Published on
January 11, 2026

The Netherlands is currently in the grip of a big freeze, with sub-zero temperatures continuing to dominate the weather forecast. As much of Europe faces unusual winter weather, the Dutch cold snap has been particularly severe, causing significant disruptions to travel plans for tourists visiting the country. From flight cancellations to delays on the country’s rail network, the cold has left many visitors scrambling to adjust their itineraries.

As sub-zero temperatures persist, here’s a closer look at how the freezing conditions are impacting winter travel in the Netherlands and how travelers can manage the disruptions caused by the severe cold.

Flight Cancellations and Delays at Schiphol Airport

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, one of Europe’s busiest travel hubs, has been severely impacted by the ongoing big freeze. Snow, ice, and freezing rain have led to multiple flight cancellations and delays, particularly affecting travelers with international connections.

Passengers arriving at or departing from Schiphol have reported significant disruptions, as the airport struggles with snow accumulation on the runways and issues with aircraft de-icing. Hundreds of flights have been cancelled, with many others delayed, causing widespread inconvenience for both leisure and business travelers.

Travelers are urged to check their flight status regularly and prepare for potential delays. Those affected by cancellations should reach out to their airlines for rebooking options and compensation claims. Many airlines are offering flexible travel policies, allowing passengers to reschedule their flights without additional fees, provided they do so within a set period.

Travel Tip: If you are flying to or from Schiphol, stay in touch with your airline and monitor flight status updates on the Schiphol website. Travelers should also confirm whether their airport transfer services are operational, as ground transportation may also be delayed.

Disrupted Train Services Across the Country

The freezing temperatures have also caused major disruptions to rail services throughout the Netherlands. According to reports, many train routes have been suspended or significantly delayed due to frozen tracks, snow accumulation, and visibility issues. Travelers heading to key destinations such as Rotterdam, Utrecht, or The Hague have faced travel chaos as the snowstorm continues to affect the train schedule.

Local authorities have issued weather advisories for passengers, urging them to avoid unnecessary travel and to check the status of their train service before setting out. The Dutch Railways (NS) has been working to keep services running, but travelers should prepare for possible service reductions and plan for extra travel time.

Travel Tip: If you’re relying on train travel, check for service updates via the NS website or mobile app. Consider alternative transport options, such as buses or private car hire, if train services are halted.

How Tourists Are Adjusting Their Itineraries

For tourists, these weather-related disruptions can put a damper on their travel plans. But many visitors are adapting by altering their schedules to make the most of their time in the Netherlands despite the freezing temperatures. Here’s how tourists are coping with the big freeze:

Indoor Activities: With many outdoor attractions impacted by the cold, tourists are shifting their attention to indoor activities. Museums, galleries, and historic sites in cities like Amsterdam are popular alternatives when outdoor sights like Keukenhof Gardens or Vondelpark are less accessible due to the snow.Rescheduling Sightseeing Tours: Many sightseeing tours and boat trips along the canals of Amsterdam have been postponed or canceled due to the cold, but some companies are offering alternative dates for rescheduled tours or switching to indoor experiences like museum tours or themed exhibits.Staying Flexible: Tourists who booked activities in advance are being proactive in contacting service providers to reschedule or refund. In some cases, hotel and accommodation providers are offering special discounts or extended stays for those affected by the weather.Practical Travel Tips for Tourists in the Netherlands During the Freeze

As temperatures remain below freezing, here are some essential travel tips to help you navigate the ongoing cold spell in the Netherlands:

Layer Up: Wear warm, insulated clothing, and be prepared for wind chills and icy conditions, especially if you plan on walking outside for sightseeing or transportation.Stay Informed: Keep track of weather updates via the Dutch Meteorological Institute (KNMI) or local news to stay up-to-date on potential changes in the weather or travel conditions.Prepare for Extra Time: Allow extra time for any delays due to weather, whether you’re waiting for a delayed flight, catching a train, or even hailing a taxi.Winter Safety: Use caution when walking on icy sidewalks or streets. Spiked boots or slippery shoe covers can help prevent slips and falls.The Future of Travel During Extreme Weather in the Netherlands

This ongoing big freeze in the Netherlands raises broader questions about the impact of extreme weather on winter tourism and international travel. As global temperatures fluctuate and weather events become more unpredictable, both travelers and the tourism industry must continue to adapt. Many industry experts are calling for increased investment in weather-resilient infrastructure and better travel insurance policies for tourists to address these disruptions.

This freeze could also signal a growing need for flexible travel options, such as more flexible flight and train rescheduling policies, which could minimize the disruption caused by unforeseen weather events. The Netherlands has long been a leading destination for winter travel, and its response to these challenges will likely shape future tourism management in the country.

Managing Winter Travel Disruptions in the Netherlands

The Dutch Big Freeze may have caused significant disruptions to travelers’ plans, but with proper planning, flexible policies, and alternative indoor activities, tourists can still enjoy a memorable stay in the Netherlands. As the country continues to face extreme weather, being informed and prepared will help travelers minimize the impact of the cold and make the most of their time in this beautiful winter wonderland.

For those visiting during this freeze, taking the right precautions and staying updated on travel information will ensure that the cold doesn’t freeze your travel plans altogether. Stay safe, stay warm, and embrace the Dutch winter adventure!