Amsterdam Holiday Weather Overview
Amsterdam is the biggest city in the Netherlands, as well as the cultural capital of the low-lying country. Thanks to a long North Sea coastline, the moderated weather patterns vary little throughout the Netherlands and Amsterdam weather is less extreme than that found in many other cities of the region.
Amsterdam is famed for its range of historic and cultural attractions. Beautiful canals lined by pretty buildings and historic architecture criss-cross this popular travel destination. Locals speak excellent English, the shopping is world-class and almost any visitor will find plenty to captivate them.
Most visitors spend their time enjoying the city's centre. Much of Amsterdam can be enjoyed easily on foot or bicycle. There are some 7,000 registered historic buildings to explore in the historic centre alone. In addition to buildings that date from the Middle Ages, Amsterdam has some stunning modern buildings.
When is the best month to visit Amsterdam?
Amsterdam has something to offer at all times of the year, with different delights depending on local conditions and celebrations. Springtime tulip blossoms are a true treat in March. Most tourists come between April and August, as well as during December. Winter months are less crowded but short days and low temperatures can make it harder to explore the city. However, the delights of Amsterdam at this time of year, including the chance to skate on frozen canals provide special memories.
Climate in Amsterdam
Amsterdam has a cool oceanic climate that is strongly influenced by the North Sea. Thanks to the moderating effects of the Gulf Stream, the weather in Amsterdam is relatively mild in the winter (December to March), though temperatures can drop below freezing. The weather in Amsterdam in summer (June to August) is mild, with generally cool days around 22°C and nights, as well as occasional rain. Autumn (September to November) is a nice compromise but can be windy. Spring (April and May) can be wet but is also a fresh and lively time to enjoy Amsterdam.
Amsterdam, the largest city and the capital of the Netherlands, enjoys an oceanic climate that features two major seasons, a mild summer and a cold winter.
Summer in Amsterdam
During the summer months, from late May till early September, Amsterdam remains enjoyable enough with the average high of low twenties. Although the season gets a moderate level of rainfall, as August receives more than 80mm of precipitation, it is the best season to visit Amsterdam. The average low temperature, especially in the evenings, stands around 12°C. The city gets a great level of sunshine throughout the season, more than 200 hours per month.
Winter in Amsterdam
Winter weather in Amsterdam is chilly and somewhat uncomfortable. The average high temperature falls dramatically as winter appears and stands at 9°C in November, 6°C in December while January, the coldest month of the year gets not more than 5°C. The low, on the other hand, fluctuates between -1°C to 3°C. Moreover, a little rainfall and very poor level of sunshine, 60 hours, may not allow you to be fixed with your plan.
What to pack and wear in Amsterdam?
The weather throughout northwest Europe can be very changeable. Amsterdam weather rarely gets very hot but can be chilly at any time of the year. Be prepared for rain on any visit and in winter, be ready for spells of very cold weather. Amsterdam is best enjoyed on foot, so a good pair of walking shoes is recommended.
Best months to visit Amsterdam?
July and August are the best month to go for holiday or travel to Amsterdam. The weather averages gathered from Amsterdam weather forecast and Amsterdam weather history also forecast these months temperature to be around 22°c and average of 158.4 hours of sunshine in a month.
Coldest months of Amsterdam?
February and January are the coldest months with temperature at around 2°c.
Which months receive most rainfall in Amsterdam?
August and July receive most rainfall with precipitation count of 87.61mm.
Travelling to Amsterdam? Check out our Weather averages of Amsterdam to better plan your holiday or travel.
If you would just like to know what the weather was for a past dates for research or education or you are just curious then visit our historical weather of Amsterdam section.