Christmas in Amsterdam brings short days, cool air, and a festive atmosphere that fills the city with charm. You’ll usually see average daytime temperatures around 5–7°C (41–45°F), and nights drop close to freezing, often feeling even colder thanks to those damp winds.
Rain shows up more often than snow, but honestly, the holiday lights and cozy cafés more than make up for the gray skies.
You might catch some snowfall, though it’s usually light and never a guarantee. Most of the time, you’ll wander wet streets, pass misty canals, and maybe spot a frosty morning or two.
With only a handful of daylight hours, the city leans into its winter mood. This creates a perfect backdrop for warm drinks, ice skating rinks, and holiday markets.
This mix of brisk weather and festive traditions makes Amsterdam a unique place to spend Christmas. If you know what to expect, you can dress right, plan your outdoor time wisely, and enjoy the season without too many surprises.
Typical Weather Conditions During Christmas
When you spend Christmas in Amsterdam, you’ll notice short days, cool temperatures, and a mix of damp, breezy weather. Rain shows up more often than snow, and the chill often feels sharper because of the wind and humidity.
Average Temperatures and Daily Highs
In late December, Amsterdam’s average daytime high lands around 5–7°C (41–45°F). At night, temperatures usually drop to about 1–3°C (33–37°F).
These numbers put Christmas right in the middle of the city’s cool, damp winter.
Snowfall can happen, but it’s rare and usually comes as light flurries that melt fast. Most often, you’ll notice drizzle or cloudy skies.
Limited daylight adds to the wintry vibe. Around Christmas, the city gets less than 8 hours of daylight, with the sun setting before 5:00 p.m.
Evenings feel long and are perfect for holiday lights, but you’ll want to plan your outdoor activities for earlier in the day.
Rainfall and Precipitation Trends
Rain is just part of December in Amsterdam. On average, rainfall totals reach 60–70 mm for the month.
You’ll probably see precipitation on about 7 to 10 days during this time, though most of it comes as light or moderate showers, not heavy downpours.
Snow does show up occasionally, but rain is far more common. If snow falls, it usually adds up to just a few millimeters and melts quickly.
Because the climate stays damp, surfaces often feel slick, and walking along canals can be chilly. Wearing a water-resistant coat, scarf, and sturdy footwear really helps you stay comfortable while exploring the city at Christmas.
Humidity and Wind Patterns
Humidity hangs high in December, often above 80%, making the air feel colder than the numbers suggest. That damp chill is hard to ignore.
Wind also plays a big role. Breezes from the North Sea tend to be steady, and gusts are pretty common, especially in open areas near the canals.
Most days, wind speeds range between 15–25 km/h (9–15 mph), but stronger gusts happen too.
With all that humidity and wind, layering becomes essential. A warm sweater under a windproof jacket will keep you comfortable while you check out Christmas markets, skate, or wander the canals.
Chances of Snow and White Christmas
Snowfall around Christmas in Amsterdam is rare, but not impossible. You’ll usually get mild winter temperatures, frequent rain, and only a small chance of a true white Christmas.
If snow does fall, it tends to melt quickly due to the city’s climate and ground conditions.
Historical Snowfall Data
Amsterdam has a long record of mild winters, with just a handful of official white Christmases in the last hundred years.
The last time snow covered the ground on both December 25 and 26 was in 2010. Before that, it was also pretty uncommon, so it’s definitely a rare event here.
Meteorological data from the Dutch weather service shows that December usually brings only a few days of snowfall, often mixed with rain. Even then, snow rarely sticks around since temperatures hover just above freezing.
Statistically, you’ve got about a 7% chance of a white Christmas in the Netherlands, based on decades of records. That number comes from measuring whether snow fully covers the ground on both Christmas days.
Likelihood of Snow in December
December in Amsterdam usually brings temperatures between 3°C and 7°C (37°F–45°F). These conditions are just too warm for consistent snow.
You’ll likely see rain or a mix of rain and wet snow instead.
Forecast models often point to higher chances of rain, with precipitation days increasing as December goes on. On average, the city records about 22 mm of snow spread over 3–4 days in December, but most of it melts quickly.
You might see a slightly higher chance of snow just before Christmas, but honestly, it’s still low. If you’re hoping for snow-covered canals and rooftops, you’ll probably be disappointed, as wet and cloudy weather is much more common.
