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20 Fun Things to Do in Amsterdam in November + the Best Restaurants
November is a special month in Amsterdam, as the city prepares for winter with an abundance of events, cozy atmospheres, and culinary delights. Here is a comprehensive list of 20 activities you can do in November, along with recommendations for restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious dinner.
Amsterdam Light Festival
Starting in late November, the Amsterdam Light Festival transforms the city into an open-air art gallery. The canals and streets are illuminated by impressive light installations from international artists.
Dining Tip: Restaurant De Belhamel
An atmospheric restaurant on the Brouwersgracht, ideal for a romantic dinner after admiring the light installations.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Moscow Mule, Cosmopolitan
Museum Visit on a Rainy Day
Visit the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, or the Anne Frank House and enjoy a day full of culture.
Dining Tip: Café Americain
This iconic café in the American Hotel offers an art-deco ambiance and a modern menu, perfect for after your museum visit.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Espresso Martini, Bloody Mary
Sunday Market in Westerpark
Explore this lively market full of artisanal products, art, and delicious food.
Dining Tip: Restaurant Mossel & Gin
Specializes in fresh mussels and gin cocktails, but also offers delicious vodka cocktails.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Vodka Martini, White Russian
Bike Ride through the Vondelpark
Take a relaxing bike ride through the Vondelpark and enjoy the autumn colors.
Dining Tip: Restaurant Vondelpark3
Located in the heart of the park, with a menu full of comfort food.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Screwdriver, Cosmopolitan
The Sinterklaas Arrival
In mid-November, Sinterklaas arrives in Amsterdam, a festive event that is especially fun for families with children.
Dining Tip: De Silveren Spiegel
A historic restaurant with traditional Dutch dishes.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Espresso Martini, Bloody Mary
Autumn Walk in the Amsterdamse Bos
Explore the Amsterdamse Bos, where the autumn colors can be admired in full glory.
Dining Tip: Restaurant Meerzicht
A cozy pancake house in the middle of the forest, perfect for families.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Moscow Mule, Screwdriver
Amsterdam Winter Parade
Enjoy theater, music, and food during this unique event that takes place at various locations in the city.
Dining Tip: Pllek
A trendy restaurant on the IJ with a spectacular view and a versatile menu.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: White Russian, Bloody Mary
Christmas Shopping in the Nine Streets
The Nine Streets are ideal for doing unique Christmas shopping.
Dining Tip: Restaurant Bussia
An elegant Italian restaurant in the Nine Streets, perfect for a luxurious dinner after shopping.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Cosmopolitan, Vodka Martini
Visit to the Jordaan
Discover the charming neighborhood of the Jordaan, with its narrow streets and cozy cafes.
Dining Tip: Restaurant Daalder
A modern restaurant with a Michelin star, where you can enjoy a surprise menu.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Espresso Martini, Moscow Mule
Watching a Movie in De Hallen
Visit the FilmHallen in De Hallen and enjoy a movie in one of the most beautiful cinemas in the city.
Dining Tip: Kanarie Club
Located in De Hallen, it offers an extensive menu with something for everyone.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Bloody Mary, White Russian
Visit to the Albert Cuyp Market
Explore the famous Albert Cuyp Market in De Pijp, where you will find everything from fresh produce to clothing and accessories.
Dining Tip: Restaurant Café Caron
A cozy French restaurant in De Pijp, ideal for an informal evening out.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Vodka Martini, Cosmopolitan
Canal Cruise through the Canals
A canal cruise is always a good idea, especially when the canals are illuminated by the Amsterdam Light Festival.
Dining Tip: Restaurant Jansz
An elegant restaurant on the Keizersgracht, perfect for a chic dinner.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Moscow Mule, Screwdriver
Eating at the Foodhallen
Taste different dishes from local food trucks and stallholders in the covered Foodhallen.
Dining Tip: Meat West
One of the restaurants in the Foodhallen, specializing in meat dishes.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: White Russian, Bloody Mary
Visit the Concertgebouw
The Concertgebouw offers an impressive program in November, from classical music to modern performances.
Dining Tip: Brasserie Keyzer
Located next to the Concertgebouw, ideal for dinner before or after the concert.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Cosmopolitan, Espresso Martini
Walking along the Amstel
Take a peaceful walk along the Amstel and enjoy the beautiful views over the water.
Dining Tip: De Ysbreeker
A historic café on the Amstel with a spacious terrace and a cozy atmosphere inside.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Moscow Mule, Screwdriver
Spend an Evening in a Bruin Café
Experience the authentic Amsterdam atmosphere in one of the many bruin cafés in the city.
Dining Tip: Café ’t Smalle
A classic bruin café in the Jordaan with a warm interior and delicious dishes.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: White Russian, Bloody Mary
Street Art Tour in the Jordaan
Discover the street art in the Jordaan during a walking tour past colorful murals and graffiti.
Dining Tip: Restaurant Breda
A modern restaurant with an innovative menu, located in the heart of the city.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Espresso Martini, Vodka Martini
Visit to the Stedelijk Museum
For modern art lovers, the Stedelijk Museum is a must-visit. There are often new exhibitions in November.
Dining Tip: Rijks
Located next to the Rijksmuseum, this restaurant offers a menu inspired by Dutch cuisine.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Moscow Mule, Cosmopolitan
Brewery Tour in de Pijp
Visit Brouwerij ’t IJ or Heineken Experience for a tour and taste the local beers.
Dining Tip: Restaurant Spaghetteria
An informal place in De Pijp, known for its fresh pastas.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: Bloody Mary, Screwdriver
Enjoy a Jazz Evening
Amsterdam has several locations where you can enjoy live jazz music, such as the Bimhuis or Café Alto.
Dining Tip: Café Restaurant De Plantage
Located in a beautiful building near Artis, it offers a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse menu.
Vodka Cocktail Suggestions: White Russian, Vodka Martini
November in Amsterdam offers a rich variety of activities and culinary experiences. Whether you like art, culture, nature, or just good food, there is always something to experience in this beautiful city!