The best time to visit Amsterdam

Amsterdam Tourist Information

What is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

Any time of the year may be attractive for a trip to Amsterdam. While summer offers pleasant weather and many festivals, the city is usually very crowded with tourists and visitors. Spring and autumn are often warm and very pleasant to stay outside. Climate changed in Europe during the past decades and even winters are not so cold and windy anymore. While cold the weather is usually dry and often sunny. Therefore, winter is also a good time for a visit, with christmas, ice-skating and a special atmosphere.

But the best time to visit Amsterdam is between April and May or September and November — right before or directly after the summertime high tourist season. You’ll contend with fewer tourists, you’ll enjoy somewhat mild temperatures (the city's weather is notoriously finicky), and you’ll also experience Amsterdam as the locals do — at its laid-back best. But if it’s a deal you’re after — and you don’t mind temperatures in the 30 to 40 degree range — you should plan a winter vacation; you’ll find lower hotel rates and depleted crowds at the city’s top sites.

More information about Amsterdam:


Accommodation in Amsterdam. 
About Amsterdam 
How to explore Amsterdam
The most popular tourist attractions in Amsterdam
Information about canal cruises in Amsterdam

The temperature in Amsterdam


°F | °C

Temperature (°F)

Amsterdam Temperature (°F)
in | mm

Precipitation (in)

Amsterdam Precipitation (in)
June-August
With average highs in the low 70s and long sunny days, it takes no leap of the imagination to see why Amsterdam is so popular in the summertime. But along with hospitable weather, Amsterdam fills with tourists packing the popular sites. Hotels are also at a premium and — unless you book far in advance — largely without a vacancy.
Key Events:
  •  Holland Festival (June)
  •  Amsterdam Gay Pride (August)
September-November
Fewer crowds and relatively good weather makes the fall a good season for travel. You might be able to find slight breaks on hotel prices, but you may or may not miss out on the cold weather. Pack layers.
Key Events:
  • Jordaan Festival (September)
December-March
Short, dark and nearly freezing days make winter in Amsterdam pretty unbearable. But this inhospitable time of year — temperatures fluctuate between 30 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit — is also the best time to score deals on airfare and hotel rooms. If you do brave the cold, don't forget a warm coat — and maybe a pair of thermal underwear or two.
Key Events:
  • New Year (December 31)
April-May
With temperatures on the rise and tulips in bloom, spring is a nice time to visit.
Key Events:
  • King's Day (April)
  • Liberation Day (May)