An orange celebration on the canals, at free markets and across the city
King's Day in Amsterdam: every year on 27 April
King's Day (Koningsdag) is held every year on 27 April, the King's birthday. In Amsterdam many people take to the canals in boats, and free markets appear in Vondelpark, Sarphatipark and at NDSM Wharf. This page is for visitors who want to join in and for those planning a canal trip around it.
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Updated Mon 19 Oct
Cruises and tickets during the event
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Premium ChoiceOpen Boat Tour - Departure from Damrak
The best way to explore the canals of Amsterdam is without a doubt on an open boat! From here you will enjoy the best view of the capital and all the sights. The captain will also be your tour guide. They have endless stories to share about Amsterdam.
Why here: Electric open boat with blankets on board. The captain guides the tour in English and Dutch, from Damrak.
Signature Boats Amsterdam - Open boats
Experience Amsterdam's canals from an open boat—no walls, just water and city around you. Drinks included as you cruise through the heart of Amsterdam.
Why here: Open boat without glass walls, drinks included, a maximum of 12 guests per boat, from Leidseplein.
Premium ChoiceAmsterdam Canal Cruise
The classic canal cruise through Amsterdam's historic waterways. Pick your departure time and location: Central Station, Damrak Pier 5 or Rijksmuseum.
Why here: Audio guide on board and in the app. Departs from Central Station, Damrak Pier 5 or Rijksmuseum.
Premium ChoiceAperol Spritz Cruise Amsterdam
Celebrate the better weather in Amsterdam with a Summer Spritz Cruise. Take in the city’s sights while enjoying 2 spritzes or wines of your choice on this refreshing 60-minute summer canal cruise.
Why here: 2 spritzes or wines, or non-alcoholic options, with crostini, olives and nuts. 18+ with valid ID.
Premium ChoiceCocktail Cruise Amsterdam
Sipping cocktails while cruising through the world-famous canals, sounds like a night to remember! The Amsterdam night tour with cocktail bar is the perfect nighttime activity.
Why here: Pedal at your own pace, 1 to 4 people per boat, with 4 boarding points.
Plan your visit
Departure points
Damrak · Centraal Station, Damrak, Rijksmuseum
18+
Some experiences are 18+
Highlights of this edition
- King's Day is an orange-filled celebration held annually on 27 April for the King's birthday; 27 April 2027 is a Tuesday (source: I amsterdam, 'held annually for the king's birthday on 27 April').
- In Amsterdam many people take to the canals in boats, making the water the main area of celebration (source: I amsterdam).
- Free markets (vrijmarkt) are held across the city; named spots include Vondelpark, Sarphatipark and NDSM Wharf — arrive early, the pickings get slimmer as the day progresses (source: I amsterdam tips).
- Free street events are named at Watergraafsmeer (Bredeweg), NDSM, Amstelveld, Reguliersdwarsstraat, Rembrandtplein, Spui and Marie Heinekenplein (source: I amsterdam tips).
- The night before is King's Night, with festivities and parties across the city (source: I amsterdam tips).
Good to know
- Pack a raincoat rather than an umbrella, because it works better in the crowds.
- Heading to a free market? Arrive early, because the pickings get slimmer as the day goes on.
- Start the evening before. King's Night brings festivities and parties across the city.
- Planning a cruise? Look at the days around 27 April and check availability on the product page.
- Check the official I amsterdam page for the latest King's Day information before you go.
King's Day comes back every year on 27 April, and Amsterdam celebrates in orange. Start with King's Night the evening before. Then head to a free market early in the day, or to one of the free street events. Bring a raincoat instead of an umbrella. For the latest programme, check the official I amsterdam page.
Would you like to see the canals from the water? Look at the days around King's Day and check availability on the product page. Every product page shows the operator's cancellation terms, and your mobile ticket is confirmed straight away.
Frequently asked questions
When is King's Day in Amsterdam?
King's Day is held every year on 27 April, the King's birthday. Check the official I amsterdam page for the latest information before you go.
Where are the free markets on King's Day?
Free markets (vrijmarkt) are held across the city. Named spots include Vondelpark, Sarphatipark and NDSM Wharf. Arrive early, because the pickings get slimmer as the day goes on.
Where are the free street events?
Free events are named at Watergraafsmeer (Bredeweg), NDSM, Amstelveld, Reguliersdwarsstraat, Rembrandtplein, Spui and Marie Heinekenplein.
What is King's Night?
King's Night is the night before King's Day. There are festivities and parties across the city.
Can I take a canal cruise around King's Day?
On King's Day many people take to the canals in boats, and the water is the main area of celebration. If you want a cruise, look at the days around 27 April and check availability on the product page.
What if my plans change?
Each product has its own cancellation terms, set by the operator. You can find them on the product page before you book.