01-10-2025

Fall activities in Amsterdam & Leiden – 2025 update!

The mornings are getting colder, and the days are growing shorter, which means fall has started! In the Netherlands, that usually means chilly, rainy weather and the end of summer picnics in the park. But don't worry; there are still plenty of fun things to do this season. Here are our top picks.

Sunny day? Head into nature!

Make the most of a crisp, sunny fall day by going outside! In Amsterdam, explore Amsterdamse Bos, Westerpark, or Rembrandtpark. In Leiden, we recommend a visit to the botanical garden. Grab a coffee, bring a friend, and enjoy the vibrant oranges and reds of the season.

Events and activities

Fall in the Netherlands is packed with events. Party anywhere in the city during ADE (Oct 22 – 26), visit and dance in museums during Museumnacht (Nov 1), or walk Amsterdam Light Festival route (Late Nov – Jan). In Leiden, visit Leiden International Film Festival (Oct 9 – 19) to watch movies from all over the world.

Rainy day? Stay indoors, but in a fun way

If we're being realistic, we know that fall means a lot of rainy days. But that doesn't mean you have to be stuck at home! Visit inspiring museums and galleries like FOAM and Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, and Voorlinden in Wassenaar (near Leiden). If you love movies, we recommend getting a Pathe Unlimited card for endless cinema visits for only € 23/month!

Bars with a twist

Looking for a social activity that’s not just another night at a bar? In Amsterdam, visit Pong - House of Ping where you can play ping-pong, board games or do karaoke. Visit TonTon Club for retro Japanese arcade fun with great bites. Love pub quizzes? Check out Brouwerij Troost for their pub quiz nights. In Leiden, you’ll find cozy alternatives too! At Moeke and Olivier, you can have a drink and play darts or pool. Or spend an evening at The Game Hut, where you can play a wide range of board games while enjoying drinks and snacks.

Markets

Fall is also the perfect time to explore local markets. Browse fresh produce, warm street food, and unique finds at markets across the cities. In Amsterdam, we recommend Ten Katemarkt in West and Albert Cuypmarkt in De Pijp. And although it is not a market, at Fruittuin van West, you can find organic produce which you can pick yourself! In Leiden, don’t miss the Leiden Weekly Market (Wednesdays and Saturdays) along the Nieuwe Rijn.