This post covers things to do in Amsterdam during February.
We include family-friendly, nighttime, and free or cheap activities, all updated for 2023.
Read about the average weather in February in Amsterdam.
TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN FEBRUARY
This section will feature our top 10 activities to enjoy in Amsterdam throughout February.
We also have a post on things to do at any time of the year.
For tips on the most popular activities in Amsterdam, check out these popular posts:
Several of the items below are already included for free with the purchase of a tourist discount pass.
And be sure to check out our post on the weather in February in Amsterdam.
1. Go to a Concert
In February, there are a number of excellent performers in Amsterdam.
The city has a vibrant music scene all year-round, so there is no shortage of bands to see.
See who's playing in February:
- Eros Ramazzotti | February 16th
- Dropkick Murphys | February 17th
- Lizzo | February 23rd
- Lewis Capaldi | February 25th
- Manowar | February 27th
You can find all the Amsterdam concerts in February here.
2. Take a Sightseeing Tour
On days when February's temperatures are a bit too cold to explore the city on foot, you can take a hop-on hop-off bus tour and stay warm.
If you're on a budget or want to take advantage of a nice day, take a free walking tour of Amsterdam.
For foodies, check out a food tour or a tour combo-package that includes The Heineken Experience.
3. See a Football Match
If you've never seen a European football match, now is a great opportunity as Amsterdam's Ajax team is one of the best football teams in the Netherlands.
Ajax Football (soccer):
- RKC Waalwijk | February 12th
- FC Union Berlin | February 16th (UEFA Eiropa League Knockout Round Playoffs)
- Sparta Rotterdam | February 19th
The Feyenoord professional football team is also top tier. They have a few games in February as well.
Feyenoord Football (soccer)
- PSV Eindhoven | February 5th
- AZ Alkmaar | February 19th
See what other Amsterdam sporting events are happening in February.
4. Visit a Special Exhibition
For the first time, many of Johannes Vermeer's paintings are being shown together in one special exhibit.
View 28 of the 37 Vermeers at the Rijksmueum from February - June 2023.
Some other new exhibits are:
- Damien Cadio "I Never Meant to be Cruel" | Gerhard Hofland Museum | through Febaruary 28th
- Yto Barrada "Bad Color Combos" | Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam | through March 5th
- Ibrahim Mahama "Garden of Scars" | Orde Kerk Museum | through March 19th
You can also see "Everyday, Someday and Other Stories, Collections 1950-1980" and "Tomorrow is A Different Day, Collection 1980 - Now", both at the Stedelijk through 2023 and beyond.
NOTE: Admission to some museums are included on the Amsterdam tourist passes.
Or, to purchase them directly, you can find them here: All Inclusive - Amsterdam GoCity | Explorer - Amsterdam Go City
5. Celebrate Valentines Day
If you're visiting Amsterdam with your partner during Valentine's Day weekend, there are a variety of fun and romantic activities you can enjoy.
Here are a few of the best ideas for couples:
- Private Romantic Canal Cruise
- Half-Day Tour of Zaanse Schans
- Enjoy a Meal at the Hard Rock Cafe
- Concert at the Royal Concertgebouw
- Countryside Bike Tour w/ Cheese Tasting
- Let's Call It a Date: STRAAT Date Night
In addition to these options, you may also want to consider a quick trip to the Floating Flower Market to find the perfect flowers for your loved one.
6. Go on a Pub Crawl/Beer Tour
Since it tends to be cold in Amsterdam this time of year, you might want to consider warming up with a drink.
If you're looking for the best bars and drinks in the city, a pub crawl can help you become more familiar with the area.
Here are a few pub crawls you can take in Amsterdam:
In addition to these options, you might also want to consider a trip to the House of Bols or the Heineken Experience.
7. See Amsterdam's Red Light District
The Red Light District is famous for its red-lit windows where legal prostitutes wait for customers.
Since it has been legal since 1811, visitors have been fascinated by the openness of the practice.
There are some things you should be aware of before heading over to this unique neighborhood, which is why we suggest you consider touring the district with a professional guide.
Read our post on How to Visit the Red Light District to find out what tours are available and what else there is to do in the district.
8. Enjoy Stand-up Comedy
Although there won't be many famous comedians coming to Amsterdam this month, there will still be quite a few opportunities to see some live stand-up comedy.
One of the best options is the Boom Chicago Comedy Show.
It's an English-language show that has been performed by such past in-residence comedians as Seth Meyers, Jordan Peele, and Jason Sudekis.
Alternatively, you can also enjoy some magic at Amsterdam Magic Show: Things That Make You Go Huh.
This outing includes 5-6 magic acts and an optional magical after-party.
9. Explore a Market
There are multiple markets running during February!
Head to Sunday Market at Westergas on February 5th to find clothing, art, handmade goods, delicious street food, and kid-focused toys and trinkets.
Museumplein hosts a market on February 19th, 2023 with more art, handmade crafts, food vendors, and live musical entertainment.
If you're a big flea market fan, you won't want to miss the biggest fleat market in Europe, IJ-Hallen at NDSM-wharf, on February 7th & 8th
There will be 500 indoor vendors and stands with various goods, clothing items, household decor, toys, and trinkets.
10. Save with a Tourist Attraction Discount Pass
The easiest way to see more attractions in Amsterdam is by purchasing a discount pass.
These tourist passes work by allowing you to bundle admission tickets for heavy discounts.
You could get up to 50% off retail prices on several passes – or get in for free with an all-inclusive pass.
Attractions on Various Passes Include:
- Rijksmuseum
- Rembrandt House Museum
- Heineken Experience
- Hop-On-Hop-Off Boat or Bus Tour
- ARTIS Zoo
- Madame Tussauds (with Fast Track Entry)
- Amsterdam Dungeon
See which pass can save you the most money on your trip with our in-depth comparison post.
To purchase one of the discount passes, find them here: All Inclusive - Amsterdam GoCity | Explorer - Amsterdam Go City
HONORABLE MENTION: Go to the Chocolate Lover's Festival
The Chocoa Festival is usually held in February.
The festival is promoting sustainable and high-quality chocolate from ethical sources.
As a result, you can sample plenty of delicious chocolate at the Beurs van Berlage over these two days.
You can also learn about how it is made, and how to make some of your own delicacies from different vendors and workshops.
The festival takes place February 7th-11th. Get your tickets in advance here.
RESCHEDULED: IMPRO Amsterdam
Starting February 25th, 2023, fans of improv theatre and comedy will be able to enjoy the happenings at the IMPRO festival.
There will be three different stages with performances, nightly shows, open stage opportunities, and workshops available to take.
Some classes and performances are already selling out, so get your tickets soon.
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