Amsterdam is always beautiful, but during the Amsterdam Light Festival the city gets something extra. In the darkest months of the year, the canals turn into a route full of light art. Bridges, quays, facades and the water itself become part of a special evening through the city.
During the festival, you can see several light artworks created by artists from the Netherlands and abroad. Some artworks are large and impressive, while others are more subtle and blend beautifully with their surroundings. Together, they form a route through Amsterdam where art, light and the city strengthen each other.
What makes this experience so special is that the artworks are not displayed in a museum, but right in the middle of the city. Between the canal houses, along the water and under the bridges. This makes the city feel a little like an open-air museum. And from the water, you see it in a very special way.
From the boat, you sail calmly past the illuminated artworks. You do not have to walk the route yourself, search for where to go or stand in the crowds. You simply sit comfortably on board and watch Amsterdam pass by. The lights reflect in the water, the bridges are illuminated and the city gets a warm winter atmosphere.
You sail with Amsterdam Boat Cruises, our own boat company in Amsterdam. That means we know exactly what is important for a pleasant evening on the water: a good route, clear information, comfortable boats and a relaxed atmosphere on board.
You can easily book the cruise via Hop On Hop Off Holland. Everything is clear and easy in one place. Choose your date and time, book your tickets online and board Amsterdam Boat Cruises on the day of your visit.
This cruise is ideal for anyone who wants to experience Amsterdam in a different way. For couples looking for a lovely evening out, families who want to do something special in winter, groups of friends and visitors seeing Amsterdam for the first time. But even if you already know the city well, the Amsterdam Light Festival from the water remains a special experience.
The festival takes place from 26 November 2026 to 17 January 2027. According to the official festival information, the fifteenth edition is dedicated to 15 years of light art in Amsterdam. The theme of this edition has not yet been announced.
