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Amsterdam

Famous for both its cultural highlights and its reputation as one of the world’s most fun-filled locations, the Netherlands’ main city of Amsterdam offers something for everyone. A lively city break for those seeking sizzling social hot spots, superb shopping opportunities and bustling cafes, Amsterdam is also distinguished by a pretty cityscape that unfurls around its famed canals and waterways.

Look beyond and Amsterdam is a city of great historical importance, from the 17th century canal houses, to the universally acclaimed Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, to the home of the tragic Anne Frank, one of Europe’s most visited historical attractions. Amsterdam is also the ideal centrepoint to explore further into the Netherlands, where picturesque countryside and lush parklands are waiting to be discovered.

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What you’ll love most about Amsterdam

  • Cruise through the picturesque canals of Amsterdam, where charming 17th-century buildings, historic bridges, and vibrant houseboats create a captivating landscape, offering a unique perspective of the city’s architectural beauty and maritime heritage
  • Explore the world-renowned art collections at the Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Dutch masters, providing a profound insight into the Golden Age of Dutch art and history
  • Discover the poignant history of the Anne Frank House, where the preserved secret annex and personal artifacts offer a moving tribute to Anne Frank’s life and the broader narrative of the Holocaust
  • Wander through the lively Jordaan district, known for its narrow streets, trendy boutiques, delightful cafes, and art galleries, reflecting Amsterdam’s bohemian spirit and vibrant local culture
  • Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market, where colourful tulips, daffodils, and other blooms showcase the Netherlands’ rich horticultural heritage amidst the bustling backdrop of the Singel canal
  • Indulge in the flavours of Dutch cuisine, from traditional stroopwafels and herring to modern fusion dishes, as you explore Amsterdam’s diverse food scene in bustling markets, chic restaurants, and charming street food stalls
  • Amsterdam, floral canal view

  • Houses overlooking the River Amstel in Amsterdam

  • Tourist canal boat in Amsterdam

  • Zaanse Schans windmills in Zaandam near Amsterdam

  • Keukenhof Park near Amsterdam

  • Canals of Amsterdam in autumn

  • Amsterdam at Christmas time

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 6℃
  • 6℃
  • 9℃
  • 13℃
  • 17℃
  • 20℃
  • 22℃
  • 22℃
  • 19℃
  • 14℃
  • 10℃
  • 6℃
  • 8
  • 11
  • 9
  • 12
  • 12
  • 9
  • 12
  • 11
  • 10
  • 9
  • 7
  • 7

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

Winter in Amsterdam is cold and crisp, with temperatures generally around 0°C to 6°C. Days are short, and rainfall or occasional snow creates atmospheric scenes along the canals. The city is quiet, making it an ideal time to explore museums such as the Rijksmuseum or stroll through historic streets and cafés without large crowds.

February

Temperatures remain similar, around 0°C to 6°C, with occasional rain or snow. Carnival festivities in nearby regions bring subtle local celebrations. It’s a good month for cultural visits, walking along canal-side streets, and enjoying the warm interiors of traditional cafés and art galleries.

March

Early spring brings slightly milder days, typically 3°C to 10°C. The city starts to awaken with early blooms in parks and gardens. Walking tours through the historic centre, neighbourhoods like Jordaan, and along canals become more inviting. Occasional showers refresh the landscape, making it vivid for photography.

April

Spring is in full swing, with temperatures around 7°C to 14°C. Tulips and other flowers brighten gardens and parks, and open-air markets like Albert Cuyp Market become lively. Days are comfortable for walking, cycling, and sightseeing, while early mornings and late afternoons offer soft light for photography.

May

Warm and settled, with temperatures around 11°C to 18°C. Days are longer, ideal for exploring canals, museums, and historic streets. Outdoor cafés and terraces are bustling, and cycling through parks or along canals is particularly pleasant. Early May also sees King’s Day celebrations, offering a lively local cultural experience.

June

Early summer brings long sunny days with temperatures around 14°C to 22°C. Outdoor exploration is very comfortable, and gardens, canals, and parks are vibrant. Mornings are perfect for quieter walks or cycling, while evenings are ideal for exploring neighbourhoods, dining along canals, or attending cultural events.

July

High summer, with temperatures typically 16°C to 25°C. The city is lively, and canals, parks, and cafés are busy. Early mornings and evenings offer the most comfortable times for walking and photography, while afternoons are ideal for indoor museums or canal-side dining in shaded areas.

August

Warm and settled, often 16°C to 24°C, with occasional showers. Summer festivals and cultural events make the city vibrant. Early mornings remain ideal for quieter walks or photography along canals, while afternoons and evenings are suited to dining outdoors and enjoying parks and gardens.

September

Late summer sees mild temperatures around 14°C to 21°C. Rainfall is moderate, and the city is slightly quieter than the peak summer months. It’s an excellent time for walking tours, cycling along canals, and visiting cultural sites while enjoying comfortable conditions.

October

Autumn brings cooler conditions, typically 9°C to 15°C, with occasional rain. The city’s parks and canal-side streets take on warm autumnal tones, making walking, cycling, and photography particularly rewarding. Indoor cultural visits and cafés provide welcome warmth during cooler spells.

November

Cooler, with temperatures generally 4°C to 9°C. Rain and wind are more frequent, and the city is quieter. Museum visits, historic streets, and cosy cafés provide ideal ways to experience Amsterdam while avoiding the colder, wetter periods outdoors.

December

Winter settles in, with temperatures around 0°C to 6°C. Festive lights, markets, and seasonal decorations enliven squares and streets. Early daylight hours are suitable for sightseeing or photography, while cafés, galleries, and cultural visits provide warmth and charm during the holiday season.

Our Ratings

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