Best Time To Visit the Netherlands
- Best Season To Visit the Netherlands
- Peak Tourist Season in the Netherlands
- Shoulder Season in the Netherlands
- Low Season: Best Time for Budget Travel in the Netherlands
- Best Time To See Tulips in the Netherlands
- Best Time for Culture in the Netherlands
- Best Time for Cycling in the Netherlands
- Best Time for Canal Tours in the Netherlands
- Best Time for Beaches in the Netherlands
- Best Time for Good Weather in the Netherlands
- Climate and Weather in the Netherlands
- Average Temperatures in the Netherlands by Season
- Sunshine and Rainfall in the Netherlands
- Wind and Humidity in the Netherlands
- FAQs About the Best Time To Visit the Netherlands
- What is the rainiest month in the Netherlands?
- What is the sunniest month in the Netherlands?
- What is the coldest month in the Netherlands?
- What is the best month to go to the Netherlands?
- How many days in the Netherlands is enough?
- Is the Netherlands expensive to visit?
- When should I book flights to the Netherlands for the best prices?
- A Smarter Way To Plan Your Trip To the Netherlands
Choose the best time to visit the Netherlands with confidence. Cycle past windmills in spring, sail through summer canal festivals, or cozy up in winter cafes. This guide breaks down the best seasons for weather, events, and budget-friendly travel so you can plan smarter and experience more.
Today's travel is less about strict itineraries and more about savoring experiences that truly matter. Timing can make all the difference between a smooth trip and last-minute scrambling, whether you're booking your stay or picking the right season. Booking early from the largest selection of hotels in the Netherlands can secure that charming canal-side stay you’ve been dreaming of.
The best time to visit the Netherlands is summer, especially in July, with long daylight hours and warm weather. It’s perfect for biking through scenic landscapes and cruising picturesque canals.
Still, the ideal time depends on the experiences you’re after. By aligning your plans with what you truly enjoy, you'll uncover the Netherlands in a way that speaks to you.
With perfectly planned, fully customizable Netherlands travel packages, it’s easy to match your trip to the season that suits you best. Combine that with the Netherlands' diverse selection of tours and activities, from in-depth cultural experiences to scenic outdoor adventures, and you’ll see the country from a whole new perspective.
Meanwhile, car rentals and flights to the Netherlands shift with demand. Timing your trip right means better prices, better availability, and a smoother experience. This guide unpacks everything you need to plan smarter and travel better.
Best Season To Visit the Netherlands
The Netherlands is a country where the timing of your visit matters. With mild but unpredictable weather, distinct travel seasons, and events that shape the experience, knowing the best time to go to the Netherlands can make all the difference.
Each season affects pricing, crowds, and availability, so knowing when to visit the Netherlands based on your travel style, budget, and must-see experiences ensures a smarter, more rewarding trip. Here’s how each season stacks up.
Peak Tourist Season in the Netherlands
The Netherlands' peak tourist season runs from June to August, with long daylight hours, comfortable weather, and excellent conditions for outdoor activities. These summer months naturally draw big crowds thanks to the beautiful scenery, enjoyable climate, and lively atmosphere throughout the country.
Visiting the Netherlands in July is particularly appealing, offering warm temperatures that are ideal for canal cruises through historic Dutch waterways, cycling tours across the Netherlands’s charming city streets, and relaxing days at the beach. Busy outdoor terraces and lively city squares add to the exciting and energetic feel of the summer season.
Because summer is such a popular time to visit the Netherlands, expect larger crowds, higher prices for hotels and flights, and busy conditions at popular sites. Planning and booking early will help you have a smoother, more enjoyable visit.
How To Save Money During the Peak Season
If you want to enjoy peak season in the Netherlands without overspending, here are the most innovative ways to save while making the most of your trip.
- Book flights and hotels early: Prices rise as peak season approaches. Reserving flights to the Netherlands and accommodations at least three to six months in advance can lock in lower rates.
- Explore Netherlands travel packages: Travel packages to the Netherlands can bundle flights, accommodations, and activities for better value than booking everything separately.
- Look for discounts on attractions: Many museums, tours, and public transport passes offer early bird rates or city cards that provide unlimited public transport and free or discounted entry to attractions.
- Stay in alternative cities: Instead of staying at hotels in Amsterdam, consider booking accommodation in Haarlem, Utrecht, or Leiden, which offer easy access to major sights but with lower prices and fewer tourists.
