Amsterdam Weather

Yearly Averages

Spring

Spring is tulip season. It is also one of the most tourist-heavy seasons in Amsterdam, so expect hiked prices and virtually no vacancies. The tulips, not located in Amsterdam,  come into their own during the end of March, continuing till mid-May. This is also when the globally-renowned Keukenhof Gardens are on display in the Netherlands. A must-visit if you’re planning to travel this time of the year. The temperature is pleasantly moderate, going as high as the late-twenties in degrees Celsius. Keep a raincoat or umbrella handy though; showers are pretty common during this time.

Summer

Ah! Amsterdam summers are what many tourists come a-calling for. Temperatures remain comfortably mild, though the effects of global warming tend to have them soaring to a sticky 40 degrees Celsius on the off-day. Mostly though, expect long, sunny days with daylight hours from 4 AM till 11 PM. There are few prospects more enjoyable than sitting on a terrace somewhere, sipping a cold drink and watching people go about. Or stare back at people doing the same as you are. However, rainfall may come uninvited at any point, followed by a very bright sun which makes a boat ride along the canals a very tempting option. Summer is also the time when Zeus makes his presence known. Thunderstorms are most likely to happen during this season. This is also holiday season for resident Amsterdammers, so you’ll find a relatively quiet city awaiting you. However, temperatures tend to dip, especially at night, so pack a light sweater just in case.

Summer - Eating Pancakes on a Sunny Terrace

Winter

Winters in Amsterdam range from mild to slightly hostile at times. The temperatures rarely drop below -5 degrees Celsius, and if the snow falls, it doesn’t stick around for longer than a few days. The days are much shorter, with daylight hours from 8:30 AM till 4:30 PM at best. However, once every few years, the city experiences a winter strong enough to freeze the canals. Ahoy, skaters! If you’re lucky enough to be visiting during such a winter, be sure to partake in the canal skating that is one of the highlights of the winter. If you’re a budget-minded traveler who doesn’t mind the cold, accommodation prices and vacancies are most suitable at this time. Although it’s hard to put a timeframe on it, November till March is usually winter’s peak. Just don’t forget the thermal underwear.

Winter - Ice Skating along the Canals

Basically, with an unpredictable destination, weather-wise, the best you can do is to pack several layers of clothing, and always keep an umbrella and a light jacket around. We can’t really recommend a best time to visit; if you want the tulips, spring is the season for you; for those desiring a lazy, relaxed summer in a water-kissed city, any time during May and afterwards is good; if you’re looking to have a quiet, inexpensive holiday and don’t mind the occasional chills, winter is when you should book that flight for.

To start planning your trip head to our Amsterdam homepage.