amsterdam travel in april

Your Trip to the Netherlands: The Complete Guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Airports in the Netherlands

Getting Around the Netherlands

Cities to Visit

Complete Guide to Amsterdam

Amsterdam's Public Transportation

Essential Dutch Phrases

One Week in the Netherlands

48 Hours in Amsterdam

Getaways From Amsterdam

Top Things to Do in the Netherlands

Castles to Visit in the Netherlands

Best Things to Do in Amsterdam

Things to Do With Kids in Amsterdam

Shopping in Amsterdam

Amsterdam's Top Markets

Live Music in Amsterdam

Amsterdam's Must-Visit Museums

Guide to the Keukenhof Flower Gardens

Must-Try Food in the Netherlands

Craft Beer in the Netherlands

Heineken Experience

Amsterdam's Top Restaurants

Nightlife in Amsterdam

April in Amsterdam: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

April is a wonderful month to be in  Amsterdam and the Netherlands as a whole. The Dutch come out in droves as the sunny days return, and as dusk falls later and later, there's even more time to explore.

Amsterdam's event calendar is full this month, as multi-colored rows of tulips blanket the fields at the famed Keukenhof Gardens and locals await King's Day, a wild celebration in honor of the king's birthday.

Amsterdam Weather in April

April weather in Amsterdam can be unpredictable. The Dutch like to say, " April doet wat hij wil ," which means April will do whatever it wishes to do. Luckily, temperatures are generally beginning to warm up, which means you can enjoy all of the charms of the city without winter's bitter cold. 

• Average high: 55 degrees Fahrenheit (12.8 degrees Celsius)
• Average low: 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4.6 degrees Celsius)

A bit of rain is almost guaranteed during your April trip, but not too much: This is still one of Amsterdam's driest months, with just 1.4 inches of rain spread across 12 days. Days are also getting longer during April; you can expect to see around 10 hours of sunlight per day—a large improvement from February when the city receives just five hours of sunlight each day.

What to Pack

Even though April is considered springtime, it's still a bit chilly and temperatures can drop significantly after dark. Bring along some basic rain gear, especially a lightweight raincoat. You won't need a heavy coat, but a waterproof coat that you can wear a sweater and a scarf beneath will prove invaluable. You'll want to keep an umbrella with you as well, and you'll also want to consider packing the following:

• Jeans, or other long pants
• Long-sleeved T-shirts and light sweaters for layering
• A hat, a scarf, and gloves (especially if you plan to bike along the city's canals)
• Waterproof footwear, ideally boots or other sturdy shoes

Amsterdam is a walking city, which means that packing clothes that are both warm and functional is a must. Many of the streets are cobblestoned, so leave the high heels at home!

April Events in Amsterdam

Amsterdammers love spring and it shows: April's event calendar is full of historical holidays, celebrations of art and culture, and even a festival for beer lovers.

• Kleinkunst Festival : The long-running event takes over two Leidseplein theaters with talent from the world of Dutch cabaret. These performances are in Dutch only, but are still plenty entertaining.
• Easter : The holiday is popular in Amsterdam, but unlike many cities, most shops, restaurants, and museums stay open to visitors.
• Meibockfestival : A must-attend for beer lovers. Come on over to the Posthoornkerk to sample the season's best beers for very affordable prices.
• National Museum Week : Museums all over the Netherlands ditch their (often pricey) admission fees for the week, held in mid-April. See the National Museum Week website for a complete list of participants by city.
• King's Day : Around 1 million revelers will descend on Amsterdam for the holiday formerly known as Queen's Day, which is celebrated on April 27. Those who'd prefer to avoid the crowds should head to open spaces like the Vondelpark, which turns into a children's paradise on April 27.
• Amsterdam Tulip Festival : This celebration runs all month long—or as long as the tulips are in bloom. This colorful celebration showcases these flowers across the city, from Noord to Zuidoost and Oost to Nieuw-West.
• World Press Photo : This event honors the best photojournalism each year with an awards ceremony and mobile exhibition, which debuts in Amsterdam's Oude Kerk (Old Church) before it travels the world.

