Amsterdam in Spring: Beautiful gardens galore!
Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, found in the western part of the country near the Ijsselmeer, the largest lake in the Netherlands. The city is famous for its more than 60 miles of canals, where boats can travel. Spring is the season with the least rain, longer days, more sunshine, and temperatures slowly warming up, which makes it a perfect time to visit Amsterdam. You can easily reach the city through Schiphol, its large international airport. I find that taking the blue connexxion shuttle from the airport to your hotel is the easiest and quickest choice. It costs less than a taxi and is less of a hassle with your luggage compared to going down to the trains.
Every time I visit Amsterdam, I’m excited for my next trip. Amsterdam is known for its beautiful canals, interesting history, and impressive art. What’s really neat is how the city is always changing. New neighborhoods, fun activities, and interesting places are always appearing. Even though Amsterdam is an old city, it feels young and lively because there’s always something new going on.
In spring, Amsterdam hosts lots of special events and interesting things to see. It’s a great time to explore and enjoy everything the city has to offer!
Exploring Amsterdam during spring
After experiencing One springtime visits to Amsterdam, with my most recent one in May, I’ve gathered some valuable tips and tricks for anyone planning to visit during this delightful season. In this post, I will cover everything you need to know to make the most of your springtime adventure in Amsterdam.
Firstly, spring in Amsterdam is characterized by pleasant weather, with longer days and milder temperatures compared to the chill of winter. This makes it an ideal time to explore the city on foot or by bike, taking in the iconic sights like the historic canals and vibrant tulip gardens.
Secondly, Amsterdam’s cultural scene comes alive in spring with numerous events and festivals. From the famous King’s Day celebrations in late April to various art exhibitions and music festivals, there’s always something exciting happening in the city.
Thirdly, navigating Amsterdam is easy thanks to its efficient public transportation system. I’ll share tips on using trams, buses, and even canal boats to get around the city conveniently.
Lastly, I’ll provide insights into lesser-known gems and hidden spots in Amsterdam that are particularly charming during springtime, ensuring you have a memorable and enjoyable visit.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Amsterdam, my tips will help you make the most of your spring journey in this vibrant and beautiful city.
Is April a favorable time to visit Amsterdam?
This tradition began on my 31st birthday when I traveled to Amsterdam with my Boyfriend. It was such a memorable experience that eight years later, I decided to celebrate my 34th birthday in the same enchanting city.
Interestingly, two out of my three visits to Amsterdam have coincided with mid-April. From my own experiences, I can confidently say that mid-April is one of the most delightful times to explore this city.
During this period, the weather is significantly more pleasant, and the streets burst with vibrant floral displays. Amsterdam becomes adorned with tulips in full bloom, creating a picturesque and cheerful atmosphere. It’s a time when travelers from around the world flock to the city to witness the famous tulip season.
If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Amsterdam at its most colorful and lively, mid-April is undoubtedly the ideal time to tick off those must-see attractions on your Amsterdam bucket list!
Spring weather in Amsterdam
As spring gets closer, Amsterdam starts to feel nicer. It’s not as warm as summer yet, but here’s what you can expect during springtime in Amsterdam:
- Warmer Weather: Spring brings relief from winter’s chill. Days are not too cold anymore, so you can enjoy being outside without heavy coats.
- Beautiful Flowers: Amsterdam becomes colorful with flowers blooming everywhere, especially tulips. Parks and streets look really pretty with all the flowers in bloom.
- Mixed Weather: Spring in Amsterdam can be a bit unpredictable. You might get some rain or wind, so it’s good to bring layers and a light jacket just in case.
- Longer Days: As spring progresses, the days get longer. This means more daylight to explore the city and enjoy activities like sitting in outdoor cafes or walking along the canals.
- Fun Events: Springtime in Amsterdam is when different festivals and events start happening. You might find cool art shows, music concerts, or other fun things to do around the city.
Overall, spring in Amsterdam is a great time to visit because of the nicer weather, beautiful flowers, and lots of fun things going on.