Impact on City Life and Travel
When snow does fall in Amsterdam around Christmas, it can affect daily routines, but usually in small ways. Streets and bike paths may get slippery, slowing down both cyclists and pedestrians.
Sometimes public transport experiences delays, especially with trams and buses.
Air travel at Schiphol Airport can face disruptions during heavier snow, but that’s rare. Most years, rain and wind are more likely to affect your Christmas travel than snow.
For visitors, snowfall adds a bit of magic to the canals and markets, but it rarely lasts. Pack waterproof clothing and good shoes—don’t bother with snow boots, since wet conditions are more common than icy ones.
Daylight Hours and Sunshine
In Amsterdam in December, the days are short and sunlight is limited. You’ll get fewer daylight hours and not much sunshine, which definitely impacts how much time you have for outdoor activities.
Length of Daylight
Around Christmas, daylight in Amsterdam is at its shortest for the year. The sun rises close to 8:45 AM and sets around 4:30 PM, giving you just 7.5 to 8 hours of daylight.
Mornings stay dark later, and evenings come on fast. If you want to see outdoor attractions, you’ll need to schedule them earlier.
For comparison, Amsterdam gets over 16 hours of daylight in June, so December feels noticeably dimmer and shorter. Visitors often remark on how quickly the city shifts from afternoon to evening.
The limited daylight also changes the city’s mood, with Christmas lights and decorations taking center stage as night falls early. It’s cozy, but you’ll want to plan your sightseeing carefully.
Average Sunshine Duration
Even when it’s technically daytime, sunshine is scarce in December. Amsterdam averages just about 2 to 3 hours of direct sunshine per day, making it the least sunny month of the year.
Clouds cover the sky most days, and rain isn’t far behind, so seeing blue sky is a treat. You might go several days without spotting the sun at all.
The monthly total comes out to around 60 to 70 hours of sunshine in December. In July, you could get more than 200 hours—so if you crave bright, sunny weather, winter here might not be your thing.
With the low sun angle and constant cloud cover, natural light feels soft and gentle. This subdued light gives Amsterdam its classic December look.
How to Dress and Prepare for the Weather
Temperatures in Amsterdam in December usually stay between 2°C and 7°C (35°F–45°F), with frequent rain and damp air. Short daylight hours and chilly winds mean you’ll need to dress in layers and prepare for wet conditions to stay comfortable while exploring.
Essential Clothing for December
Plan on wearing layers that you can add or remove as needed. Start with a warm base layer, like a thermal shirt or long-sleeve top, to trap heat.
Add a sweater or fleece, then top it off with a waterproof winter jacket that blocks both rain and wind.
For your legs, jeans or lined trousers work, but bring thermal leggings if you get cold easily. Waterproof boots with good grip are key, since streets can be slick from rain or occasional frost.
Thick socks, preferably wool, keep your feet warm and dry.
Accessories make a difference. A hat, gloves, and scarf are must-haves, especially at night when it gets colder.
Choose gloves that let you use your phone without pulling them off. A compact umbrella or a hooded coat is also handy, since showers can pop up with little warning.
| Item | Why It’s Needed |
|---|---|
| Waterproof jacket | Keeps you dry in frequent rain |
| Warm layers | Maintain body heat in cold air |
| Sturdy boots | Handle wet, slippery streets |
| Hat, gloves, scarf | Protect exposed areas from wind |
Packing Tips for Wet and Cold Conditions
December in Amsterdam isn’t extremely cold, but the damp air makes it feel colder than the numbers show. Pack clothes that dry quickly and resist moisture.
Cotton soaks up water and stays wet, so go for wool blends or synthetics.
Bring at least one extra pair of shoes in case your main pair gets soaked. Toss in a pack of quick-dry socks too.
Waterproof spray can help keep leather or fabric shoes safe from rain.
If you plan to cycle, wear slim but warm layers that won’t catch in the bike chain. A windproof jacket and light gloves help a lot on breezy days.
Keep your day bag ready for the weather. A water-resistant backpack cover or tote keeps electronics and documents safe.
Packing a foldable umbrella and a reusable water bottle means you’re ready for sudden showers and long walks.
