visit amsterdam in august

Your Trip to the Netherlands: The Complete Guide

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Complete Guide to Amsterdam

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One Week in the Netherlands

48 Hours in Amsterdam

Getaways From Amsterdam

Top Things to Do in the Netherlands

Castles to Visit in the Netherlands

Best Things to Do in Amsterdam

Things to Do With Kids in Amsterdam

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Amsterdam's Top Markets

Live Music in Amsterdam

Amsterdam's Must-Visit Museums

Guide to the Keukenhof Flower Gardens

Must-Try Food in the Netherlands

Craft Beer in the Netherlands

Heineken Experience

Amsterdam's Top Restaurants

Nightlife in Amsterdam

August in Amsterdam: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images 

August in Amsterdam is typically mild but sunny, with the occasional bout of rain, much like the rest of the Dutch summer. As one of Amsterdam's warmest months, it's an opportune time to spend a day on the beach or on sun-kissed cafe terraces. While the days continue to shorten, the sun still rises before 7 a.m. and sets after 8:30 p.m.

Since it's peak tourist season, popular sights, restaurants, cafes, airports, and train stations are more crowded than in off-peak months. To avoid being disappointed by missing a reservation or not being able to find a ticket to a show, visitors should allow extra time for travel and make reservations in advance for both restaurants and local attractions.

Amsterdam Weather in August

Amsterdam is really never too hot or cold this time of year. However, the weather is quite volatile, alternating between mild, sunny days and chilly, overcast days throughout the month of August, with an average of 11 days of rain.

• Average high: 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius)
• Average low: 54 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius)

If you're planning to spend a day at the beach in Amsterdam this summer, August is one of the best times to visit because the sea temperature is its warmest at 55 degrees Fahrenheit (18 degrees Celsius) during the early part of the month. When scheduling your trip to the beach, keep an eye on the weather forecasts to avoid unintentionally spending a dreary day at the beach if the clouds roll in midday.

What to Pack

Since the weather can fluctuate almost at random throughout the month, it's best to pack clothing you can layer. You should be comfortable in light long-sleeved shirts or a light jacket and pants, even on the warmest days. Amsterdam is a pedestrian and bike-friendly city; if you plan on doing a lot of walking, pack comfortable shoes, and never go out without an umbrella, as sudden storms pop up all month long—day or night.

August Events in Amsterdam

From comedy showcases to dance music festivals, Amsterdam is rife with summer events in August. Even as locals leave the city to enjoy warmer weather further south, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor events on your trip to the Netherlands.

• Amsterdam Gay Pride : Amsterdam Gay Pride ushers in the month with a full schedule of both indoor and outdoor events like films, art exhibits, theatrical performances, literary and sports events, parties, and of course, the famous boat-filled Canal Parade.
• Comedytrain International Summer Festival :  Dutch comedy troupe Comedytrain invites renowned comedians to perform in an intimate comedy club atmosphere in this English-language event, which happens over six weeks in summer.
• Dance Valley :  This longtime festival fills the Velsen Valley in Spaarnwoude with the sound of music from artists in both the national and international club and DJ scenes.
• De Parade :  Amsterdam is the final stop on theater festival De Parade's tour of the Netherlands' four biggest cities, where it will unload tents, pop-up restaurants, and terraces to present more than 80 theater, music, dance, and mime performances.
• Grachtenfestival (Canal Festival): Like the Uitmarkt Cultural Festival, the Grachtenfestival ushers in a new season with classical music, jazz, and music of other cultures. The Amsterdam event, featuring 10 days of performances by youth from around the world, occurs in nearly 100 locations.
• Hartjesdagen :  Folklore has it that the medieval "Little Hearts Day" was the only time plebeians could hunt deer in the woods—a sport normally reserved for nobility—around Haarlem. In modern times, men dress as women and vice versa to see how the other half lives. The August occasion is celebrated with several days of entertainment, an evening market, food, and more on the Zeedijk in Amsterdam's Chinatown.
• Loveland :  This yearly summer festival in the Sloterpark encourages thousands of attendees to move to the electronic music of internationally-renowned DJs on multiple dance floors for a few days in August.
• Mysteryland :  A yearly event in the Floriade Terrain in Haarlemmermeer, this event has over 100,000 attendees and 17 stages. Besides being an electronic music festival, it offers theater performances, workshops, live DJs, and international eats.
• Summer Concerts : Emphasizing classical music, jazz, film scores, and pop music by top artists from the Netherlands, the numerous concerts presented by BankGiro Loterij take place at The Concertgebouw, known as one of the best concert halls in the world. Throughout the summer, they offer guided tours of The Concertgebouw and open a special, summer-only restaurant.
• Uitmarkt :  The end of the summer coincides with the start of a new cultural season in Amsterdam, ushered in by the popular and free Uitmarkt Cultural Festival. Over 500,000 people who love music, film, theater, and books attend each year. The family-friendly festival is typically in Museumplein and Leidseplein in late August.
• World Cinema Festival Amsterdam : For a decade, this film festival has showcased independent cinema from Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia, and Africa for several days in August. The event also gives an in-depth look at the cinema of its annual "country in focus" and has open-air screenings, parties, talk shows, and food, and additional activities.

