Amsterdam is famous for its glowing canals, glittering bridges, and luminous skyline, but look at the city from above on a winter night and you’ll notice something unusual: a pocket of true darkness right in the center. That quiet, unlit space is Artis Park, the city’s historic zoo and botanical garden — and now one of the most unique travel destinations in Europe.
In October 2025, Artis became the first zoo in the world to be designated an Urban Night Sky Place by DarkSky International. It is also the first certified dark-sky site located in the heart of a European capital. This milestone signals a major step in global efforts to protect natural darkness, reduce light pollution, and create healthier habitats for wildlife. To achieve the certification, Artis removed unnecessary lighting and redesigned the fixtures that remained, dramatically improving conditions for the animals that live in and around the park.
Rather than restricting this darkness to conservation work alone, Artis is inviting the public to experience it firsthand. This winter, the zoo is hosting a series of exclusive nighttime openings that allow visitors to explore the grounds in a completely different atmosphere. The program, called Dark in Artis, transforms the zoo into a serene nocturnal environment where guests can slow down, observe, and reconnect with the night sky above Amsterdam.
Each evening begins inside the Artis Planetarium, where visitors learn about the effects of light pollution and receive practical advice for winter stargazing in the city. Afterward, guests wander through the park at their own pace with an audio guide, taking in the unfamiliar stillness of Artis after dark. Night-vision goggles are provided to help spot nocturnal animals, making the experience both atmospheric and scientifically engaging. Families can also participate in educational activities designed to highlight the importance of natural darkness to ecosystems.
The Dark in Artis evenings take place over five nights in December (from December 13 to 28) and three additional nights in early January, making them an ideal winter activity for travelers visiting Amsterdam during the holiday season. Admission follows standard zoo pricing—18 EUR for adults and 12.50 EUR for students—with limited tickets available through the official reservation site.
For travelers seeking a different side of Amsterdam, Artis after dark offers a rare combination of astronomy, conservation, and quiet urban escape. It is a chance to witness how a historic city can embrace sustainability while creating a magical, contemplative experience for visitors. In a destination known for its bright lights and lively streets, Artis stands out by celebrating the beauty of darkness—and inviting us to appreciate it, too.
