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Published on Mar. 13, 2025
Looking to visit Amsterdam in 2025 and beyond? Here's expert insight on the best time to visit Amsterdam, plus fun hidden gems and seasonal activities.
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Amsterdam is one of the most popular places for Americans (and Europeans) to visit. In 2024 alone, 66.8 million people traveled through Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, an 8% increase from 2023. I’ve even been there three times! As an art lover and an enthusiast eager to explore culture and history—not to mention a fan of the city’s incredible canals—Amsterdam has become a must-visit destination not just for me but for travelers from all over the world. But when is the best time to visit Amsterdam? We’ve got the answer below.
If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam and want to uncover hidden gems and seasonal activities, we’re sharing top recommendations and expert advice from Amsterdam connoisseurs and travel pros, including Brandon Shaw, the COO and co-founder of The Tour Guy, and Joy Maroulás, the general manager of YOTEL Amsterdam.
Beyond revealing the best time to visit Amsterdam, we’ll also give you insight into the top places to stay while exploring the city, plus some must-know fun facts—including details on the iconic (and sometimes controversial) Red Light District.
So read on to discover the best time to visit Amsterdam—after this guide, you’ll be ready to pack your bags and go!
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According to Shaw, summer is a great time to visit Amsterdam. “It’s far north, so it doesn’t get very hot—especially compared to other popular European cities,” he says. “Locals love spending time outdoors when the weather is warm, so summer travelers would have the opportunity to experience more Dutch culture during this time of year.” This includes time spent on boats in the canals, in outdoor cafes, hanging out in the park and more!
However, don’t skip traveling to Amsterdam during the other seasons, as according to Maroulás, the best times to visit are mid-April to May and mid-August to September. “While the April-May period is sometimes mistakenly thought to be less crowded, it is actually bustling due to the vibrant flower season, which attracts many visitor,” she says. “ During these months, the mild weather creates ideal conditions for exploring the city on foot or cycling like a local.”
There are plenty of hidden gems you’ll want to explore in Amsterdam, especially for food lovers. “If you’re looking to eat like a local in Amsterdam, there are a few dishes you simply can’t skip,” Shaw says. Kipsaté, a Dutch pub favorite, is “the Indonesian version of chicken satay served with peanut sauce”—a delicious reminder of the Netherlands’ colonial past. Another popular bite is lahmacun, a Middle Eastern flatbread topped with minced beef or lamb, vegetables and herbs. “It’s especially common in the Western or Turkish parts of town.” And, of course, no trip to Amsterdam is complete without indulging in a stroopwafel or a cone of fries smothered in mayonnaise—“ideally not at the same time,” he jokes.
For an authentic food experience, Shaw recommends Amsterdam Oost and De Pijp. “De Pijp has a Bohemian feel, with narrow streets lined with Middle Eastern eateries, old-school pubs and cafés with sidewalk terraces,” he says. It’s the perfect neighborhood for wandering, people-watching, and discovering hidden culinary gems.
If you’re looking to escape the city for a bit, Shaw also recommends Zaanse Schans, a charming neighborhood in Zaandam that makes for a perfect day trip. “It’s home to historic windmills and green wooden houses that recreate the look of an 18th- and 19th-century Dutch village.” Visitors can watch clog-making demonstrations, explore artisan workshops and even learn about traditional chocolate-making. “Basically, all things that are stereotypically Dutch,” he says.
“If you’re visiting Amsterdam, there are a few must-see spots that truly capture the city’s history, culture and charm,” Maroulás says. “The Rijksmuseum is a must-visit for art lovers,” showcasing an extensive collection of Dutch masterpieces, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. For a deeply moving experience, she recommends the Anne Frank House, where visitors can step inside Anne’s preserved living space and gain insight into her experience as a young Jewish girl hiding from Nazis as they occupied the Netherlands during World War II.
And when it’s time to unwind, Maroulás suggests heading to Vondelpark, “the city’s largest park and a green oasis, perfect for picnics, biking or just relaxing after a day of sightseeing.” In the summer, the park even comes alive with open-air concerts, making it an ideal spot to soak in Amsterdam’s vibrant atmosphere. Shaw compares it to Manhattan’s Central Park.