April Travel Tips

• Keukenhof, the Netherlands' world-famous bulb flower park, is at its best in late April. As the gardens can be quite crowded, it's best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon.
• Airfare and accommodation fees rise thanks to "tulipmania" and Queen's Day festivities. Tourist attractions also become more crowded throughout April.
• If you want to celebrate King's Day (along with everyone else in the city), be sure to don your best orange attire. The festivities are free throughout Amsterdam.

February in Amsterdam: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

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October in Paris: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

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Amsterdam in Spring

May in Amsterdam: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

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March in Amsterdam: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Amsterdam in April: Things to Do + All About Tulips!

If you’re dreaming of a classic vacation the Netherlands that features colorful tulips, lively streets and markets, and of course beautiful canals, then planning a trip to Amsterdam in April might be right for you!

I absolutely loved my spring trip to Amsterdam this April (which, yes, like just about everyone else’s was timed to enjoy the tulips)–but there’s no denying that it was a markedly different experience than my previous trip to Amsterdam in December .

There are pros and cons to visiting in all months, of course, which is where this guide comes in!

If you’re curious about visiting Amsterdam in April and wondering if the Netherlands’ most iconic city is worth experiencing during one of its busiest months, then this blog post is for you.

Here’s what to know about visiting Amsterdam in April!

Table of Contents

Fun Things to Do in Amsterdam in April

Where to stay in amsterdam, travel tips for april in amsterdam, faq for visiting amsterdam in april, read more about visiting amsterdam (and beyond).

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Go tulip-spotting throughout Amsterdam’s historic center.

Thanks to the Amsterdam Tulip Festival, 85 public locations throughout Amsterdam featuring blooming tulips all April long!

As this is a dense city center we’re talking about, this mostly involves pots of beautiful tulips scattered around squares, public buildings, and more, rather than the tulip fields you’ll find outside the city or the more elaborate botanical gardens like Keukenhof .

That doesn’t take away from the thrill of spotting the flowers, though–especially since many tulip-focused trips to the Netherlands (like ours!) start in Amsterdam.

Some of the best places to see tulips in Amsterdam itself include Vondelpark, in front of the Rijksmuseum, in Rembrandtplein, and of course Dam Square.

Many of our favorite tulip pots, though, were spotted randomly throughout the city, providing a particularly beautiful burst of color against a canal or church.

If you meander through the historic center during April in Amsterdam, you won’t have to look very hard to find tulips!

Enjoy a canal cruise.

Kicking back and enjoying views of Amsterdam from its beautiful canals is one of the top things to do in the city year-round, of course–but don’t miss the chance to enjoy a canal cruise on your spring trip!

Not only are the views wonderful (and the low-lying water views aren’t an angle you can appreciate from the street), but you’ll undoubtedly see a few corners of the city that you wouldn’t find on your own, while learning a bit about the history of Amsterdam as you travel.

Options abound for canal cruises in Amsterdam, from basic options like this all the way up to elaborate dinner cruises.

On our April trip to Amsterdam, my friends and I opted to enjoy this cheese and wine canal cruise and had a fantastic time devouring a hearty amount of gouda while snapping photos and laughing along with our very engaging guide.

Book the Amsterdam canal cruise we loved today!

Take advantage of a rainy afternoon to visit one of Amsterdam’s best museums.

While tulips, canal views, and all the best of spring may be at the top of your wish list for visiting Amsterdam in April, consider setting aside at least one afternoon to enjoy one of the best museums in the Netherlands, too!

Whether your tastes run classic, modern, or eclectic, Amsterdam has plenty of world-class museums to offer.

And, if you happen to be planning a trip to Amsterdam in early April, National Museum Week –which includes additional events and features–will potentially coincide with your trip as well.

Some of the most popular museums in Amsterdam include the Rijksmuseum , the Van Gogh Museum , and the Anne Frank House .

Depending on your tastes, you may also want to check out the Stedelijk Museum or Oude Kerk for modern art, the National Maritime Museum , or the Our Lord in the Attic Museum , which offers the chance to visit a formerly hidden Catholic church!

Take a day trip to visit Keukenhof.

