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

Amsterdam in February offers a unique charm. While the weather might be a bit chilly (but warmer compared to January), you'll encounter fewer crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience of the city, letting you enjoy popular attractions like the Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank House with shorter wait times. Embrace the winter vibes with cozy canal cruises, warm cafes, and intimate pub crawls. Amsterdam in February offers a unique blend of culture, charm, and a more relaxed pace, making it a wonderful time to explore this beautiful city.

Your Amsterdam in February guide

Amsterdam in February at a glance

  • Weather: Average temperature ranges between -0.5℃ (31℉) and 7℃ (45℉) in February. Expect rainfall on roughly 11 days throughout the month and cloudy, damp, and cold weather. The winds can be gentle to moderate, averaging 3-30 kph (8-18 mph).
  • Daylight: While most of the month will be cloudy, expect 10-11 days to be sunny or partially sunny. There are usually 9 hours of daylight, increasing to 10-11 hours towards the end of the month.
  • Key events: Valentine’s Day, Chocolade Festival, Chinese New Year, IMPRO Amsterdam, Carnival
  • Tourist season: Low season due to the cold weather; crowds pick up towards the end of the month as the weather becomes warmer.
  • Packing essentials: Make sure to pack an umbrella, layers of warm clothing, and weather-proof coats and jackets as you can expect rain and harsh weather on some days. Gloves, a scarf, winter boots, and a hat are also recommended.

Amsterdam in winter: How February compares

CategoryJanuaryFebruaryMarch

Weather

1℃ (35℉)-5℃ (42℉); dress warmly in a jacket and plenty of layers.

-1℃(31℉)-7℃(45℉); jacket and warm clothes required.

2℃ (37℉)-8℃ (48℉); light jacket or sweater encouraged based on weather.

Crowds & atmosphere

Fewer crowds as it is low-season.

Less crowds due to the weather.

Low to moderate as the weather becomes warmer.

Key events

Amsterdam Light Festival, National Tulip Day, Whiskey Fest, Radio Festival, Eurovision

Chinese New Year, International Salsa Festival, IMPRO Amsterdam, Chocolade Festival

The Jungle Weekender, Jazz Sabbath, Country Music Festival, Amsterdam Tulip Fest

Best for

Budget travelers, art enthusiasts

Budget travelers, art enthusiasts

Families, couples

Budget considerations

Budget-friendly, but pricier at the beginning of the month

Budget-friendly, especially for flights and accommodation

Moderately expensive, especially closer to the Tulip Fest

Popular things to do in Amsterdam in February

Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is the Netherlands' national museum, home to a vast collection of art and history from the Dutch Golden Age. It houses masterpieces like Rembrandt’s The Night Watch and Vermeer’s The Milkmaid.
Special events: The museum will hold special private guided tours to celebrate Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary.

Recommended experiences:

  • Small Group Rijksmuseum Guided Tour
  • Rijksmuseum Entrance Tickets + 60-Min LOVERS Canal Cruise

Insider tip: Book a guided tour to get personalized attention from your guide and learn insights about the artworks that you might miss otherwise.

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum houses the world's largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh, including iconic masterpieces like Almond Blossom and Sunflowers. You'll also find a collection of his personal letters and drawings.
Special events: Go to the Power of Pigments exhibition and catch a glimpse of works by Van Gogh, Redon, and Gaugin.

Recommended experiences:

  • Van Gogh Museum Guided Tour
  • Van Gogh Museum + 1-Hour Canal Cruise Tickets

Insider tip: Skip the lines by booking a guided tour and get personalized insights into the artwork through your guide. You can also upgrade for a small-group tour.

Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Glide through the heart of the city on a leisurely boat tour, admiring the picturesque UNESCO-listed canals, and iconic landmarks like the Anne Frank House, Westerkerk, the Royal Palace, and Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) from a unique perspective.
Special events: Valentine’s Day cruises and private boats are available aplenty, especially closer to the romantic day.

Recommended experiences:

  • Canal Cruise with Wine and Cheese
  • Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu

Insider tip: Look out for special Valentine’s Day cruises and offers for a more romantic experience. Book early, especially for Feb 14.

