Amsterdam, The Netherlands: When to Go and Weather

Amsterdam Weather: Amsterdam enjoys a mild maritime climate due to its location just seven feet above sea level in northwest Europe. Temperatures rarely reach extremes, so the city is relatively comfortable to visit year round. Amsterdam weather follows a typical structure of four seasons, with warm, humid summers and cold, rainy winters.

Summer: Amsterdam is alive in summer with tourists and outdoor enthusiasts taking advantage of the sunny, warm weather for biking and sunbathing. The average temperature is 63 degrees and it rains an average of 13 days per month.

Fall: As the days get shorter and colder, fewer tourists visit Amsterdam, but the cobblestoned city is perhaps at its most attractive during September and October. The average temperature is 55 degrees and the average rainfall is 18 days per month.

Winter: Hotels slash their rates and Amsterdam's major sites are virtually empty during the coldest, rainiest months of December, January, and February. The average temperature is 38 degrees and it rains an average of 19 days per month.

Spring: Blooming flowers and warming temperatures bring a lively spirit to Amsterdam in April and May. The outdoor cafes fill with families and groups of friends and the tourist sites start to see more activity. The average temperature is 51 degrees and it rains about 13 days per month.

Already in Amsterdam? Log onto Dutch News (www.dutchnews.nl) for local weather forecasts and information in English.

Amsterdam When to Go: Peak Season
The summer months of June, July, and August bring the most international crowds to Amsterdam. The prices of hotel rooms go up with the temperatures, and although the humidity can be oppressive, summer highs don't usually rise above 75 degrees. During these months, the weather is almost always ideal for sightseeing, riding bikes, and sitting in outdoor cafes. You'll battle a crowd of backpackers and foreign travelers at the major sites and competition for the best accommodations can be stiff, so it's best to reserve a room well ahead of time so that you can relax upon arrival in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam When to Go: Off Season
In winter, Amsterdam is comparatively devoid of foreign visitors. During November, December, January, and February, the city is frequently showered with rain, and while temperatures drop down into the 20s, snowstorms aren't frequent. Finding a hotel room is easier and cheaper at this time of the year, as fewer backpackers and tourists are making the European rounds during winter. Be sure to pack an umbrella, warm clothes, and a raincoat when traveling to Amsterdam at this time, because while you'll enjoy the sites in peace, the weather won't always cooperate. Happily, the city is filled with cafes where you can take a break from the winter chill and precipitation.

Amsterdam When to Go: Shoulder Season
The shoulder travel seasons in Amsterdam occur in spring and fall. While you can't exactly depend on the weather - the city sees plenty of intermittent rain and wind outside of summer - you'll appreciate smaller crowds at major museums and tourist sites, and discounted rates on hotel rooms. During April and May, warm spells bring spring fever to locals, who pour onto the city beaches to start working on their tans. Come September and October, the weather gets chillier, but Amsterdam seems illuminated by an appealing autumn glow. As in winter, it's best to come prepared with a good-quality umbrella.

• Mon

   

  Rain

  53  48

• Tue

   

  Showers

  55  51

• Wed

   

  Showers

  52  47

• Thu

   

  Showers

  49  44

• Fri

   

  Showers

  47  43

• Sat

   

  Showers

  49  43

• Sun

   

  Showers

  48  44

Get more information on Amsterdam weather.