During tulip season in the Netherlands (mid-March through mid-May, more or less), there is no more popular day trip from Amsterdam than to Keukenhof, the iconic botanical garden in nearby Lisse.

While you can sign up for a guided day trip to Keukenhof, unless you plan to include other stops (tulip fields, lunch, etc), it’s easiest to simply buy a ticket with a bus transfer and visit yourself.

(Definitely book in advance, though–Keukenhof does regularly sell out!).

Visiting Keukenhof is a memorable experience for tulip lovers, but there’s one thing it’s not: a chance to visit tulip fields.

Many visitors have been disappointed by this confusion, so don’t let it be you!

Keukenhof features thousands of tulips, both indoors and outdoors, and is a fun spring experience that includes access to cafes, cafeterias, exhibits, photo ops, and even a windmill to climb–but it’s not a farm.

Definitely climb that windmill, though: you can see tulip fields from the top!

One activity to skip? The cruise through tulip fields: you can’t see much from the boat, and overall, the experience makes It’s a Small World look like a genuine thrill ride.

Buy tickets to visit Keukenhof today!

… or more traditional tulip fields.

Think Keukenhof looks beautiful, but it doesn’t quite seem like it’ll live up to your tulip-filled dreams (or you just want to plan more than one flower-focused experience in the Netherlands)?

Keukenhof is the most popular tulip-focused day trip from Amsterdam, but as a botanical garden, it doesn’t quite scratch the itch of enjoying rows of colorful tulips for many visitors (myself included).

The Tulip Barn in Hillegom was my favorite tulip experience in the Netherlands and gets much closer to a “tulip field” experience while still respecting the fact that Dutch farmers naturally do not want tourists traipsing through their carefully grown flower fields.

Want the full experience of wandering through a tulip farm?

Consider booking a guided day trip like this , which will help you find gorgeous tulip fields that visitors are welcome to experience!

Just be sure to read the day trip descriptions carefully if getting up close to actual tulip fields is important to you–when browsing the many spring tour offerings, know that “tulip experience” does not necessarily mean “visiting tulip fields”!

Book your tulip-focused day trip from Amsterdam today!

Get into true Dutch spirit by wearing orange on King’s Day.

King’s Day, a raucous public holiday held in honor of the king’s birthday (more on that below) comes with crowds, an enthusiastic and free-flowing street market, and hundreds of boats suddenly taking over the Amsterdam canals.

It also comes with lots, and lots, of bright orange clothing.

If you’re going to be in Amsterdam on April 27, consider getting into the King’s Day spirit by donning your best vibrant orange outfit and/or accessories–it’s part of the fun!

Sample Paasbrood, a typical Dutch Easter treat.

Easter breads of various flavors are popular in many places, and the Netherlands is no exception!

If your April Amsterdam trip falls anywhere around Easter, odds are that you’ll see Paasbrood (Easter Bread) for sale in bakeries across the city.

Flavored with almond paste, raisins, orange peel, and more, sampling Paasbrood is a fun and simple way to engage with Dutch culture during your spring getaway.

Stroll through the Amsterdam Flower Market.

Amsterdam’s famous floating flower market, or Bloemenmarkt, is indisputably touristy–but it’s also definitely worth a quick stop when visiting Amsterdam in April!

While the market is known more for bulbs than actual flowers (and spring is not actually bulb-buying season), this colorful collection of houseboats will also have fresh flowers on offer to visitors, not to mention just about any souvenir you can think of!

Open since 1862 and free to visit, a quick stop here is a festive addition to a spring trip to Amsterdam.

Enjoy all the usual best things to do in Amsterdam, during one of the most festive months of the year!

While we’ve kept this post more or less focused on the best things to do in Amsterdam in April specifically, there’s no doubt that all the usual top Amsterdam attractions are worth checking out on a spring trip, too!

From iconic spots like the Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank House to small, quirky museums like the Houseboat Museum (we walked into this one randomly and loved it), Amsterdam is full of delightful corners to explore.

Meandering through the city’s historic canals and checking out areas like Jordaan and the 9 Streets (De 9 Straatjes) is also a must!

Beer enthusiasts will love the Heineken Experience (and also the joy of sitting along a canal with a beer in the spring sunshine).