- Visit the Netherlands’s underrated destinations: While Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague attract crowds, explore less-visited gems like Giethoorn, a village of canals and thatched-roof houses, or Maastricht, a historic city with Belgian and French influences.
- Opt for free or low-cost activities: Summer in the Netherlands is perfect for picnic spots, cycling trails, and nature reserves like the Biesbosch National Park, which offers kayaking through peaceful waterways.
Shoulder Season in the Netherlands
The shoulder seasons of September to November and March to May offer a balance of mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices than the peak summer months. If you're considering when to visit the Netherlands for a more relaxed experience, these months are ideal for cultural events, scenic landscapes, and more flexibility in bookings.
In the fall (September–November), self-drive road trips around the Netherlands are perfect for exploring autumn landscapes. Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam feature colorful parks and cultural events. Cities like Haarlem and Eindhoven host seasonal beer festivals, adding to the cozy autumn charm.
In spring (March to May), tulip fields and outdoor activities shine before peak crowds arrive. It's the perfect time for weekend getaways in the Netherlands. In mild weather, you can cycle through the Dutch countryside or visit windmill villages like Kinderdijk.
The Keukenhof Gardens reach full bloom, a fleeting highlight of the season. For a longer stay, a one-week city break in Amsterdam offers museums, canal cruises, and easy day trips, which makes the most of spring’s charm before the summer rush.
Low Season: Best Time for Budget Travel in the Netherlands
The best time to visit the Netherlands is November to February for the lowest prices. Flights and hotels in the Netherlands are cheaper during this time. While temperatures are chilly and daylight hours are shorter, smaller crowds make exploring museums, historic sites, and cozy cafes easier.
Winter offers unique experiences like an Amsterdam Light Festival canal cruise, where illuminated art transforms the canals. A Zaanse Schans Windmill Village tour provides a peaceful glimpse into Dutch craftsmanship, while a Dutch cheese tasting in Amsterdam is a cozy way to enjoy local flavors and traditions.
In November, Eindhoven’s GLOW Light Festival transforms the city into a giant open-air gallery of illuminated art. For a quieter but equally charming trip, take a 3-day weekend getaway to Haarlem or a 5-day city break to The Hague, where you can explore historic sites, winter markets, and scenic canals.
Winter is the cheapest time to visit the Netherlands while still offering a memorable experience. Booking flights to the Netherlands in January or February and taking advantage of off-season discounts on travel packages can make the trip even more budget-friendly.
Best Time To See Tulips in the Netherlands
The best time to see tulips in the Netherlands is mid-March to mid-May, when fields burst into color. For the most breathtaking displays, Keukenhof Gardens (open March-May) is the best place to see tulips in the Netherlands, with over seven million blooms in full splendor.
The Bollenstreek Tulip Route near Lisse offers a scenic drive or bike ride through endless flower fields. At the same time, the Bloemencorso Flower Parade (April) brings vibrant floral floats from Noordwijk to Haarlem.
Since bloom timing depends on the weather, mid to late April is ideal for peak colors. Booking Keukenhof entry tickets and tulip tours in advance is essential.
Some of the top tulip experiences in the Netherlands are:
- Skip-the-Line Keukenhof Gardens Tour from Amsterdam: Visit the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens with pre-booked entry and round-trip transport from Amsterdam, allowing for a stress-free visit to the largest flower park in the Netherlands.
- Guided Tulip Cycling Tour of Keukenhof and Lisse: Cycle past vibrant tulip fields and a scenic tulip farm, led by a local expert who shares insights into Keukenhof’s history and the surrounding bulb region.
- Dutch Countryside Tour with Tulip Farms and Zaanse Schans Windmills: A full-day experience combining tulip field visits with stops at Zaanse Schans windmills, wooden shoe workshops, and Dutch cheese farms, offering a deeper look into traditional Dutch culture.
Best Time for Culture in the Netherlands
The best time to visit the Netherlands for cultural events is September to November, when the festival season is in full swing. Amsterdam Dance Event (October) turns the city into the world’s electronic music capital, while Museum Night Amsterdam (November) offers rare late-night access to top museums, complete with performances and special exhibits.
In Rotterdam, World Port Days (September) celebrates the city’s maritime heritage with ship tours, demonstrations, and fireworks. With fewer tourists and cooler weather, autumn is perfect for exploring museums, historic sites, and theaters, all without the summer’s crowds or high prices.