Johan Cruijff ArenA

The Johan Cruijff ArenA is home to AFC Ajax, and this iconic venue has hosted some of the biggest names in football, including Johan Cruijff and Wesley Sneijder. Whether you're a football fan or simply curious about the sport, a visit to the Johan Cruijff ArenA is a unique experience you shouldn’t miss.
Special events: February is the best time to catch an Ajax FC match live at the stadium and cheer them on.

Recommended experiences:

  • Johan Cruijff ArenA VIP Tour with Drink and Scarf
  • Johan Cruijff ArenA Classic Tour + Heineken® Experience Tickets

Insider tip: Book the VIP tour to get access to restricted areas like the Boardroom and the Royal Lodge. You can also bag a complimentary drink in the Skybox and a free scarf.

A’DAM Lookout

A’DAM Lookout offers panoramic 360-degree views of Amsterdam’s highlights, including the UNESCO World Heritage canals, Amsterdam’s Centraal Station, and the harbor from 100 meters high.
Special events: A’DAM Lookout’s Sky Bar offers mulled wine, hot chocolate, and warm cocktails, making a warm welcome against Amsterdam’s cold.

Recommended experiences:

  • A'DAM Lookout Fast-Track Tickets with 2 Drinks
  • A'DAM Lookout Tickets + Dinner at Madam Skybar & Restaurant

Insider tip: Enjoy a romantic dinner at A’DAM Tower’s revolving restaurant MOON at 100 meters high, for a spectacular Valentine’s Day.

Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is a poignant reminder of the Holocaust and the Nazi persecution of Jews. The Secret Annex, where Anne, her family, and others hid from the Nazis before they were found and sent to concentration camps was, later converted into this museum, highlighting the horrors of war.
Special events: Explore the Anne Frank House, usually sold out throughout the year, in a quieter atmosphere in February.

Recommended experiences:

  • Guided Anne Frank Walking Tour with Entry to Jewish Museum & Synagogue
  • Anne Frank Story and World War II Walking Tour

Insider tip: Complement your visit to the Anne Frank House with a guided walking tour around the museum and learn more about WWII and Nazi persecution.

Boom Chicago

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.

Amsterdam markets

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.

Ice-skating

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.

Amsterdam in February highlights: Must-do experiences for families, couples, and more

Families with kids

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.

Couples

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?

Art and culture lovers

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.

Solo travelers or friend groups

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.

Shopping enthusiasts

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.

Nightlife

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.

Festivals and events in Amsterdam in February

Event/FestivalDescriptionLocationBest for

Carnival

Enjoy city-wide street parties in this pagan celebration in the lead-up to Lent.

Several locations

Families, party lovers, Instagrammers, culture enthusiasts

Chocoa Chocolade Festival

Try free chocolate samples over a 2-day fest led by expert chocolate makers.

Beurs van Berlage

Families, shoppers, cultural enthusiasts, chocolate-lovers, food enthusiasts

Valentine’s Day on the Canals

Enjoy a romantic day with your partner with an intimate experience of your choosing.

Several locations

Couples

De Koninck Blues Festival in Delft

Enjoy the blues tunes at Delft’s Old Town in 30+ venues.

Several locations

Music lovers, culture enthusiasts

International Pancake Day

Enjoy the best pancakes and Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken).

The Pancake Bakery

Families

IMPRO Amsterdam

Join the crowds at the annual International Improvisational Theatre Festival.

Zonnehuis

Culture enthusiasts, theatre lovers

Amsterdam in February: Your perfect 3-day itinerary

Morning: Have a hearty breakfast at RIJKS® and explore over 8000 works of art from the Dutch Golden Age at the Rijksmuseum, including Rembrandt’s The Night Watch and Vermeer’s The Milkmaid.
Afternoon: Head to TAIKO for some mouth-watering Asian cuisine. After lunch, head to the nearby Van Gogh Museum to see over 200 paintings, 500 sketches, and personal letters by Vincent van Gogh, as well as works by his contemporaries like Monet. Admire Van Gogh’s The Bedroom, The Potato Eaters, and Almond Blossom.
Evening: A short walk from the Van Gogh Museum is the Heineken Experience, where you can see how beer is made through an audio guide and presentations, and sample Heineken beers. End the day at de Bijenkorf, a popular department store, known for its selection of high-end brands, like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, Dior, and Prada. Head to Restaurant The White Room by Jacob Jan Boerma** for dinner.

