The Netherlands, a beautiful country in northwestern Europe, is well-known for its spectacular landscape which comprises canals, fields of tulip flowers, cycling pathways and windmills. In the winter season, which is at its peak in the month of December, the Netherlands transforms into a vibrant Christmas arena covered in snow. Here are the places to visit and things to do in the Netherlands in winter 2024.
Weather In The Netherlands In Winter
The winter season in the Netherlands starts in December and continues until March. Snow, freezing, and fog are the most common phenomena during these winter months. During December and January, the temperature can drop as low as 2 ℃. The winter weather in the Netherlands offers multiple opportunities to interact with the locals.
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Top Places To Visit In The Netherlands In Winter 2024
Are you planning for a Netherlands winter holiday? Even though this country seems like a pretty modern destination, it accommodates a lot of hidden beaches in 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 plays an important part in the history of the Netherlands. This spectacular peninsula was separated from the Dutch mainland in 1957 by the IJmer Sea. Even after being detached from the mainland, it has continued to retain its rustic charm and is one of the most unique and attractive places to visit in the Netherlands.
Location: North Holland
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2. Kasteel De Haar
This is an elaborate and charming castle in the Utrecht region of the Netherlands. This marvellous architectural building was designed by Pierre Cuypers, who was appointed by the aristocratic Dutch family in 1892. This exquisite castle features classic Dutch designs inspired by the Gothicism of Northern Europe and is one of the best castles in the Netherlands.
Location: Kasteellaan 1, 3455 RR Utrecht, Netherlands
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3. Bourtange
Bourtange is a village that was formerly a star-shaped fortress in the western part of the Netherlands. The Dutch Military built it during the 16th century to control the trade routes between Groningen and Germany. This splendid engineered space is open for public viewing and is a must-visit place for every traveller and explorer.
Location: Groningen, Netherlands
4. Amsterdam
A historic city with over 1000 centuries-old monumental buildings, Amsterdam is one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands in winter. Much famed for its museums, bridges, and serene canals, it is also an apt choice for those looking forward to visiting the Netherlands in January. So, if you haven’t planned your New Year trip yet and are wondering where to go in the Netherlands in winter, then Amsterdam is the place to be for you. Enjoy the best of winter in the Netherlands, and let this city surprise you with the best of mosques, national parks in the Netherlands, churches, restaurants, and cruises in the Netherlands!
Location: North Holland
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Things To Do In The Netherlands In Winters
During the Christmas winter season, the activities offered by the surroundings of this beautiful country is sure to lure in travellers from every part of the world:
1. Devente: Witness Dickens Festival
The Deventer region in Overijssel province hosts one of the best festivals in the Netherlands: the annual Dicken Festival, which celebrates the well-known author Charles Dickens. This event takes place in the historic location Bergkwartier. Several characters from his books come to life during this event, reminding each person here of their lovely childhood. People come dressed as Scrooge, David Copperfield, Oliver Twist, and Fagin.
2. Maastricht: Explore
This beautiful village transforms into a vibrant shopping destination during the winter month of December. The stalls on the shopping streets here give the feeling 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. This snow-covered village looks lovely with all the colourful Christmas lighting.
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3. Amsterdam: Go Ice Skating
In the northern region of Netherlands, the water in the canals and lakes generally freeze during the winter season. These offer an excellent opportunity for ice-skating enthusiasts. One can witness several locals enjoying this unique experience during winters and visit some of the best churches in Netherlands. Even though there are artificial rinks available during other months, the experience of skating on real ice is unbeatable.
4. Groningen: Winterwelvaart
From the authentic mulled wine of Gluwein 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 Netherlands that one can be a part of and enjoy at this famous Christmas market.
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What To Pack For A Trip To The Netherlands In Winters
The basic essentials which one must carry when planning a trip to the Netherlands in Europe during the winter season are given below. Please take a look at this brief list of things to pack for a trip to the Netherlands during winter:
- Warm clothing is a must for the winter season here.
- A heavy jacket should be carried along everywhere in the Netherlands during winter.
- Umbrellas should be carried as in the Netherlands, and rain can be expected at any time of the year.
- Comfortable, warm and waterproof boots.
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We are sure that by now you know what a fantastic destination the Netherlands is in winter when the temperature drops. Head to the Netherlands in the winter season by planning a trip to Europe right away and make memories that would last a lifetime.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Netherlands In Winter
What are the winter months in the Netherlands?
Late December to March is the winter season in the Netherlands.
What are winters like in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is located near the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, so it has a temperate maritime climate. In winter, the Netherlands experiences a moderate climate with daytime temperatures ranging from 2 degrees Celsius to 6 degrees Celsius.
What is winter like in Amsterdam?
In winter, the temperature in Amsterdam drops between 4 degrees Celsius and -1 degrees Celsius. The capital city also experiences snowfall and rainfall during this season.
How often does it snow in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands experiences snowfall only about 20 – 30 days a year, and the snowfall indicates that the temperatures are rising.
Does it snow during winter in Amsterdam?
It snows occasionally in Amsterdam. The Netherlands sees a total of around 20 or 30 days of snow in a year, and one is pretty lucky to see a snowfall here. If there is a snowfall, the city turns into a winter wonderland.
Is there a requirement for winter tyres if travelling through the country by car?
The Netherlands winter tyres do make traveling during the winter months easier, but they are not a mandatory requirement in this part of Europe.
Which are the Dutch cities which must be visited during the winter season?
The must-visit cities in the Netherlands during winter are Amsterdam, Utrecht, Haarlem, Leiden, Hague, Delft, Gouda and Maastricht.
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As a Travel Content Writer, I live to conquer the world of globetrotting with words. With my unquenchable thirst for storytelling, I believe that my words will inspire you to travel around the world’s breathtaking landscapes. As for me, I am an unapologetic selenophile, who loves to wander around in a starry night!
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