Winter activities in the Netherlands

Winter in the Netherlands has its own unique charm. Despite the cold, there are plenty of activities you can do to enjoy the season. Whether you enjoy sporting adventures, cultural trips or prefer to stay cozy inside, there is something for everyone. Here are some fun winter activities in the Netherlands that you shouldn’t miss.

Ice skating on natural ice or artificial ice rinks

Ice skating is a classic Dutch winter activity. As soon as it freezes hard enough, you see people enthusiastically putting on their skates to skate on frozen ditches, lakes and canals. If natural ice is not possible, there are artificial ice rinks scattered throughout the country. Think of the Jaap Edenbaan in Amsterdam, De Uithof in The Hague, Kunstijsbaan Breda or the Thialf ice rink in Heerenveen. Many cities also open temporary skating rinks in the city center during the winter, such as on the Museumplein in Amsterdam and in the center of Maastricht.

In our blog The nicest ice skating rinks that you can find on our website you will get many more tips about nice ice skating rinks in the Netherlands.

Hiking in winter nature reserves

Dutch nature is perhaps at its most beautiful in winter, when a layer of frost or snow covers the landscapes. Nature reserves such as the National Park de Hoge Veluwe, and National Park Dwingelderveld lend themselves perfectly to a winter hike. Enjoy the tranquility, fresh air and the chance to spot wildlife, such as deer and wild boar. Some nature reserves offer special winter walks with guides.

Visit a Christmas market

Christmas markets have become increasingly popular in the Netherlands and offer a wonderful way to get into the festive mood. Valkenburg is known for its underground Christmas market in the caves, which is a unique experience. Other fun Christmas markets can be found in cities such as Maastricht, Haarlem, and The Hague. Enjoy hot chocolate, mulled wine, and artisan products as you stroll through the attractively lit stalls. You can find more tips for fun Christmas markets in the Netherlands in our blog The most beautiful Christmas markets.

Winter Efteling

The Winter Efteling is a magical experience for young and old alike. The amusement park is transformed into a fairytale winter paradise, complete with thousands of lights, campfires and winter attractions. There are special winter shows and ice skating rinks in the park, and you can warm up with hot drinks at one of the many eateries.

Cross-country skiing and sledding

Although the Netherlands has no mountains, there are places where you can cross-country ski or sled if there is enough snow. In Limburg, there are some hilly areas, such as near the Vaalserberg, where you can enjoy these winter sports. Also in the dunes, when there is snow, you can enjoy an exciting sledding experience. In addition, some indoor winter sports centers, such as SnowWorld in Landgraaf,offer tubing activities in an indoor setting.

City walk with winter lights

Many Dutch cities hang beautiful lights in winter, providing an atmospheric backdrop during a city walk. Amsterdam Light Festival is a perfect example of this: modern works of light art illuminate the canals of Amsterdam, offering an enchanting view during a walk or boat ride. Cities such as Delft, Utrecht, and Groningen also often feature impressive winter lighting. And how about IJsselstein? Here the Gerbrandytoren turns into the largest Christmas tree in the Netherlands!

Wellness and relaxation

What could be better than warming up in a sauna or spa after a cold winter day? The Netherlands has plenty of wellness resorts where you can fully relax. For example, Thermen Bussloo and Elysium are well-known wellness centers where you can enjoy saunas, steam baths and hot baths. In winter, many spas offer special packages with hot drinks and winter dishes to complete your experience. In our blog Visit a sauna in autumn on the website you can read more tips for a great day at the sauna, such as Sauna Het Friese Woud and SpaPuur.

Snow fun at indoor ski halls

If you can’t wait for the winter vacation or just want to practice, indoor ski halls are a great alternative. SnowWorld in Landgraaf and Zoetermeer are the best-known locations where you can ski and snowboard on real snow all year round. But also at De Uithof in The Hague and at Montana snowcenter near Eindhoven, you can enjoy skiing. A perfect activity for an adventurous day out in winter.

Cozy cooking and baking together

When it is really inclement outside, it can also be great to stay inside and cook and bake together with friends or family. Make winter dishes like pea soup, stew or bake your own Christmas cookies. Not only is it cozy, but it also fills the house with delicious smells that suit winter.

Christmas circus and winter performances

During the holidays, there are numerous Christmas circuses and special winter performances to visit in the Netherlands. Large cities such as Amsterdam and The Hague often offer Christmas circuses with spectacular acts. There are also many theaters that organize musical performances and plays during the holidays that enhance the atmosphere of winter and the holidays.

Credits photos: OpstapmetLisa and Canva.com