August Travel Tips

• Visitors should count on competition for the lowest airfares and best hotels and hostels, as August is considered peak tourist season.
• You can expect heavy crowds at the Anne Frank House and  Museum Quarter attractions , but you can avoid them with online tickets and/or the  I Amsterdam City Card .
• With humid days and citywide waterways, Amsterdam in the summer is an ideal environment for mosquitoes, so be prepared by bringing insect repellent.

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Amsterdam in August

Why visit amsterdam in august.

Amsterdam in August is a wonderful time to visit the city, as the warm summer weather continues and the city comes alive with a range of exciting events and activities. One of the biggest reasons to visit Amsterdam in August is the Canal Festival, which sees a series of classical music concerts held on boats and barges on the city's picturesque canals. This unique festival is a highlight of the city's cultural calendar and a must-visit event for music lovers.

There are also plenty of other things to do in Amsterdam in August, including visiting the city's many museums and galleries, exploring its historic streets and canals, and sampling the local food and drink. August is also a great time to take a bike tour of the city, as the warm weather and long days make it the perfect time to explore Amsterdam on two wheels. With so much to see and do, August is the perfect time to visit Amsterdam and experience all that this vibrant city has to offer.

Amsterdam Weather in August

August is a popular month to visit Amsterdam due to the comfortable weather and a wide range of activities to enjoy. The average temperature in Amsterdam in August ranges between 17 to 20°C (62 to 68°F) which makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities. The days are longer, giving visitors ample time to explore the city and enjoy the beautiful parks and canals. The evenings are also pleasant, making it an excellent time to dine outdoors in one of the many restaurants and cafes.

There are plenty of things to do in Amsterdam in August. One of the most popular activities is to explore the canals on a boat tour, enjoying the beautiful weather and picturesque views of the city. August also hosts some exciting events, such as the Uitmarkt, the city's biggest cultural festival. Visitors can also enjoy the Dutch tradition of "grachtenvaren," which means sailing through the canals in a small boat. August is also the perfect time to visit some of Amsterdam's beautiful parks, such as the Vondelpark, where you can have a picnic or relax in the sun.

Also Checkout: Heineken Experience Tickets, Amsterdam

Things to Do in Amsterdam in August

Amsterdam is a city that offers something for everyone. From its beautiful canals to its museums and parks, there are plenty of things to do in Amsterdam in August. One of the best ways to see the city is on an Amsterdam boat tour , where you can explore the iconic canals and learn about the city's history and architecture.

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For art and history lovers, the Rijksmuseum is a must-visit. Home to over 8000 masterpieces, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh, this museum offers a journey through Dutch art and history.

The Nemo Museum is a great destination for those who love science and technology. It is an interactive museum that encourages visitors to learn about science through hands-on exhibits and fun activities. With five floors of exhibits, there is something for everyone to enjoy. You can learn about electricity, physics, chemistry, and much more. The museum is open year-round, making it a great destination to visit in Amsterdam in August. It's a perfect place to bring the kids and spend a few hours of fun learning.

Explore the rich history of Amsterdam by taking a walking tour of Anne Frank's famous hideout, Anne Frank Museum . The tour takes you through the famous house where Anne Frank hid from the Nazis during World War II, which is now a museum. The guide will take you through the different rooms of the house and share interesting stories about Anne and her family. The tour will also take you through the surrounding neighbourhood, where you'll learn about the history of Amsterdam during the war. This is an emotional and educational experience that you won't want to miss.

