Amsterdam transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas, with the city’s best experiences centered around Dam Square and the historic center. The essential holiday highlights include the professional photo sessions at Dam Square (perfect for capturing the magical ambiance), and the cozy small-group walking tours through festive markets – my favorite way to discover local holiday traditions. While Amsterdam’s own Christmas markets are charming, nearby Cologne offers spectacular traditional German markets worth the day trip. After dark, the city’s light installations create a magical atmosphere, best enjoyed with a steaming cup of Dutch hot chocolate or glühwein (mulled wine).
I particularly recommend the evening walking tours – they combine culture, history, and seasonal charm while avoiding the daytime crowds. The local guides share fascinating stories about Dutch Christmas traditions you won’t find in guidebooks.
Check out these carefully selected Christmas tours that showcase Amsterdam at its festive best.
Key Points
- Capture the festive spirit with a professional Christmas photoshoot at Dam Square, featuring guidance from a local photographer and beautifully edited digital photos.
- Explore Amsterdam’s Christmas market at the Ice Village, Museumplein, on a private walking tour with a live guide and entrance fees included.
- Set out on a day trip from Amsterdam to Cologne’s renowned Christmas markets, with a guided visit to the Cologne Cathedral and free shopping time.
- Immerse in the city’s magical ambiance during a guided tour showcasing Amsterdam’s captivating Christmas lights and festive delights.
- Preserve the memories of your Christmas market experience with a professional 30-minute photo shoot near the Rijksmuseum.
Amsterdam: Professional Christmas Photoshoot at Dam Square
Spend 30 minutes immortalizing the Christmas spirit with a professional photoshoot in the heart of Amsterdam’s iconic Dam Square.
For €120, a group of up to 8 participants can enjoy this festive experience. The package includes a private session with a local photographer, who’ll provide expert guidance on poses and angles.
You can even bring your own Christmas props for a personal touch. Within 48 hours, you’ll receive beautifully edited digital photos to share with friends and family.
This stress-free experience is wheelchair accessible, and the host or greeter speaks English and Dutch. Capture the magic of the season in a unique and heartwarming setting.
Read our full review: Amsterdam: Professional Christmas Photoshoot at Dam Square Review
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Amsterdam: Christmas Market Private Walking Tour
Visitors can enjoy the enchanting festivity of Amsterdam’s Christmas Market on this private walking tour. Lasting 1.5 hours, the tour showcases the Ice Village at Museumplein, where guests can enjoy ice skating and browse festive stalls.
The experience highlights the lively atmosphere filled with laughter, carols, and the aroma of cinnamon and mulled wine. With a group size of up to 15 participants, the tour provides an intimate exploration of the market’s magical winter landscape.
Priced from £207.32 per group, the tour includes a live guide, entrance fees, and the option to cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Amsterdam: Christmas Market Private Walking Tour Review
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From Amsterdam: Cologne Christmas Market Day Tour
Travelers can embark on a captivating day trip from Amsterdam to explore the renowned Cologne Christmas markets.
The 12-hour tour, priced from $167.10 per person, includes a guided visit to the iconic Cologne Cathedral and the city’s historic Old Town.
Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere, savor traditional German delicacies, and enjoy free time for shopping in the vibrant streets and arcades.
The tour also offers an optional visit to the Cologne Chocolate Museum.
With round-trip transportation, a professional driver, and a friendly live guide, this experience ensures a hassle-free and memorable journey to the heart of Cologne’s Christmas spirit.
Read our full review: From Amsterdam: Cologne Christmas Market Day Tour Review
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Amsterdam: Christmas Lights and Festive Delights
Amsterdam’s Christmas season comes alive with a captivating array of festive lights and delights. Priced at $192.63 per person, this 3-hour guided tour allows visitors to enjoy the city’s enchanting Christmas atmosphere.
Led by a passionate local host, the experience includes strolling along canals to admire the Amsterdam Light Festival installations, sipping mulled wine or hot chocolate, and browsing Christmas markets for unique gifts and local delicacies.
The tour can be customized based on individual preferences, with a focus on showcasing the city’s most festive sights and experiences. With a 4/5 rating from previous participants, this tour offers a personalized and memorable way to celebrate the Christmas season in Amsterdam.
Read our full review: Amsterdam: Christmas Lights and Festive Delights Review
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Amsterdam: Christmas Market Photo Shoot
Frequently, Christmas market enthusiasts flock to the Paulus Potterstraat 3E location, near the iconic Rijksmuseum, to capture the festive spirit during a 30-minute professional photo shoot.
Priced at $104.04 for groups of up to 8 participants, the experience allows guests to bring personal props for unique shots.
With an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 59 reviews, the expert photographer guides attendees, ensuring incredible results.
Digital photos are delivered within 48 hours, and printed versions can be purchased.
Convenient booking with no upfront payment and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior make this Christmas market photo shoot an appealing option for those seeking to preserve their holiday memories.
Read our full review: Amsterdam: Christmas Market Photo Shoot Review
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The Sum Up
Amsterdam offers a festive array of Christmas experiences. From striking photo opportunities at the iconic Dam Square to immersive market tours, visitors can capture the magic of the season. Whether seeking a day trip to the Cologne Christmas market or simply admiring the city’s twinkling lights, Amsterdam provides a range of enchanting holiday activities to suit every traveler’s interests.