When Is the Best Time to Visit the Netherlands?

No matter what time you visit the Netherlands, you won’t find the weather to be very extreme. Summers are mild and winters cold.

From the middle of March to the middle of May, the country’s popular tulips are in bloom. The best time to visit the Netherlands for the tulips is from mid-April to mid-October, with the biggest influx of visitors in July and August.

That said, the country is beautiful all year round. While temperatures vary depending on what region you’re in, it’s wise to also be prepared for rain, no matter what time of year you visit.

The Best Time to Visit for...

Winter Activities

Dec-Feb

You won’t find unbearably cold temperatures in most parts of the Netherlands over winter, but the weather can be incredibly damp and misty. The winter months are November to March, with December to February being the coldest. Make sure you are prepared with warm, waterproof clothing and umbrellas. In some areas to the north, the temperatures may drop low enough to freeze canals and lakes – so you may even have the chance to ice skate.

Coastal Life

Jul-Sep

If you are wanting to spend lazy days on the beach or sitting at sidewalk cafés, then aim for July and August. Summer evenings are great for outdoor dining. You also may be fortunate to get the tail end of the late summer weather into September.

Head into the Countryside

Venture out of the cities and you’ll find yourself surrounded by fields of bright tulips. To see them in all their spectacular, blooming glory, visit in the springtime from mid-March to mid-May. You can also explore the dunes and islands along the coast by bike. More than half of the country is below sea level, so you’ll discover countless canals both in the city and in the countryside.