Vincent van Gogh is one of the most famous Dutch painters of all time, and his work is revered around the world. In Amsterdam, you can visit the Van Gogh Museum and admire his masterpieces up close. The museum features a wide collection of his paintings, drawings, and letters, which give you a glimpse into the life and work of the artist. Whether you're an art lover or not, the beauty and emotion of Van Gogh's work will leave you awestruck.

For a different kind of experience, visit Amsterdam's Red Light District , one of the most famous areas in the city. Here, you'll see a different side of Amsterdam, as you walk through the narrow streets lined with red-lit windows. It's a unique and intriguing experience, where you'll see the world's oldest profession in action. However, please be respectful and mindful of the laws and customs of the area.

Efteling Theme Park is a magical destination located in the heart of the Netherlands. This amusement park features thrilling rides, enchanting attractions, and fairy tale-themed experiences for all ages. With its charming atmosphere, Efteling is a fun place to spend a day with family and friends. From roller coasters to water rides, Efteling has something for everyone.

Body Worlds is a fascinating exhibit that showcases the human body and its many complexities. This unique experience takes you on a journey through the human anatomy, featuring real-life specimens that have been preserved through the process of plastination. You'll learn about the different systems and functions of the human body, and gain a newfound appreciation for the wonders of the human body.

Amsterdam is surrounded by beautiful and picturesque villages that are worth exploring. Take a day trip and discover the charming towns of Marken, Volendam, and Edam. These villages are known for their traditional architecture, scenic landscapes, and cultural heritage. You'll also have the opportunity to try some of the local delicacies, such as Edam cheese and smoked eel. It's a delightful way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience the beauty of the Dutch countryside.

Must Checkout: Canal Cruise Amsterdam

FAQ's About Amsterdam in August

Are there any major events or festivals taking place in amsterdam during august.

Yes, there are several events and festivals taking place in Amsterdam during August. One of the biggest events is the Amsterdam Gay Pride, which is a week-long celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. Other events include the Uitmarkt, which is a three-day festival of music, theater, and dance, and the Grachtenfestival, which is a classical music festival that takes place on the city's canals.

What are the top outdoor activities to enjoy in Amsterdam during August?

August is a great time to enjoy the outdoors in Amsterdam. One of the best outdoor activities is cycling, as Amsterdam is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes. You can also enjoy a picnic in one of the city's parks, such as Vondelpark or Westerpark. Another popular activity is visiting the city's beaches, such as Zandvoort or Bloemendaal, which are easily accessible by train.

How crowded is Amsterdam during August?

August is peak tourist season in Amsterdam, so the city can be quite crowded. However, the crowds tend to be concentrated in popular tourist areas such as Dam Square, Rijksmuseum and the Red Light District. To avoid the crowds, try exploring some of the lesser-known neighbourhoods or taking a day trip outside the city.

What are the top cultural experiences to have in Amsterdam during August?

Amsterdam is known for its rich cultural heritage, and there are several cultural experiences to have in August. One of the top experiences is visiting the Rijksmuseum, which is home to some of the world's most famous artworks. You can also explore the city's many art galleries and museums, such as the Van Gogh Museum or the Stedelijk Museum. Another cultural experience is attending a classical music concert, such as the Grachtenfestival, which takes place on the city's canals.

What are the best ways to explore Amsterdam's canals during August?

Exploring Amsterdam's canals is a must-do experience in the city. One of the best ways to do this is by taking a canal tour, which will take you through the city's famous waterways and provide a unique perspective on Amsterdam's history and architecture. You can also rent a pedal boat or canoe and explore the canals on your own. Another option is taking a sunset canal cruise, which offers breathtaking views of the city's skyline.

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Visiting Amsterdam in August | The definitive guide

Things to do in Amsterdam Amsterdam Travel Guide Best Time to Visit Amsterdam Amsterdam In August

In Amsterdam , your desires find their match! For the art enthusiast, there's contentment in the strokes of Van Gogh and Rembrandt; for the party aficionado, there's camaraderie amidst electronic dance music festivals; and for the history buff, there's adoration in the heart of Amsterdam's ancient center. Yet, what captivates every visitor is the city's relaxed ambiance, its stunning architecture, and the picturesque life along its canals, which have sculpted its essence. August in Amsterdam still basks in summer's embrace, offering prime opportunities for outdoor escapades and vibrant events. Here's your comprehensive guide to experiencing the best of Amsterdam in August.

Quick Jumplinks to Navigate the Guide

• Why is Amsterdam in August a must-visit?

