Things to Do in Amsterdam in
January 2026

Many tourists avoid visiting Amsterdam in winter due to its damp and cold weather, however, others prefer January because it is not the high season in Amsterdam, and it's not so crowded.

Weather in January is usually chilly, rainy and can be quite cold with nearly freezing temperatures, so dress accordingly. The average temperature in Amsterdam in January is around 3 degrees Celsius (38 Fahrenheit). It's the coldest month of the year in Amsterdam! So if you are planning to visit Amsterdam in January 2026, try to dress in layers and keep yourself warm! Let's go!

The Amsterdam Light Festival 2025-2026 runs from November 27, 2025, to January 18, 2026, marking the 14th edition of the event. This year’s theme is “Legacy”, inviting visitors to reflect on what we leave behind - culturally, personally, and collectively - through a series of illuminated artworks placed along Amsterdam’s historic canals. You can explore the festival on foot along a 6.5 km route or enjoy a 75‑minute canal cruise for a close-up view of the installations.

From November 27 to January 4, the lights switch on at 4:30 PM, shining until 11 PM (Wed-Sat) and 10 PM (Sun-Tue). From January 5 to January 18, they illuminate the city from 5 PM -with the same closing times. During the Christmas holidays (Dec 20-Jan 4), the lights stay on daily until 11 PM, while on New Year’s Eve, they turn off at 9 PM.

The festival features 20 light artworks created by international artists, transforming Amsterdam into a glowing open‑air gallery, an unforgettable winter experience for visitors of all ages.

Image by @ewout.pahud

Looking for fun winter activities in Amsterdam? Ice skating is one of the best things to do during the colder months, and the city offers several great rinks for the 2025-2026 season. Visitors can rent skates, enjoy hot chocolate, and taste traditional Dutch oliebollen - warm fried dough with apples, raisins, and powdered sugar.

Rembrandtplein Ice Rink
Part of Winter Festival Amsterdam, this central ice rink runs from November 15, 2025 to January 4, 2026. The square transforms into a festive winter setting with daily skating, cozy food stalls, and plenty of holiday atmosphere. It’s a popular stop for anyone exploring Amsterdam in December.

Jaap Eden Ice Rink
Jaap Eden is Amsterdam’s most iconic skating venue, featuring a 400‑meter outdoor track open through March 22, 2026. Skaters glide in one direction around the oval, creating a smooth and safe flow. The complex also includes an indoor rink and a beginners’ area, making it a top choice for families, locals, and visitors looking for a classic Dutch skating experience.

Museumplein Ice Rink (ICE Amsterdam)
Located in front of the Rijksmuseum, this picturesque rink operates from November 8, 2025 to January 30, 2026. It’s known for its charming winter setting, great photo spots, and easy access to Amsterdam’s major museums. Expect a lively crowd and plenty of seasonal treats.

Fabrique De Lumieres is the largest digital art center in the Netherlands, featuring impressive exhibitions by world famous artists, such as Gustav Klimt. The artworks are projected to walls that are up to 16 meters high, and provide a unique immersive experience that can't be compared to a regular visit to a museum.

There are four current expos:

Destination Cosmos - The Immersive Space Experience takes you on an awe-inspiring journey through the cosmos, from the launch pad at Cape Canaveral to the far reaches of the universe. Featuring stunning NASA imagery, you'll explore Martian canyons, dive into Jupiter's heart, glide across Saturn's rings, and experience the immensity of our universe.

From Vermeer to Van Gogh - Dutch Masters  transports you back to the 17th-century Dutch Golden Age, showcasing over 325 artworks by masters like Vermeer and Rembrandt. Experience daily life scenes, biblical themes, and enchanting winter landscapes, all brought to life with modern technology.

#MYGIRLWITHAPEARL - The Immersive Edition  reimagines Vermeer's iconic "Girl with a Pearl Earring" through modern interpretations. Featuring state-of-the-art projections and a specially designed soundtrack, this 7-minute audiovisual experience highlights the timeless beauty of this masterpiece.

Mondriaan - An Abundance of Colour  dives into the vibrant world of Piet Mondriaan, where bold colors and geometric forms come to life. This immersive exhibition celebrates Mondriaan's unique style and his contribution to abstract art, offering visitors a chance to experience his iconic works in a new and engaging way.

Check out more things to do at Fabrique Des Lumieres!

Image by tuku from Pixabay

Despite it's still winter, flower season is fast approaching! Every third Saturday of January, Tulip Day is celebrated in Amsterdam with giving away free tulips to everyone who want to get some fresh flowers!

This year it's on Saturday, January 17th, 2025 - mark the date! Location: Museumplein (of course you know where that is). And the theme of this year is "Connection".

This is the official beginning of tulip season, organized by Tulip Promotion Netherlands. After this day, tulips are going on sale everywhere in Netherlands - but on the National Tulip Day you can get them from the loving hands of Dutch farmers, right here at the Museumplein. There will be music, tulip party, friendly volunteers, and of course - beautiful flowers!