Top things to do in Amsterdam in February | Events, activities & travel tips

Check out Amsterdam’s leading English theatre, best known for its hilarious improvisational comedy shows. Laugh your worries away as you see sketch comedy, improvs, and even musical performances.
Special events: Catch the Valentine’s Day improv special, or live comic shows, including specials by Josh Berry, Karunesh Talwar, Richie O’Farrill, and Tatty Macleod.
Insider tip: It’s best to arrive at least 30 minutes before your show starts. This will allow you plenty of time to grab a drink and settle in. Getting there early also means you can choose better seats.

Look out for the city's winter markets and flea markets. These festive markets pop up throughout the city, offering a unique shopping experience. You can find everything from handcrafted gifts and local delicacies to vintage treasures and unique souvenirs.
Special events: The IJ-Hallen Flea Market is the biggest flea market in Europe, with over 500 stands selling unique items. Winter markets are still ongoing at Museumplein, RAI, Westergas, and Park Frankendael throughout the month.
Insider tip: Arrive early at the IJ-Hallen Flea Market to score the best deals. Unique finds disappear quickly, so get there when it opens to browse before the crowds.

Whether it’s on the frozen canals or ice rinks, February is one of the best times to ice skate in the heart of Amsterdam. Most rinks are also decorated in a winter theme.
Special events: Head to Museumplein, RAI, Rembrandtplein, Leidseplein, or the Jaap Eden ice rinks open during the Winter Festival.
Insider tip: Check if the canals are frozen over. If they are, there’s a good chance you can skate on the canals for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Must-experience: If the weather permits (and it sometimes does!), ice skating on the canals is a truly unique and magical Amsterdam experience. Of course, this depends on the weather – the temperature needs to be -5°C or below for 1-2 weeks for natural ice (natuurijs) thick enough to skate on! But if the canals freeze over, it's a must-do activity for a truly unforgettable Amsterdam experience.
Better in February: In case the canals do not freeze over, you can still skate at one of the many ice rinks that pop up all over the city for the Winter Festival. We recommend the ones at Museumplein, Amsterdam RAI, Rembrandtplein, Leidseplein, & Jaap Eden.

Must-experience: If you’re lucky, the canals won’t freeze over and you can book a romantic cruise with drinks or dinner. While you pass under Magere Brug, don’t forget to steal a kiss! - legend has it that kissing under or on the bridge ensures eternal love.
Better in February: The Magere Brug is also a popular location for proposals. And what better time to propose than Valentine’s Day on a romantic cruise underneath the Magere Brug?

Must-experience: Head to the Rijksmuseum if you’re up for some Dutch art, or visit the Van Gogh Museum for some of the best works by the Dutch master Vincent Van Gogh. If you’re up for some modern and contemporary art, you can also go to the Stedelijk Museum or Moco Amsterdam.
Better in February: You'll likely encounter fewer tourists compared to peak summer months. Plus, museums offer a warm escape from the cold weather. With fewer tourists, you'll have a better chance to experience the city's cultural scene through the eyes of locals. Engage in conversations with the knowledgeable museum staff and fellow art enthusiasts as well.

Must-experience: The Heineken Experience is social and engaging, and the interactive exhibits and the lively atmosphere make it easy to meet other travelers, especially if you’re traveling solo. Plus, who doesn't love a good beer tasting?
Better in February: February is the off-season so you might encounter fewer crowds. Enjoying a cold beer in a warm and inviting environment can be particularly appealing during the colder winter months. With less distraction, you can appreciate the historical significance of the building and the Heineken brewing legacy. While not always guaranteed, February might offer reduced ticket prices, allowing you to enjoy the experience for less.

Must-experience: Popular spots are Nine Streets dotted with jewelers, boutiques, and vintage stores of varying styles and budgets, Oud-Zuid and the Museum District for luxury shopping, department stores like De Bijenkorf, Magna Plaza, and De Kalverpassage.
Better in February: With fewer tourists in the city, you'll encounter less competition for unique finds. Many stores might have winter sales or special promotions happening in February, so you can snag some great deals.

Must-experience: Some of the best clubs in Amsterdam are the Chin Chin Club, Club NYX, Club Church, JACK Amsterdam, Escape, The Box, Undercurrent, and AIR Amsterdam. You’ll also find other nightclubs in Leidseplein, Dam Square, Red Light District, and Rembrandtplein.
Better in February: With fewer tourists, bars and clubs might be less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate experience. Fewer queues at the door, a higher chance of getting in without a reservation, and a more relaxed vibe overall. With fewer tourists, clubs might focus more on attracting locals with unique events, underground DJs, and more experimental music. You might discover hidden gems and experience a more authentic Amsterdam club scene.