Weather in Amsterdam during March
As March begins in Amsterdam, the weather starts to get better, but it’s still quite chilly, especially at the beginning of the month. As spring moves along, the temperatures start to warm up and become more pleasant. However, it’s common to have rainy days in March, with about 10 to 15 days of rain throughout the month.
The average temperatures in Amsterdam during March range from lows of about 2 degrees Celsius (around 36 degrees Fahrenheit) to highs of around 10 degrees Celsius (around 50 degrees Fahrenheit). So, it’s definitely not warm enough for just a t-shirt. If you’re planning to visit Amsterdam during this time, it’s important to pack plenty of layers and warm clothes to stay comfortable.
It’s also a good idea to bring along an umbrella and a raincoat because you might encounter showers now and then. Being prepared will help you enjoy your visit to Amsterdam even if the weather is a bit unpredictable in March!
Weather in Amsterdam during April
In April, Amsterdam’s weather can change quite a bit. But you’re more likely to see some sunshine during this month. I’ve been to Amsterdam twice in April, and both times I’ve seen both heavy rain and nice sunny days. So, you should be ready for different kinds of weather and temperatures.
Usually, temperatures in April range from around 4 degrees Celsius (about 39 degrees Fahrenheit) in the morning to about 13 degrees Celsius (around 55 degrees Fahrenheit) in the afternoon. But when I went to Amsterdam in mid-April for my birthday, I had a wonderful surprise! It was such a beautiful day that I didn’t even need a jacket until the evening. It was amazing!
Weather conditions in Amsterdam during May
In May, Amsterdam starts to feel like early summer with much better weather and longer days. The average temperatures range from lows of about 8 degrees Celsius (around 46 degrees Fahrenheit) to highs in the twenties (around 70 degrees Fahrenheit), and there’s usually less rain compared to earlier months. But it’s still a good idea to bring a raincoat just in case.
The longer days mean you have more time to explore the city while it’s still light out. You can make the most of this by trying some of Amsterdam’s best outdoor activities. I really recommend taking a walk through Vondelpark, which is beautiful in spring, or going on a boat tour along the canals. It’s a perfect time to take leisurely walks or bike rides and enjoy seeing tulips, hyacinths, and other colorful flowers in bloom.
Springtime events in Amsterdam
Spring in Amsterdam is a fantastic time to visit because there are lots of exciting events happening! Depending on what you like, you might want to plan your trip to catch one of these popular events:
- Keukenhof Flower Exhibition: If you love flowers, especially tulips, you should visit Keukenhof. It’s one of the world’s largest flower gardens, and it’s only open in spring. You’ll see millions of colorful tulips and other beautiful flowers in full bloom.
- King’s Day: This is a huge celebration in the Netherlands, especially in Amsterdam. It happens on April 27th to celebrate the King’s birthday. The whole city turns orange, and there are parties, concerts, and markets everywhere. It’s a lot of fun!
- Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE): If you’re into music, ADE in October is the place to be.
Open Tower Day
If you want to see Amsterdam from the best viewpoints, you should check out Open Tower Day! It usually happens in March. During this event, you can go up high in several towers all around Amsterdam. You’ll get amazing views of the city from different angles, which lets you really appreciate how beautiful Amsterdam is. It’s a cool way to see the Dutch capital like never before!
Amsterdam Wine Festival
The Amsterdam Wine Festival is a wonderful event where wine enthusiasts gather each year to enjoy local wines and celebrate together. It’s a fun experience that promises to delight your taste buds!
At the festival, you can try different wines paired with delicious food dishes. There’s also live music and lots of entertaining activities to enjoy. The atmosphere is lively, filled with laughter, and the sound of glasses clinking in celebration. It’s a fantastic way to have a great time and discover new flavors in Amsterdam!
Tulip season in Amsterdam
Long before I got to visit Keukenhof Gardens, I always wanted to go to Amsterdam during tulip season. It was right at the top of my list of places to see in Europe. It’s no surprise because this is one of the most stunning times to visit Amsterdam and the whole Netherlands. The whole country is bursting with spring flowers and beautiful blooms, making it the perfect spring vacation spot.
