Halloween In Amsterdam - Updated 2024

Susanna
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 10 min read

Amsterdam has parties, ghost tours, and fun for every age and fright level. There are costume shops around the city that often include live DJs, alcohol and a lot of fun. Amsterdam’s tumultuous past sprouted lots of haunted monuments buildings and streets. Taking a ghost tour in Amsterdam will definitely not leave you spookless, as you learn about the famous and chilling ghosts that haunt this city. Professional storytellers are often the guides of these eerie tours. Excited travelers take to the streets the night of October 31st as they journey to clubs and parties to dance the scariest night of the year away. Amsterdam even has a Halloween Festival that includes events across the city like shocking puppet shows, Halloween make-up workshops, a horror movie marathon, and even a kids party with trick or treating. Check out the list of activities below to celebrate Halloween in Amsterdam, Netherlands!

If you find yourself wanting to stay for a few more days, consider the best bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals for your accommodation needs.

Event to look out for during Halloween in Amsterdam:

  • The city has been hosting Amsterdam Halloween every year, and the celebration will complete 15 years in 2024. The event takes place in the Westergasfabriek district and is attended by people above 18 years of age, dressed up in costumes fitting the yearly themes. In fact, minors or people not following the dress code are not allowed here. The themes range from ghosts and ghouls to apocalyptic wastelands, urging attendees to get imaginative. The event venue has several lockers so you can keep your belongings safe while you enjoy the spookiest night of your life!

Tip from tour guide

Locally

Locally
Amsterdam

Amsterdam

Visit Amsterdam in October to see the city adorned with Halloween decorations! The vibrant pumpkins, creatively placed amidst flower bushes, will make you love Halloween as much as I do!

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From transportation tips to medical essentials and everything in between, the Amsterdam local guides share all the must-know information to help you plan your trip.

Most haunted locations in Amsterdam

With its storied past and ancient streets and monuments, Amsterdam is a top choice for travelers seeking haunting experiences and eerie vibes. We’ve picked the top five haunted places in the city that you must not miss!

  • Dam Square: Formerly a public execution site with a history of witch trials and other atrocities of the Spanish Inquisition period, Dam Square unsurprisingly makes the list. Although the area is now brimming with shops and attractions, people still believe that the tortured souls roam around here. You can visit the nearby Amsterdam Dungeon to learn more about this square.

  • Ghost Alley or Spooksteeg: This place is said to be haunted by the cursed soul of a tanner’s daughter, Helena. According to the lore, she murdered her own sister to marry the love of her life, who after learning about the heinous crime, put a curse on her.

  • Nieuwmarkt and Blood Street: This is considered one of the city’s most haunted spots, according to the official tourism website. Its name was derived from its bloody past, which involved the cruel execution of heretics by the infamous 16th-century Bloedraad (Council of Blood).

  • Montelbaan Tower: This 16th-century tower is said to be haunted by a family that was killed at the site. The ghosts of the family members are said to appear every year on the 2nd of June.

  • The Spinhuis: According to Secret Amsterdam, this is one of the spinhouses used as penitentiaries for women until the late 19th century. Although it’s now converted into a hotel, it’s still said to be haunted by the ghost of a priest who committed suicide on site.

Halloween tours and experiences in Amsterdam

1. Learn about Amsterdam's gory past

I think The Amsterdam Dungeon Ticket is a lively, fun, and gory way to learn about Amsterdam’s history of torture, diseases, and deaths. Visitors will have their pick of 11 dungeon shows that use live actors and special effects to show the stories of Amsterdam’s bloody past. Examples of show topics include the plague, Spanish Inquisition, medieval torture, and more.

The Amsterdam Dungeon also has a maze called the Labyrinth of the Lost and exhibits the vile Council of Blood and VOC, a trading ship. After spending time at the Dungeon, you will never forget your experience. The experience is wheelchair-accessible and the venue even allows service animals. However, it’s not suitable for young children or those with nervous disorders.

Eerie stop:
  • The Amsterdam Dungeon (a venue reenacting grisly past events through theatrical actors and special effects)

What guests are saying about this tour:

“Although it’s a little creepy to go alone, I made it and had a very good time. It was beyond my expectations. Those true actor’s are very dedicated to their performance and try their best to interact with the audience. I would highly recommend you to visit.” - by YuHui_Y

“This is by far the best thing to do when traveling to Amsterdam!!! I’ve been to a few Dungeons all over the world but this one is defiantly the best. Its so easy to book and pay via the Viator website. Add the tickets to your wallet and away you go. From the staff outside the dungeons in costumes to the lady that checks the tickets everyone was in character and gave it 110% We as a whole group absolutely loved this experience and will recommend it to family and friends visiting Amsterdam. Its a MUST do experience.” - by Francesca_M

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2. Visit the city's spookiest spots

halloween in amsterdam | visit the city's spookiest spots

This two-hour walking tour provides a complete overview of Amsterdam’s most haunted spots. Start from the mysterious Dam Square, visit the infamous Red Light District Amsterdam, learn about the city’s history at Nieuwezijds Kolk 1, and watch dark history come alive at Dungeon Amsterdam. You’ll be accompanied by a professional local tour guide, so I’m sure you can expect a fun but enriching experience.

