Amsterdam in November

Amsterdam is an eventful city all year round. No matter the season, weather or month, there are always plenty of things to do and places to go. In November the city gets colder but that doesn’t mean the activities in Amsterdam will be cooling down. Amsterdam in November is all about the arts, with loads of local and internationally known events taking place all throughout the month. So next to the already amazing selection of museums the city has to offer, art enthusiast will get even more thrilled after having seen the extensive list of temporary exhibitions and other events. Read on!

Amsterdam weather in November

November marks the start of winter in Amsterdam. The temperature will quickly go down to an average of 10 degrees Celsius by day and 5 by night. Make sure you come prepared, especially since this month is known to be quite rainy. Winter (and waterproof) coats, comfy sweaters and an umbrella will serve you well.  It doesn’t happen often that it snows in November, but the weather in the Netherlands can be unpredictable, so you never know.

What to do in Amsterdam in November

After October, when the weather can still be quite pleasant in Amsterdam, it is time for inside fun in November. Our Best Attractions list will guide you through all there is to do in Amsterdam, with plenty of options taking place at comfortable inside locations. But before you do so, read on about all there is to do in this specific month.

Film Houses

What better way to spend a rainy day, than to enjoy a good movie with some drinks and popcorn. Amsterdam has a lot to offer when it comes to theaters showing movies, from locations showing major block busters to smaller cozy spots like Lab111 showing art-house films. 

Eye Film Museum

On the docks across from Amsterdam Central Station an unmissable architectural highlight arises. The Eye Film Museum has 1,200 square meters of exhibition space and holds a collection of over 40.000 films. Their four cinemas showcase all types of film, from the newest releases to art house and true classics. Combine your visit with lunch or dinner at their adjoining restaurant, serving delicious dishes with a stunning view over the IJ Harbour.

Rialto

Rialto is one of the best-known art film houses in Amsterdam located in the bustling Pijp area showcasing films in all genres. From classics to international and kids’ movies. Rialto likes to call themselves a theater for world citizens. Their cozy café is open until an hour after to the last movie showing and offers both hot and cold beverages as well as small bites and sweets.

Pathé Tuschinski

The iconic Tuschinski theater is located in the city center and is known to be the most beautiful movie theater in the country. The exterior and interior of this spectacular building is a mix of Art Nouveau and Art Deco with Asian influences. Tuschinski is part of the Pathé group, with cinema’s all over town. It showcases both blockbusters, arthouse films and documentaries and is often used for events such as premieres.

Bar Hopping

Have a seat and enjoy the comfort of one of the many bars in Amsterdam. Whether you fancy a beer, a good glass of wine or a hot chocolate with extra whip cream, bar hopping is one of the best things to do when it’s getting colder and darker outside. Next to all the city center has to offer like  and , the Pijp and the Jordaan area are the best neighborhoods to go. Enjoy the coziness at Vesper, have a craft beer tasting at Tapzuid and stay late for some dancing at the Tulp. For cocktails we recommend Rosalia’s Menagerie or head over to the top floor of the W Hotel for drinks with a stunning view.

Since there are over 1500 bars in the city, we created the Ultimate Amsterdam Bar Guide to help you choose where to go.

Events in Amsterdam in November

As mentioned before November in Amsterdam is all about art. From Art Fairs and expositions to the world-renowned Museum Night and the opening of the Ice* Amsterdam, an ice-skating experience on Museum Square. If you’re an art enthusiast, this is the month to be in town.

Affordable Art Fair

1-4 November

The Affordable Art Fair showcases over a thousand contemporary artworks with a price range between €100 and €6000. Like their name already reveals, they are in it to make art more accessible and affordable for all. Expect lectures, a special zone for kids and drinks and bites at the restaurant to keep you going. Found something you like? They have a packaging service on site, so you can easily take your artwork with you.

Museum Night

3 November

Museum Night is one of Amsterdam’s most bespoken art events. 57 of the biggest museums in town will open their doors from 7:00 p.m. until 2:00 a.m. Expect all sorts of activities, special exhibitions, and tours. With one ticket you get access to all participating museums and events. The Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh and Stedelijk as well as the Artis Royal Zoo and Hortus Botanicus are amongst participating museums.

Sieraad Art Fair

7 – 11 November

The Sieraad Art Fair is a exhibition showcasing jewelry pieces by talented designers from all over the world. It’s both a gallery as well as it is a place for consumers to engage with the owner of the brand before purchasing a unique piece. Expect handcrafted designs using materials such as precious stones and metals, wood, ceramics and textile.

