Why to Celebrate New Year in Amsterdam?
Things to Do on New Year in Amsterdam
Watching spectacular fireworks across Amsterdam is one of the most popular things to do on New Year's Eve. Many public squares and bridges throughout the city offer prime viewing spots for the fireworks display, which typically starts at midnight. Visitors can join locals in celebrating the new year and enjoy the festive atmosphere of Amsterdam.
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The Amsterdam Winter Paradise is a seasonal event that takes place in the RAI Amsterdam convention center, featuring an indoor ice-skating rink, amusement rides, and other winter-themed activities. Visitors can enjoy the winter wonderland atmosphere and warm up with hot drinks and food at the various stalls.
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The Amsterdam Light Festival is an annual event that takes place from November to January, featuring stunning light installations and art displays throughout the city. Visitors can take a guided boat tour to see the installations from the water or explore the various artworks on foot. The festival is a great way to experience Amsterdam's vibrant art and culture scene during the holiday season.
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Celebrating New Year's Eve at Museumplein is a popular option for visitors looking for a festive outdoor gathering. The square hosts a free New Year's Eve party, featuring live music and entertainment, food and drink stalls, and a spectacular fireworks display at midnight. Visitors can join locals in celebrating the new year and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city center.
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Efteling is a theme park located outside Amsterdam that offers a fairytale-like experience for visitors of all ages. During the holiday season, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland, with festive decorations, holiday-themed attractions, and live entertainment. Visitors can enjoy rides, explore the park's magical atmosphere, and ring in the new year with special fireworks and other celebrations.
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Taking Amsterdam canal cruise is a classic experience that can be enjoyed year-round, including on New Year's Eve. Visitors can enjoy a cosy and romantic atmosphere on the water while taking in the city's stunning architecture and festive decorations. Many tour operators offer special New Year's Eve cruises that include food, drinks, and fireworks viewing.
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Taking the New Year's Dip at Zandvoort aan Zee is a traditional Dutch way to start the new year. This event involves thousands of participants jumping into the chilly waters of the North Sea at the beach town of Zandvoort aan Zee, located just outside of Amsterdam. Visitors can join in the fun or simply watch the spectacle from the sidelines while enjoying the lively beach atmosphere.
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Feasting on festive delicacies is an essential part of New Year's Eve celebrations in Amsterdam. Visitors can sample traditional Dutch treats, such as oliebollen (deep-fried dough balls covered in powdered sugar) and appelflappen (apple turnovers), at the city's many street stalls and markets. Many restaurants also offer special holiday menus featuring seasonal ingredients and dishes.
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Places to Visit on New Year in Amsterdam
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Know Before You Go to Amsterdam in New Year
- Rent a Bike: Amsterdam is known as the biking capital of the world, and renting a bike is the best way to get around.
- Take the Tram: The city has an extensive tram network that covers most of the city, making it easy to get to popular tourist spots.
- Walk: Amsterdam is a very walkable city, and you can explore its narrow streets and canals on foot.
- Use the Metro: The metro is the fastest way to get from one part of the city to another.
- Hire a Taxi: Taxis are available throughout the city, but they can be expensive.
- Uber or Lyft: Uber and Lyft are available in Amsterdam, and they offer a convenient and affordable way to get around.
- Take a Canal Cruise: Exploring Amsterdam's canals is a must-do activity, and taking a canal cruise is a great way to do it.
- Rent a Scooter: Scooter rentals are available throughout the city, and they offer a fun and unique way to get around.
- Use the Ferry: The city has several free ferries that run across the river, offering great views of the city.
- Try the Electric Bus: Amsterdam has a growing fleet of electric buses, which are eco-friendly and quiet.
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- Book accommodation early: Amsterdam is a popular destination during the New Year, so book your accommodation early to avoid disappointment.
- Dress warmly: Amsterdam can be cold and damp during the winter months, so make sure to dress warmly and bring waterproof gear.
- Experience the fireworks: The city puts on an impressive fireworks display on New Year's Eve, so find a good spot to watch and celebrate.
- Explore the Christmas markets: The city's Christmas markets are a must-see during the holiday season, with plenty of festive food and drinks to enjoy.
- Visit museums and attractions: Many of Amsterdam's museums and attractions are open during the New Year, so take advantage of the quieter crowds and visit some of the city's top sites.
- Enjoy Dutch treats: Indulge in some of the city's delicious Dutch treats, such as oliebollen (doughnuts) and erwtensoep (pea soup).
- Take a canal cruise: A canal cruise is a great way to see the city's famous canals and festive lights during the New Year.
- Attend a concert or performance: Amsterdam has a thriving music and theater scene, with many shows and concerts taking place during the holiday season.
- Join in the festivities: Amsterdam has a lively nightlife scene, so join in the festivities and celebrate the New Year with locals and tourists alike.
- Stay safe: Like any big city, Amsterdam can be busy and chaotic during the holiday season, so stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to stay safe.
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FAQ's
Is it advisable to book accommodation in advance for New Year's Eve in Amsterdam?
It is highly advisable to book accommodation in advance for New Year's Eve in Amsterdam. Amsterdam is a popular destination during the holiday season, and hotels and hostels can fill up quickly. Booking in advance ensures that visitors have a place to stay and can avoid last-minute stress or disappointment.
What is the weather like in Amsterdam during the New Year?
The weather in Amsterdam during the New Year is usually cold and wet, with temperatures hovering around freezing point. Visitors should dress warmly and bring rain gear to prepare for occasional rain or snowfall. However, the city's festive decorations and lights make it a charming and cosy place to visit during the holiday season.
Are Amsterdam's Christmas markets still open during the New Year?
While some Christmas markets in Amsterdam close on December 26th, many others stay open until New Year's Eve or even the first week of January. Visitors can enjoy traditional Dutch treats, handmade crafts, and other seasonal offerings during their visit.
Is public transportation available on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day in Amsterdam?
Public transportation in Amsterdam is available on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, but schedules and routes may be altered or reduced. Visitors should check the transportation company's website for updates and plan their trips accordingly. Taxis and ride-sharing services may also be available but may have higher rates during the holiday season.
How does Amsterdam celebrate New Year's Day?
Amsterdam celebrates New Year's Day with the traditional "New Year's Dive" event, where participants jump into the chilly waters of the North Sea or other bodies of water. The event attracts thousands of participants and spectators each year and is a fun and unique way to start the new year. The city also has a street party in the city center and other events to celebrate the holiday.