The magic of the season

Stepping into the Winter Paradise feels like crossing into another world. The moment you enter, you’re surrounded by
sparkling snowflakes, the scent of fresh waffles, and the cheerful sounds of laughter echoing through the hall.
Children tug at their parents’ hands, eager to hit the ice rink, while couples
stroll hand in hand through tunnels of
light. It’s the kind of place that makes you forget you’re indoors a winter wonderland where Amsterdam’s
festive spirit truly comes alive.

This year’s edition promises to be bigger and brighter than ever. Expect new immersive experiences, glistening light
shows, and playful attractions that make the event as magical for adults as it is for
children. The famous ice-skating rink is
back, both indoors and out, offering visitors the chance to glide under fairy lights. And if skating isn’t your thing,
you can watch from the side with a mug of steaming hot chocolate or mulled wine the perfect winter ritual.

What’s new?

Every edition of the Winter Paradise brings something new, and 2025 is no exception. Visitors can look forward to
The Balloon Voyage, an enchanting new attraction that floats you high above the event for a panoramic view of the
glowing lights below. The Snow Paradise area has been expanded too, turning
into the largest indoor light and snow
experience in the Netherlands. And for those who crave something thrilling, The Tube Jump makes a grand return — a
snowy adventure that sends you
sliding down icy slopes with a rush of adrenaline.

Even the music gets a magical touch this year with the Symphony of Lights, a mesmerizing show inside a glowing
dome that combines light, sound, and emotion into one immersive spectacle.
Whether you’re five or fifty, it’s impossible not to feel the wonder.

When and where to go

The Amsterdam Winter Paradise runs from 17 December 2025 to 3 January 2026, right at the RAI Amsterdam on
Europaplein. It’s easy to reach by tram or metro, and if you prefer to drive, parking is available but limited so public
transport is often the smoother choice.

The event opens early in the morning and runs late into the night, with most attractions open until 10 PM.
The atmosphere shifts beautifully throughout the day: mornings are calm and family-friendly, while evenings turn
lively and festive, with glowing lights and upbeat après-ski music filling the air. If you visit with children, the earlier hours
are perfect. Later in the day, the vibe becomes more social, making it a great spot for groups of friends or couples looking to celebrate the season.
The event opens early in the morning and runs late into the night, with most
attractions open until 10 PM. The atmosphere shifts beautifully throughout the day: mornings are calm and family-friendly, while evenings turn lively and
festive, with glowing lights and upbeat après-ski music filling the air. If you visit with children, the earlier hours are
perfect. Later in the day, the vibe becomes more social, making it a great spot for groups of friends or couples
looking to celebrate the season.

A taste of winter

No winter festival is complete without food and the Amsterdam Winter Paradise delivers. Between skating sessions and
photo ops, you can wander through cozy food stalls offering everything from crispy poffertjes and creamy hot
chocolate to hearty Dutch snacks and winter stews. The aroma of freshly baked
treats mixes with the scent of pine,
creating that unmistakable holiday feeling.

For adults, the après-ski bar offers mulled wine, cocktails, and live music a little slice of the Alps right in Amsterdam.
As the night deepens, fairy lights reflect off the glasses, people laugh louder, and the festive mood wraps around
you like a warm blanket.

Tips for the best experience

If you want to make the most of your visit, a little preparation goes a long way. Tickets are sold with specific time slots,
so it’s smart to book in advance especially around Christmas and New Year’s, when the event gets busy. Dress in
layers, because you’ll be moving between indoor and outdoor areas, and don’t forget a pair of gloves if you
plan to spend time on the ice.

Families might want to visit in the early hours to enjoy shorter lines and discounted tickets for kids. Those looking
for more of a nightlife feel should head there in the evening, when live performances and DJ sets keep the
energy high. And remember, from 6 PM onward, the dress code gets a bit more festive: no sweatpants allowed, because
the night is meant to sparkle.

Why It’s worth visiting

What makes the Amsterdam Winter Paradise so special is the balance it strikes between nostalgia and
excitement. It captures that childlike joy of snow and lights, yet still feels sophisticated enough for adults to fully
enjoy. It’s an event that brings people together — locals, tourists, families, and
friends — all celebrating winter
in their own way.

For travelers, it’s also one of the most Instagram-worthy moments of the season. Between the glowing light
tunnels, the snow-covered slopes, and the glimmering Ferris wheel, every corner feels picture-perfect. But beyond the
photos, it’s about atmosphere: a chance to pause, to laugh, and to feel the
magic of the holidays again.

Stay cozy with Cityden Aparthotels

After a full day at the Winter Paradise, there’s nothing better than returning to a warm, comfortable space — and that’s
where Cityden Aparthotels come in. Whether you’re staying in Cityden BoLo District, Cityden Stadshart, or Cityden
Zuidas, each offers the perfect blend of hotel luxury and apartment comfort. You’ll have room to unwind, cook a quick meal, or simply relax with a hot drink
while the city glows outside your window.

Thanks to the convenient locations, you’re never far from the RAI or other festive spots around Amsterdam. It’s the
ideal base for anyone wanting to experience the city’s winter charm
without compromising on
comfort or style.

For a truly memorable winter escape, plan your stay with Cityden Aparthotels— where warmth, design, and a touch of
home meet the sparkle of Amsterdam’s holiday season.

Getting to the Amsterdam Winter Paradise

No matter where you’re staying, the journey to the Amsterdam Winter Paradise is part of the fun. From each
Cityden Aparthotel, you’ll be soaking up the festive vibes in no time.

If you’re staying at Cityden BoLo District, hop on tram 19 and watch the city slowly transform from cozy neighborhood
streets to the glittering lights of the RAI grounds it’s just a short 25-minute ride,
but it already feels like the start
of a winter fairytale.

Guests at Cityden Stadshart can enjoy an easy trip too. From Amstelveen Stadshart, tram 5 or metro 51 takes you
directly to Station RAI. Within 20 minutes, you’ll swap modern city calm for the buzzing winter wonderland,
hot chocolate and ice rinks included.

And if you’re staying at Cityden Zuidas, the magic is even closer. A five-minute walk brings you to metro stop Kronenburg, where line 51 whisks you straight to the heart of the festivities. Before you know it, you’ll be stepping
out beneath sparkling lights, surrounded by laughter, music, and the scent
of fresh oliebollen.

Whichever Cityden you call home, getting to the Amsterdam Winter Paradise is easy — and just the
beginning of a night you won’t forget.