Every year on April 27th, Amsterdam transforms into one giant celebration bursting with orange outfits, lively street music, festive boat parties, and unforgettable cultural experiences. If you’re planning to join the excitement, this King’s Day Amsterdam travel guide will give you everything you need to enjoy the festival like a local. From transport hacks to where to party, where to eat, and how to stay safe, this complete guide covers every detail to make your trip smooth, exciting, and memorable.

What Is King’s Day and Why Is It Special?

King’s Day (Koningsdag) is the Netherlands’ biggest national celebration—honouring the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. But unlike a traditional public holiday, this day turns into a massive outdoor festival. Streets are filled with dancing crowds, markets pop up everywhere, and the canals become full of decorated boats playing music.

The entire country participates, but Amsterdam is the heart of the celebration, drawing travelers from all over the world. If you want to feel the true Dutch spirit of unity, freedom, and festive energy, King’s Day is the perfect event.

Best Time to Visit for King’s Day

Although the main celebration happens on April 27th, the excitement begins the night before—called King’s Night (Koningsnacht). Bars, clubs, and streets hold special parties and concerts, making many travelers arrive at least 2–3 days earlier.

Ideal timeline:

• April 25: Arrive in Amsterdam

• April 26: Explore city + enjoy King’s Night

• April 27: Full King’s Day celebrations

• April 28: Relax and recover

Booking early is important—hotels fill fast, and last-minute rooms become extremely expensive.

Where to Stay During King’s Day

Because the festival takes over the entire city, choosing your accommodation can impact your travel experience. Here are the best areas:

1. Amsterdam Centrum

Perfect for travelers who want to stay in the middle of all the action.

• Pros: Walkable, vibrant, near major events

• Cons: Noisy, expensive

2. Jordaan

One of the most beautiful neighborhoods with charming streets and great access to canal parties.

• Pros: Scenic, festive, great cafes

• Cons: Hotels sell out early

3. De Pijp

Hip, youthful area with markets and bars.

• Pros: Affordable compared to Centrum

• Cons: Slightly crowded during celebrations

4. Amsterdam North

A quieter area perfect for those who want to escape the city chaos at night.

• Pros: Peaceful, modern accommodations

• Cons: Requires ferry rides to city center

No matter where you stay, book at least 2–3 months in advance to avoid high prices.

How to Get Around the City on King’s Day

Transportation in Amsterdam works differently on King’s Day. Streets are full, roads are blocked, and public transport is modified.

Walking – The Best Option

Everything is crowded, so walking is the easiest and fastest way to move around.

Public Transport

Trams, buses, and metros run on a special schedule. Many central stops are closed, so expect to walk part of the way.

Bike? Better Not!

Amsterdam is famous for bicycles, but King’s Day is not a safe day to bike. Crowds make cycling nearly impossible.

Boat Rides

Canals are absolutely packed with party boats.
You can:

• Join a boat tour

• Rent your own boat

• Hop on a shared party boat

If you want a spot, reserve early—this is one of Amsterdam’s most iconic King’s Day experiences.

Top Places to Celebrate King’s Day in Amsterdam

This King’s Day Amsterdam travel guide wouldn’t be complete without the best places to enjoy the festival. Every neighborhood has its own style, so choose based on what kind of celebration you're looking for.

1. Vondelpark – Family Friendly Fun

Great for families, kids, and peaceful entertainment.
The park hosts street performers, children’s games, food stalls, and open-air markets.

2. Jordaan – Traditional Dutch Celebration

Perfect for experiencing local Dutch culture.
Expect:

• Live music

• Street drinking

• Food stalls

• Friendly locals inviting you to join their party

3. Museumplein – Large Festival Area

One of the biggest celebration zones with concerts and DJ stages.

4. Prinsengracht – Iconic Canal Parties

This is where hundreds of boats sail with loud music, DJs, and enthusiastic crowds.

5. Rembrandtplein & Leidseplein – Nightlife Hotspots

Great for club lovers, live music fans, and travelers looking for high-energy parties.

What to Wear for King’s Day

Orange!
Orange is the national color of the Netherlands (representing the Dutch Royal Family, known as the House of Orange). On King’s Day, everyone wears orange outfits, hats, glasses, wigs, face paint—you name it.

Wear:

• Comfortable shoes

• Lightweight clothes

• A small backpack

• Rain jacket (weather is unpredictable)

Avoid expensive clothes because celebrations can get messy.

What to Eat and Drink on King’s Day

Amsterdam’s street food scene becomes extra vibrant during King’s Day. Try these local favorites:

Must-Try Foods

• Stroopwafels – Sweet caramel waffles

• Haring – Dutch raw herring

• Poffertjes – Mini fluffy pancakes

• Frites – Famous Dutch fries with mayo

Popular Drinks

• Dutch beer (Heineken, Amstel)

• Orange cocktails

• Local craft beers

Pro Tip: Bring cash; many pop-up stalls do not accept cards.

Safety Tips for King’s Day

With huge crowds, it’s important to stay alert and keep yourself safe.

Keep these tips in mind:

• Always keep your phone charged

• Don’t keep your wallet in your back pocket

• Stay with your friends

• Be cautious in crowded areas

• Drink responsibly

Police and medical teams are available throughout the city, so you’ll always feel secure.

Budget Tips for King’s Day

Amsterdam can get expensive during the festival, so plan smartly.

How to save money:

• Book accommodation early

• Use public transport instead of taxis

• Buy drinks from supermarkets

• Visit free concerts and events

• Bring your own snacks

King’s Day doesn’t require a ticket—it’s a free national festival, so you can enjoy the fun without spending too much.

Useful Local Etiquette

• Be friendly—Dutch people are open and welcoming

• Keep public spaces clean

• Respect canals and boats

• Don’t block bridges (locals need to pass)

Final Word – Make the Most of Your King’s Day Experience

King’s Day is truly one of the most exciting and unique celebrations in the world. Whether you’re joining a canal party, exploring Amsterdam’s street markets, enjoying traditional Dutch food, or dancing in the city squares, this festival gives you memories you’ll never forget.

This King’s Day Amsterdam travel guide gives you everything you need to plan the perfect trip—from where to stay, what to wear, where to celebrate, and how to travel safely. With the right preparation and energy, you’ll enjoy one of the greatest cultural celebrations Europe has to offer. for blog visit our site streetvibex.