As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, millions of people around the world gather with loved ones to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one. In Amsterdam, this festive occasion is a time for celebration, merriment, and making unforgettable memories. As a seasoned travel blogger, I’m here to guide you through the best New Year’s Eve experiences in Amsterdam, from concerts and fireworks to rooftop parties and ice skating.
Unmissable Tours, Activities, and Experiences
Before we dive into the fun stuff, let’s talk about some of the unmissable tours and activities that will make your New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam truly unforgettable:
- Ice Skating Rink at Museumplein: Get ready to glide across the ice under the stars with breathtaking views of the city.
- Light Festival Cruise: Experience the magic of illuminated canals, where you can even choose an open-bar option!
- Snow Globe and Christmas Markets: Step into a winter wonderland filled with festive cheer and seasonal treats.
What to Do on New Year’s Eve: Program and Events
Here are three alternatives to help you plan your perfect New Year’s Eve:
- Concert in Dam Square: Enjoy a free concert featuring live music performances by national and international artists, champagne, and fireworks at midnight.
- Fireworks and Ice Rink at Museumplein: Experience the spectacle of fireworks and ice skating under the stars.
- Light Festival Cruise: Take a unique boat tour through illuminated canals with an open-bar option.
Concert in Dam Square
This popular spot for daytime and nighttime gatherings becomes even more lively on New Year’s Eve with a free concert featuring live music performances by national and international artists, champagne, and fireworks at midnight. To get to the main square, take a 5-minute walk from the train station or catch the metro to Rokin (only 200m away).
Fireworks and Ice Rink at Museumplein
This year, the park will host a spectacular fireworks display, and an open-air ice rink will be set up until midnight. The surrounding museums – including Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum – offer a beautiful backdrop.
Light Festival Cruise
As every year, the Light Festival takes place in Amsterdam from late November to mid-January, featuring an incredible light installation along streets and canals. Visit the city with this unique atmosphere by taking a cruise through the illuminated canals, where you can even choose an open-bar option!
Amsterdam Winter Paradise
After the pandemic closure, this festive event returns to the RAI Congress Centre & Exhibition Halls from December 15th until January 1st. Inside an area of over 3,500m², find stunning ice skating rinks, snow globes, Christmas markets, Santa’s houses, food trucks, and live music performances by Dutch and international artists!
New Year’s Eve Jump-Off… Scheveningen!
If you’re not afraid of cold water and want to experience a thrilling way to bid farewell to the old year, head to Scheveningen beach (about an hour from Amsterdam). The popular molo is where locals and tourists alike gather for the famous New Year’s Eve plunge into the freezing North Sea. Be warned: only the bravest will be willing to take this chilly leap!
Party on the Rooftops
There’s no better way to enjoy the fireworks than from a rooftop bar. Amsterdam has plenty of great spots for this:
- MOON, A’Dam Tower Overhoeksplein 1: Enjoy stunning views of the city while sipping cocktails and taking in the festive atmosphere.
- Madam Amsterdam, A’Dam Tower Overhoeksplein 1: This stylish bar offers craft beers and delicious food to enjoy with your friends.
- MR PORTER Steakhouse, Bar & Lounge Spuistraat 175: Savor a mouth-watering meal while taking in the breathtaking views of the city from this luxurious rooftop bar.
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Best Bars and Clubs for Young People and Partygoers
Chemistry (Jan van Galenstraat 6,10) – popular spot with DJ sets and a diverse crowd.
Escape Amsterdam (Rembrandtplein 11) – biggest club in the city for music house and electronic dance music.
Bitterzoet (Spuistraat 2) – fashionable club with separate areas for dancing, concerts, and theater performances.
AIR Amsterdam (Amstelstraat 24) – most popular discotheque in town hosting famous artists.
Bulldog Palace (Leidseplein 15) – small but trendy spot above a coffee shop.
Awakenings al Gashouder – massive techno event with incredible lineups from 21:00 to 8:00.
Panama (Oostelijke Handelskade 4) – night club and party organizer for electronic music events.
Melkweg (Lijnbaansgracht 234a) – legendary club featuring concerts, dance parties, cinema screenings, theater performances, and a cafe.
WesterUnie (Klönneplein 4-6) – techno, house, and acid nights in the Westergasfabriek.
Weather and Useful Information
Amsterdam has a subcontinental climate due to its influence from the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean. Winters are cold with intense winds and frequent precipitation. Temperatures average around 6°C (43°F) during December and January, with possible snowfall.
Getting to Amsterdam-Schiphol Airport is easy by public transport, taking just 20 minutes from the city center by train (€5.50 one-way ticket). The GVB Card offers unlimited transportation and includes airport shuttle service.
Getting Around
Before New Year’s Eve, normal public transportation hours are usually in effect until midnight. After that, buses run late into the night, followed by limited public transport services.
Cost of a New Year’s Eve Dinner: €100+ per person
We recommend taking out travel insurance to ensure you’re covered for any unexpected situations while abroad. Our partner company offers complete coverage at competitive prices and 24/7 medical assistance.
Conclusion
Ring in the new year like a local in Amsterdam! With its unique blend of festive atmosphere, cultural events, and world-class nightlife, this city is the perfect destination to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style. Whether you’re looking for concerts, fireworks, or rooftop parties, there’s something for everyone in Amsterdam on December 31st.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What are the best places to visit on New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam offers a wide range of options for all tastes and budgets. Some unmissable tours and activities include ice skating at Museumplein, a Light Festival Cruise, and Amsterdam Winter Paradise.
2. How do I get to Amsterdam-Schiphol Airport?Getting to Amsterdam-Schiphol Airport is easy by public transport, taking just 20 minutes from the city center by train (€5.50 one-way ticket). The GVB Card offers unlimited transportation and includes airport shuttle service.
3. What are the best places for young people and partygoers on New Year’s Eve?Chemistry, Escape Amsterdam, Bitterzoet, AIR Amsterdam, Bulldog Palace, Awakenings al Gashouder, Panama, Melkweg, and WesterUnie offer a diverse range of options for electronic music events.
4. What is the weather like in Amsterdam during New Year’s Eve?Winters are cold with intense winds and frequent precipitation. Temperatures average around 6°C (43°F) during December and January, with possible snowfall.
5. How do I get around Amsterdam on New Year’s Eve?Before New Year’s Eve, normal public transportation hours are usually in effect until midnight. After that, buses run late into the night, followed by limited public transport services.
6. What is the cost of a New Year’s Eve dinner?We recommend taking out travel insurance to ensure you’re covered for any unexpected situations while abroad. Our partner company offers complete coverage at competitive prices and 24/7 medical assistance.
