Spring is one of the best times to visit Amsterdam and also one of my favorite times to be out and about in the city!
Winter is finally over (thank goodness), and the days get longer and sunnier. Of course, the highlight of any visit in spring is tulip season, which definitely needs to be on everyone’s Netherlands bucket list!
If you’re planning a spring trip, here’s what you need to know about the weather, what to pack, and the best things to do.
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Spring in Amsterdam at a Glance
Spring Weather in Amsterdam
According to the weather gurus, spring officially runs from March to May. But in reality, it only really starts around March 20th and runs until June 20th.
While it’s a definite step up from winter, it can still be quite chilly. April is usually the driest month, but March and April can still be a bit chilly. As we head into May and June, things start warming up and the days get sunnier. That said, rain is always a possibility (you are in the Netherlands, after all)! My top tip for visiting Amsterdam? Be ready for all kinds of weather!
Here’s a quick look at what to expect:
- March is still on the cooler side, with highs around 10°C (50°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F).
- April is warmer but can still be a bit chilly, with daytime temps averaging 14°C (57°F) and nighttime lows of 6°C (42°F).
- May is one of the best months to explore the city, with comfortable daytime temps around 18°C (64°F) and evening lows of 10°C (50°F). If you’re planning a trip during this month, here’s my full guide to visiting Amsterdam in May.
- June brings lovely long days and the warm temps, with highs around 21°C (70°F) and lows of 13°C (55°F).
What to Pack
Spring, especially at the start of the season, isn’t exactly warm yet—so layering is key. Here’s what I recommend bringing along:
- Layers. Pack a mix of t-shirts, long sleeves, cardigans, sweaters, and a warm jacket to adjust to changing temperatures.
- A waterproof jacket or a small umbrella. Spring showers are unpredictable, and you don’t want to get caught unprepared.
- Comfy closed-toe shoes. Amsterdam is a walking city, and the cobblestones can be brutal on sore feet. Sneakers or comfortable boots are your best bet.
- A light scarf. Mornings and evenings can still be chilly, so having an extra layer always helps.
- Gloves and a beanie. Rain isn’t the only thing you need to prep for—there’s also the wind! A good pair of gloves and a warm beanie can make a huge difference on chillier days—trust me!
Best Things to Do in Amsterdam in Spring
Springtime is all about flowers, festivals, and the outdoors in the Netherlands. Here are my top picks on what to do in the capital city during this dreamy season!
See the Tulips at Keukenhof
Keukenhof is an absolute must in spring, and it’s not hard to see why—a perfectly manicured garden bursting with millions (yes, millions) of tulips in full bloom! It’s pure magic.
To experience Keukenhof at its very best, timing is everything. The park is usually open from mid-March to mid-May, but peak bloom typically happens around mid-April.
Since this varies slightly every year depending on the weather, I recommend checking the official Keukenhof website for the latest flowering report. In 2026, the garden is open from March 19 to May 10.
I put together a full guide to Keukenhof based on my visit, which covers what to know before you go, how to avoid the crowds, and a few things I’d do differently next time.
One thing you need to know ahead of time, though—Keukenhof is a huge tourist magnet! If you want to avoid the crowds, visit before 10 am or after 4 pm when it’s generally quieter. I also recommend grabbing an entry ticket online in advance (also available directly via the official Keukenhof website).
If you need transport, though, here’s a great option that includes entry and a return transfer near A’DAM Lookout. And if you don’t want to plan a thing and prefer to go in a group, joining a guided tour is always an option.
If you have extra time, you can also rent a bike and cycle through the tulip fields around Keukenhof (not inside the park) or hop on a whisper boat for a canal tour through the surrounding flower fields.
Visit a Local Flower Market
While the Bloemenmarkt on Singel Canal is famous, it’s mostly geared toward tourists.
It’s still worth a visit to see one of the world’s oldest floating flower markets, but don’t be surprised if most stalls are filled with souvenirs and bulbs (which, honestly, aren’t always the best quality).
For a more local experience, Albert Cuyp Market is a fantastic alternative. There are plenty of flower stalls here, and they feel much more authentic than the Bloemenmarkt.
For die-hard flower fans, the Aalsmeer Flower Auction is another must-visit. I haven’t been yet, but I can’t wait to check it out! Just a head’s up—you’ll need an early start! But it’s not every day you get to visit the world’s largest flower market and watch an auction process in action!
Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms
While tulip season gets all the attention, there’s another stunning springtime moment in Amsterdam—cherry blossom season.