Tulip season in Amsterdam usually starts around late March and goes until mid-May. But the absolute best time to see tulips in Amsterdam is mid-April, which is when I went. That’s when these amazing flowers are in full bloom and looking their very best.
Kings Day
Every year on the 27th of April, Amsterdam bursts with excitement to celebrate the King’s birthday. It’s a huge deal across the city, with lots of fun things happening like live music and amusement rides. This national holiday is famous for its lively street parties, colorful markets, and the happy vibe that fills the whole city.
Before Kings Day arrives, you’ll notice many shops selling orange clothes. Why orange? Because lots of people, both locals and visitors, wear bright orange outfits to show their love for their country and join in all the festive activities.
Since Amsterdam has lots of canals, many people hop on boat party cruises to celebrate Kings Day. It’s definitely one of the coolest ways to enjoy this special holiday in Amsterdam!
Liberation Day
Liberation Day happens every year on the 5th of May and marks the Netherlands’ liberation from German occupation during World War II. In 1945, this was the day when the country became free again.
In Amsterdam, this day is all about honoring the people who fought for freedom. It’s a time to remember their sacrifices and celebrate the joy of living in a free country. Throughout the city, you’ll find celebrations with live music, parties, and special meals to commemorate freedom. Travelers are encouraged to learn more about Amsterdam’s wartime history during this meaningful day.
Things to do in Amsterdam during spring
There are tons of cool things to do in Amsterdam, like visiting famous museums and learning about Anne Frank’s story. But in the springtime, there are some activities you really shouldn’t miss. Here are a few:
- Keukenhof Gardens: It’s one of the world’s biggest flower gardens, and in spring, it’s bursting with colorful tulips and other flowers.
- King’s Day: On April 27th, Amsterdam turns orange to celebrate the King’s birthday with street parties, music, and fun fairs all over the city.
- Canal Cruises: Explore Amsterdam’s beautiful canals on a boat tour. It’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective and enjoy the spring weather.
Explore the tulip fields
Spring in Amsterdam is the best time to enjoy being outdoors. The weather is nice, not too hot (which can be a big deal if you’re used to the UK weather).
This is also when the Netherlands shows off its beautiful flowers. The country is famous for its stunning tulip fields, so if you’re visiting Amsterdam in the spring, you should definitely check out these fields!
Keukenhof Gardens are the most famous, but there are other smaller, less crowded places to see tulips too. Places like Tulip Experience, De Tulperi Tulip Farm, and Fam Flower Farm might not be as big as Keukenhof, but they offer a quieter, more peaceful experience. It’s a great way to enjoy the beauty of the tulips without the hustle and bustle of big crowds.
Explore more about the Netherlands at Zaanse Schans
If you want to experience some classic Dutch charm and get away from the busy center of Amsterdam, you should definitely check out Zaanse Schans. It’s a great day trip where you can learn more about the history of the Netherlands, especially on a sunny day!
At Zaanse Schans, you can wander through an open-air museum that looks like a picture from a storybook. Take some time to admire the beautiful windmills and unique buildings. If you only have time for one day trip from Amsterdam, this should be it!
Explore Amsterdam’s top markets
- The Floating Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt): This market is in the city center and is known as Bloemenmarkt. It’s quick to visit and has flowers, bulbs, and souvenirs.
- Albert Cuyp Market: In De Pijp neighborhood, this market is busy with both locals and tourists who come for the lively atmosphere.
- Noordermarkt: Food lovers should check out this market—it’s a must-visit for tasty treats!
- The Jewish Market: If you like vintage clothes, this market in Amsterdam is a great place to find unique outfits.
- Antiques Market: Open on Sundays from May to October, this market is perfect for finding special old treasures.
