More blogs
Every year we have to wait and see whether we can skate on natural ice in our own country. And especially in 2022, when we walked outside without a coat in October. But don't worry, because you don't have to skip a year on the irons. The Netherlands has many indoor skating rinks that are open all year round. But there are also, especially in the winter period, cozy atmospheric skating rinks built, so that you can taste the real Dutch ‘koek-en-zopie’ feeling. We list the 6 best skating rinks for you.
1. Ice skating rink in Rotterdam
We will immediately start with the largest skating rink on the list, namely the one in Rotterdam. This track has an area of no less than 1600 square meters and a tunnel of 400 meters, including rainbow lighting! You want to see that, right? The course is suitable for all ages, from beginners to advanced, and everyone is welcome. In addition to the 'normal' skating rink, which is already very impressive due to all the effects, there is also a fun track. You can figure skate here, but also play a game of curling with your friends or colleagues.
Events are regularly organized, such as silent disco skating. Skating in one of your favorite places is a real party.
Practical information:
- The ice rink is open from November 26, 2022, to March 3, 2023
- Entrance: 7.50 euros (weekdays) 8.50 euros (weekend)
- Skate rental: 6 euros
Do you want to make it a weekend in Rotterdam? Then stay in the ultra-modern city hotel Leonardo Hotel Papendrecht.
2. The covered ice rink in Scheveningen
The Cool Event in Scheveningen will open its doors again this year. You can skate here in any weather, rain or shine because it is completely covered. With its 600 square meters, the course is not to be missed on the Kurhausplein.
The event also offers various packages, such as group and company outings, skate & pizza and skate & burger. This way you can enjoy a snack and drink after intensive exercise.
Practical information:
- The ice rink is open from November 12, 2022, to January 24, 2023
- Entrance: 6.50 euros
- Skate rental: 5.50 euros
Do you not live near the ice rink, but would you like to stay until the late hours? Then book an overnight stay in Fletcher Hotel-Restaurant Scheveningen.
3. The floating skating rink in Leiden
This is arguably the unique skating rink on this list. This is because it is a floating track. Yes, you read that right, the ice rink floats on the Nieuwe Rijn in Leiden. The whole is not large, but it is certainly cozy and cozy. You imagine yourself in a fairy tale environment, with Christmas lights everywhere.
Here, too, the necessary events are provided. So there is plenty to do for young and old. From Disney skating for the little ones to a silent disco on the ice for the older ones.
Practical information:
- The ice rink is open from December 9, 2022, to January 8, 2023
- Entrance: 8.75 euros including skating
Want to explore more about Leiden? Then make it a weekend getaway! Stay in Tulip Inn Leiden Centre.
4. Ice skating in Amsterdam
Of course, we prefer to skate on natural ice on the canals, but unfortunately, that doesn't happen every year. But our capital city has a solution for that, namely 'Ice Amsterdam'. The skating rink is in the middle of the city's most iconic square, the Museumplein.
You can have a dance on the ice here on Thursday and Saturday nights as there is a silent disco! Would you rather take on the challenge with a group of friends or your colleagues? Then join a game of ice hockey or curling.
After skating, it's time to warm up and grab a bite to eat. This can be done in the nearby bistro. Here you can enjoy delicious sandwiches, cheese fondue or a real Van Dobben croquette.
Practical information:
- The skating rink will be open from Nov. 12, 2022, through Feb. 5, 2023
- Entrance: 7.50 euros
- Entrance + skate rental: 14.50 euros
Of course, this city has much more to offer than just a day at the skating rink. See also tips & hotspots for Amsterdam.
5. Ice skating in Gouda
Say cheese! Gouda is the Cheese City of the Netherlands. But Gouda is much more than just cheese. This city is all about coziness and especially during the winter period. Again, you can take a nice lap on the ice skating rink, which can be found especially around the holidays in the middle of the city centre.
What makes this skating rink so unique is that it is built around City Hall. You can enjoy a 200-meter-long rink here. Not so into skating? No problem, you can also enjoy a snack and a drink on one of the terraces around the skating rink. Or you opt for the real skating experience and take a look at the koek and zopie tent, which is located next to the town hall. Here you can enjoy an ice-cold beer, a hot chocolate or delicious Gluhwein.
Practical information:
- The skating rink will be open from Dec. 21, 2022, through Jan. 15, 2023
- Entrance: not yet known
Would you also like to sniff some culture in Gouda, or just enjoy the whole day tasting cheese? Then stay a night in Best Western Plus City Hotel Gouda.
6. Ice skating on the Vrijthof in Maastricht
To really get into the Christmas spirit, a visit to Maastricht is worthwhile. There are atmospheric lights on every corner, in trees, around buildings and in stores. The whole city is covered under a blanket of lights.
During this period you will find a Christmas market with a giant Ferris wheel, warm chalets and of course the ice rink on the Vrijthof, in the middle of the city. The skating rink fits perfectly into the Christmas atmosphere. The rink is completely covered, so skating is possible even in bad weather.
Practical information:
- The skating rink will be open from Dec. 1, 2022 to Dec. 30, 2022
- Entrance: you can enter the site for free
- Skate rental: 5.50 euros (3 hours of skating)
You can complete your magical weekend in Maastricht with a wonderful overnight stay at the four-star hotel: Hotel Monastere Maastricht.
