer something unique, and I’m glad to highlight them for guests seeking both inspiration and warmth indoors.

Stedelijk Museum – Erwin Olaf Exhibition

At the Stedelijk Museum, you’ll find an intimate new exhibition dedicated to Dutch photographer Erwin Olaf, on view until March. This is a fascinating exhibition for anyone who appreciates photography with emotional depth, offering a touching glimpse into Olaf’s creative world.

Art Zoo at Huis Vasari

Inside the beautifully preserved Huis Vasari on the Herengracht, Art Zoo surprises with theatrical taxidermy in an atmospheric 17th-century setting. The giant aviaries and life-sized T-Rex never fail to impress. I find the contrast between the historic mansion and contemporary artistry particularly memorable.

Fabrique des Lumières

This immersive experience brings masterpieces to life through large-scale projections, colour and sound. It’s one of my favourite suggestions for a cosy indoor afternoon, especially on colder days.

See Amsterdam Illuminated: Amsterdam Light Festival

From late November through mid-January, Amsterdam transforms into a glowing open-air gallery. The Amsterdam Light Festival is an experience I look forward to every year, seeing the canals illuminated by works of art never loses its charm.

My personal recommendation is to enjoy the festival from a private saloon boat. Drifting past the installations with a glass of champagne in hand is, in my opinion, one of the most magical ways to experience a winter evening in Amsterdam.

Seasonal Dining: My Personal Recommendations

Amsterdam’s culinary scene is thriving, and I’m pleased to share a few restaurants I frequently recommend to guests looking for something beyond the Michelin-starred names.

Kaagman & Kortekaas
A farm-to-table concept known for craftsmanship and a menu that changes with the seasons. I appreciate the sincerity of their cooking.

Restaurant Veneur
French-oriented dishes served in a warm, intimate setting, ideal for unhurried winter evenings.

Restaurant Kien
Thoughtful dishes, excellent wine pairings and a relaxed atmosphere. I often suggest this to guests seeking something elegant and understated.

Your winter programme, personally tailored

Make your winter experience complete with a stay at Pillows Hotels. Elegant comfort, warm hospitality and the most beautiful places in Amsterdam within easy reach. Everything is here to make your visit unforgettable.

Whether you dream of a tranquil canal cruise, an afternoon immersed in art, or a special dinner in one of Amsterdam’s atmospheric restaurants: I’m happy to help you create a winter stay tailored to your wishes. Share your preferences before or during your visit, and I will gladly arrange a personalised programme for your time in this wonderful city.