Amsterdam is a city that’s beautiful all year round, but visiting in the spring can be a particularly magical experience. The city comes alive with colorful blooms, the weather is mild, and there are plenty of seasonal events and attractions to enjoy. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what to expect when you visit Amsterdam in spring and some of the best things to see and do.
The Weather in Amsterdam in Spring
Spring in Amsterdam typically starts in March and lasts through May. During this time, the weather can be mild with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit. It’s also relatively dry, with only a few days of rain each month.
If you’re planning to visit Amsterdam in spring, be sure to pack layers as the weather can be unpredictable. It’s also a good idea to bring an umbrella or rain jacket, just in case.
Blooming Tulips and Flower Fields
One of the biggest draws of visiting Amsterdam in the spring is the blooming tulips and flower fields. The Netherlands is famous for its colorful tulip fields, and many of these can be found just outside of Amsterdam.
Keukenhof Gardens is one of the most popular places to see tulips in the Netherlands. It’s located just a short drive from Amsterdam and boasts over 7 million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in bloom. The gardens are open from late March to mid-May and offer visitors a chance to stroll through acres of colorful blooms.
In addition to Keukenhof Gardens, there are several other flower fields and gardens in the area worth visiting. These include the Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market, and the Amsterdam Tulip Museum, which explores the history of the tulip trade in the Netherlands.
Spring Events and Festivals
In addition to the stunning blooms, Amsterdam also offers a variety of seasonal events and festivals during the spring. One of the biggest events is King’s Day, which is held on April 27th each year. This national holiday celebrates the birthday of King Willem-Alexander with street parties, live music, and parades throughout the city.
Another popular event is the Holland Festival, which takes place in May and features a variety of theater, music, and dance performances. The festival attracts artists and performers from all over the world and is a must-see for culture lovers.
Other spring events in Amsterdam include the Open Tower Day, where visitors can climb to the tops of the city’s historic towers for panoramic views, and the Taste of Amsterdam food festival, which showcases the city’s culinary scene.
Outdoor Activities
The mild weather in Amsterdam in the spring makes it the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities. Biking is a popular pastime in Amsterdam, and there are plenty of bike rental shops throughout the city. You can explore the city’s scenic canals and parks on two wheels, or venture out to the countryside to see the tulip fields.
Another fun outdoor activity is boating. There are several companies that offer canal cruises or boat rentals, allowing you to see the city from a different perspective. You can even pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch on the water.
Finally, spring is a great time to visit Amsterdam’s many parks and gardens. Vondelpark is one of the city’s most popular parks, offering walking and biking trails, playgrounds, and even an open-air theater. Other parks worth exploring include Oosterpark and Westerpark.
Museums and Galleries
Amsterdam is home to some of the world’s best museums and galleries, and visiting in the spring means you can beat the crowds that typically descend on the city in the summer months. The Rijksmuseum is one of the city’s most popular
Amsterdam’s Canals
Amsterdam’s canals are a popular attraction for visitors year-round, but spring is a particularly lovely time to explore these waterways. The city’s many trees and flowers are in bloom, and the air is crisp and cool. Here are some tips for visiting Amsterdam’s canals in the spring:
- Take a boat tour: One of the best ways to see Amsterdam’s canals is by boat. There are many boat tour companies that offer guided tours, or you can rent your own boat and explore at your own pace. Spring is a great time to take a boat tour because the weather is generally mild and the canals are not as crowded as they are in the summer.
- Walk or bike along the canals: If you prefer to stay on land, walking or biking along the canals is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of Amsterdam in the spring. There are many bike rental shops in the city, and most streets have dedicated bike lanes.
- Explore the Jordaan neighborhood: The Jordaan neighborhood is located in the heart of Amsterdam and is known for its charming streets, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. In the spring, the neighborhood comes alive with blooming flowers and outdoor markets.
Overall, spring is a wonderful time to visit Amsterdam’s canals. Whether you choose to take a boat tour, bike along the water, or explore the city’s charming neighborhoods, you’re sure to be enchanted by the beauty and energy of Amsterdam in the springtime.