For a few short weeks between late March and early April, the city bursts into dreamy soft pink blooms. Some of the easiest spots to see them right in the city include Westerpark, Vondelpark, Rijksmeum, or even along some of the canals. But if you’re up for a little adventure, head to Bloesempark in Amsterdamse Bos, where there’s an entire cherry blossom park with over 450 trees—it’s the ultimate spot for a spring picnic (or a dreamy Instagram moment).
Cherry blossom season is short, so if you’re lucky enough to be in town when they’re in bloom, don’t miss it!
Take a Canal Cruise
Canal cruises are a must year-round, but springtime makes them extra special. The trees are lush, flowers are blooming, and everything looks picture-perfect. If the weather’s nice, there’s really no better way to see the city than from its dreamy canals!
Just outside Centraal Station, you’ll find loads of boat operators offering affordable canal tours. I’ve taken the Lover’s Cruise several times. It’s always been of good value and pretty informative.
That said, the smaller boat cruises are so much nicer.
If you’re after a more laid-back, intimate experience, this is the way to go! What really sets them apart is that these boats can actually navigate the smaller (and way prettier) canals that the big ones simply can’t reach. The guides are usually fantastic, too—they share quirky, fun tidbits about the city that you won’t hear on the standard tours.
Another big perk? You can often order drinks on board and sometimes even snacks. This cheese and wine cruise is just one example! (Honestly—is there anything better than floating through Amsterdam with a glass in hand, while snacking on the Netherlands’ most iconic treats?)
Some of my favorite companies offering smaller canal cruises include Friendship, Flagship, Pure Boats, Those Damn Boat Guys, and Captain Jack’s. If you’re not sure where to start, I’ve broken down what to expect and how to choose the right cruise in this guide.
Experience King’s Day
King’s Day, or Koningsdag, is the Netherlands’ biggest national holiday. It celebrates King Willem-Alexander’s birthday and takes place every year on April 27—unless that falls on a Sunday, in which case it’s moved to April 26.
While it’s technically about the king, it’s actually one big street party! Dutchies dress in orange (the Netherlands’ national color) and take to the streets for a day of wild celebrations.
If you’re in Amsterdam, get ready for an absolutely chaotic, fun-filled day, with live music, street parties, flea markets, and boat parties along the canals.
Most museums and shops close for the day, so don’t plan on sightseeing. Also, public transport is often disrupted, so be prepared to walk. But if you’re up for the fun, anyone can join—just wear something orange!
Eat Your Way Through Rollende Keukens
If you love food (and honestly, who doesn’t?), checking out the Weekend of Rolling Kitchens is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam in May.
Usually held toward the end of the month, this open-air food fest takes over Westerpark with dozens of food trucks serving everything from burgers and wood-fired pizzas to fresh seafood, Dutch poffertjes, and international street eats.
The vibe? Super fun and laid-back. Think communal tables, live music, and plenty of craft beers, good wines, and cocktails to go around. Best part? Entry’s completely free.
- Data: I use Airalo for eSIMs. It’s easy to set up and works instantly when you land.
- Attractions: I book skip-the-line tickets or tours through GetYourGuide or Viator to avoid queues and last-minute stress.
- Accommodation: I use Agoda and Booking.com to compare prices, location, and cancellation options.
- City Pass: The I amsterdam City Card is a great way to save money if you’re visiting many sights. It includes free entry to top attractions, unlimited use of GVB trams, buses, and metros, and a canal cruise.
- Travel Money: I use Wise to pay in local currency at the real exchange rate and skip hidden bank fees.
Is Spring a Good Time to Visit Amsterdam?
Absolutely! Spring brings out the best in Amsterdam—flowers are in full bloom, exciting events are happening, and the weather is so much nicer than in winter!
If you want peak tulips and don’t mind bigger crowds, April is the most iconic spring month. If you prefer slightly warmer weather and longer evenings, May is often the sweet spot. And if you’re hoping for fewer tourists and lower hotel prices, March can still be a good option. Just pack layers because it can still be pretty cold.
And if you’re still building your itinerary, start with my full Amsterdam Travel Guide, where I cover everything from neighborhoods, transport, museums, canal cruises, and planning tips.
Spring truly is one of the most rewarding seasons to experience the city, as long as you’re prepared for a bit of unpredictable Dutch weather.
Planning a spring trip to Amsterdam? What you’re most excited to see and do in the capital—drop a comment below!