Amsterdam Weather in August

• Amsterdam in August: Things to Do
• Amsterdam in August: Events to Look Out For
• Amsterdam in August: 5-day Itinerary

Amsterdam Essentials

• Amsterdam in August - Must-Eat Delicacies
• Tips for Visiting Amsterdam in August

What makes Amsterdam in August special?

• End of summer – As summer draws to a close, Amsterdam in August witnesses a transition from the warmth of summer to the cool embrace of autumn. The first half of the month boasts high temperatures, gradually tapering off as it progresses. Nonetheless, there's ample opportunity to relish the city and its surrounding beauty in its full summer glory.
• Outdoor experiences – Outdoor enthusiasts rejoice as Amsterdam's plethora of outdoor events, ranging from music festivals to open-air performances and theatrical spectacles, continue to grace the scene throughout August. This presents an ideal chance to immerse oneself in entertainment and artistic expression. However, come September, these vibrant experiences bid farewell until the next summer season rolls around.
• Fewer crowds – With locals jetting off for holiday adventures, Amsterdam sees a noticeable decline in crowds during August. Yet, weekends remain bustling with visitors flocking from across Europe. Opting for weekday travel grants you the privilege of exploring Amsterdam amidst a more serene ambiance, escaping the typical summer hustle and bustle.

Amsterdam in August bids farewell to the lingering warmth, boasting daytime highs of 28°C and average lows of 14°C. However, this month in the Dutch capital is marked by its unpredictability, alternating between occasional showers and delightful spells of sunshine.

Amsterdam in August : Top Things to Do

Rijksmuseum.

2019 is the Year of the Rembrandt at the Rijksmuseum , which is the Dutch National Museum. A temporary exhibition featuring artists inspired by Rembrandt will be running all through August. You can also explore 8,000 objects of art and history, including 2,000 paintings belonging to the Dutch Golden Age.

August Timings Daily: 9 am-5 pm

Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Amsterdam Canal Tour

History has been created along the Amsterdam Canals , which is why they have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can choose to go on a canal cruise admiring the architecture and life along the canals or upgrade your experience and enjoy a dinner canal cruise.

August Timings Cruise timings depend on tour chosen

Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Willet-Holthuysen Museum

The stately house on the Herengracht Canal is a wonderful reminder of the Dutch Golden Age. Now turned into a museum, the house was originally built in 1685 and has been maintained in its original state. It is a great place to learn about Dutch aristocracy, don’t forget to visit the secret gardens behind the house!

August Timings Daily: 10 am-5 pm

Herengracht 605, 1017 CE Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

A Day Trip to Zaanse Schans and Volendam

August is your last chance to enjoy the sunny weather in Amsterdam. Take a day trip out of the city to the windmills of Zaanse Schans and watch life as it was in the 18th Century. Also, head to the fishing village of Volendam where it might seem that time has stood still for centuries.

August Timings Depends on the chosen tour

Zaanse Schans, Zaandam Netherlands Getting There ›

Red Light District

The Red Light district is synonymous with nightlife in Amsterdam. The infamous district is a great place to people-watch and a walking tour through the area will give you insight into the working of the district and the nearby areas like Chinatown, Warmoesstraat and Nieuwmarkt.

August Timings 12 pm-8 pm

De Wallen, Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Anne Frank House and Walking Tour

Admire the tenacity and courage of Anne Frank, a teenager stuck in a secret annexe during the Holocaust. A tour of the Anne Frank House will bring your closer to the grim reality of the WWII and the events that unfolded. Take a walking tour to explore the region including the Jewish Quarter.

August Timings Tours start daily at 10:30 am, 2 pm & 4:30 pm

Prinsengracht 263-267, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Van Gogh Museum

No visit to Amsterdam is complete without a visit to the Van Gogh Museum , the most visited attraction in the city. Take a guided tour to explore the treasures of the museum which has 200 paintings, 400 drawings and 700 letters by Van Gogh, the largest collection in the world!

August Timings Sunday to Thursday: 9 am-7 pm Friday to Saturday: 9 am-9 pm

Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Amsterdam Icebar

Chill at Amsterdam’s coolest bar! Amsterdam Icebar is a bar made completely of real ice and is freezing cold, and you will need thermal clothing just to hang out! Buy a pass and get free perks like complimentary drinks, an exciting 3D ride and access to the hippest place in town.