This tour is meant for private groups, so visitors who want to experience the spooky side of Amsterdam with only their loved ones can do so easily.

Haunted and eerie stops:
  • Dam Square (former site for public executions and witch burnings)

  • Oude Kerk (witnessed many horrific events and houses haunted burial grounds)

  • De Wallen Red Light District (home to many haunted sites such as Blood Street)

  • Nieuwezijds Kolk 1

  • The Amsterdam Dungeon (offers chilling acts and performances on the city’s past)

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Amsterdam Tour Guide

Locally Louke

Locally Louke

Hi, my name is Louke and I live and work in the historical city of Amsterdam. My style of guiding is custom. That feeling you get from meeting up with a friend that shows you around their city. Obviously, I will take you to see the things on your bucket list and I will help you get the lay of the land and share tips and tricks of how to get the most out of your stay in my city.

Tours by Locally

3. Try to catch the Silent Strangler

halloween in amsterdam | try to catch the silent strangler

If you’ve ever wanted to be a detective, I bet this tour is your chance. It generally takes 90 minutes, but since this is an audio tour, you can explore at your own leisure. Explore the darkest parts of Red Light District Amsterdam and go on a mission to catch the Silent Strangler, an infamous serial killer who was active in the 1950s. You’ll also be visiting a chapel in Newmarket that is associated with the devil and, therefore, adorned with skulls.

Note that this tour is not suitable for kids under 16. Also, remember to bring a charged smartphone with the audio app and headphones to make the most of the tour. The tour is only available on the app and offers offline access too.

Haunted and eerie stops:
  • Oude Kerk

  • Newmarket (haunted by spirits of executed heretics)

  • Casa Rosso (infamous adult theater)

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4. Solve exciting mysteries and crimes

halloween in amsterdam | solve exciting mysteries and crimes

Use this tour to get lost in a murder mystery game in the city center of Amsterdam. Over three hours, you’ll use a map, photos, and clues to solve a fictional murder with your loved ones. Game instructions, a photo frame, and an answer form will be provided to you via email.

Your task is to follow the clues to selfie locations and send your selfies to the game instructor via WhatsApp for the next clue. I think you’ll love this experience if you’re a fan of treasure hunts. Along the way, you will see the city’s highlights, cafes, and shops, The experience is not tailored for people with mobility impairments or children under eight. Make sure to carry a charged Smartphone with the Whatsapp app and wear comfy shoes.

What guests are saying about this experience:

“Great activity that allowed us to discover Amsterdam under the sun and with a little challenge. We had a great time!” - by Manon ( France)

“Fun activity with a spontaneous supervisor at a distance! We enjoyed it immensely!” - by GetYourGuide traveler (Netherlands)

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5. Listen to bone-chilling stories of the past

listen to bone-chilling stories of the past

Step into the dark past of medieval Amsterdam with this two-hour walking tour.

A local storyteller will meet you at the National Monument and guide you through the narrow streets while telling you spine-tingling stories of torture, public executions, and witch hunts. You’ll also learn about the origins of ominous street names in the city and unravel the urban myths that haunt the old buildings. This tour gives you a unique view into Amsterdam’s dark side, for those who dare to look beyond the free spirit of the city.

The tour includes some walking for about 3 km (1.86 mi), so wear weather-appropriate clothes and comfortable shoes.

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6. Follow the trail of vile criminals

follow the trail of vile criminals

This two-and-a-half-hour walking tour is a great mix of crime and scenery. I think it’s perfect for both true crime buffs and history lovers, as visitors will get the opportunity to walk the same roads as infamous criminals from the past. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes for an enjoyable experience.

Meet at Tweede Weteringplantsoen, opposite Heineken Experience, after which you’ll be taken to a series of crime locations on the way to Nieuwmarkt. You’ll hear about the most notorious heists, unsolved mysteries, and hidden dangers of Amsterdam’s canals from your expert guide. As the tour covers violent crimes, it’s best not to bring kids along.

Haunted stop:
  • Nieuwmarkt
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7. Prepare to get spooked by ghost stories

prepare to get spooked by ghost stories
Source: www.viator.com

This 90-minute spooky tour tells you the bone-chilling stories that have been overlooked by city guidebooks. You will start your journey at Dam Square with a cozy cup of hot cocoa before you walk through Amsterdam’s historic sites and old streets.