Spots like Vondelpark and Dam Square, while among the best places to visit in Amsterdam year-round, are particularly special when decorated with tulips in the spring!

There’s no way around it: Amsterdam is far from the most affordable city to visit in Europe, and lodging prices, in particular, tend to be quite high, especially if you want to stay in the city center.

Expect to pay more for lodging in Amsterdam than for comparable stays in many other cities in Europe, and more in April than in many other months of the year.

These options all get great reviews, and should give you an idea of what you can expect to spend when visiting Amsterdam for tulip season!

Hotel Abba  — For travelers looking for something a bit nicer than a hostel dorm but still hoping to stick to a budget, popular Hotel Abba is a reliable and excellent option!

Located within walking distance of Museum Square and much of central Amsterdam, Hotel Abba features great reviews and an included breakfast each day.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Abba!

XO Hotels Van Gogh  — A comfortable, affordable hotel with a fun design twist: that’s what you’ll find at XO Hotels Van Gogh, where rooms are decorated with creations inspired by the famous artist’s work.

With great reviews and a fantastic location practically next door to the famous Van Gogh Museum, mid-range travelers can’t go wrong with a stay here.

Check rates & book your stay at XO Hotels Van Gogh!

Pillows Luxury Boutique Hotel  — This stunning 30-room property near Vondelpark is the perfect blend of 19th-century charm and modern amenities.

Fully updated in 2017, luxury service and luxury amenities are the norm at this charming boutique property!

Check rates & book your stay at Maison ELLE Amsterdam!

Pack an umbrella… and lots of layers.

While you’ll hopefully be treated to some bright blue skies during your spring vacation in Amsterdam, odds are high that you’ll experience at least a bit of rain, gray clouds, and chilly weather, too.

Cozy layers, including a light coat ( I wore this one ), are a must when packing for Amsterdam in April.

You’ll also want to throw a travel umbrella in your day bag– my trusty red one came in handy more than once!

For the prettiest tulips, plan some day trips from Amsterdam when visiting in April.

While Amsterdam is near-synonymous with tulips thanks to being the most popular city to visit in the Netherlands, it’s still a city at the end of the day!

In order to be mesmerized by endless rows of colorful tulips or beautifully curated botanical gardens, it’s best to plan on some day trips outside the city.

Luckily, in a place as small and well-connected as the Netherlands, this does not necessarily mean traveling far!

Whether you want to visit the iconic Keukenhof , snap cute photos at The Tulip Barn , or enjoy a full-day guided tulip experience , you’ll find that getting out of the city is a fairly straightforward undertaking!

Prepare to climb very, very steep stairs.

Amsterdam’s beautiful rowhouses, with their narrow, tall architecture, are one of the defining characteristics of the city–but in order to enjoy their interiors, you’ll need to be prepared to climb very steep and narrow staircases.

While not exactly as steep as a ladder would be, they can feel pretty close to one at times… especially if you’re hauling luggage with you.

If you have mobility limitations, be sure to read the description of your hotel carefully, as not all hotels have elevators!

You’ll also run into these characteristic staircases in some museums, especially those contained in historic homes, like the Anne Frank House and the Our Lord in the Attic Museum .

Book your hotel well in advance for visiting Amsterdam in April.

April in Amsterdam is not a time to aim for last-minute hotel bookings… or to hope for a great deal.

In fact, I’m reasonably sure that my April trip to Amsterdam marked the most expensive per-night rate at a hotel that I’ve ever paid when traveling in Europe, as it’s an expensive time to visit a city already known for pricey lodging.

Between tulip season, King’s Day (when there may even be a 2-3 night minimum stay required at some hotels), and potentially Easter week, April is a true high season in Amsterdam!

I recommend booking your hotel as early as you can commit to travel dates.

Keep King’s Day in mind when planning a trip to Amsterdam in April.

King’s Day, held on April 27 (the King’s birthday), is one of the biggest festivals of the year in the Netherlands!

As a result, expect very, very heavy crowds and lots of festivities–think Mardi Gras in New Orleans for a vague idea of what to expect–if you’re anywhere in the country that day.