Morning: After breakfast at Winkle 43, head to the Anne Frank House and see where wartime diarist Anne Frank lived in hiding before she and the other residents at the Secret Annex were found by the Nazis.
Afternoon: Have lunch at Café de Klepel and then board an Amsterdam Canal Cruise from the Anne Frank House pier. Look out for sights like Magere Brug, and Nine Streets on your cruise. The UNESCO-listed canals are a beautiful sight too!
Evening: Explore Madame Tussauds Amsterdam and rub shoulders with wax figures of popular figures, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, Lady Gaga, and even members of the Dutch royal family. End the day with dinner at Van Stapele Koekmakerij.

Morning: Start the day early with a morning stroll around the lush Vondelpark. Keep an eye out for the iconic statue of Joost van den Vondel, the Dutch poet who inspired the park's name. Next, stop by Blushing for a quick breakfast, and head to Stedelijk Museum and see one of the best collections of modern and contemporary art, including Mondrian’s Composition with Yellow, Red, Black, Blue, and Gray.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at H’ART Museum and admire the 17th-century building as well as its rotating exhibits of modern and contemporary art. Drop by Dignita Hoftuin for lunch.
Evening: In the evening, you can either head to the ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo and see animals, reptiles, exotic birds, aquatic creatures, and more, or go to Hortus Botanicus, where you can explore glasshouses and gardens filled with a variety of plants from all over. End the day with dinner at De Plantage**.

Pro tips for exploring Amsterdam in February

  • Getting around: The best way around the city is by foot unless you’re wearing really uncomfortable shoes, which we definitely don’t recommend. Public transportation (tram, metro, bus) is also pretty cheap. It’s easy to get lost in Amsterdam while walking around. Every canal, bridge, and street will start to look the same when you're lost, so always carry a map or have a navigation app on your phone.
  • Get a pass: Consider getting a pass to visit multiple sites at a discounted rate. The Museum Pass and the iAmsterdam City Card are pretty good options.
  • Where to stay: If you’re visiting Amsterdam for its nightlife, consider staying near Dam Square. If you want to check out Amsterdam’s other offerings, choose options near Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein. Westerpark and De Pijp offer a quieter stay as well. Save money on your accommodation by booking a room in a hotel like This Ho(S)tel, Durty Nelly’s Irish Pub & Hostel, or The Flying Pig, or cheaper hotels like Ibis Amsterdam Center, Bulldog Hotel, or Max Brown Museum Hotel Square.
  • Booking flights: Since February is the low season for Amsterdam, you can find cheaper flights to and from the city. In addition, flights to Amsterdam are usually cheaper on a Thursday, and flights back are cheaper on a Wednesday. If you’re flexible about your travel dates, it’s best to compare prices before finalizing your plans. Also, book your flights at least 2 months in advance.
  • Ticketed attractions: Even though February is less crowded compared to Amsterdam in other months, popular attractions like the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum will still see plenty of visitors. Book your tickets at least 1 month in advance, before they sell out. It’ll also save you from having to stand at ticketing queues out in the cold.
  • Where to eat: Bookmark restaurants before your trip so you don’t waste time planning where to eat. Some of the cheapest restaurants in Amsterdam are Skek, Goodies, Rob Wigboldus Vishandel, Soup En Zo, and Mister Meatball. Try Dutch delicacies popular in the winter, such as snert, split pea soup, or stamppot, mashed potatoes with vegetables and sausage.
  • Live entertainment: Winter is one of the best times to score a ticket to the National Opera & Ballet and catch a classic or contemporary show. You can also catch a classical concert at Concertgebouw.
  • Have a backup plan: The weather in Amsterdam in February can be unpredictable. It’s best to have a flexible plan, especially if you’re focusing on outdoor activities, in case the weather takes a turn for the worse.

Frequently Asked Questions about visiting Amsterdam in February

No, most attractions will be open throughout the month. However, you can expect reduced opening hours compared to the peak season. Outdoor activities like walking tours may also be subject to weather conditions.