pickyourtrail_logo
Login
award-image

The Netherlands in Winter: A Snowy Adventure

The Netherlands in Winter: A Snowy Adventure
Written by Rajoo on March 21, 2025

Dreaming of a winter wonderland? Well, the Netherlands in winter is just that! Imagine quaint canals lined with sparkling lights, warm cafés serving up warm delights, and the cold, crisp air that leaves everything feeling so fresh and en-magiqued. Strolling through streets covered in a dusting of snow, ice-skating across frozen lakes, or taking in the festive Christmas markets—there’s a unique kind of charm to winter in the Netherlands. Ready to immerse in the snuggly atmosphere and magic of winter? Let’s explore all the reasons the Netherlands in winter needs to be on your bucket list!

Weather In The Netherlands In Winter

Winter in the Netherlands
Image Credits: Google Images

The winter season starts in the month of December in the Netherlands and continues up to the month of March. Snow, freezing, and fog are the most common phenomena during these winter months in the Netherlands. During December and January, the winter temperature is as low as 2 °C. Winter from December to February is cold but not freezing, with daily average temperatures around 3 °C, that is, around freezing (0 °C or 32 °F) at night and around 6 °C (43 °F) during the day. The winter weather in the Netherlands offers you multiple opportunities to make the most of your Christmas, and the country is best known for the countdown to the New Year. So don’t miss celebrating your Christmas and New Year in this spectacular countryside with Netherlands tour packages.

Places To Visit In The Netherlands During Winter

Are you planning for the winter holidays? The Netherlands is the best place to visit. Even though this country seems like a modern destination, it accommodates a lot of hidden beaches in the Netherlands, ancient monuments, and praiseworthy neo-Gothic castles. Here are some of the most popular places that you must visit on your winter trip:

1. Marken

Marken is a beautiful island that holds an important part in the history of the Netherlands. In 1957, this spectacular peninsula was separated from the Dutch mainland by the IJmer Sea. Even after being detached from the mainland, it has continued to hold its rustic charm and is one of the most unique and attractive places to visit in The Netherlands.

2. Kasteel De Haar

This is a charming castle in the Utrecht region of the Netherlands. This marvellous architectural building was designed in the year 1892 by Pierre Cuypers, who was appointed by the aristocratic Dutch family. This castle features classic Dutch designs with inspiration drawn from the Gothicism of Northern Europe and is one of the best castles in the Netherlands.

3. Bourtange

Bourtange is a village that was formerly a star-shaped fortress in the western part of the Netherlands. This was built during the 16th century by the Dutch Military with the aim of controlling the trade routes that flow between Groningen and Germany. This splendidly engineered space is open for public viewing and is a must-visit place for every traveller and explorer.

4. Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a historical city with more than 1000 monumental buildings that are centuries old. Amsterdam is one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands in winter. Much famed for its museums, bridges, and serene canals, it also happens to be an apt choice for those looking forward to visiting the Netherlands in January. So in case you haven’t planned your New Year trip yet, then the Netherlands is the best destination for your winter trip. Enjoy the best of winter in the Netherlands, and let this city surprise you with the best of mosques, national parks, churches, restaurants, and cruises in the Netherlands.

Things To Do In The Netherlands During Winters

During the Christmas winter season, the activities offered by the surroundings will surely amuse the travellers from every part of the world:

1. Deventer 

Deventer, Netherlands

The Deventer region in Overijssel province hosts one of the best festivals in the Netherlands called the annual Dicken Festival, which celebrates the well-known author Charles Dickens. This event takes place in Bergkwartier. Several characters from his books come into life during this event, reminding each person here of their lovely childhood. People come dressed as Scrooge, David Copperfield, Oliver Twist, and others.

2. Maastricht 

This beautiful village transforms into a shopping destination; during the winter month of December, the stalls at the shopping streets here give the feel of the shopping experience in the markets that existed centuries ago. This is a unique way of paying homage to the historic Christmas markets in the past. 

3. Amsterdam 

During winter in Amsterdam, the water in the canals and lakes freeze, located in the northern region of the Netherlands. These offer an excellent opportunity for ice-skating enthusiasts. One can witness several locals enjoying this unique experience during the winter and visit some of the best churches in the Netherlands. Even though there are artificial rinks available during other months, the experience of skating on real ice is unbeatable.

4. Groningen: Winterwelvaart

Groningen, Netherlands

From the authentic mulled wine of Gluhwein to the beautiful little handicrafts, try your hands at the stalls lined up on the banks of Groningen’s canals during winters in the Netherlands. While going for a ride on the canal boats happens to be one of the classic activities, do not miss out on the live performances, concerts, art exhibits, and dining in some of the best restaurants in the Netherlands that one can be a part of and enjoy at this famous Christmas market. 

What To Pack For A Trip To The Netherlands In Winters

The essentials that one must carry when planning a trip to the Netherlands during the winter season are given below.

  • Warm clothing is one of the essentials for the winter season here.
  • A heavy jacket should be carried everywhere during winter.
  • Comfortable, warm, and waterproof boots.

And whether you’re visiting the icy canals, unwinding with hot Dutch chocolate, or basking in the fun holiday atmosphere, the Netherlands during winter is an experience like no other that will make your trip truly unforgettable. From the breathtaking landscapes to the warm atmosphere, it’s just the right place for a winter vacation. And if you’re looking to make your honeymoon truly special, take a look at some of the wonderful Netherlands honeymoon packages for a romantic winter getaway brimming with charm, adventure, and cuddly moments. The Netherlands awaits to make your winter dreams come true!

Related Posts

Get in touchWe’ll start with some questions and get you to the right place.
Dwaraka
Sumeet
Sunil
10000+ itineraries curated and counting
Dwaraka
Sumeet
Sunil
10000+ itineraries curated and counting
Build Your Perfect Travel Itinerary in MinutesBuild Your Perfect Travel Itinerary in Minutes
We think you are in .
Update your location?