Amsterdam, of course, gets particularly heavy crowds, and the entire city is filled with orange-clad revelers partying on boats in the canals, hawking wares on the street (the only day of the year you can do so without a license in the Netherlands!) and generally having a rowdy, excellent time.

Here are the rules for celebrating, which give you a good idea of what to expect.

Depending on your travel style and plans for your trip, this might sound like an exciting reason to visit Amsterdam in April (in which case, pack your brightest orange clothes!)… or it may seem like a day to avoid.

If King’s Day celebrations aren’t your thing, consider arranging your itinerary so you’re in a smaller town that day, where the celebrations will be just as enthusiastic, but a bit more lowkey.

… and Easter, too!

For Americans like us, it’s easy to forget that Easter is a major family holiday in much of Europe–think of it as something akin to our spring break, where the kids are off of school, the weather is warming up, and families are eager to hit the road.

This means increased crowds (and prices!) in popular tourism destinations across the continent.

While heading to the seaside or the mountains is perhaps a bit more common for Easter, popular cities like Amsterdam also fill up with visitors.

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam over Easter (which of course sometimes, but not always, falls in April), be sure to book your hotel, as well as tickets to popular places like Keukenhof , well in advance–and don’t count on getting a good deal, either.

Plan ahead to visit the Anne Frank House.

Visiting the Anne Frank House is an incredibly moving experience and one of the best things to do in Amsterdam in April (or any other month, for that matter), but it does require planning ahead.

The limited tickets for the house are released 6 weeks in advance and sell out extremely quickly.

If you’d like to visit, be sure to check for tickets on the official website exactly 6 weeks before your trip!

Can you see tulips in Amsterdam in April?

Yes, you’ll definitely see tulips in Amsterdam in April!

While tulip season in the Netherlands technically stretches from late March to early May, April–specifically mid-April–is considered peak tulip season.

In fact, the Amsterdam Tulip Festival runs the entire month of April!

For tulip fields or larger gardens, you’ll want to leave the city (we had an amazing time at The Tulip Barn in Hillegom, for example, in addition to the popular Keukenhof ).

Is April cold in Amsterdam?

Average weather during April in Amsterdam is chilly, but not incredibly cold.

Temperatures reach an average high of 56°F/13°C and generally increase throughout the month.

It typically rains for 8 days each month, though this can vary and can happen very suddenly.

We went from sunny skies to an absolute downpour in what felt like the blink of an eye during my trip (I quickly found refuge at Amsterdam’s famous hidden church, the Our Lord in the Attic Museum , which I highly recommend visiting!).

I spent most of my time during April in Amsterdam wearing a few layers, including this coat , and carrying my travel umbrella with me in my day bag.

What does Amsterdam look like in April?

Between worries about the cold and rain, and hopes for blooming flowers, what else can you expect to see in Amsterdam in April (other than canals and gorgeous Dutch architecture)?

Whether you’re a photographer or just a traveler hoping for interesting views, the theme of Amsterdam in April is shifting light and constant change.

Depending on the year and what time of the month you visit, you’ll likely find some trees bare and others spouting fresh, bright green spring leaves.

Expect constantly shifting light and weather, with brilliant sunshine and gray clouds constantly vying for their place in the sky.

And, of course, pots of brightly colored tulips scattered throughout the city are virtually a guarantee!

How busy is Amsterdam in April?

Amsterdam is very busy in April, with crowds increasing steadily through the month (peak tulip season typically begins in mid-April, though you’ll find flowers in the city before that).

The city is also very busy around Easter, which is a popular time for Europeans to vacation.

Crowds are extremely heavy on King’s Day (April 27, or April 26 if the 27th happens to fall on a Sunday)–so heavy, in fact, that it’s best to either plan to join in the festivities, plan your trip for a different time, or plan an indoor itinerary focused on tourist hotspots that reveling locals won’t be visiting.

The Rijksmuseum , Anne Frank House, and Van Gogh Museum all stay open on King’s Day.

Is April a good time to visit Amsterdam?

Yes, absolutely: thanks to the Netherlands’ world-famous tulips being in bloom, April is one of the absolute best times to visit Amsterdam!

