Amsterdam in Spring: Weather + 11 Top Things To Do
Spring is the perfect time to be gallivanting around Amsterdam.
You’ve probably seen photos of Amsterdam looking pretty year-round, but spring is one of the best times to visit. I’ve been to Amsterdam more times than I can count, but a visit in spring still feels special. The city wakes up after winter, the days get longer, and suddenly there are flowers everywhere.
Tulips pop up in parks, along canals, and in shop windows, while soft pink cherry blossoms add a romantic touch I never expected.
In this guide to Amsterdam in Spring, you’ll find out why this season is such a great time to visit, what’s happening around the city, and the best things to do while you’re here.
Is Spring a Good Time to Visit Amsterdam?
Yep — spring is one of the best times to visit Amsterdam, but you need to prepare yourself for the fact that Amsterdam is pricey and popular during this season.
Spring (roughly March to May) is tulip season in the Netherlands, so this is when Amsterdam really gets that extra “wow” factor. Even inside the city, you’ll spot flowers in parks, along canals, and in markets. And if you’re also dreaming about day trips (like the famous tulip fields), this is the season to do it.
The Best Parts of Amsterdam in Spring
1) The City Feels Alive Again
After winter, Amsterdam gets a big energy boost. More people are outside, restaurant terraces start filling up, and the city just feels brighter.
2) The Weather is Usually More Comfortable for Walking
You’re not dealing with summer heat, but you still get decent daylight and mild temps. April often gets called one of the “drier” months compared to the rest of the year, even though you should still expect quick showers.
3) Flowers Everywhere
Tulips, cherry blossoms, and fresh greenery completely change the look of the city. Even if you don’t leave Amsterdam for the countryside, you’ll still feel like you’re in flower season.
The Downsides of Amsterdam in Spring
1) Crowds Can Be Intense—Especially Late March Through May
Late March through May is peak spring travel, and Amsterdam gets busy. The biggest crowd spikes happen on Easter weekend, King’s Day weekend (April 27), and the long weekends in late April and early May, especially around Liberation Day (May 5).
2) Prices are Higher on Peak Weekends
Hotels and flights cost more during those same busy periods. King’s Day weekend is usually the most expensive, followed closely by Easter. If you’re traveling on a budget, aim for mid-week stays or early April before the major holidays kick in.
Things to Do in Amsterdam in Spring
A lot of spring in Amsterdam revolves around the outdoors. These are the spring experiences that stand out the most, especially if this is your first visit during flower season:
1. See Tulips
Spring in Amsterdam means tulips everywhere, and it is like my absolute favorite thing! From late March through early May, tulips start popping up along canals, near museums, in parks, and even outside cafés.
April is usually the best month to see them in full bloom, and you don’t need to plan anything special to enjoy them. Just walking around the city is enough.
What I love most is how naturally the tulips fit into everyday Amsterdam life. Bright colors against canal houses and historic streets make even a simple stroll feel memorable. And the best part? Seeing tulips around the city is completely free. No tickets, no crowds.
A Day Trip to the Tulip Fields in Lisse (Keukenhof)
If you’re craving serious flower paradise, you’ve got to make a day trip out to Keukenhof Gardens in nearby Lisse. This place is huge. It has endless themed gardens, tulip tunnels, and fields that stretch farther than the eye can see. Keukenhof is open from March 19 through May 10 in 2026, and getting there from Amsterdam is easier than you’d expect.
There are several shuttle and bus options that take you right to the entrance. Most visitors go with a combo tour ticket that bundles the garden entrance (about €21 if you buy just the ticket online) and round-trip transport from Amsterdam — prices usually start around €35 per adult.
You can catch buses from different spots in the city center, and it’s roughly a 40–45 minute ride each way. You can also do it on public transport if you’re flexible for about 20€ return.
🌷Hot Tip: Keukenhof gets very busy, especially on Easter weekend and in mid-April. Book tickets in advance, go early in the morning or later in the afternoon, and check dates carefully if you’re visiting during flower parade weekends — transport can be limited. If crowds aren’t your thing, weekday visits feel much calmer.
2. Cherry Blossoms
Cherry blossom season in Amsterdam is one of those things you never really hear about- we hear about cherry blossoms in Japan or Washington D.C, but Amsterdam?!? Yep. For a short window in late March to early April, soft cherry blossoms bloom in a few special spots.