If you focus on practical, weather-resistant clothing and smart packing, you’ll stay warm, dry, and comfortable while enjoying Amsterdam in December.
Festive Events and Christmas Atmosphere
During December, Amsterdam mixes seasonal traditions with modern attractions. You’ll find small but lively Christmas markets, large-scale light installations along the canals, and an indoor-outdoor winter fair packed with rides and ice activities.
These events create a festive atmosphere even if the weather stays cold and damp.
Amsterdam Christmas Markets Overview
Amsterdam’s Christmas markets are fewer and smaller than in some other European cities, but they’re cozy and inviting.
The main market happens at Museum Square, right behind the Rijksmuseum. Here, rows of wooden chalets sell gifts, snacks, and warm drinks.
Some years, you’ll also see an ice skating rink set up nearby.
Other markets around the city are smaller. Some pop up in neighborhoods for just a day or two, while others are themed winter bars.
If you want a sure thing, focus on the Christmas Village at Museum Square, which usually runs for about two weeks in mid-December.
Food is a highlight here. Try Dutch treats like oliebollen (fried dough balls) and sip mulled wine or hot chocolate.
If you want to avoid crowds, aim for weekday afternoons instead of weekends.
Amsterdam Light Festival Highlights
The Amsterdam Light Festival stands out as one of the city’s biggest seasonal attractions. Dozens of light artworks line the canals and streets, created by international artists.
The route changes every year, so the displays are always fresh.
You can check out the installations on foot, but the walking route can get long. Many people pick a canal cruise that passes by the main displays.
Evening cruises usually start at sunset, and covered boats keep you dry if it rains.
The festival runs from late November through January, so you can catch it before and after Christmas.
If you want to see every installation, download the official map or app. Otherwise, you’ll probably stumble across a few displays just by wandering central Amsterdam.
Amsterdam Winter Paradise Activities
The Amsterdam Winter Paradise takes place at the RAI convention center on Europe Square. It’s not a market, but a big winter fair with indoor and outdoor activities.
You’ll find ice skating, curling, sledding slopes, and a Ferris wheel. There are rides like carousels and swings, plus light displays and live entertainment.
Food and drink stalls offer seasonal snacks similar to those at Christmas markets.
You’ll need a ticket to get in, but most rides and activities are included once you’re inside. It’s a great option if you’re visiting with kids or teens.
Weekdays feel calmer, while weekends get busy. If you want a full day of winter fun, this event has just about everything.
Visiting Top Attractions During December
Cold weather and shorter daylight hours shape how you experience Amsterdam in December. Indoor attractions provide warmth and cultural depth.
Seasonal events add festive touches that change how familiar places feel.
Rijksmuseum and Museumplein in Winter
The Rijksmuseum always comes through in December. You can easily spend a full day indoors there, which is a relief when it’s hovering around 2–7°C (35–45°F) and the rain just won’t quit.
You’ll find Dutch masterpieces everywhere, making the hours fly by. Early December usually feels quieter, but more people show up as Christmas gets closer.
If you book tickets online ahead of time, you skip the lines—trust me, it’s worth it, especially during school breaks. The museum’s earliest time slots usually offer the calmest experience.
Step outside and you land right in Museumplein, which really comes alive in winter. Every year, a Christmas market pops up, and there’s an ice skating rink too.
People flock to these spots, especially in the two weeks before Christmas. Weekends get crowded, but weekdays are surprisingly peaceful.
If you want room to wander or snap some photos, go on a weekday afternoon while there’s still daylight.
Holiday Opening Hours and Tips
Most major attractions in Amsterdam, like the Rijksmuseum, stay open through December. But on December 25 and January 1, you’ll probably run into shorter hours or even closures.
It’s always smart to double-check schedules ahead of time. Museums and shops don’t always stick to the same routine, so you never really know.
Try to plan outings while there’s daylight. In December, sunrise doesn’t happen until about 8:45 AM, and sunset comes pretty early—around 4:30 PM. That means you get roughly 8 hours of decent light.
Indoor spots work better once it gets dark. Evening strolls outside? Not so much.
Here are a few tips for a smoother trip:
- Book online if you want to see the big museums.
- Go early to dodge the busiest crowds.
- Pick weekdays for markets or skating rinks.
These little steps help you make the most of the festive season, and maybe even dodge those frustrating lines.