Best Time to Visit Amsterdam (2026)
Amsterdam is most famous for spring tulip season (April–May), but summer offers long bright evenings and outdoor canal life. Winter is atmospheric and much cheaper.
Green ✓ = Best months · Red = Consider avoiding
Amsterdam Travel Guides
April–August
Tulip season in April, long summer days, canal boat season. Keukenhof open April–May.
September–October
Still pleasant weather, autumn colours, fewer tourists, better prices.
November–March
Cold, wet, and windy — but Christmas markets are charming and accommodation is very cheap.
Month-by-Month Guide
| Month | Weather | Avg Temp | Rain | Crowds | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | Cold, grey & wet | 3°C | High | Low | Budget |
| Feb | Cold & grey | 4°C | High | Low | Budget |
| Mar | Cool, spring startingKeukenhof opens late March | 8°C | Moderate | Low | Budget |
| AprBest | Mild, tulip seasonKing's Day April 27 — massive outdoor party | 12°C | Moderate | High | Peak |
| MayBest | Warm & lovelyPeak tulip season; Liberation Day May 5 | 16°C | Moderate | High | Peak |
| JunBest | Warm & bright | 18°C | Moderate | High | Peak |
| JulBest | Warm, longest daysCanal boat season in full swing | 21°C | Moderate | High | Peak |
| Aug | Warm & pleasantAmsterdam Gay Pride (early August) | 21°C | Moderate | High | Peak |
| Sep | Mild & pleasantBest shoulder month | 16°C | Moderate | Moderate | Mid |
| Oct | Cool & autumnal | 11°C | Moderate | Moderate | Mid |
| Nov | Cold & wet | 7°C | High | Low | Budget |
| Dec | Cold & festiveSinterklaas (Dec 5) + ice rinks | 4°C | High | Moderate | Mid |
Key Events & Festivals
King's Day (Koningsdag)
The entire city wears orange and celebrates King Willem-Alexander's birthday with markets, boat parties, and street festivals. Amsterdam's biggest party of the year.
Keukenhof Gardens
The world's largest flower park, 30 min from Amsterdam. Seven million bulbs in bloom — don't miss it.
Amsterdam Gay Pride
One of the world's biggest Pride celebrations, culminating in the famous Canal Parade — boats along the Prinsengracht.
Planning Tips
Book accommodations for King's Day (April 27) at least 6 months ahead — it's Amsterdam's biggest annual event
September is Amsterdam's most underrated month — summer warmth but noticeably fewer crowds
Keukenhof (tulip gardens) is only open mid-March to mid-May — worth timing your trip around it
Bring a very good waterproof jacket regardless of season — Amsterdam's weather is legendary for surprise showers
Plan your Amsterdam trip
Amsterdam Packing List
What to pack for your Amsterdam trip — by season and category