When it comes to food, some of the most popular spots I also enjoyed were Omelegg City Centre, which as its name implies, specializes in omelettes and egg dishes; Chun Café Berenstraat, for delicious milk teas, bubble drinks and unique Korean sandwiches; and Lagom Amsterdam, for all-day brunch, including the blueberry french toast with whipped ricotta, maple syrup and cinnamon.
Shaw notes that winter is low season and summer is high season. “This is pretty standard throughout Western Europe,” he says. While it may be cold visiting Amsterdam during the winter, you’ll also find the area to be one of the most beautiful. You’ll find frozen canals and festive events that make it one of the most magical times of the year. “Weather can greatly impact the tourist experience in the winter months,” Shaw says. “Amsterdam sees very little sun and lots of rain during that time of year, so you wouldn’t see a lot of locals outside, biking, boating, etc.”
And it’s no wonder summer is high season. Tourists flock to the city for the sunshine and warm-weather activities.
According to Maroulás, Amsterdam’s shoulder season falls in March or April (before peak tulip season) and in September to early November (after the summer crowds). “During these months, you’ll find fewer tourists, lower accommodation rates and pleasant weather, making it a great time to explore the city at a more relaxed pace,” she says
Spring is a great time to visit Amsterdam if you want to “take advantage of local festivals and events,” says Shaw. The biggest celebration is King’s Day on April 27, an annual holiday honoring King Willem-Alexander’s birthday, when “Amsterdam transforms into a massive, orange-clad street party.” (Orange is the national color tied to the Dutch Royal Family, the House of Orange-Nassau). During this time, the streets are filled with flea markets, music and festivities, all symbolizing national pride and unity. If you’re a fan of art, spring also brings warm enough weather to explore the STRAAT, a former shipyard building that was transformed into the world’s largest museum of street art and graffiti.
But no matter the season, one of the best experiences is a stroopwafel-making class. This was hands-down one of my favorite activities—so much fun, especially with friends. I took my class with Stroopwafel Workshop Amsterdam and it was a great way to connect with other travelers, while chatting with the local chefs.
You’ll find a vibrant cultural scene and a magical blend of golden leaves in Amsterdam during the fall. One of the best ways to soak in the season is by taking a stroll through Het Amsterdamse Bos. Music, theater and film lovers may enjoy the Amsterdam Fringe Festival in September for a mix of bold, unconventional performances, October’s Imagine Film Festival for fantasy and horror and the Camera Japan Festival for Japanese cinema.
And if you’re a beer lover, visit for Oktoberfest Amsterdam, where you’ll find the tastiest beer from over 30 German and Amsterdam brewers bring their tastiest beers, German food and entertainment. And we haven’t forgotten about our sports fans! You can also catch the Grachtenrace in October, a thrilling 23-kilometer rowing competition through the city’s famous canals.
Winter in Amsterdam is nothing short of magical, and the Amsterdam Light Festival in December and January turns the city’s long nights into a dazzling spectacle. As stunning light installations illuminate the canals, the city center transforms into an open-air art gallery that’s truly unforgettable.
For classic winter fun, head to the seasonal ice rink at Leidseplein, open from November to February, where you can glide across the ice surrounded by festive lights. If you’re up for a unique experience, step into the Xtracold Icebar, where everything—yes, even your glass—is made of ice, and the temperature is kept at a frosty -10°C. Or, bundle up for a winter walking tour, where you can explore the city’s cozy cafés, historic streets and festive markets.
If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam, I have three fantastic hotel recommendations based on my stays.
YOTEL Amsterdam is a fantastic choice for a stylish and convenient stay in Amsterdam. Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Amsterdam Noord, this trendy hotel offers a perfect mix of modern comfort and local charm.
One of the standout features is the bar, restaurant and canal-side terrace, which is “popular with hotel guests as well as locals,” according to Maroulás. Their menus highlight seasonally-sourced ingredients and even feature Dutch favorites like bitterballen—a must-try snack. In my room, I was also greeted with a Tony’s Chocolonely dark chocolate bar and found their signature SmartBed to be incredibly comfortable, especially with its ability to recline from an upright sofa to a full-sized queen bed.
