Does it snow during winter in Amsterdam?

Yes, it does snow occasionally during winter in Amsterdam. You have to be pretty lucky however to witness the city as Winter Wonderland. On average it snows between 20-30 days per year in The Netherlands. However, snowfall here is often a sign that temperatures are rising. Thus, finding Holland covered with a thick blanket of snow is quite exceptional. This has to do with how Amsterdam is situated; usually, precipitation is coming from the North Sea in the North and East of The Netherlands. This air is usually warmer than the cold air from Central and Eastern Europe. When you do find Amsterdam covered in snow, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful pictures one can probably shoot of the Amsterdam landscape.

Enjoy the following photo report of Amsterdam after a snowstorm 11 December 2017. The snow-covered situation of Amsterdam is a rarity as you’ve understood by now, but it does make up for some lovely pictures! Also, read our blog post on things to do at Christmas / winter time in Amsterdam.

Normal weather during winter in Amsterdam

The sea climate in The Netherlands makes up for a lot of rain, snow, and hail during any season, but especially in the winter. The Dutch winters start in December and end in February. However, as the weather is always unpredictable, you might have wintery weather in November or March as well. So if you’re visiting Amsterdam during the winter, make sure to bring some clothes that keep you warm and dry. The temperatures can vary quite a lot; from 8 degrees below the freezing point to milder temperatures up to 10 degrees Celsius. The average temperature during winter is a few degrees above freezing. To keep you warm and comfortable during your stay in Amsterdam we recommend taking gloves and a warm head cover. Furthermore makes sense to bring some clothes that you can wear in layers; for instance, a sweater and a long sleeve shirt. If the sweater turns out to be too cold to fight the Dutch winter, you can always combine it with your shirt. It also allows you to take off one of your layers if it is getting too warm for the situation.

Things to do during winter in Amsterdam

If you’re planning to visit Amsterdam during winter, you’ll find some seasonal activities besides all the normal things to do in Amsterdam. Starting in December the annual Amsterdam Light Festival is being held for instance. During this event, the Amsterdam Canal Belt will be decorated with light sculptures designed by international artists. You can view these artworks during a cruise or via a walking route. Furthermore, you’ll find various Christmas markets throughout the city and on various squares, you can find food stalls, gluhwein and ice skating tracks. If you’re up for some Christmas shopping in Amsterdam, the various malls and departments stores have put effort into creating a true Christmas atmosphere. Are you looking for an ice cold experience but is the weather not cooperating? Then you might be interested in a drink in the Amsterdam ice bar.

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