Amsterdam is a charming mix of canals, culture, and cosy neighbourhoods and each season gives you a different way to enjoy the city.
From tulip-filled spring gardens to sunny summer canal cruises, golden autumn parks, and festive winter streets, the weather shapes how you experience its museums, cafés, and iconic canals.
Since Singapore has warm weather all year, knowing the best time to visit Amsterdam helps you plan comfortably and make the most of your trip.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Amsterdam?🌸
The best time to visit Amsterdam is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
Temperatures are mild, usually between 9°C and 20°C, making it perfect for biking, exploring museums, and wandering through canal-side streets.
Spring brings tulips, blossoms, and fresh weather, while autumn fills the parks with warm golden colours. Both seasons offer ideal weather for sightseeing, canal cruises, and enjoying Amsterdam’s lively neighbourhoods.
Weather & Seasons in Amsterdam🍂
Amsterdam has four distinct seasons, each offering its own beauty. Whether you love cool breeze, vibrant flower fields, or cosy winter vibes, knowing what to expect helps you plan better.
Spring (March – May)
Spring in Amsterdam is cool and refreshing, with temperatures from 6°C to 15°C. Tulips bloom across the city, making it one of the most beautiful times to visit.
🌿 What to wear:
- Light layers
- A warm jacket for chilly mornings
- Comfortable shoes for walking and cycling
🌸 Best things to do:
- Visit Keukenhof Gardens 🌷
- Wander Jordaan and its cafés
- Take a canal cruise under spring blossoms
Summer (June – August)
Summer is warm and lively, with temperatures between 15°C and 23°C. Days are long and sunset can be as late as 10 pm.
🌿 What to wear:
- Light and breathable clothing
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Comfortable sandals or sneakers
☀️ Best things to do:
- Enjoy Vondelpark picnics and open-air concerts
- Take boat tours and bike rides
- Explore summer festivals, street markets, and rooftop bars
Autumn (September – November)
Autumn is one of the best seasons to explore Amsterdam. Temperatures range from 8°C to 17°C, and the city glows with golden canal views.
🌿 What to wear:
- Light to medium layers
- A warm coat for evenings
- Comfortable clothes for cycling
🍁 Best things to do:
- Photograph golden leaves along the canals
- Visit Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum
- Enjoy cosy cafés and Dutch pastries
Winter (December – February)
Winter in Amsterdam is cold and atmospheric, with temperatures between 0°C and 6°C. Christmas lights, markets, and frozen canals (sometimes!) make it magical.
🌿 What to wear:
- Warm coats, scarves, gloves, and boots
- Thermal layers for colder days
❄️ Best things to do:
- Explore Christmas markets & light festivals
- Visit indoor museums and galleries
- Enjoy hot stroopwafels and canal-side cafés
Best Hotels in Amsterdam
NO.1
Best Time to Visit Amsterdam (Month-by-Month)🌷
Month | Temperature (°C/°F) | Rainfall (mm/inches) | Travel Highlights |
January | 0–6°C (32–43°F) | 69 mm (2.7") | Quiet month, great for museums & winter sales |
February | 0–6°C (32–43°F) | 45 mm (1.8") | Cold but peaceful; cosy cafés & indoor sights |
March | 3–9°C (37–48°F) | 66 mm (2.6") | Start of spring; early tulip blooms |
April | 6–12°C (43–54°F) | 45 mm (1.8") | Tulip season peaks; Keukenhof open |
May | 9–17°C (48–63°F) | 55 mm (2.1") | One of the best months; long days & festivals |
June | 12–20°C (54–68°F) | 68 mm (2.7") | Summer begins; ideal for cruises & biking |
July | 14–22°C (57–72°F) | 72 mm (2.8") | Warmest month; outdoor events & canal tours |
August | 14–22°C (57–72°F) | 81 mm (3.2") | Peak summer; vibrant markets & festivals |
September | 11–19°C (52–66°F) | 75 mm (3.0") | Mild weather perfect for sightseeing |
October | 8–14°C (46–57°F) | 84 mm (3.3") | Golden autumn views, art events |
November | 4–9°C (39–48°F) | 90 mm (3.5") | Start of festive season |
December | 1–7°C (34–45°F) | 76 mm (3.0") | Christmas markets & winter charm |
Peak, Shoulder & Off-Peak Seasons in Amsterdam
💥 Peak Season: June to August
Warm weather + long days = busy season.
Pros: Festivals, outdoor fun, perfect for canal cruises
Cons: Crowds & higher hotel prices
🔥 Shoulder Season: March to May & September to November
Best balance of weather + fewer crowds.
Pros: Tulips (spring), golden canals (autumn)
Cons: Occasional rain
😊 Off-Peak Season: December to February
Cold but cosy and budget-friendly.
Pros: Cheap hotels, festive lights, great museums
Cons: Short days & cold weather
Cheap Flights to Amsterdam
Best Time to Visit Amsterdam Based on Travel Style🏔️
Travel Style | Best Time to Visit | Reason It’s Ideal | Tips |
Budget Travellers | January – March | Lowest prices, fewer crowds | Enjoy free parks, markets, and museums |
Luxury Travellers | May – June & September | Mild weather, perfect for dining & private tours | Book boutique canal hotels early |
Sightseeing Lovers | April – June & September – October | Best weather for walking, cycling & canal tours | Visit museums early morning |
Families | April, May, June & Early September | Comfortable temps & child-friendly attractions | Try Artis Zoo & canal boat rides |
Culture Enthusiasts | June – August & October | Festivals, concerts, art events | Pre-book Anne Frank House & Rijksmuseum |
Travel Tips for Your Amsterdam Trip🫧
🏨 Booking
Hotels fill up during tulip season and summer. Book hotels in Amsterdam early for better rates. Areas like De Pijp, Jordaan, or Amsterdam-Centrum are convenient and scenic.
📶 Connectivity
Get a European SIM or eSIM for maps, tram schedules, and café reservations.
💳 Payments
Amsterdam is highly cashless. Cards and contactless payments work everywhere; carry a small amount of cash for markets.
FAQs About Best Time to Visit Amsterdam
Is winter a good time to visit Amsterdam?
Yes! It’s festive with Christmas markets, light festivals, and cosy cafés so just dress warmly.What is the rainiest season in Amsterdam?
Autumn and winter see the most rainfall. Always keep a compact umbrella.When is the best time for shopping in Amsterdam?
June–July (summer sales) and December–January (winter sales) offer the best discounts.Is summer too hot in Amsterdam?
No, the temperatures usually stay around 20–23°C. Heatwaves happen occasionally but are short.