The most well-known place to see cherry blossoms is Amsterdamse Bos. Rows of cherry trees bloom at the same time, many of them gifts from Japan, and each one even has a name. It sounds small, but it adds a really lovely touch.
When the blossoms are out, the whole area feels peaceful and magnificent- especially if you catch it on a sunny day. You’ll also spot cherry blossoms in Westerpark, which is smaller, but easier to squeeze into a relaxed afternoon with coffee or lunch nearby.
Getting to Amsterdamse Bos is easy by tram, bus, or bike, and biking there in spring is one of those simple joys that reminds you why people love this city so much.
🌸 Hot Tip : These blossoms are no secret to locals. Go early in the morning or aim for a weekday if you can, and keep an eye on the weather.
3. Vondelpark Open Air Theatre
Spending time in Vondelpark is a must in spring, but if you happen to catch something happening at the Vondelpark Open Air Theatre, it makes the experience even better.
This small outdoor stage sits right in the middle of the park and hosts free performances, ranging from music and dance to theatre and family-friendly shows. It’s very casual, very Amsterdam, and exactly the kind of thing you’ll remember forever.
The full open-air theatre season usually kicks off in late May and runs through summer, but spring is when things start warming up. In May 2026, you can expect early performances, special events, and occasional pop-up shows, especially on weekends and around public holidays.
Even when nothing official is scheduled, you’ll often see rehearsals or small informal performances happening, which still feel fun to watch.
What makes this so worth it is the atmosphere. People sit on the grass, kids run around, someone’s always eating a snack, and there’s zero pressure to stay for the whole thing.
4. King’s Day
King’s Day in Amsterdam is insane! It’s loud, crowded, chaotic, and somehow still one of the most memorable days you can experience in the city.
Every year on April 27, the entire country turns orange to celebrate the Dutch king’s birthday, and Amsterdam goes all in. In 2026, King’s Day falls on a Monday, which means a full day of celebrations — and probably a very lively weekend leading up to it.
The city basically becomes one giant street party. Canals fill with boats blasting music, parks turn into open-air festivals, and neighborhoods host their own mini celebrations.
You’ll see people dressed head to toe in orange, wearing silly hats, face paint, and anything festive they can find. Even if you don’t plan on partying hard, it’s fascinating just to walk around and take it all in.
One of the most unique parts of King’s Day is the vrijmarkt, a massive flea market where anyone can sell their old stuff.
Kids sell toys and snacks, adults sell clothes and books, and the whole thing feels very local and very charming. The best areas for this are usually Vondelpark, Jordaan, and parts of De Pijp.
Getting around is mostly on foot, since many streets are closed and public transport runs on limited schedules. But be prepared that the city will be super crowded.
While it’s a good time, you definitely need to prepare yourself!
🧡 Hot Tip: King’s Day is not the day to plan museums or quiet sightseeing. Trains and trams can be crowded, shops may close early, and accommodation prices jump way up. If you love big crowds and high energy, you’ll have a blast. If not, plan your trip around this day!
5. Liberation Day
Liberation Day is one of those spring surprises that makes you glad you didn’t over-plan your trip. Celebrated every year on May 5, it marks the liberation of the Netherlands during World War II. In 2026, it falls on a Tuesday, and Amsterdam celebrates with free festivals, live music, and fun.
You’ll find open-air concerts and events popping up around the city, especially in bigger spaces like Museumplein or Westerpark. The atmosphere is much less wild than King’s day. It’s more relaxed. People bring blankets, kids run around, and everyone just seems happy to be outside together.
What makes Liberation Day special is how local it feels. People don’t typically come to Amsterdam to celebrate this day, so you end up just falling into whatever the locals are doing. Most events are free, easy to wander into, and simple to enjoy without much planning at all.
6. Easter in Amsterdam
Easter in Amsterdam is calm, pretty, and a really nice break from the bigger spring party days. In 2026, Easter Sunday falls on April 5, with Easter Monday on April 6, and both are public holidays in the Netherlands. That means a slightly slower pace, but still plenty going on.
