Amsterdam Light Festival: One of the best Winter things to do in Amsterdam

Every year, the dark days of Winter are lit up by Amsterdam Light festival, a spectacular event which draws thousands of visitors from across the Netherlands and abroad. As an open air exhibition which takes place in the heart of the city, it is certainly one of Amsterdam’s must-sees during the December/January period. Check out our tips below for the ultimate Amsterdam Light Festival experience.

Amsterdam Light festival by boat

It is widely accepted that experiencing Amsterdam Light Festival by boat is by far the best option. As the festival of lights combines the elements of the city’s scapes, light and water, going on a light festival canal cruise will give you the best views available of all the must-see exhibitions. It is popular to select one of Amsterdam’s many canal cruises as a touring means. Most canal cruises leave from the centre of Amsterdam, and many have a variety of dining and drinks options. If you would like a more tailored Amsterdam Light Festival route, why not rent a boat with some family and friends? Local skippers will show you the best routes (where bigger canal cruises can’t always go), or you can captain a boat yourself after some instruction if you dare!

Amsterdam Light Festival by bicycle

Of course, if you really want to be like an Amsterdam local, seeing the Amsterdam Light Festival by bicycle is highly recommended. You can rent a bicycle in Amsterdam for an affordable price and create your own custom light festival route. You can also go on organised tours. A-bike Tours is an official partner of Amsterdam Light Festival and a great choice for if you want a unique cycling tour experience past Amsterdam’s best sights and light festival exhibitions.

Amsterdam Light Festival by foot

As Amsterdam Light Festival is located in the heart of the city centre and is publicly accessible, seeing the exhibitions by foot is also an excellent option. Simply wandering along Amsterdam’s canals and past many of its famous sights will lead you to some of the best that the festival has to offer. This year's spectacular 2018-2019 edition is called 'The medium is the message'

Land Exhibition: Marineterrein

If you prefer more contained exhibitions, or if you simply want to experience Amsterdam Light Festival to the fullest, why not visit the land exhibition? From the 14th december until the 7th of January, a spectacular array of light artworks will be publicly available at the Marineterrein. Its central location makes it a perfect option for any Amsterdam Light Festival enthusiast or traveller passing by. You can read more about the location and the land exhibition here.

Amsterdam Light Festival Practical information

If you are not an Amsterdam local, it is advisable that you book accommodation before your arrival. Sites such as Air bnb make it easy to select different Amsterdam accommodation options, including apartments. Check out our recommendations of where to stay in Amsterdam to ensure you experience the best Amsterdam has to offer.

Parking in Amsterdam’s city centre

If you are coming by car, reserve a parking spot with Mobypark to ensure you are guaranteed a parking spot at a discount rate of up to 60% off. Mobypark is a platform which connects parking owners with drivers, meaning we have parking spots all over Amsterdam and provide a unique, community-focused parking experience. Want a more luxurious parking experience? Mobypark offers valet parking too!

If you would like to read about Mobypark users’ experiences, check out the Mobypark web site. You can also visit the site to find a parking spot in Amsterdam.