Discover more about Amsterdam with a canal boat ride
Taking a canal cruise is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam, especially when the weather is good. If you’re searching for a fun activity on a sunny day, think about hopping on a canal tour through the city. During this season, some tour companies even offer open boat tours, which are perfect for enjoying the weather!
Enjoy the botanical wonders at Hortus Botanicus
Hortus Botanicus is one of the world’s oldest botanical gardens and it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves nature. It’s like stepping into a peaceful oasis full of beautiful plants and flowers. The garden looks even more amazing in spring and summer when everything is blooming and vibrant. Don’t forget to put it on your list of things to do in Amsterdam!
Go for a leisurely stroll through Vondelpark
Vondelpark is one of the best places in Amsterdam for a leisurely stroll. It’s filled with trees, flowers, and ponds, making it a wonderful spot to enjoy nature and the outdoors. Even though it’s right in the heart of the city, Vondelpark feels like a peaceful escape from the busy streets.
In the springtime, this popular park bursts with colorful flowers such as tulips, cherry blossoms, and daffodils, creating a picturesque setting that’s perfect for taking photos and having a picnic.
You’ll see both locals and visitors taking a leisurely walk, exercising, or relaxing with a good book. The park’s spacious lawns and well-kept paths provide plenty of space for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite activities.
Travel tips for Amsterdam in spring
Pack for variable weather
As I mentioned before, the weather in Amsterdam during spring can be quite unpredictable. Some days might be rainy, others cloudy, and then there are those glorious sunny days. It’s best to be ready for anything! I suggest packing clothes that you can layer, comfy shoes for walking, sunglasses for when the sun shines bright, and an umbrella just in case it rains. With these essentials, you’ll be prepared no matter what the weather decides to do!
Anticipate large crowds
Amsterdam is super popular with tourists from all over the world, which sometimes makes it really crowded. Lots of people come to see the famous tulip fields and visit the awesome museums.
Springtime is especially busy in Amsterdam because of the tulip season and tons of cool events happening. Over a million people visit during this time!
If you’re not a fan of big crowds and busy streets, you might want to think about visiting Amsterdam in the fall or winter instead. The weather might not be as nice, but there will be way fewer people around. That’s one of the great things about going to a city when it’s not peak tourist season!
Make advance reservations for museums and restaurants
Since lots of people visit Amsterdam in spring, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. This is especially true if you really want to go to a certain museum or restaurant.
For example, the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Anne Frank House are super popular spots. If you really want to visit these places, make sure to book your tickets ahead of time!
Common questions about visiting Amsterdam during spring
IS SPRING A GOOD TIME TO VISIT AMSTERDAM?
Absolutely! In my opinion, spring is the best time to visit Amsterdam.
What is Amsterdam like during spring?
If you go to Amsterdam in spring, you’ll find an amazing vibe with lots of events happening. As you walk around the city, you’ll see thousands of beautiful flowers making the streets look like a dream.
The weather gets nicer too, so you can expect sunny days and cool nightlife. It’s a special time to feel the unique atmosphere of Amsterdam!
Which month is optimal to visit Amsterdam?
The best time to visit Amsterdam depends on what you want to do and see. Here’s what each season offers:
Spring: Enjoy nice weather, cool events, and lots of beautiful flowers!
Summer: Have fun at festivals and enjoy the best weather. August is a popular month for visiting.
Autumn: Get cosy vibes and visit museums on perfect days.
Winter: Experience Christmas markets and festive celebrations.
Pros and cons of visiting Amsterdam in Spring:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Mild weather | 1. Variable weather (rain showers) |
| 2. Blooming tulips | 2. Crowds during festivals (e.g., King’s Day) |
| 3. Festivals and events | 3. Higher prices for accommodation |
| 4. Outdoor activities | 4. Limited daylight hours early in the season |
| 5. Fewer tourists | 5. Crowded tourist spots (e.g., Keukenhof) |
This chart provides a quick overview of both the advantages and disadvantages of visiting Amsterdam in the springtime. If you enjoyed this post and want to read more like it, here are some recommendations: