Amsterdam in February

By Robert Heaney
Published: July 18, 2024
View of the Rijksmuseum from across a canal

Those harboring some winter wanderlust may find Amsterdam in February to be the ideal trip to scratch that itch. Offering all of the city’s best gems without the summertime or festive season crowds, February serves as a fantastic time to experience the Dutch capital at its most genuine. Just be prepared to dress for the weather!

Visiting Amsterdam in February

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Average Temperature: 31 – 45°F • Average Rainfall: 11 days/mth • Average Sunshine: 2 hours/day

If you’re looking to visit Amsterdam in its true low season, this is the time for it. Amsterdam in February sees some of its lowest tourism rates of the year, owing to the natural absence of peak-season travelers and the European winter chill. That can be a huge boon for those looking to get their fill of Dutch delights.

Amsterdam’s core attractions are evergreen – think picturesque canals, cultural hubs and nightlife – which means the city is never truly without its crowds. However, the off-season lull means you’ll get to experience many of its top sights at one of their quietest times. Add to that low-season accommodation prices and airfare, and you’ve got a pretty solid, budget-friendly trip on your hands.

Seeing out the winter season, February makes sure to keep things cool right up to the end. With averages ranging between sub-zero and pretty cold, you’ll want to wrap up just as much as for the rest of the winter period. Be sure to pack an umbrella and some waterproofs too, as you’re almost guaranteed at least a couple days of rain per week.

Things to Do in February

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Amsterdam’s cooler and wetter weather in February may put somewhat of a dampener on many plans of spending your trip exploring the iconic canals and squares of the city, but that also makes it a perfect time to explore the inner world of the Dutch capital.

Known particularly for its cultural hubs, Amsterdam has a wealth of art galleries to offer. Taking pride of place is the famous Rijksmuseum, where you can explore the Netherlands’ largest collection of art and historical artifacts, including many pieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer.

No exploration of Amsterdam’s artistic fortune would be complete without visiting the Van Gogh Museum, housing the largest public collection of the renowned Dutch artist’s works. Fans of contemporary art should also spend some time at the MOCO Museum, where you’ll find the works of such visionaries as Damien Hirst, Jeff Koons and many other modern artists.

On the other side of the culture coin sits Amsterdam’s impressive collection of historical hubs. Among some of the most popular destinations are the Amsterdam Museum and the Maritime Museum, offering insights into the respective histories of the city and of Dutch nautical endeavors.

Anybody with a keen interest in local and continental history will also be well aware of the famous Anne Frank House. Once the home where the famous Jewish wartime diarist managed to evade capture, the site now serves as both a museum to her life and writings and a monument to the endurance of discriminated groups throughout the darkest time in recent European history.

Events in February

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Carnival

The one exception to the Netherlands’ tranquility in February is Carnival. Originally a pagan celebration held in the lead-up to Lent, the modern-day festival began in Italy and spread to the likes of Spain, Portugal, France and, of course, the Netherlands. While primarily only recognized in the majority-Catholic provinces of North Brabant and Limburg, smaller events can be found dotted around the country.

For all its religious symbolism, Carnival is anything but a modest celebration. Over the course of several days in mid- to late-February, a number of major Dutch cities engage in all-out city-wide street parties. The event is usually kicked off with some form of ceremony, often involving the burning of an effigy and a speech by the so-called Prince of Carnival and other local authorities.

The largest celebration is held in Maastricht, which sees thousands of visitors flock from around the country and even the continent for up to a week of day drinking and partying. Other major events take place in Den Bosch, Breda, Tilburg, Eindhoven, Venlo and Enschede, though the exact dates of celebrations may differ between locations.

Although Amsterdam itself doesn’t typically engage in Carnival celebrations, you’re still likely to find some localized parties and events throughout the city. But for the true Carnival experience, make your way to a participating city in your choice of fancy dress and prepare for the street party of the year. All of the above cities are reachable within a few hours by train – though be aware that public transport will be jam-packed on festival days.

Chocoa Chocolade Festival

This indulgence-focused event is a must for visitors with a particularly sweet tooth. Held over two day in the heart of Amsterdam, the Chocoa Festival brings together renowned chocolate makers, industry experts and chocoholics to celebrate their shared passion for our favorite sweet treat.

With over 85 unique stalls piled high with free samples, the festival encourages visitors to try out new chocolate flavors. Various types of wine, coffee and craft beer are often also on offer to help you discover the perfect indulgent pairing.

Expert-led lectures and presentations are also mixed into the program to provide insights into the history of chocolate, how it’s made and the state of the industry in the modern day. Those with a keen interest can also engage in debates surrounding the ethics and practises of the industry, while also learning about developments in sustainable practises throughout various aspects of production.

Robert Heaney
Go City Travel Expert

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Amsterdam to Keukenhof Transport and Best Time to Visit

Keukenhof opens to the general public between March and May every year. Dates vary a little year on year but, in general, we’re talking roughly March 21 to May 12. During this period, the gardens open daily from 8AM-7.30PM, with half hourly entry slots available to book in advance here. The best time to visit kind of depends on your point of view. If you’re looking to dodge the larger crowds, the official website recommends pitching up on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday when the gardens are at their quietest, though bear in mind it’s all relative and you’re unlikely to have completely unobstructed views of the exhibits at any time. Arrive before 10.30am or after 4pm for some of the least busy times and for Insta-perfect snaps courtesy of that special morning and evening light. The flowers themselves bloom when they’re ready. That means daffs, crocuses, hyacinths and some types of tulip will be at their best early in the season while others, like the bigger tulip varieties, bloom later. Keukenhof’s visitor numbers peak during the Easter holidays and in April, when you’re most likely to catch the largest selection of bulbs in full flower. There’s also a one-day flower parade in the middle of the month, when beautiful floats crammed with fragrant flowers weave their way along a 42-kilometer route between Noordwijk to Haarlem, passing Keukenhof along the way. While obviously a great time to be at Keukenhof, this does mean multiple road closures, and its recommended you’re in the park by 11am on the day of the parade. Discover more about the flower festival and parade here. How to Get to Keukenhof There’s a bewildering variety of Amsterdam to Keukenhof transport options, from straightforward coach-and-ticket packages to going it alone on two wheels. We break down the options below. Amsterdam to Keukenhof by Coach This is hands-down the most straightforward way of getting to Keukenhof from Amsterdam and it doesn’t take a Googling genius to discover that there are almost as many tour operators offering coach+entry packages as there are tulips in the bulb fields. It’s also an option to book direct via the official Keukenhof website, here. Prices are competitive, too. You’ll only pay a premium of around €2 (vs paying for your transport and ticket separately) for the priceless privilege of having someone else do all the organizing for you. All you have to do then is pitch up at the departure point (RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre) on time, and you’re good to go. It’s also worth noting that this is the only way to travel direct from central Amsterdam to Keukenhof via public transport as all other options require a combination of train and bus. There’s a coach+entry package included with the Go City Amsterdam attraction pass, which can save you money if you’re in town for a few days and plan to avail yourself of several tours, attractions and other activities, such as an Amsterdam canal cruise, the Rijksmuseum, and Madame Tussauds. Find out more about the Amsterdam pass here. Amsterdam to Keukenhof by Public Transport There are a couple of other ways to get to Keukenhof via Amsterdam’s reliable public transport system, depending where you’re traveling from. These include Keukenhof express buses from Schiphol Airport, Leiden and Haarlem, again available via the Keukenhof website. Alternatively, savvy travelers can save a euro or two by catching the 397 bus from the city center and connecting to the Keukenhof express bus at Hoofddorp, the cheapest way to make the journey. Amsterdam to Keukenhof by Car If you want to beat the morning crowds, having your own set of wheels will definitely give you the edge over your fellow flower fanatics. The 40-minute drive to Keukenhof, sandwiched between Amsterdam and The Hague, is a fairly straightforward one, and the gardens are of course well signposted. However, there’s a reason most Amsterdammers favor getting around on two wheels (or indeed legs). Parking in the city comes at a premium and it’s very easy to rack up an eye-watering bill if you have a rental car for even a few days – all of which assumes you can find a parking spot in the first place. In happier news, it's possible to pre-book a parking spot for your visit to Keukenhof via the official website, for a relatively acceptable €7. Amsterdam to Keukenhof by Bike The Netherlands is one of the world’s best countries for cycling, with an excellent infrastructure and relatively flat landscape that makes it easy and convenient to bike to most destinations. There are 400km of lanes in Amsterdam alone, where driving is positively discouraged and most of the population gets around on two wheels. That said, it’s around 25 miles from Amsterdam to Keukenhof so this option is really only for those with a working knowledge of Dutch road regulations, who are also fit and healthy enough to make the journey there and back. It’s well worth doing though: the experience of arriving in the sensory saturnalia that is the Keukenhof flower fields, the air heavy with the scent of a million blooming tulips, crocuses, orchids (and the rest), is not one you’ll forget in a hurry. There are plenty of bike rental stores dotted around Amsterdam and your hotel may also operate its own rental service. Save on Tours, Attractions and Activities in Amsterdam Save on admission to Amsterdam attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
things to do in amsterdam with teens
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Things to do in Amsterdam for Teens