August Timings Daily: 12:30 pm-1 am

Amstel 194, 1017 AG Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Amsterdam Dungeon

Love history but don’t like spending hours in the museum? Go on a tour of the Amsterdam Dungeon, an experiential tour where actors and ingenious sets will thrill you and take you through the gory history of Amsterdam, both fact and fiction!

August Timings Tours start every ten minutes from 11 am-6 pm

The Amsterdam Dungeon, Rokin 78, 1012 KW Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Heineken Brewery

Heineken is probably the Netherlands most favourite export and Pilsner beer lovers will find this tour of the Heineken brewery a heady experience. Learn about the brewing process and what goes into the making of the incredible beer that makes people say cheers!

August Timings Tours start every fifteen minutes from 10:30 am-5:15 pm

Stadhouderskade 78, 1072 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Amsterdam in August : Events to Look Out For

Pride Amsterdam 2023

August 1 - August 6 The annual Amsterdam Gay Pride is one of the world's most important gay events. Every weekend, there are street parties, the greatest big circuit parties with thousands of people, and, of course, the legendary Canal Parade through Unesco-protected canal systems in Amsterdam. One of the busiest weekends of the year in Amsterdam is Gay Pride Weekend.

World Cinema Amsterdam 2023

August 22 - August 27 Filmmakers from Africa, Asia and Latin America feature their movies every year at the Rialto World Cinema Amsterdam event. This year the film festival is in its tenth edition and will focus on young and creative filmmakers from Cuba. The films will screen at the Rialto and De Balie theatres in the city.

De Parade Theatre Festival 2023

August 18 - August 20 De Parade caters to a diverse audience, offering something special for each person. Whether you're a passionate theater enthusiast or simply exploring for the experience, this place has it all, tailored to your preferences. As you step into the festival grounds, you'll be captivated by artists dressed in elaborate costumes, delighting the audience with their mesmerizing outdoor performances.

ARTIS ZOOmeravonden

August 5, 12, 19 and 26 Zoomeravorden roughly translates to summer evenings in the zoo and that’s what you get at this summer extravaganza! The ARTIS Royal Zoo hosts concerts and events every Saturday evening till sunset from June to August. Both adults and children can enjoy the company of the zoo animals and sing and dance to great music.

Amsterdam in August : 5-day Itinerary

Canal Cruise

Royal Palace of Amsterdam

Rembrandt House Museum

Day trip to Keukenhof

Anne Frank House

Heineken Experience

Amsterdam Museum

Albert Cuyp Market

Language Dutch

Time zone GMT+1

Country Code +31

Socket Type C, E and F

Currency Euros €

Amsterdam weather is a mixed bag during August, you can get beautiful sunny mild weather on some days and most others end up with cloudy chill weather. The days start to shorten too, sunrise is around 6:30 AM and sunset around 9 PM, yet giving you ample time to sightsee.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam during August

Amsterdam is well-equipped to host travellers from all walks of life. The best area to stay with kids is the Oost area, great neighbourhood for nightlife is Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein, the best romantic neighbourhoods are Canal Belt & Oud-Zuid, while the Old Centrum is a crowd-favourite for sightseeing, and if you are tight on a budget then Noord & Bos de Lomer is where you should go. Here are a few select hotels & hostels to stay in Amsterdam in August –

• Luxury : Banks Mansion , Die Port Van Cleve , Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam , Kimpton Dewitt
• Mid-range : Hotel De Hallen , The Student Hotel , Hotel Arena , WestCord Fashion Hotel

What to Pack for Visiting Amsterdam in August

It's important to be ready for various weather conditions during August in Amsterdam. It's recommended to check the daily forecast before venturing out. Ensure you have appropriate layers for your trip, beginning with a waterproof layer such as a rain jacket and waterproof shoes. Additionally, pack a lightweight pullover or sweater for cooler evenings, along with summer attire suitable for sunny days.

Getting Around Amsterdam in August

Getting around Amsterdam is a breeze as the public transportation system is well-planned and easy on the pocket. Here are your choices for getting around in Amsterdam in August –

• Ideal for short distances – Tram is your best option to hop-on and hop-off, there are 14 lines and hundreds of stops.
• Good for long distances – Metro is suitable for long distances; there are five routes across 39 stations.
• Easy on the pocket – Buses are cheap and convenient even for longer distances, there are over 42 routes across the city.
• Multi-mode transport – Ferry is great to travel plus save time by taking your bicycle and motorbike, there are six ferry routes across IJ River.

