Amsterdam in Two Moods
Spring Beats & Winter Lights
Some cities are made to be explored once. Amsterdam isn’t one of them. I’ve been lucky enough to visit twice once in the crisp chill of winter, where fairy lights wrapped around gabled houses, and again in spring, when the city pulses with music, canals sparkle, and bikes zip by in every direction.
It’s a place that invites wandering, where the best moments come from just walking without a plan. Whether it’s the scent of fresh stroopwafels, the echo of electronic beats in an old warehouse, or a quiet moment in a museum,
Amsterdam always delivers just in very different ways.
Winter: Warm Lights & Stroopwafels
Winter in Amsterdam feels like stepping into a snow globe soft lights, decorated bridges, and cozy cafés that welcome you in like a warm hug. The city takes its festive season seriously, with Christmas trees in every window, ice skating rinks in main squares, and warm stroopwafels from corner stands (I lost count after four).
I’d spend mornings wrapped in layers, wandering through Jordaan or De Pijp, popping into vintage shops and local cafés, and warming up with Dutch hot chocolate or a sneaky glühwein.
Spring: Bikes, Beats & Blooming Vibes
When the city thaws out, Amsterdam becomes electric. Spring was all about walking—endless exploring, terrace-hopping, and soaking in canal views from every bridge.
And the standout?
Awakenings Music Festival
I timed this visit with Awakenings, and it was unreal. If you’re into house or techno, this is the festival to plan around. Held in a massive outdoor venue just outside the city, it brings together world-class DJs, incredible visuals, and a crowd that lives and breathes the music.
There’s something about dancing in the open air, surrounded by strangers who instantly feel like friends, that makes it unforgettable. From deep techno in forest stages to big drops under a pastel-pink sky it’s a rush. And somehow, it still felt intimate.
Hot tip: Grab your tickets early and wear your comfiest shoes you’ll be dancing for hours.
Culture Hits: Museums & More
Art lovers, prepare to get lost. From the bold strokes of Van Gogh to the haunting beauty of the Anne Frank House, Amsterdam’s cultural offerings are deep and emotional. I also loved:
Rijksmuseum: A must—even for those who “don’t do museums.” The building itself is a work of art.
Moco Museum: For a hit of modern and street art Banksy fans, this one’s for you.
Stedelijk: Sleek, contemporary, and perfectly curated.
Final Thoughts
Amsterdam has this rare balance creative, calm, cheeky, and cultural.
Come in winter for fairy lights, cozy corners, and festive charm.
Visit in spring for outdoor living, canal-side hangs, and epic music moments like Awakenings.
And anytime you go, just walk, explore, and let the city unfold at its own rhythm.
📍Here’s my curated map of all the places I loved and would return to in a heartbeat:
👉 Amsterdam Favorites Map
Coffeeshops, Parks & People-Watching
Let’s be real: part of the Amsterdam experience is stopping by a coffeeshop.
Whether you’re a curious first-timer or a regular, there’s no pressure just chill vibes and friendly faces. A great place to wind down before heading into one of the city’s lush green spaces.
Vondelpark and Westerpark are my top picks. Grab a snack, find a bench, and watch the world ride by on bikes, rollerblades, or with dogs in baskets.
Stroopwafels & Sweet Stops
One thing you must try: fresh, warm stroopwafels from a market stand. Caramel, crisp, chewy goodness that I’d fly back for. They’re the perfect fuel for all that walking. And walking. And walking. (Seriously, I’ve never walked so much in a city and loved every step.)