Wondering when to visit Amsterdam? Our capital isn’t just tulips and canals—though, let’s be honest, those are pretty great too. This city thrives in every season, with something happening all year round. Whether you’re a winter warrior, a springtime stroller, or a summer sun-seeker, there´s always a good moment to visit Amsterdam. Let´s plan yours!
Amsterdam’s high season blooms along with our tulips, from April to July, drawing the bigger crowds. Expect sunnier skies, pop up markets, outdoor festivals and busier canal tours. Ah, and let´s not forget Christmas - Amsterdam´s coziest month with steamy pubs, bubbling cheese fondue, and twinkling festive lights. Up for a more quiet vibe? Low season runs from January to March. Think fewer tourists, shorter queues, and a laid-back city vibe. Just bring your cosiest jumper, citizens — you might get a bit chilly.
Amsterdam’s rainiest months? That would be October, November, and March—so get ready to become best mates with your umbrella and waterproof jacket. But if you’re after sunshine, June and July are the sweet spot. Long days, warm temps, and the perfect excuse to get the legs out, hop on a bike, and grab a local beer in the sun.
Winter in Amsterdam is like stepping into a fairytale—misty canals, twinkling fairy lights, and that crisp air that makes everything feel a little magical. Besides Christmas, the crowds are smaller, and the charm? Off the charts.
ice skating Strap on some skates and glide across Museumplein’s rink, with the Rijksmuseum as your backdrop. Insta-worthy? Absolutely.
Amsterdam Light Festival Art meets illumination with light installations popping up along the canals. A dreamy boat tour is the best way to take it all in. cheese fondue Dive into a pot of pure, melty happiness! Grab a table at one of Amsterdam’s many pubs or restaurants, dunk away, and consider yourself fueled for the day.
cosy cafés
Escape the chill in one of Amsterdam’s many ‘brown cafés’ (think candlelight, wooden interiors, and steaming mugs of hot chocolate or mulled wine).
culture fix
No queues = prime time to hit the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, or the Anne Frank House in peace.
Springtime in Amsterdam is the real thing —tulips in full bloom, mild weather and full terraces. We proudly celebrate our King´s birthday and officially open the outdoor festival season.
Keukenhof Gardens
Okay, it’s not in the city, but it’s worth the short trip. Think millions (yes, millions) of tulips in every colour imaginable. Yep, very instagramable.
King’s Day (April 27)
The biggest cultural street party of the year. All citizens wears orange, boats turn into floating dance floors and bitterballen fly around your ears.
canal cruising
Spring is the best time for a boat ride. The water’s calm, the trees are green and if the sun’s out, those boat roofs slide right open — pure Amsterdam magic.
bike rides
Cycle through Vondelpark, along the Amstel River or even out to the countryside between the tulips for fresh air and peaceful windmill views.
terrace hopping
Grab a drink by the canals, find a rooftop bar, or settle into a leafy beer garden. Sun + a cold drink = perfection. picnics & park barbecues
Vondelpark, Westerpark, or even a quiet canal-side spot—pack some snacks, soak up the sun, and watch the world go by.
festivals season
Music, food, culture—there’s a festival for everything. Highlights include Pride Amsterdam, Open Air festivals, and the Grachtenfestival (classical music on the canals).
swimming spots
Dive into urban beaches like Blijburg, or take a dip in the natural swimming spots at Sloterplas or Oosterpark.
A more relaxed city opens up after the summer rush. Yep, citizens - shoulder season might be a bit rainier, but equally fun.
leafy walks
Stroll along the canals, wander through the Jordaan neighbourhood, or crunch through the fallen leaves in Vondelpark.
museums
As the chill sets in, it’s the perfect excuse to dive into Rembrandt, Vermeer, or contemporary art at the Stedelijk Museum.
cultural events
Catch the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) if you’re into electronic music, or check out the International Documentary Film Festival (IDFA) for something more thought-provoking.
Ready to pack your bags? Stay at one of our three citizenM hotels in Amsterdam—right in the heart of the action, with comfy XL beds, stylish lounges, and a cheeky 24/7 bar. Choose a hotel in Amsterdam’s canal belt for the classic Dutch charm, stay in the Zuidas business district for a sleek, modern vibe, or pick our citizenM Amsterdam Schiphol airport hotel location for the ultimate in travel convenience. Whether you're here for business, pleasure, or just a good time, we’ve got the perfect spot for you.