Teens; the loveable, distracted youth are one of a kind. You may remember being them, but things have changed. Technology has reshaped the teenage landscape and altered the rules of engagement. So, how do you deal with them in the 21st century? Well, by winning their hearts, mind, and attention with the biggest and best entertainment you can find! So, if you're vacationing in Amsterdam, what are the best things to do for teens in the city? We'll tell you, right now. Including: THIS IS HOLLAND A'DAM LOOKOUT Moco Museum Pancakes Amsterdam Anne Frank House and more!   Nederland, but not as you know it Seeing a city from the ground is one thing, but exploring it from the sky is something else. Have you ever flown over a city like a bird? If you answered yes to that, you might need to speak to someone. Unless, of course, you've already taken a spin on THIS IS HOLLAND! This 5D flight simulation experience lets you soar over the Netherlands, looking down on its most famous landmarks. Even teenagers with remarkably short attention spans won't be able to look away. Thanks to state-of-the-art steam and wind technology, they'll feel the mist on their faces as they skim the ocean's surface. The wind will ruffle their middle parting as they duck and dive through a forest. They'll also learn about the country's past and present, but in a dynamic, exciting way, not a school way. Even if you trick them into the theater, they'll soon discover that learning can, in fact, be fun.   LOOKOUT below Speaking of seeing cities from unique perspectives, teenagers will love looking down on Amsterdam from above. After all, they probably think they're better than the average "old" person, right? Well, their prayers have been answered. Simply take your bundle of trouble up to the 360 Sky Deck at A'DAM LOOKOUT and let them live out their overlord dreams. Dance routines and pouty selfies for all! But if that wasn't enough, there's also 'Over The Edge'. What's that? Well, it's a giant swing that dangles over 320 feet in the air. And, if you're teen is a daring sort, they can sit on it and prove their bravery once and for all. Or, if they don't feel like this death-defying feat, they can hop on a VR rollercoaster through the city, and then learn about Amsterdam's history, thanks to a slew of brilliant interactive exhibits! Whichever challenge they choose to undertake, A'DAM LOOKOUT is easily one of the best things to do in Amsterdam for teenagers!   Stencils in the stone Art has changed, there are no two ways about it. And rightfully so - art has always evolved through the centuries. From cave paintings to marble sculptures, art has evolved as we have. Art's current revolution has taken things to the streets, with art staining the very walls we call home. So, if you're teen's into the street art revolution, go get them immersed at the Moco Museum. Curated by none other than Banksy himself, the Moco Museum explores modern-day life through a critical lens. Featuring works from internationally-renowned artists like Damian Hirst, JR, Koons, Kusama, and KAWS, your not-so-little ones will spend a good couple of hours seeing all the sights and sound this eclectic museum has to offer. Plus, phone-savvy teens can even pull out their devices to interact with some exhibits, thanks to augmented reality (or AR). And that's not even mentioning the endless photo ops for the emaciated social following.   Everybody Loves Pancakes It doesn't matter how young or old you are, pancakes are universally loved by everyone. Absolutely everyone. If you don't like pancakes, you're going on the list. The simplest of ingredients combine to create mouth masterpieces. And one of Amsterdam's pancake houses is so good that they named it after the city. That would be Pancakes Amsterdam, and your teen will love it. You'll get a free pancake tasting, where they can pick from myriad ingredients and toppings to make their own mouthwatering masterpiece. On us, of course, because we care. And, if one simply isn't enough, grab a table, pull out a menu, and order like a normal customer. Whether it's a morning treat, a midday snack, or a dinner replacement, your teen will dig the pancakes at Pancakes Amsterdam. See what we did there? Dig? Yep, we're down. With them. Down with them. Exactly.   A must-visit Memorial On a more serious note, vacations are often fact-finding missions. You learn about another culture, immerse yourself in the local cuisine and customs, and discover a country's history while you're at it. Amsterdam has a lot of history, and not all of it is good. However, there's no denying that the Anne Frank House is worth a visit. Though she didn't live to tell the tale, Anne Frank's diary offered the world a candid view into the lives of Jewish people who struggled during the German occupation. Anne Frank was a teen herself when she hid, so it's easy for fellow teens to relate to the everyday struggles she faced on top of the very real threat to her life. In the house itself, they can learn about the family, their history, and the people that helped them hide. Easily one of the most thought-provoking things to do in Amsterdam for teens.   Nothing but the classics Even if street art is the de facto art form these days, nothing quite beats the classics. And if you want your fill of 8,000 classic artistic artifacts, head to the Netherlands' most famous museum - the Rijksmuseum. Discover famous masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age, including masterworks from Hals, Steen, Rembrandt, and Vermeer. Show your young one how they did it way back when, and brace yourself for multiple age-related jokes. It's okay; after the first barrage, they'll subside. The art speaks for itself.   Bright games for brighter minds And finally, we end our list of the best things to do in Amsterdam for teens with some fun and games. And not just any games, but arcade games. At the TonTon Club, they'll discover a world of digital giggles. These days, every young person likely plays some videogames, so let them loose and try to keep up. They'll find classic arcade hits, more modern gems, and even just regular games like Mario Kart on offer. Buy them up some tokens and let them do their thing. Trust us, they'll appreciate it. And that was our list of the best things to do in Amsterdam for teens! We hope they enjoy their vacation as much as you do.
Dom Bewley
amsterdam markets
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Best Markets in Amsterdam