Everyone bikes around in Amsterdam, although keeping the rainy days in mind tourists might find it tough to navigate the roads in August. A great way to save money on transport and avoid buying tickets every time is using the I Amsterdam Card , which includes transport and free entry to museums.

Amsterdam in August - Must-Try Delicacies

The salty flavour of the raw herring might be an acquired taste but it is one that is synonymous with Dutch cuisine. The best herring is available all through the summer till August and is best eaten with pickles and onions stuffed in a sandwich.

Craving for an after dinner dessert? Stop for a tompouce! The tompouce is a delicious puff pastry sandwich that is filled with yellow sweet cream. It is topped with whipped cream and the top layer is often orange especially when sold on National holidays and sporting events.

The goodness of fresh summer kale mixed with creamy mashed potatoes brings out the flavours of this popular Dutch lunch dish. It also includes the tasty Kielbasa sausage which is known for its smoky and salty flavours. Dig into it for ultimate comfort food.

Enjoy the long summer days with a sweet treat, the apple pie! The Dutch have taken over the apple pie and made it their own. In Amsterdam, you will find bakeries with pies with golden cruts, thick apple slices and topped with whipped cream. You can even make a meal out of a slice!

It won’t be an exaggeration to say that the Dutch are obsessed with their liquorice! It has the highest per capita consumption of liquorice in the world and you can find these sweet, salty and unique tasting candies in shops across the city. Don’t buy a lot at once, sample it before you buy!

Tips to visit Amsterdam in August

• Amsterdam has a mosquito problem and the humid weather of August means that you will find them buzzing around. Carry an insect repellent with you at all times.
• The Amsterdam Canal Parade starts at 12:30 PM and goes on for about five hours. The floats will start from Scheepvaart Museum towards Amstel River, and then from Prinsengracht to Westerdok. Reach early as most of the points along the canal are already taken, and carry food and bottle so you don’t have to worry about losing your place to find food.
• The Summer Dance Festival will run from 20th to 28th August 2019 and will run across multiple venues. You can participate or simply witness the world’s best street dance talent converge here and dance it out!
• Football is a popular sport in Amsterdam and the football season starts in August and you can catch a home game of the AFC Ajax in their home stadium, the Johan Cruyff Arena.
• A Sunday market is a great place to learn about the culture and cuisine of a place and you can find Sunday markets in Amsterdam at Westergasfabriek (4th August), Rokin edition at Oude Turfmarkt (11th August), and Nieuwmarkt (30th August).

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Explore amsterdam through the year.

Is August a good time to visit Amsterdam?

The most popular months in Amsterdam are July and August, when there are over a million people. The weather is never excessively chilly or scorching because the North Sea has an impact on the temperatures.

What are the best things to do in Amsterdam in August?

Some of the best things you can do in Amsterdam in August is go on day trips to Zaanse Schans and Volendamn. Apart from that you can explore many attractions like Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and go on a Canal Cruise.

What should I pack for Amsterdam in August?

If you're visiting Amsterdam in August, you can pack a light jacket or sweater. Even though August is typically a warm month, the evenings can get cool, so it's best to be prepared. Comfortable shoes - you'll be doing a lot of walking in Amsterdam, so make sure to pack a pair of comfortable shoes. An umbrella - again, even though August is typically a warm month, the weather can be unpredictable, so it's always best to be prepared for rain.

What are the best events in Amsterdam in August?

Some of the best events in Amsterdam in August are, the Amsterdam Pride Parade, World Cinema Amsterdam, De Parade Theatre Festival, Grachtenfestival Amsterdam and Mysteryland Festival.

What are the best areas to stay in Amsterdam in August?

The Old Centre, Grachtengordel South, The Jordaan, and, The Eastern Docklands and Amsterdam Noord are some of the best areas to stay in Amsterdam in August

An introvert who expresses herself by the words that flow out as she writes. A Bangalorean by heart but has been across 22 countries by the age of 22. New York, Paris & Kashmir making it to her top 3 list of places that she has been to, she plans to go on a solo adventure in the near future. Her gypsy home is filled with souvenirs from across the world. She's always up to take her tastebuds on a food tour. As a world explorer, she has learnt that travelling helps her rejuvenate her soul by filling it up with memories and life lessons that no school ever taught.

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When is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

Feb 28, 2024 • 4 min read

There's no bad time of the year to visit Amsterdam but the festive season has a wonderful atmosphere © Lorado / Getty Images

With cobblestone lanes wrapped around arched bridges and canals,  Amsterdam makes for a charming vacation at any time of year.

