Schaatsbaan Museumplein Amsterdam
Set against the backdrop of the Rijksmuseum, visitors can skate on an open-air ice rink or join skating lessons hosted by the Sven Kramer Academy. Skaters and spectators alike can relax at ’t Wak for hot chocolate, drinks, lunch, or dinner, offering indoor seating and a partially covered terrace overlooking the rink. The venue also hosts seasonal activities such as curling and dedicated children's events.
What to Expect
Ice skating and winter hospitality right in front of the Rijksmuseum.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Museumkwartier
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Winter Festival Amsterdam
Food & Drink
At ’t Wak, visitors can get hot chocolate, drinks, lunch or dinner, with gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options available.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and casual skaters
Vibe
Festive and traditional
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: €8 admission; €16 including skate rental, including service fees. – Get tickets
- Hours: Regular rink hours: Monday–Thursday 12:00 - 21:00; Friday 10:00 - 22:00; Saturday 10:00 - 22:00; Sunday 10:00 - 21:00. Christmas holiday rink hours listed for Monday–Thursday: 10:00 - 21:00.
- Parking: Paid parking garages are available around Museumplein; visitors are advised to come by bicycle, on foot, or by public transport.
- Accessibility: Fully barrier-free and accessible for visitors with physical disabilities, featuring wide paths, ramps, rubber mats, an accessible restroom, and wheelchair access onto the ice with staff assistance.
- Pets: Pets are not allowed, except guide dogs for blind visitors.
Tips & Advice
- Pack your gloves before you leave home, because they are required on the ice, though you can also buy a pair on site if you forget.
- Bring only a small bag, since bags larger than 30 x 21 x 10 cm aren't allowed anywhere on the site; lockers are also available to rent.
- Take metro 52 to Vijzelgracht and walk under ten minutes to the rink, or use one of the several tram lines that stop nearby.
- Buy tickets only through the official website or Paylogic, because fraudsters sell fake tickets through Google and Marktplaats and those tickets may not get you in.
- Leave your own snacks and drinks at home, since outside food, bottles, cans and glass are banned, and 't Wak serves gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options.
Special Events & Promotions
- Longer opening hours every day during the Christmas holidays, 19 December to 3 January
- Packages for celebrations, groups, schools and companies
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a ticket if I'm not skating?
No. You can walk in and out freely, and 't Wak is free for everyone. You only need a ticket to skate, and you can buy one online.
Can I bring my own skates?
Yes, as long as they don't have sharp points, so no noren or klapschaatsen. If you don't have skates, book a ticket that includes rental or rent a pair on site.
What should I wear?
The rink is outdoors and has no roof. Wear a thick coat and bring a good raincoat if it rains. Gloves are required on the ice, and you can buy them on site.
Is there food for special diets?
Yes, there are gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. You can't bring your own food or drinks, but baby formula and baby food are allowed.
Is it suitable for all ages?
Yes, it's for all ages. No alcohol is served to anyone under 18.
More Christmas Events Near Amsterdam
More Christmas Events near Amsterdam
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.