Best Time for Cycling in the Netherlands
The best time to go cycling in the Netherlands is April to October, when mild weather and fewer crowds make for ideal riding conditions. The Kinderdijk Windmill Route offers a classic Dutch experience with 19 historic windmills, while Hoge Veluwe National Park provides free white bikes for exploring forests, dunes, and museums.
The Amsterdam to Utrecht cycling route follows scenic canals and charming villages, making it one of the best cycling routes in the Netherlands. For fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures, late spring or early autumn is ideal.
Some of the best bike tours in the Netherlands include:
- Amsterdam Highlights and Hidden Gems Bike Tour: Discover Amsterdam’s top landmarks and hidden spots on this small-group bike tour, covering more ground than on foot while learning about the city’s history and culture.
- Amsterdam E-Bike Sightseeing Tour: Experience Amsterdam like a local, cycling along canals and cobbled streets while stopping at landmarks like the Anne Frank House, Magere Brug, and Jordaan district.
- Zaanse Schans and Zaandam Countryside Electric Bike Tour: Ride an e-bike through Zaanse Schans and Zaandam, passing windmills, wooden houses, and local stalls selling Dutch cheese and clogs, with time to explore on foot.
Best Time for Canal Tours in the Netherlands
The best time for canal tours in the Netherlands is April to September, when warm weather and long daylight hours make for an ideal experience.
Spring tulip cruises showcase colorful flower fields near Amsterdam, while summer evening cruises offer golden-hour views of historic canal houses and bridges. With pleasant temperatures and extended daylight, this period provides the best conditions for enjoying the waterways.
Popular options include:
- Amsterdam Classic Boat Cruise: Sail through Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed canals aboard a classic wooden saloon boat, passing landmarks like the Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum, with optional Dutch cheese, mustard, and unlimited drinks.
- Day Trip To Keukenhof With Windmill Cruise From Amsterdam: A Keukenhof tour with a windmill cruise offers a scenic way to experience tulip season in the Netherlands, passing vibrant flower fields near Lisse.
- Private Dinner Cruise in Amsterdam: Enjoy a private canal cruise with a 2-course meal from a top Amsterdam restaurant, sipping drinks as you glide past landmarks like the Magere Brug, away from the crowds.
Best Time for Beaches in the Netherlands
The best time to visit the Netherlands for a beach holiday is June to August, when coastal areas are at their liveliest. Scheveningen Beach in The Hague is the most popular, with a pier, promenade, and water sports.
For a quieter escape, Texel Island in the Wadden Sea offers sandy shores, scenic cycling paths, and nature reserves, perfect for relaxing away from the crowds. Another highlight is Zandvoort Beach, ideal for sunbathing, beach clubs, and surfing. It's located 19 miles (30 km) from Amsterdam, just a 30-minute drive or a 25-minute train ride away.
If you want city life and coastal relaxation, spend a summer weekend getaway in Rotterdam and explore its modern skyline, art scene, and nightlife. Then, rent a car and drive to Hoek van Holland Beach for a seaside retreat with vast sandy shores and beachfront cafes.
Best Time for Good Weather in the Netherlands
June to August is the best time to visit the Netherlands for good weather, with over 16 hours of daylight and mild temperatures between 66 F and 72 F (19 C to 22 C). The Netherlands in June offers pleasant conditions and fewer tourists, making it ideal for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and cultural events, although occasional rain should be anticipated.
In July, temperatures climb slightly, providing sunnier and warmer conditions perfect for festivals, beach visits, and vibrant city explorations. August stays warm but sees more frequent rainfall, so packing an umbrella is recommended.
Summer is ideal for a Giethoorn day trip paired with a peaceful canal boat ride, a small-group tour of De Hoge Veluwe National Park, or a historical exploration of the UNESCO-listed Dutch Waterline forts amidst scenic landscapes.
For history and scenery, take a bike tour of Kinderdijk to explore its iconic windmills, or cycle through Veluwezoom National Park for panoramic views and rolling landscapes. Booking hotels, tours, and train tickets in the Netherlands early ensures a smoother trip.
Climate and Weather in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers, cool winters, and frequent rain year-round. While the country rarely experiences extreme temperatures, wind, and sudden rainfall can make conditions unpredictable.
Average Temperatures in the Netherlands by Season
The Netherlands experiences moderate temperatures throughout the year, with gradual seasonal shifts rather than sudden extremes. Coastal areas tend to be milder due to the influence of the North Sea, while inland regions may see slightly greater temperature variations.