However, that does come with a clear trade-off of high prices, lots of crowds (strolling through popular places like Dam Square was a noticeably different experience in April than in December), and a need to plan ahead.

If you’re flexible, though, and excited to see the tulips in Amsterdam and beyond, visiting Amsterdam in April is a wonderful idea.

Planning a trip to Amsterdam soon and eager to keep planning?

You can browse our blog posts about the Netherlands here , or check out these guides:

• One Day in Amsterdam: How to Enjoy Amsterdam in a Day
• 35 Best Cities to Visit in Europe (Bucket List for City Lovers!)
• The Ultimate 3 Days in Belgium Itinerary
• 2 Days in Paris: The Perfect Weekend in Paris Itinerary
• Your 13-Step Guide to Traveling to Europe for the First Time

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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Amsterdam in April (2024 Guide): What to do, Events & What’s On

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 29th January 2024

Categories Amsterdam

Last Updated on 29th January 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

Bright weather, tulip blooms, and the opportunity to take long and lazy walks along the canals: there are a million reasons to visit Amsterdam in April . Here’s your guide to the best of Amsterdam in the spring, as well as some of the special events taking place.

Please note that, in 2024, the  1st of April and the 27th of April are public holiday days.  The 1st is Easter Monday. During these public holidays, most shops will be closed, and supermarkets which do still remain open will operate at reduced hours (think of Sunday operating hours). The 27th of April is also a public holiday as it is King’s Day, but more on that later.

If you only have a short time in Amsterdam, be sure to check out our suggestions for one perfect day in Amsterdam and this one week in the Netherlands suggested itinerary . Whenever you’re planning to visit, be sure to check out our top Amsterdam tips .

Is Amsterdam busy in April?

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Due to the tulips, Amsterdam’s busiest season tends to be mid-spring, and specifically April. As such, you can expect to find higher prices, more crowds, and it just being a bit busier in general.

If you’re looking to stay a few days in Amsterdam, book your accommodation well in advance to secure the best rates and deals. Same with the popular activities.

Though days are longer and the temperature may be warmer, rain showers are frequent and so don’t be caught out by one by not coming prepared. The average temperature in Amsterdam in April is around 10-12 degrees Celsius, with highs in the mid-teens and lows around 4.

The beginning of the month tends to be cooler than the last few days of the month. There are on average 12 days of rain during the month so be sure to check out our rainy day suggestions for Amsterdam to help you plan ahead accordingly. Whatever you do, just don’t forget to pack an umbrella!

For day trips from Amsterdam in spring, I recommend bringing a warm jacket, jeans, a skirt with tights and a couple of chic tops. In terms of shoe wear, pack a pair of warm, comfy walking shoes and a pair of chic ankle boots for going out in the evening.

Wear:  I recommend a warm jacket, jeans, a skirt with tights and a couple of chic tops. In terms of shoe wear, a pair of warm, comfy walking shoes and a pair of chic ankle boots for going out in the evening.

Weather: As in much of Northern Europe, Springtime in Amsterdam can be highly unpredictable. Average high temperatures are 8-16°C, while lows can be between 2-7°C. A warm jacket, waterproof shoes.

Things to do in Amsterdam in April

Thanks to its smattering of small museums , delectable eateries, and wealth of history, there’s not really a bad time of the year to visit the Dutch capital. With this being said, Amsterdam has a plethora of seasonal activities going on in April, making it one of the best times of the year to visit.

Truth be told, one of the best days in the entire year to visit Amsterdam is on King’s Day, which celebrates the birth of King Willem-Alexander.

On this National Holiday, known as Koningsdag in Dutch, no licences are required to trade so you’ll find people out in the parks and on the streets selling everything from their vintage furniture to second-hand clothing.

There’s also a number of parades and almost everyone wears the national colour of the Netherlands, orange. Those who drink can taste Orange Bitter, a bright orange liqueur which was created in the 17th-century to celebrate a victory by Prince Fredrick Henry, but was truly popularised when  William of Orange became the first king.

As the days grow longer, the temperature on the thermometer begins to rise and the nights grow shorter, there’s perhaps no better way to enjoy the best of Spring in the Netherlands than by going in search of blooms.

