Best Time to Visit Amsterdam: A Personal Seasonal Guide
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With my Dutch background, Amsterdam will always have a special place in my heart. With the amazing people, beautiful tulips, all of cyclists, and all of its markets, Amsterdam has something to offer to everyone. I have had the pleasure to visit only once, but it’s on my list to visit again, and during my short time, I absolutely fell in love with it. I am hoping that this guide on the best time to visit Amsterdam, helps you decide the right season for you. Now, let’s dive in!
Introduction: Best Time to Visit Amsterdam
Just like any other city, Amsterdam changes with its seasons. Maybe you want to visit in the spring to enjoy the tulips or in the summer to enjoy all of the festivals. Or maybe you want to visit in the off-season and enjoy the cooler weather that fall brings, or even in the winter. Honestly, Amsterdam is a year-round city, and in this guide, I will share some personal insights and recommendations on when the best time to visit Amsterdam is.
Spring in Amsterdam (March – May): Tulips and Festivities
I have to say that Amsterdam in the spring is probably my most favorite time of year. Just the smell of all of the tulips and the gardens, and everything blooming, it’s truly magical. The tulips in Ambsterdam in the spring are like no other and walking around places like the Keukenhog Gardens, will leave you feeling like you are in a Dutch fairytale.
Pro Tip: If you want peak tulip season, then I recommend visiting in mid to late April for peak blooms.
Now, while the tulips are of course a huge hit in the spring, we cannot forget cycling. Now, if you know anything about Amsterdam, then you know that the cyclists in Amsterdam are like none other. They are fierce and will absolutely run you over if you get in the way. My recommendation is, if you can beat ’em, then join them! Rent a bike and experience the city like a true local!
Another great springtime activity is to do a canal tour. This is a great way to explore the city and get a different perspective of what Amsterdam’s about. You also don’t have to worry about being ran over by the cyclist. I thoroughly enjoyed my canal tour, learning about the culture, and just taking in Amsterdam from another angle.
Pro Tip: If you come on April 27th, it’s King’s Day, wear orange and dance on the floating boats in the canals. It’s such a fun celebration!
Summer in Amsterdam (June – August): Vibrant and Bustling
Visiting Amsterdam in the summer is probably one of the busiest times to visit. The city is alive, full of people, and so many things to do. This is another great time of year to experience biking through Amsterdam or enjoying a relaxing canal cruise through the city.
Another great summertime activity for the locals and tourists are visiting all of the various rooftops. You get amazing views of the city and it’s a perfect way to spend a nice summer evening and watch a sunset.
Lastly, if you love music, you may want to visit Amsterdam in August and visit the Grachtenfestival. All of the activities happen on the canals, and you can even see a concert being performed from a floating stage in the canal.
IF you are looking for warm, fun outdoor activities and festivals in Amsterdam, then visiting in the summer may be the perfect season for you!
Autumn in Amsterdam (September – November): Tranquil Beauty
Visiting Amsterdam in the fall or autumn season is another colorful time of year to visit. With the leaves on the trees turning to fall colors and the air turning crisp, it’s truly one of my favorite times of year to visit Amsterdam.
One of my favorite autumn activities is just wandering the streets, checking out the boutiques or have an espresso at a cozy cafe. This is also a great time of year to check out one of Amsterdam’s many museums. My personal favorite is the Van Gogh Museum, and visiting during this time of year means less crowds, and spending as much time as you want reflecting and taking in all of the amazing art.
If you are into music, specifically EDM, then this time of year also brings in one of the largest EDM music festivals around, the Amsterdam Dance Event. Even if you aren’t into the music itself, just the energy it brings in is super contagious and pulls you in.
Winter in Amsterdam (December – February): Cozy and Festive
If you are looking for a winter wonderland vibe, then visiting Amsterdam during the winter may be the season you are looking for. During the Amsterdam Light Festival, you can see sculptures along the canals lit up, creating a magnificent reflection on the water – absolutely breathtaking.
If you need a break from the cold weather, visiting Anne Frank’s House or any one of the museums, is a great way to get out of the cold, and learn about the Dutch history. Another option is enjoying an espresso at a cozy cafe, just people watching and enjoying the city.
If you like winter activities, another option is to go ice skating on the pond in Museumplein, which I think is so fun and ice skating never gets old in my opinion. Afterwards, treat yourself to a nice warm hot chocolate to warm yourself back up!
Conclusion: Best Time to Visit Amsterdam
Amsterdam is really one of those cities that is perfect to visit year-round. Whether you want to see the tulip colors in the spring or the leave colors in the autumn season, there is no bad time to visit Amsterdam. I hope my insights and recommendations on things to do in Amsterdam by season helps you pick the right time to visit for you!