Beyond the hotel, I found exploring the city as effortless. Amsterdam Noord is known for its modern architecture, creative spaces and easy access to both tourist attractions and hidden gems. Plus, getting around couldn’t be simpler—“Guests can get the free ferry to Amsterdam Central Station,” Maroulás explains. “The ferry across the river takes less than five minutes and operates 24/7, making the whole city very accessible.” Metro stations are also nearby, ensuring seamless travel.
And of course, no trip to Amsterdam is complete without biking around like a local! “We encourage our guests to do as the locals do and rent a bike!” Maroulás adds.
This charming townhouse-style hotel is nestled in an upscale part of the city, just a short walk from Amsterdam’s major museums. It’s located in the Museum Quarter, home to the Moco Museum (one of my personal favorites), the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum and more—all within walking distance of each other.
The hotel itself exudes elegance with a touch of UK-inspired interior design. One of the best perks? Their kitchen is always stocked with fresh baked goods, smoothies and juices for guests to enjoy. Plus, there’s a cozy library, outdoor seating, and even bikes available if you want to explore the city like a local.
B&B ‘t Zaanse Koopmanshuis, located in Koog aan de Zaan, Netherlands, was one of my favorite stays to explore Amsterdam! You can book it on Airbnb, and the hosts Fred and Kelly, are incredibly kind and welcoming. The historic U-shaped house has nine rooms, three bathrooms and a beautiful enclosed garden, making it perfect for both guests and their work as a writer and musician.
My friend and I had the garden entrance, and it was always peaceful. Plus, we were in short walking distance to the Sprinter (a type of commuter train) at Zaandijk Zaanse Schans station. This took us directly to Amsterdam Centraal station (a 30 to 40 minute commute depending on when we caught the train). The space includes a sauna, and the interior has a charming Victorian feel.
A short walk away, you’ll find the famous open-air museum De Zaanse Schans with its iconic windmills, plus restaurants, supermarkets and more.
“For tulip lovers, the best time to visit Amsterdam is from mid-April to early May,” says Maroulás. This is when the famous Keukenhof Gardens and the surrounding tulip fields are in full bloom. “Tulip season begins in late March, but the flowers usually reach their peak in mid-April, offering stunning views of colorful landscapes,” he notes.
Amsterdam is often seen as an expensive destination, especially compared to other European cities. However, with smart planning and budget-conscious choices, you can explore the city without overspending. The key lies in how you budget for accommodation, dining and attractions—along with when you choose to visit.
To save money, consider staying in hostels or booking an Airbnb, especially one with a kitchen where you can cook your own meals. Skip the taxis and opt for an OV-chip card, which gives you access to trams, buses and the metro at a much lower cost. Take advantage of free walking tours and visit the city’s many free attractions.
Exploring local markets, discovering free museums and checking out Amsterdam’s vibrant street art scene are all great ways to experience the city without spending much. You’ll find incredible murals across Amsterdam, but top spots include the Heesterveld Creative Community in Zuidoost and Spuistraat/Wijdesteeg in the city center.
What’s more, Maroulás recommends budget-conscious travelers to visit Amsterdam in the winter months (November to February), except for the holiday season. “While the weather is colder, the city is quieter,” she says. “You can still enjoy indoor attractions like museums and cafes without the summer crowds.”
You can’t visit Amsterdam without check out the Red Ligjht District. My first time going to Amsterdam, I actually stumbled upon it by accident, unaware of why I was seeing women in boxes at night. “Amsterdam’s De Wallen area is home to one of the world’s most famous red light districts,” Shaw notes. Visitors can take a stroll see the lights, or visit the Red Lights Secrets Museum to learn more about Amsterdam’s sex work profession. The district is also known for its trendy coffee shops, bars and clubs. Shaw says, “The best time to see the district is in the early evening or at night, when the lights begin to illuminate the narrow streets.” And while he considers the area to be generally safe, it can get very busy, and “tourists should be aware that taking photos or videos of workers is illegal.”
About the experts
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At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. For this piece on the best time to visit Amsterdam, Associate Editor Mariah Thomas tapped her experience as a seasoned traveler and avid Amsterdam visitor, while receiving expert insight from Brandon Shaw, the co-founder of The Tour Guy, and Joy Maroulás, the general manager of YOTEL Amsterdam.
We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
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