Even if you're vacationing abroad, markets can be the perfect place to pick up some fresh groceries, presents for your loved ones, or even something for yourself! Amsterdam is full of markets that run throughout the week, but which is the best? Well, we've collated this handy list of our favorites just for you, so no matter what you're in the market for, you'll find what you want! These are our picks for the best markets in Amsterdam! Including: Markets in Amsterdam North Markets in Amsterdam East Markets in Amsterdam Central Markets in Amsterdam West Markets! Albert Cuyp Market (De Pijp) De Pijp is one of Amsterdam's coolest neighborhoods, where much of the expat community congregates. So it's no wonder that you'll find one of the city's most diverse and exciting markets there. The 'Cuyp', named after the famed Dutch painter of the same name, actually predates the modern expat avalanche, with the market going strong for over 100 years. Not only is Albert Cuyp surrounded by De Pijp's cool bars, boutiques, and restaurants, but it also offers a ton of amazing produce, prepared nibbles, and charming handcrafted jewelry and clothing. So, do yourself the greatest favor anyone can do themselves ever, and head down there to see what we're talking about. Waterlooplein (Centre) Predating Albert Cuyp by around 20 years, Waterlooplein definitely has a more local market vibe to it. Setup in the formerly Jewish part of town, you'll find hundreds of traders setting up stalls there. Bargain-hunting is the name of the game here, with plenty of peddlers willing to negotiate their prices. If you're in the market for a cheap bike to get you around the city, or looking for some unique accessories to adorn your withered body, Waterlooplein is the perfect destination for those of you with the savvy to barter. Nieuwmarkt (Centre) Predating the other markets on this list by hundreds of years, Nieumarkt's name might be deceptive. But its offerings are anything but! This is a farmer's market through and through, where growers have sold their wares for centuries, back when the site used to be the city gate. So, expect plenty of amazing organic produce straight from the field, alongside flowers, wine, and a variety of cooked snacks for you to munch on while you browse. De Hallen (West) Let's swap the outdoors for the indoors now. Amsterdam's weather can be a touch unpredictable, what with the windswept clouds turning sun to rain in a matter of minutes. So, why not check out this undercover food extravaganza should the worst happen? De Hallen is a mega-complex of sorts, built in the husk of an old train depot. Inside its walls, you'll find a cinema, events space, and the holy grail of street food - Foodhallen. Nestled inside this football-field-sized space, you'll discover delicious food from all over the world. Mexican, Italian, American diner, authentic Dutch, and many more cuisines call it home. And, with an island bar through the middle, and plenty of tables to eat on, you could spend all afternoon there sampling bits and pieces from each truck. While not a conventional market, Foodhallen is easily one of the best in Amsterdam. Bloemenmarkt (Centre) If you like flowers and you like boats, then boy is this next one