You won’t find big parades or flashy events, but that doesn’t mean Easter isn’t celebrated. Bakeries roll out chocolate eggs and seasonal pastries, cafés fill up with people lingering over brunch, and parks are full of locals enjoying the longer days. Vondelpark and Westerpark are especially lovely around Easter, with families picnicking and kids running around.
Many museums and attractions stay open over Easter, though some shops and smaller businesses may close or shorten hours on Sunday. Easter Monday is often busier, with people out and about, so it can actually feel more lively than Sunday itself. Public transport runs, but on a holiday schedule, so things move a little slower than usual.
These local things are also worth checking out:
🌷 Easter Markets & Spring Treats
Amsterdam often has Easter markets during the weekend, especially around spots like Museumplein. These are the kind of places where you can find decorated eggs, sweet pastries, and little seasonal goodies.
🥞 Pancake Boat (Yes, Really!)
A fun and very Dutch way to celebrate is the Pannenkoekenboot — a boat that cruises the canals while you eat all-you-can-eat Dutch pancakes. It’s festive, slightly silly, and a great way to see the city from the water before or after brunch.
⭐ Check Availability for the Pancake Boat Cruise here!
🐣 Egg Hunts & Family Fun
Some local parks and spots do Easter egg hunts and kid-friendly activities. For example, De Bijlmerweide petting farm and other community spaces often host egg hunts or craft activities during Easter weekend — perfect if you’re travelling with little ones or just want a cheerful spring vibe.
Now, if you want to attend an Easter Sunday church service, Amsterdam has a few options that visitors like:
⛪ Begijnhof Chapel — My personal favorite! This hidden little Catholic chapel tucked inside the Begijnhof courtyard is gorgeous and peaceful. Its intimate atmosphere makes it a lovely place to pause and reflect on Easter morning.
⛪ Blessed Trinity Church — Another nice Catholic choice if you’re looking for a more traditional Easter mass (with services around mid-morning).
⛪ Hillsong Amsterdam — This church is great if you prefer a contemporary English-language Easter celebration with music and a welcoming crowd.
7. The World Press Photo Exhibit and Festival
If you need a break from flowers and festivals, the World Press Photo Exhibition is a must. It usually arrives in Amsterdam in April and runs through spring, set inside the beautiful De Nieuwe Kerk on Dam Square. The setting alone is worth it, but the photos are what really stop you in your tracks.
This exhibition brings together the most powerful photojournalism from around the world. Some images are heavy, some are hopeful, and a few will probably stay with you long after you leave.
It’s quiet, thoughtful, and a really nice contrast to the buzz of spring outside. Tickets are usually in the €15–€20 range, and discounts are often available for students and kids.
If you’re lucky with timing, you might also catch parts of the World Press Photo Festival, which typically happens around late April. This includes talks, panels, and behind-the-scenes stories from photographers — perfect if you love learning the “why” behind the image.
8. Ride a Bike
If there’s ever a time that I’d tell you to try biking in Amsterdam, spring is it. The weather is mild, and it is one of the most fun ways to explore the city. Even if you’re a little nervous about biking in a big city, you should try it!
You can bike through Vondelpark, along quiet canal streets, or out toward greener areas like Amsterdamse Bos without breaking a sweat.
Bike rentals are easy to find all over the city, with prices usually in the €10–€15 per day range, depending on the type of bike and rental length. Most places offer comfortable city bikes, and many have e-bikes if you want a little help.
Dedicated bike lanes make a huge difference, and once you get the hang of it, biking often feels faster and easier than public transport.
🚲 Hot Tip: Stick to bike lanes, watch for traffic lights made just for cyclists, and don’t stop suddenly — locals won’t love that. If biking in busy areas feels intimidating, start in parks or quieter neighborhoods to build confidence before heading into the city center.
9. Feed Baby Animals
One of my favorite unexpected joys in Amsterdam in spring? Baby animals. There’s just something about newborn lambs, goats, piglets, and fluffy bunnies that makes a spring day feel extra happy. Luckily, Amsterdam has a few great spots where you can meet them up close.
Amsterdamse Bos has a little petting zoo tucked near the woods where families and visitors gather to see goats, sheep, and other friendly animals. It’s perfect if you’re already planning to visit the cherry blossoms or spend time in the forest — just swing by and watch the spring babies go about their day.
