The spring months of March through May are a lovely time to visit the beautiful city of Amsterdam. With warmer weather and blooming tulips, spring brings its own beautiful energy and activities to enjoy in the Dutch capital. Here is a guide to what you can expect and best ways to make the most of your springtime trip to Amsterdam.
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Temperature and Weather
Compared to winter, the spring months see warmer average temperatures in the low teens Celsius (50s F). However, it can still be quite changeable with rain showers mixed in. Be prepared for varying conditions by packing layers and a light jacket or raincoat. Late spring in May tends to be sunnier and warmer. On average, March and April receive about half the rainfall of winter months. So while an umbrella is still a good idea, you won’t need it as much.
Tulip Season
One of the main draws of visiting Amsterdam in the spring is to catch the famous tulip displays in full bloom. Late March through mid-May is peak tulip season. Some of the top places to admire fields of colorful tulips include the Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse, about a 30-minute train ride from Amsterdam.
You’ll find over 7 million tulips on display across 32 hectares. For those who want a scenic route, you can opt for a Guided tours in Amsterdam that includes a ride by boat or bike through the tulip fields along the canals and coastline.
Outdoor Markets and Festivals
Spring is a lively time for outdoor markets and festivals all around Amsterdam. Every Saturday, the huge Noordermarkt hosts crafts, clothing, art, and food stalls. In late April and early May, wait for the Botanical Tulip Festival in the Vondelpark, celebrating spring’s beauty through art installations, performances, and activities for kids.
For three weekends in early May, don’t miss Amsterdam’s Grachtenfestival – one of the biggest classical music events in Europe featuring free outdoor concerts along the city’s canals.
Museums Without the Crowds
The milder spring weather makes it an ideal time for exploring Amsterdam’s world-class museums without as many crowds as summer. Top options include the Rijksmuseum with masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer and others. For modern art, check out the Van Gogh Museum or Stedelijk Museum. Admission is free for under 18s at most museums, so it’s family-friendly too. Many also stay open late one night a week for a more relaxed experience.
Biking Through Parks and Along Canals
One of the best ways to see Amsterdam is by rental bike. In spring, the bike paths and streets are less busy. Opt for a leisurely ride through the beautiful parks like the Vondelpark or Amstelpark bursting with blossoms and greenery. You can also pedal along the famous Amsterdam canals decorated with houseboats and bridges. It’s a relaxing way to experience the city and get some fresh air. Many bike tour and rental shops are located near the central station for easy access.
Cruises and Walking Tours
For a scenic introduction to Amsterdam, taking a canal cruise is hard to top. On sunny days, hop aboard one of the open-top boats for stunning city views and architecture. In the evenings, many cruise companies offer dinner and jazz cruises as well.
Guided walking tours are another excellent option to learn the history behind iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace and Westerkerk church. A local guide will bring the architecture and stories of this fascinating waterfront city to life.
In conclusion, the spring months offer the perfect balance of outdoor discoveries and indoor cultural attractions in Amsterdam. With mild weather, blooming flowers, festivals and less crowds – it’s an ideal time to experience all this lively European capital has to offer. Be sure to leave some time to simply relax in one of the many cafes and enjoy the relaxed spring atmosphere.
My name is Russell Noyola. I am a travel blogger from the United States who loves to explore and write about my adventures! I have been fortunate enough to travel all over the world, and have seen so much of this beautiful planet that we live on. From hiking through a rainforest in Costa Rica or exploring a new city during one of my many trips abroad, there’s nothing quite like seeing new places for the first time. I love writing about what it’s like to be a woman traveling alone, as well as sharing stories from other female travelers around the world.
My name is Russell Noyola. I am a travel blogger from the United States who loves to explore and write about my adventures! I have been fortunate enough to travel all over the world, and have seen so much of this beautiful planet that we live on. From hiking through a rainforest in Costa Rica or exploring a new city during one of my many trips abroad, there's nothing quite like seeing new places for the first time. I love writing about what it's like to be a woman traveling alone, as well as sharing stories from other female travelers around the world.