going to blow your measly mind. Bloemenmarkt is a floating flower paradise, where you'll find a whole host of flower stalls that sit on one of Amsterdam's many canals. So, if you're in the market for an apology bouquet, want to surprise your partner, or simply love flowers and want them displayed proudly in your house, head down there and pick from a myriad of different species. Of course, they have tulips; they're about as Dutch as it gets. But you'll also find roses, orchids, and many more on the water! IJ Hallen Flea Market (Noord) If you're in the market for some vintage items or second-hand knickknacks, TJ Hallen Flea Market might be the perfect place for you to peruse. Over 500 stands dot the converted warehouse, which was used to build ships. And speaking of ships, you'll need to board one to cross the river. Don't worry; they're free, and run every 5-10 minutes until pretty late! Back to the market, anyone can go along, set up a stall, and flog anything they want to sell. And one person's loss could be your gain, so why not go check it out and see what deals lie in wait for your keen buying brain? And, when you're done, feel free to explore the cool urban landscape that's Noord. You'll find bars, restaurants, and a boat-load of street art! Noordermarkt-Boerenmarkt (Jordaan) If you're looking for high-quality produce at a premium price, then Noordermarkt is the one. The large collection of stalls congregate by the river, and many people spend their day there, sampling bites and sipping fine wines once their grocery shopping is done. The sellers are always on hand to recommend products to match your palate, so don't forego striking up a conversation! They won't bite, for the most part. Boekenmarkt Op Het Spui (Centre) If food is off the menu, and you're looking for a good book to add to your collection, then head to Boekenmarkt in Central. Sellers arrive from across the Netherlands to sell out-of-print editions, old magazines, and other paper-related artifacts from times gone by. Ideal for collectors or those interested in the finer things, feel free to head down there and ask if you're looking for something specific. You never know what they might have behind the stall. Lapjesmarkt (Jordaan) Swap paper and pears for t-shirts and twine at Lapjesmarkt! This delightful material-focused market has a whole host of clothing on sale, from vintage pieces to more up-to-date second-hand items. Alongside the clothing stalls is the craft market, where you can pick up fabrics, textiles, and other building/mending materials to create your own masterpieces, or simply sow that hole in your favorite jeans! For the fashion crazy, it's one of the best markets in Amsterdam! Artplein-Spui (Centre) In the market, wink wink, for some fine art pieces? You'll find nothing but the best at Artplein-Spui, where local and international artists have been selling their pieces for over two decades. Bargain-hunters will find paintings, sculptures, prints, jewelry, and many other pieces at one of its many stalls. They even have installations on show, if you want to kill a few hours exploring. And those are our picks for the best markets in Amsterdam!
Dom Bewley

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