Partying, dancing, wearing orange, buying bargains at the flea markets. Here is everything you need to know about celebrating King’s Day (Koningsdag in Dutch) in Amsterdam in 2025!
Save the date! In 2025 King’s Day in the Netherlands is celebrated on 26 April, 2025.
King’s Day: isn’t it on 27 April or 30 April?
Until the abdication of Queen Beatrix in 2013, the holiday was Queen’s Day and was celebrated on 30 April. Some old guide books still contain this information which causes confusion to some travellers. Since 2013 King’s Day is indeed traditionally celebrated on 27 April, which is King’s Willem-Alexander birthday.
But in 2025, April 27 falls on a Sunday. And whenever the birthday of the ruling monarch falls on a Sunday, the festivities are moved to a day earlier.
Why do people dress in orange on King’s Day?
Orange is worn on King’s Day as it’s the colour of the Dutch royal family – the House of Orange-Nassau.
King’s Day 2025 in Amsterdam: what’s on?
King’s Day is famous for its parties, which start the evening before on 25 April (King’s Night) and then continue the next day. Here is King’s Day and King’s Night agenda for 2025:
Where can I find flea markets on King’s Day?
On King’s Day everyone can sell their second-hand wares on the streets and in the parks. Thus, Amsterdam turns into one of the world’s largest flea markets. Even kids can start their own merchandise! The flea markets start at 06:00 and continue until 20:00. Check for the flea market locations in Amsterdam >>
Are museums open on King’s Day in Amsterdam?
Some museums, especially the small ones are closed on King’s Day. However can still visit the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, the Artis Royal Zoo and many more. Check a full list of museums and attractions open on King’s Day in 2025 >>
Can I take a canal cruise on King’s Day in Amsterdam?
Yes, on April 26 you can take Lovers canal cruise till 12:15. Later it becomes very busy on canals, and regular boat lines stop operating. We recommend booking tickets online >>
How does transport work on King’s Day?
Public transportation in Amsterdam is limited. The routes are adapted with the buses and trams only running up to the outskirts of the city centre.
Check the GVB website for more information about public transport on King’s day in 2025 and plan your trip using Glimble journey planner.
Download Glimble app:
Trains to/from Amsterdam. A special train schedule and station accessibility limitations apply on King’s Day. For up-to-date travel advice on King’s Day in 2025 and train schedule check NS website.
Trains to/from Schiphol airport on King’s Day are still running. But the journey can take more time than usual. Please also keep in mind that:
- Lockers are not available at Amsterdam Central station on King’s Day.
- There will be no trams in the Amsterdam Central station, and you will not be able to book a taxi.
- It may be wise to check if you can travel via another station (like Amsterdam Zuid), rather than Amsterdam Central.
For international trains on King’s Day the arrival and departure stations will remain unchanged. However it is recommended to leave earlier and check NS International website for up-to-date travel advice >>
Is King’s Day celebrated in other cities in the Netherlands?
Sure, King’s Day is a national holiday in the Netherlands, not only limited to Amsterdam. In fact, if you are travelling with kids or just prefer to stay out of the crowd, we it’s wise to consider celebrating King’s Day outside Amsterdam. Here are some ideas of celebrating King’s Day in the Amsterdam Area.
Is Keukenhof open on King’s Day?
Yes, Keukenhof is open on King’s Day from 08:00 to 19:30. Book your entrance tickets or tours to Keukenhof from Amsterdam online.