In Amstelpark, there’s another petting farm that’s super cute and very easy to include in a stroll around the gardens and playground areas. It’s a great little break for kids (and adults who still act like kids around baby goats).
There’s even a small urban farm in De Pijp that pops up with community animal days and small farm animals!
Most of these places are free or very low cost, and you can usually just wander in during park hours. No need to reserve ahead of time.
10. Bloemenmark in Spring is a Must
One of those “you’re in Amsterdam” moments is wandering through the Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market right on the Singel canal between Muntplein and Koningsplein.
It’s been a thing here since 1862, and in spring the colors and scents are unreal.
This place is such a classic stop that even lots of locals still pop by, not just tourists. You’ll see rows of stalls on barges (now fixed in place), overflowing with flowers and plant bulbs, plus all kinds of Dutch souvenirs if you do want to take something home.
11. Amsterdam Art Week
If you’re in Amsterdam during spring, Amsterdam Art Week is an awesome city experience. In 2026, it runs from May 19–24, and during that time, the whole city becomes packed with contemporary art, gallery openings, performances, talks, and creative events you wouldn’t normally find on a regular museum ticket.
This is not one single venue — it’s a whole city-wide art celebration happening in galleries, studios, museums, and even small creative spaces all over Amsterdam. It is just so much fun to just hop on a bike or wander by foot from one open gallery to the next, peek into artists’ studios, and watch live performances as you go. Don’t miss this!
Some events are free, others are ticketed — but even just walking the art walk and seeing unexpected pieces in hidden corners of the city makes it worth penciling into your Amsterdam spring itinerary.
You can usually pick up a festival programme or map at participating galleries or find the schedule online before you arrive, which makes it super easy to plan your day.
🎨 Hot Tip: To see some of the coolest parts of the festival, look for guided walks (a lot are free) or just follow the signs on gallery doors. Walking or biking between spots is part of the fun, and you’ll see bits of Amsterdam you might’ve otherwise zipped past.
Spring Weather
Spring weather in Amsterdam is a bit of a mixed bag, but in a charming, very Amsterdam way (because who minds rain when it’s in Amsterdam, right?). From March to May, things slowly warm up, layers get lighter, and the city becomes much more pleasant to explore on foot or by bike. You’ll get cool mornings and mostly mild afternoons.
April is often a sweet spot. It’s usually drier than winter, and while rain can still pop up, it’s often quick and manageable. By May, you’ll notice more sunshine, greener parks, and longer evenings that make you want to stay out just a bit longer.
The key to enjoying Amsterdam in spring is dressing smart. I swear by layers — a light jacket, comfy shoes, and something you can easily take off when the sun comes out. If you’re prepared, the weather won’t slow you down at all.
☁️ Hot Tip: Always pack a light rain jacket or compact umbrella, even on sunny days. Amsterdam loves a surprise shower, and I always feel like a seasoned traveler when I’m ready for it.
Where to Stay in Amsterdam in Spring
🛏️ Budget: THIS HO(S)TEL
THIS HO(S)TEL is one of those budget stays that feels fun rather than basic. It’s close to the city centre, smack on gorgeous canal streets, and perfect if you want cheap, clean, and central without sacrificing style. You’re steps from cafes, shops, and evening strolls by the water — and if all you need is a comfy place to sleep before hitting the flowers and bike trails, this is a brilliant pick.
🏙️ Mid-Range & Stylish: Hotel Sebastians
Hotel Sebastians is one of those places that feels like a warm Amsterdam hug. Quiet streets, modern rooms, and a location that’s walkable to Vondelpark, museums, and the lively De Pijp neighbourhood. It’s perfectly balanced — trendy enough to feel special, comfortable enough to feel like a home base.
✨ High-End & Classic: Hotel Estheréa
This is the kind of hotel you picture when you think “Amsterdam in spring.” Classic design with wooden panel details, river views, and that canal-house charm everyone talks about. It’s right by the Singel canal, so you can step right out into spring light and flowers every morning. Guests gush about the breakfast, the location, and how peaceful it is, even in the heart of the city.
Check out this post on Amsterdam stays for more on this.
Amsterdam in Spring: The Wrap up
Amsterdam in spring is a full glow-up. The city shakes off winter, throws on some flowers, and suddenly everyone’s outside pretending they don’t have plans. It’s colorful, and a little romantic- don’t miss it!