All the romantic scenery, coupled with mild weather, makes it hard to decide when you should go. Every travel season in Amsterdam has pros and cons, whether it's sniffing fields of fresh tulips or waiting in a queue to catch a glimpse of a Rembrandt. Here’s all the insider info you need to help you decide the best time to visit Amsterdam.

March to May is the best time to see the tulips

Tulips bloom in March and bring ecstatic vibes. Despite this, the weather can be unreliable – waterproof clothes are a must. The three-day techno and house festival DGTL takes place over Easter, christening the season for open-air dancing.

Longer days, higher temperatures, fewer crowds, and full blooms – April is an Amsterdammer’s favorite month for good reason. King’s Day , the biggest street party of the year, is an extravaganza of orange outfits, flea market shopping and beer. This is also prime time for visiting flower markets like the famous Bloemenmarkt , which explodes with fresh-cut stems and kaleidoscopic petals.

Terraces and cobblestone streets get busier in May. This month, you can enjoy mild weather and observe the last tulips bloom.

During National Mill Day in the second week of May, you can peek clamber around inside windmills and watermills (look for the ones with a blue pennant). Accommodation and flight prices start to creep up during April and May but still aren't at the peak summer level yet.

June to September is best for great weather and festivals

With warm weather, lots of daylight and amazing outdoor events, summer is one of the best times to visit Amsterdam. Open-air events are in full swing come June, such as the performing arts extravaganza at the Holland Festival and the calmer but no less beautiful  Open Garden Days . 

Take advantage of the longest days of the year in July and swap packed museums for bike rides and sunset drinks on tiny canal-side terraces.

Open-air electronic music festivals are popular with the locals and draw international crowds, most notably the techno-heavy Awakenings Festival (in July) and the progressive- and percussive-minded Dekmantel (in early August in 2024).

This is the peak season for Amsterdam, so queues for attractions and prices for accommodation are at their highest.

Book seats at your must-eat restaurants at least two weeks before travel, and time slots at popular sights like the Anne Frank Huis and Van Gogh Museum at least six weeks prior. 

Amsterdam’s temperatures are a bit milder than other European capitals in August, and the city experiences few summer closures in comparison. Pride Festival  also comes to the city in August, bringing a party atmosphere to the streets.

September is one of the best months to visit Amsterdam. Summer is essentially over, but the good weather tends to linger for a few weeks yet. There are many good festivals on the go, such as  Amsterdam International Fashion Week  and  Jordaan Festival , with the bonus of fewer crowds.

Packing tip: Pack layers of clothing – Dutch weather is notoriously fickle, and there can be chilly spells even in summer. A light jacket and small umbrella will mean you're prepared for the weather but won't stand out like a tourist.

October to February is best for budget travelers

Wallet-friendly accommodations make the low season a great time to travel. You won’t freeze thanks to mild temperatures – usually around 37°F (3°C) – although expect some gray and dreary conditions. 

October in Amsterdam is a whole cozy mood. Warm, autumn colors erupt across the city’s parks and gardens. Low-season prices start to kick in, and queues begin to dwindle.

Shorter waits for restaurant tables and emptier museums make up for the lack of events – and sunlight – in November. In November's second half, the festive season begins with St. Nicholas’s arrival by boat ( Sinterklaas Intocht ). 

December is a magical time in Amsterdam, even if snow is usually nonexistent or turns to slush shortly after arriving. Ice-skating rinks are popular hangouts, and the city goes a-twinkle with fairy lights in the run up to Christmas.

January might be cold and dark, but museum queues are sparse, and downtown areas actually have elbow room. On the third Saturday in January, the Dutch celebrate Tulpendag , a kickoff celebration preluding tulip season with thousands-strong tulip displays along the Dam.

Typically, February – right before tulip season – is the cheapest time of year to visit Amsterdam. With some luck, canals might freeze over and fill up with ice skaters – thinning out the already-low traffic in Amsterdam's incredible museums even more. After marveling at Dutch Golden Age paintings or bundling up for a canal cruise, bruin cafés (brown cafes) are the perfect way to warm up with hearty food and cozy candlelight. Amsterdam celebrates Chinese New Year (falling between January 21 and February 20) with a parade from the Kuan Yin Shrine Buddhist temple in Chinatown to Dam Square.

This article was first published September 2021 and updated February 2024

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