A professional tour guide will tell you toe-curling stories about the city’s famous murderers, unsolved mysteries, and infamous historical figures. All of the tales told on the tour are based on true stories and that detail is the most terrifying part of the tour. This tour is not wheelchair-accessible and is meant for attendees above 12 years of age.

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Book Tours : Amsterdam Ghost Walk

Other things to enjoy on Halloween

8. Check out rock'n'roll memorabilia at Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam

The Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam is the site for many Halloween events. The Hard Rock Cafe has three levels with views of Amsterdam’s famous canals. Visitors to this venue can check out the rock'n'roll memorabilia displayed throughout the restaurant like outfits worn by Marilyn Manson or Eddie Van Halen’s guitar. Diners have a choice between a two-course or three-course meal of classic American food options. Both meal choices include a beverage and dessert.

It’s good to note that this experience is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. Plus, a child menu and infant seats are available.

Tour highlights:
  • Two- or three-course dinner and soft drink at Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam

  • Live music

  • Tour of rock memorabilia and retail store

What guests are saying about this tour:

“Great food and great merchandise. We got the set menu which was really nice but would have been good to be given a second desert option. Staff were accommodating and I got an ice tea made for me as part of the soft drink part of the package as I don’t drink fizzy soft drinks.” - by Sheri_M

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9. Dance and drink to your heart's content

dance and drink to your heart's content

For the Halloweener looking to party, this is the tour for you. The Pub Crawl takes people on a five-hour tour of pubs through one of Amsterdam’s most famous neighborhoods, The Red Light District. The tour starts by giving out unlimited shots of vodka for the first half an hour. Then, the crawl will take you to six bars, pubs, and a club. At each venue, you can get a free shot of alcohol.

Anyone going on the tour needs to bring a valid ID. Flip flops/sandals and backpacks are prohibited on the crawl. The crawl is also meant for travelers above 18 years, so it’s best to carry some ID.

Tour highlights:
  • Visit four pubs and a nightclub

  • Enjoy 30 minutes of unlimited shots

  • Enjoy a welcome complimentary shot at every stop

  • Play drinking games at select venues

  • Dance the night away at a nightclub

What guests are saying about this tour:

“A great way to see the city and meet new people! We had so much fun and the guide was so enthusiastic and funny. I would note there was a lot of walking on this tour between the bars as they were pretty far apart so I would keep that in mind. Besides that it was amazing and we would do it again” - by McKenzie (Italy)

“Alhadi and Ema were seriously some of the best people I have ever met, they made the night so fun! Made everyone feel welcome and had just as much fun as we all did! Great night out in Amsterdam for people wanting to go out but may be too nervous by themselves, couldn’t recommend it enough!! I’ll be back to do this again!” - by Amelia (Australia)

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10. Enjoy free drinks and mingle with people at the ultimate pub crawl

enjoy free drinks and mingle with people at the ultimate pub crawl

Set aside six hours to visit six different bars and clubs on the Ultimate Leidseplein Party Pub Crawl. You’ll be like a celebrity as you drink free vodka shots for the first half an hour of the tour and have free entrance into some of the coolest bars and clubs in Amsterdam. You can mingle with people from around the world as you enjoy free drinks at every venue you visit. The Pub Crawl has a live tour guide to show you through Amsterdam’s most popular neighborhood for a wild night out!

A valid ID is required on the Pub Crawl as it does not allow people under 18 years. No sandals/flip-flops, backpacks, or sweatpants/gym shorts are allowed on the tour. Anyone going on the tour will receive a free t-shirt.

Tour highlights:
  • Unlimited shots for the first 30 minutes

  • Entry to five different bars and clubs

  • Five drinks (beer or wine) included

  • One free shot at every venue

What guests are saying about this tour:

“Had a great time on the tour. The night was fun the people where great made some new friends from all over the world. Staff did a fantastic job and made the night the best night ever. If you are looking for a fin way to experience nightlife in Amsterdam this is a must!!” - by GetYourGuide traveler (Netherlands)

“The bar crawl was fun and it was organized well. The silent disco was probably the best but the other bars were interesting as well. The team that lead the crawl were very nice and frequently checked in with people to see how they were doing and if they were having a good time.” - by GetYourGuide traveler (US)

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Amsterdam Tips

Amsterdam is known as a city where anything goes. However, there are some things that won’t go over well in the city. Look over these tips to ensure you’ll have a great time during Halloween in Amsterdam! When you go out, many major shops, rooftop bars, and restaurants prefer that you pay with a credit card over cash. Never leave your belongings unattended. Thieves and pick-pockets are found in popular sites and places, so pay attention to your surroundings. Don’t walk in bicycle paths. You’ll be in bikers’ ways and risk getting hit by one if you walk on a bicycle path. Follow these tips to have a safe and fun Halloween in Amsterdam, Netherlands!

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Susanna Carlson is a freelance writer from Wisconsin. She enjoys traveling, art, reading, and outdoor activities in her free time.

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