Although summers are comfortably warm and winters are relatively mild, humidity and wind can make temperatures feel colder or warmer than they actually are. Here's what you can expect from the weather throughout the year:
- Spring (March to May): 50 F to 62 F (10 C to 17 C), generally mild, but mornings can be chilly and unpredictable. Rain showers are common, especially in early spring.
- Summer (June to August): 66 F to 70 F (19 C to 21 C), warm and pleasant, though heatwaves are rare. Occasional thunderstorms can bring sudden showers.
- Autumn (September to November): 50 F to 64 F (10 C to 18 C), cool with vibrant foliage and occasional rain. September can still feel mild, while November often turns gray and damp.
- Winter (December to February): 39 F to 50 F (4 C to 10 C), cold with damp conditions and occasional frost. Snow is rare but possible, especially inland.
Sunshine and Rainfall in the Netherlands
Sunshine varies dramatically across the seasons. Summer months enjoy up to 16 hours of daylight, while winter days are as short as 7 to 8 hours. Rain is spread throughout the year, with November being the wettest month. Spring and fall often bring brief but unpredictable showers.
Tip: Since rain is common regardless of the season, waterproof shoes and a compact travel umbrella can make city sightseeing experiences in the Netherlands more comfortable.
Wind and Humidity in the Netherlands
Due to its flat landscape and proximity to the North Sea, the Netherlands can be windy, especially along the coast and in open countryside. Humidity remains high year-round, with levels ranging from 77% in May to 90% in December.
While summers can feel muggy on still days, winter temperatures often feel colder due to the damp air. Coastal areas like The Hague and Rotterdam may experience stronger winds, particularly in winter.
FAQs About the Best Time To Visit the Netherlands
What is the rainiest month in the Netherlands?
November is the wettest month, with frequent rain, overcast skies, and strong winds. If you prefer drier conditions, April to September is the best time to visit the Netherlands, especially for outdoor activities.
What is the sunniest month in the Netherlands?
June and July are typically the sunniest months in the Netherlands, offering up to 16 hours of sunshine. This is the best time to visit the Netherlands for outdoor festivals, canal cruises, and cycling trips through the countryside.
What is the coldest month in the Netherlands?
January is the coldest month in the Netherlands, with temperatures averaging 39 F (4 C). Snow is rare, but frost and chilly winds are common. Winter is a great time for museum visits, Christmas markets, and lower travel costs outside the holiday season.
What is the best month to go to the Netherlands?
The best month to visit the Netherlands for a comfortable trip is September, when the weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and cultural events are in full swing.
April is great for tulips and King’s Day, while June and July offer warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. If you’re looking for good weather without the peak-season crowds, September is your best bet.
How many days in the Netherlands is enough?
A 5- to 7-day trip allows enough time to explore Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague, with room for a few day trips. If you're focused on city breaks in the Netherlands, 3 to 4 days is enough. For a more in-depth experience around the country, 10 or more days is ideal for Netherlands road trips, including hidden gems.
Is the Netherlands expensive to visit?
Yes, especially in Amsterdam. Budget travelers can expect to spend around 60 to 100 EUR per day, including hostel stays, public transport, and affordable meals.
The cheapest time to visit the Netherlands is January, February, or November, when flights and accommodation are more affordable. To save money, consider staying in Utrecht or Haarlem instead of Amsterdam and using public transport passes to cut costs.
When should I book flights to the Netherlands for the best prices?
For peak season (April to September), book flights 3 to 6 months in advance. For off-season travel (November to March), booking 2 to 3 months ahead usually secures the best deals. If traveling during major events like King’s Day or tulip season, book at least 6 months in advance to avoid high prices.
A Smarter Way To Plan Your Trip To the Netherlands
The best time to visit the Netherlands can shape your travel experience, but timing is just one piece of the puzzle. Choosing the right accommodations makes a difference, so make sure to explore the best places to stay in the Netherlands.
Plan efficiently with the top itineraries in the Netherlands, covering major cities, historic sites, and scenic landscapes. Discover must-see landmarks and seasonal activities with the top things to do in the Netherlands.
Booking early ensures better prices on flights to the Netherlands. For a seamless experience, Netherlands travel packages provide structured itineraries, accommodations, and optional guided tours.
Getting around efficiently makes travel smoother. If you prefer scenic drives and hidden gems, consider car rentals in the Netherlands. For fast, easy city connections, reserve train tickets in the Netherlands early.
For even more travel information about the Netherlands before you go, researching in advance can help you navigate everything from public transport to local customs with ease.
Best time to visit in the Netherlands
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.