Top Netherlands Winter in 2026

Bypass the crowds and take in Amsterdam at night in a relaxed, warm setting on this Light Festival cruise. Journey through waterways aboard a covered saloon boat with unobstructed views of illuminated artworks and city highlights. Upgrade your experience to include unlimited drinks and light snacks. Ideal as a laid-back evening activity that lets you rest your feet.

Cruise the canals of Amsterdam to see the city illuminated during the Amsterdam Light Festival, and enjoy unobstructed views of the glowing artwork. All drinks are provided on this evening canal cruise, with options that include beer, wine, mulled wine, and soda. Heated cushions, blankets, and a covered bow ensure a comfortable cruise even if the weather is chilly, and the boat’s open back is ideal for photography.

Get the best views of Amsterdam’s Light Festival while floating along the canals on this award-winning group cruise. Grab your friends and board a traditional canal boat to marvel at the glowing artwork, projections, and installations lighting up the canal belt. As you cruise, hear about the city’s history from your guide and keep warm with hot drinks (extra expense).

Experience the No. 1 rated Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise. Enjoy cozy blankets, live storytelling, and an optional open bar with beer, wine, glühwein, tasty hot chocolate, and a welcome snack. Experience the enchantment of the Amsterdam Light Festival on an electric boat cruise with (optional) beer, wine, glühwein, hot chocolate, soda and a welcome snack. Embark on a journey of wonder and illumination while under warm blankets. Learn about the history of the canals and facts about the city. Settle into the luxurious comfort of a modern, fully electric boat, designed to shield you from the elements, and set out on a cruise through the vibrant heart of Amsterdam. As twilight descends, pass by a captivating gallery of 20 luminous art installations that adorn the canals. Wrapped in warmth with provided blankets, immerse yourself in the city's beauty and allure from the cozy haven of your boat. Listen to stories shared by your skipper or host(ess)

The best way to get around Amsterdam is on foot, but don’t let the cold weather put you off. This small-group winter walking tour shows off the city at its most atmospheric. Admire the UNESCO-listed canals, see landmarks such as the Royal Palace, the Munttoren, and the Flower Market dusted with snow, and more.

Get into the festive spirit on a private day trip to Amsterdam Christmas Market. With a glass of mulled wine in hand, explore traditional market stalls, browse artisanal decorations, and enjoy ice skating (optional). Led by a local guide—who knows the best way to navigate the market—immerse yourself in the city's bustling festive atmosphere at your own pace.

In December and January, Amsterdam is illuminated with unique artwork for the Amsterdam Light Festival. Experience it like a local—on two wheels—on this bike tour. There’s no need to worry about researching the route: Your guide looks after navigation with a break for a hot drink to beat the cold, too. Explore in a small group or upgrade for an even more personal experience on a private tour.

Book your own personal canal boat cruise for the Amsterdam Light Festival, which takes place on select dates from November through January. Aboard a 12-seater private boat just for your sole group, you’ll experience the festival’s art displays and light sculptures without the crowds. Just leave the navigation to the boat’s captain, and enjoy a welcome drink plus complimentary coffee or tea once on board.

Avoid crowds and long walks while still enjoying the magic of the Amsterdam Light Festival by experiencing it from the comfort of a heated, covered boat. Departing conveniently from Central Station, this canal cruise offers unlimited drinks and panoramic views of the city’s light installations. With an official audio guide included, learn the stories behind each artwork as you sail past. Sit back, relax, and make the most of photo ops from the lounge deck (or through the skylight)—no stress, just a smooth and cozy evening on the water.

Cruise through Amsterdam's shimmering canals during the Amsterdam Light Festival and take in the illuminated art with a German audio guide that fills you in on the stories you don't know. Enjoy clear, unobstructed views from your heated, covered boat with unlimited drinks. This shorter tour is perfect for visitors exploring Amsterdam during the winter season.

Make the most of the festive season on your Amsterdam vacation with this guided small-group Christmas walking tour. Begin with your choice of gluhwein (mulled wine), hot chocolate, and a Dutch Christmas treat while learning about the past of this vibrant city with the help of your guide. Check out popular neighborhoods such as Jordaan and Negen Straatjes (Nine Little Streets).

Experience the bright sights of the annual Amsterdam Light Festival in a more memorable way than simply walking on this canal boat experience. After you board the classic Dutch boat, glide through the world-famous Amsterdam canals and see many lit-up art installations along the way. Enjoy the option to buy drinks on board or upgrade to the unlimited package with mulled wine, beer, sodas, and more.

Skip crowded streets and escape to Amsterdam's well-known waterways on this cruise along the city's canals. Taking place during Amsterdam Light Festival, enjoy the illuminations on display from your comfortable seat onboard an electric canal boat. Stay cozy with the blankets provided for you to snuggle under, and choose whether to refuel by purchasing snacks and drinks at the bar.