Ice* Amsterdam

17 November – 3 February

On 17 November the winter ice experience Ice* Amsterdam will open on one of the city’s most beautiful locations: right in front of the Rijksmuseum on Museum Square. Ice-skate underneath a replica of the famous Magere Brug (The Skinny Bridge) and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate.  Their restaurant offers all sorts of delicious hot treats to keep you warm and comfortable.

IDFA Documentary Festival
15 – 26 November

IDFA is known to be a worldwide leading festival when it comes to documentaries. This international event brings producers, directors, dealers, critics and lovers of documentaries together to celebrate new works. Expect panel discussions, premieres and large selection of in-dept, films. Their special programs include IDFA Junior and Volkskrant Magazine Day: documentaries selected by editors or the magazines on themes such as love and fashion.

PAN Amsterdam
19– 26 November

PAN Amsterdam showcases works from over 110 galleries, antique shops and art dealers. Expect there to be an amazing array of paintings, contemporary art, jewelry, design furniture and antique objects from distant cultures. Get to know up-and-coming artists and be amazed by ancient objects.  All of this makes for a fascinating art exhibition and an ideal networking event.

Amsterdam Art Weekend
23 – 26 November

Amsterdam Art Weekend is the place to be for people who want to see emerging talent before anyone else. This event is all about contemporary artists, young painters, photographers, sculptors and other artists that set themselves apart with their unique style. Their program is filled with performances, debates and screenings, inviting art enthusiast to join and learn about the latest developments in contemporary art.

Meesterlijk

30 November – 2 December

Meesterlijk is a three day event at the Westergasfabriek that provides a home for traditional craft professionals like gold and silversmiths, woodworkers, fashion, food and interior designers. Talented novices will stand alongside master craftsmen to showcase their works of art. Meesterlijk gives you the opportunity to meet the artists and talk about their craft. And if you find something you like, you can buy the artifacts on site. Expect uniquely designed furniture, jewelry, ceramics and fashion items.

Amsterdam Light Festival
29 November – 20 January

Amsterdam Light Festival will light up the city center with 30 artworks and installations designed by artists from all over the world. Be amazed by the beauty during a canal tour or admire all there is to see while strolling through the city with a special Amsterdam Light Festival tour.

If that isn’t enough on art we suggest you to have a look at our museum page. We have listed the best there is to do, from niche museums to the biggest names!

Where to eat

One of the best things of city trips is discovering new places and  trying out different cuisines. November is the time for hearty comfort food and let it be that the traditional Dutch cuisine is perfect for this weather. If you have never tried any Dutch dishes, it’s definitely worth the try during your visit in Amsterdam. From stews and meatballs, to (your not so typical) pancakes and Grandmothers apple pie.

d’Vijff Vlieghen

D’Vijff Vlieghen (The Five Flies) serves Dutch haute cuisine dishes. Their beautifully decorated brown interior is typical to what classic Dutch homes used to look like in the Golden Age. Enjoy their delightful dishes with a good glass of wine in the midst of 4 original artworks by the world famous painter Rembrandt.

Looking for more culinary hotspots? Our Best Restaurants in Amsterdam list will help you find a restaurant, whatever cuisine you’d want to indulge in. From authentic Italian to Michelin Star dining and everything in between!

Haesje Claes

Haesje Claes is an household name in Amsterdam when it comes to the Dutch cuisine. Their cozy “brown cafe” will make you feel right at home during colder days. On the menu you’ll find traditional stews with meat, fresh North Sea fish, rich soups and typical sweets like stroopwafels and macaroon pudding.

Moeders

Moeders (meaning Mothers) does dinner like you would do at home. Stews, braised meats and purees with gravy are served to your table in pots and pans. Because of the warm and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a perfect restaurant a lunch or dining experience with the whole family.

Pancake Bakery

One of the most known Dutch delicacies are the traditional pancakes. These are slightly thicker than French crepes and come with all sorts of savory and sweet toppings. The Pancake Bakery is one amongst many spots where you can get them. A favorite is the bacon, cheese and syrup pancake, but you can go all the way with toppings like bell pepper, pepperoni, lettuce and cinnamon sugar. Just to name a few!

There you go. We hope you have an incredible time in Amsterdam using our November in Amsterdam guide. Check out our 15 things to do for more on the cities highlights and don’t hesitate to let us know your favorite in the comments below!