Top Tips for Visiting Amsterdam in the Spring
Amsterdam in the spring is a true delight for visitors. The city comes alive with colorful flowers, mild weather, and longer days. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip to Amsterdam in the spring. To help you make the most of your visit, we have put together a list of top tips so you don’t have to think so hard.
Outdoor Activities
Spring weather in Amsterdam can be hit or miss. If possible, plan for a few extra days so if it rains, you can wait a day to do outdoor activities. But, please make time to get outside!
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Rent a bike
Amsterdam is a very bike-friendly city, and renting a bike is a great way to explore the city like a local. Not only is it one of the quickest ways to get around, but it also allows you to see the city at a leisurely pace. Amsterdam's flat terrain makes it easy to bike around, and you can find many bike rental shops throughout the city. To get the lay of the land, take a bike tour around central Amsterdam or get out of the city to see the countryside. The spring is the best time of year for this because animals have their babies and you’ll get to see the cutest side of the Netherlands.
Take a canal boat tour
Amsterdam's canals are one of the city's main attractions, and a canal boat tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. During the tour, you will see the city's beautiful canals and learn about the history and architecture of the city. Many companies offer canal boat tours, so you can choose the one that best suits your interests, but here’s one option.
See the Cherry Blossoms
Typically, late March is a good time for cherry blossoms in Amsterdam. You’ll find them in Westerpark and in the massive park south of the city called Amsterdamse Bos. There’s an entire section of the part dedicated to these delicate blossoms called Bloesempark. Because they last up to two weeks, it can be tricky to plan for. But if you are in the city at that time and up for an adventure, use the 9292.nl website or app to make your route to the Amstelveen, Raadhuis/Dorpsstraat stop. Google Maps work as well, but 9292 is local and can be more accurate. Then follow the signs or the stream of people to the trees. The part is very popular at this time, so be prepared!
Attend King’s Day
King’s day is celebrated countrywide as it’s the King’s birthday. It is on April 27 each year and there is a massive party in Amsterdam that takes over the center of the city. You can find smaller events in the various neighborhoods but the main event, is the canal parade on the Prinsengracht (canal). Bring cash as it’s also a huge day for people selling things on the street as a flea market takes over the city. Be sure to wear orange on this day.
Cultural Attractions
Visit the Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is Amsterdam's main art museum and a must-see destination for art lovers. The museum is home to an extensive collection of art and artifacts from the country's history, including works by famous Dutch artists such as Rembrandt and Vermeer. The Rijksmuseum is open all year round, but spring is a great time to visit as the crowds are not as big as during the summer months.
Due to the Vermeer exhibit in the spring of 2023, crowds are much higher than normal.
Visit the Jordaan neighborhood
The Jordaan neighborhood is a charming area known for its narrow streets, picturesque canals, and trendy shops and cafes. The Jordaan is a great place to stroll and explore, and you can find many art galleries, boutiques, and cafes in the area. The neighborhood is also near Westerpark, a popular park where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors. For a picnic along the canal, a coffee, or shopping, this is the place to be.
Take a stroll in Vondelpark
Vondelpark is Amsterdam's largest park and a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park is home to a variety of flowers and plants, which are in full bloom in the spring. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or even enjoy a concert or performance at the open-air theater in the park.
Visit the Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is a must-see destination for visitors to Amsterdam. The house is the hiding place where Anne Frank and her family lived during the war, and visitors can learn about their stories and the history of the Holocaust. The Anne Frank House is open all year round, but spring is a great time to visit as the crowds are not as big as during the summer months.
Check out the street art
Amsterdam has a vibrant street art scene, and visitors can find street art throughout the city. From graffiti to murals, Amsterdam's street art is diverse and colorful, and it's a great way to explore the city. Some popular areas to check out street art include the Jordaan neighborhood, Nieuw West, parts of Oost, and the NDSM Wharf. There’s a special museum just for street art in the NDSM area called Straat. It’s a free ferry ride from Amsterdam Central Station.
Food and Drink
Try traditional Dutch cuisine
Always do a food tour! Get local recommendations and try some Dutch food on a food tour. These are designed to give a taste of everyday Amsterdam by popping into local shops for popular bites. By the end of the tour, you’ll have a list of other spots to try before you leave. Typically, Eating Europe is the go-to food tour recommendation.
Sample local cheeses
Markets like Albert Cuyp and Noordermarkt are great for finding tasty local cheeses from nearby farms. Springtime is a fantastic time for the outdoor markets! For those with a tight schedule, there are many cheese shops around the city and some even offer a cheese-tasting class or have samples out to try.
Enjoying a drink at a local brewery
Many breweries have outdoor patios (some heated) so tasting local beers is possible even when it isn’t warm. There are plenty around the city but a few suggested ones are Oedipus Brewing, Brouwerij 't IJ, and Brouwerij Troost.
Take a day trip
See the tulip fields and gardens
Honestly, this is the reason people visit the Netherlands in the spring. For good reason! It’s beautiful. For the full guide on the tulip fields near Amsterdam here on over to the post called Best places to see tulips and flower fields in the Netherlands. The Keukenhof is Europe’s garden and is a must-see when in Amsterdam. There are shuttles to take visitors directly to the garden from different points in the city. Read the full guide here. Or go ahead and book your tickets here.
Visit the nearby towns
Amsterdam is a great base for exploring other towns in the Netherlands, such as Haarlem, Utrecht, and The Hague. These towns are easy to reach by train, and they offer a different perspective on the Netherlands. Haarlem is known for its picturesque streets and historic architecture, while Utrecht is a charming town with a lively student population. The Hague is the third-largest city in the Netherlands and is known for its politics and culture.
Amsterdam in the spring is a true delight for visitors. With mild weather, colorful flowers, and longer days, it's the perfect time to explore the city. Whether you're interested in art, culture, or just want to relax and enjoy the outdoors, Amsterdam has something for everyone. By following these tips, you'll be sure to make the most of your visit to Amsterdam in the spring.