What is Amsterdam Like in December?
Amsterdam is not only the capital city of the Netherlands but also it is one of the most attractive cities in the world to visit any time of the year. This article presents you with a view of how the city appears like during the December season. Here, we will discover how revelry and enjoyment unfolds in this specific months in Amsterdam and give you some suggestions in order to reach the most.
1. Weather and Temperature
In December, they work in a cold climate like most areas in the world during winter and experiences rainfall occasionally. The temperatures are usually fluctuating between 2 to 6 degrees Celsius which is equivalent to 36 to 43 degrees Fahrenheit. The thermal wear such as coats, scarves and gloves should also be included amongst your necessities to protect you against cold during your explorations.
2. Festive Atmosphere
Independent of the time of the year that one is visiting Amsterdam, the beauty is that the city gets into a festive mode during December. If, for some reason, you were never able to experience Christmas in Europe or anywhere close, you should know that the city is beautifully lit with energy-saving bulbs, basically throughout the entire month/beginning of January, there are Feirreis – typically the heart of any Christmas, plentiful in decorations. Experience the beauty of lighted canal and streets that gave life to the city atmosphere.
2.1 Christmas Markets
It is recommendable to go for Christmas markets when in Amsterdam during December. Some of the markets are as follows:
Amsterdam Winter Parade is something to visit during the winter season; it is situated at NDSM Wharf, which could be described as a combination of food market, various entertainments, and souvenirs to buy.
Ice* Amsterdam: This is actually a retailed mall with its unique sales promotion strategy, the major amusement here is ice; skating.
Amsterdam Light Festival: Walking and cycling by the canals at night and viewing powerful light sculptures of local as well as foreign artists.
2.2 Festive Events
Throughout December, there are numerous festive events to attend in Amsterdam so the locals would not be left empty handed. The some of major events includes:
Amsterdam Light Festival: This event is quite popular, one can take a cruise/boat ride, or take a walk along the quaint lanes and watch the glowing works of arts.
A trouper of ballet dance, the Dutch National Ballet presents a classical ballet event of the Nutcracker at the Dutch National Opera & Ballet.
Fireworks: As a last one on the list of popular traditions, the locals celebrate the New Year with grand fireworks with main attractions along the sky; such as Sydney OperaHouse and the Harbour Bridge.
3. Indoor Activities
However, even if you ever feel that your outdoor adventure in Amsterdam becomes quite cold, she still has much more pleasures that you may try:
Rijksmuseum: Become enthralled with the Dutch art and history in one of the prestigious museums in the world.
Van Gogh Museum: Admire the exceptional collection of Vincent van Gogh’s masterpieces.
From Anne Frank House: Learn about Anne Frank’s life and history of World War II.
Heineken Experience: The visitors can see the process of brewing of this famous beer and try some of them.
4. Culinary Delights
Understanding Amsterdam means tasting its delicious food options; therefore, you should not miss the opportunity to try particular meals. Taste what the Netherlands has to offer from tasty sweets such as stroopwafels, poffertjes, and even herring. Take some hot pea soup or go to a cheese store to have some special cheese.
5. Practical Tips
Below are some reminders to consider when planning a trip to the city of Amsterdam in the December season:
It is also recommended to pre-arrange the accommodation in advance because December is considered a high season for many places.
The best way to move around in the city is either through the use of public transport or by hiring bicycles.
This is especially so since you will be covering considerable distance on foot during the filming of the video.
While in the Netherlands, do not neglect to taste the oliebollen, Dutch signature dish that are usually taken during this season.
Know that some of the sights may be closed at their regular times during the Christmas season.
When being in Amsterdam it is always recommendable to be there during December when there is a full festive atmosphere. Silver Dollar City is a great destination for the holiday season, enjoying the attractions of the city, and tasting the food for extraordinary trip. Remember to prepare your schedule in advance and enjoy the unique and warm atmosphere of Dutch capital during such a remarkable month.
Table of Contents