Weather overview
Амстердам enjoys a temperate maritime climate with no extreme seasons, but the weather can shift quickly. Winters are chilly yet rarely harsh, while summers stay pleasantly warm without overheating. Rain is a constant companion, so a light waterproof layer is useful almost any time of year.
The most stable weather in Амстердаме arrives in late spring and early autumn, when temperatures hover around 15–20 °C and rainfall eases slightly. June through August bring the longest days and warmest afternoons, often reaching 20–22 °C, though evenings can still feel cool. December and January are the coldest months, with daytime highs around 6–8 °C and occasional frost at night.
Temperature
In Амстердаме, temperatures rise gradually from January’s average of 4.4 °C to a peak in August at 18.1 °C. The warmest days usually occur in July and August, when highs can reach 21–22 °C, but nights remain mild at 14–15 °C. Even in summer, a light jacket is handy for breezy canalside walks.
March and April mark the transition to spring, with temperatures climbing from 7.3 °C to 9.8 °C. By May, the city warms to 13.8 °C on average, and daytime highs often exceed 18 °C. Autumn cools steadily: September averages 16.3 °C, while November drops to 7.6 °C, bringing crisp air and shorter days.
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 2.1 | 6.7 |
| February | 3.3 | 8.6 |
| March | 3.9 | 11.1 |
| April | 6.2 | 13.7 |
| May | 9.8 | 18.1 |
| June | 13.2 | 21 |
| July | 14.6 | 21.4 |
| August | 14.5 | 22 |
| September | 12.8 | 20.2 |
| October | 10.1 | 15.3 |
| November | 5.4 | 10 |
| December | 4.4 | 8.3 |
Precipitation
Амстердам receives rain in every month, but the pattern shifts with the seasons. The wettest period runs from October to January, with October seeing the highest monthly rainfall at 133 mm. Even in drier months like April or June, showers are common, so an umbrella or waterproof shoes are practical year-round.
Summer rain in Амстердаме often arrives as brief, heavy downpours rather than all-day drizzle. July stands out with 122 mm of precipitation, yet it also offers the most sunshine—up to 12 hours per day in June. February is the driest month at 73 mm, though the difference is modest. Snow is rare, usually limited to a few light flurries in December or January.
| Month | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 103 |
| February | 73 |
| March | 59 |
| April | 80 |
| May | 97 |
| June | 55 |
| July | 122 |
| August | 64 |
| September | 86 |
| October | 133 |
| November | 106 |
| December | 80 |
What to pack
For a trip to Амстердам in spring or autumn, pack layers: a warm sweater, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes. Temperatures in April or October can swing between 10 °C at night and 15 °C by afternoon, so versatility helps. A scarf and gloves are useful for November through March, when mornings often dip below 5 °C.
Summer visitors to Амстердам should bring light clothing for daytime, but also a long-sleeve shirt or light jacket for cooler evenings. A compact umbrella or a waterproof bag is wise, even in July or August, when sudden showers can interrupt a canal cruise. Sunglasses are useful in May or June, when the sun shines for up to 12 hours a day.
Winter packing for Амстердам focuses on warmth and water resistance. A thick coat, waterproof boots, and thermal layers will keep you comfortable in December or January, when temperatures hover around 4–6 °C. Gloves and a hat are essential for windy days, while a foldable umbrella ensures you stay dry during frequent rain or drizzle.
| Month | Wind speed | Direction |
|---|---|---|
| January | 2.9 | 233 |
| February | 1.8 | 229 |
| March | 1.3 | 218 |
| April | 0.4 | 249 |
| May | 1 | 1 |
| June | 1 | 261 |
| July | 2.6 | 248 |
| August | 1.7 | 245 |
| September | 1.3 | 192 |
| October | 2 | 214 |
| November | 2.1 | 218 |
| December | 2.4 | 226 |