Tulip season is well and truly in full swing come the beginning of April. Some of the best places to see tulips in Amsterdam include visiting the Amsterdam tulip museum and taking a day trip to the fields of Lisse.

Every year, the Garden of Europe is open to the public for a blissful period of just eight weeks, including the entirety of April. Easy to reach as a day trip from Amsterdam,  Keukenhof  is a celebration of colour and all things floral-related.

One of the best things to do in Amsterdam, as with many a European capital city, is to simply stroll along the canals, seeing where your feet lead you.

Pretty to explore in every season, spring is especially special since you can expect to enjoy the delights of cherry blossoms. One of the most picturesque neighbourhoods to explore is Jordaan, so I would recommend beginning a walk there.

Visiting in April means better weather, meaning that you can explore more of the outdoors, including some of the more hidden gems of the Dutch capital. One of the best secret spots in Amsterdam is Hortus Botanicus. This garden can be visited and was established in the 17th-century!

When it comes to exploring the Dutch capital, it can often feel as if no stone has been left unturned. From the dancing houses to the grand museums, the city has plenty of must-see attractions and can’t miss destinations.

However, if you’re looking for an oasis of calm in the centre of the city, you can still hide away in some of the most beautiful Hofjes in Amsterdam , many of which are best visited in the spring when the buds are in bloom. Most of the best hofjes are located in the Jordaan district.

Some of the best outdoor activities in the Dutch capital can be found in the form of foodie experiences, including walking tours and local speciality tastings. Here’s a guide to the  very best of Amsterdam food tours.

Another way to enjoy Amsterdam in the spring is to soak up the beautiful views and ambiance of a gentle boat ride by embarking on a canal cruise. For an extra memorable occasion, consider booking a classic boat cruise with a cheese and wine option  like this one.

Longer daylight hours means longer hours to spend exploring, making it easier to take a day trip. Within an hour of Amsterdam, you can easily visit the political city of The Hague, the ceramic city of Delft ,  the university city of Leiden , and the architectural city of Rotterdam. If you visit the Netherlands in the spring, then you’ll also have the option to enjoy the best of tulip season.

Thanks to its popularity, you should be sure to book your accommodation as soon as you’ve locked in your travel dates so as to ensure that you get the place to stay you want! Another unique option is to look to stay on a boat .

Flying Pig Downtown is a popular city centre hostel, located right next to Amsterdam Central Station. With dorms sleeping from four to 32 people, there’s something for all budgets here!   Check prices and availability here.

Eden Hotel Amsterdam is a bright, clean hotel with beautifully decorated rooms of different sizes, located in the centre of Amsterdam.  Check prices and availability here.

INNSiDE by Meliá Amsterdam is a beautiful hotel with breathtaking views over the city centre. Rooms are spacious and modern, with comfortable beds and luxury bathrooms. There is also a fitness centre, bar and restaurant on-site.   Check prices and availability here.

Enjoyed reading about the best of Amsterdam in April? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Amsterdam in April

Why visit amsterdam in april.

Amsterdam in April is a fantastic time to visit the city. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with the occasional shower, and the trees and flowers are in full bloom. The city comes alive with festivals, outdoor markets, and concerts, making it an exciting time to explore the Dutch capital.

One of the best things to do in Amsterdam in April is to visit the Keukenhof Gardens, located just outside the city. The gardens are famous for their stunning displays of tulips, daffodils, and other spring flowers. The Amsterdam Tulp Festival is also held in April, and you can see thousands of tulips in bloom throughout the city.

In addition to the flowers, there are plenty of other things to do in Amsterdam in April. You can explore the city's many museums and galleries, take a boat tour of the canals, or simply wander the charming streets and enjoy the local cuisine. So why not plan a trip to Amsterdam in April and experience all that this vibrant city has to offer?

Weather in Amsterdam in April

Amsterdam in April is a beautiful time to visit the city, as spring begins to take hold and the weather starts to warm up. However, the weather in Amsterdam in April can be quite unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from chilly to mild, and occasional showers throughout the month.

Despite the unpredictable weather, there are still plenty of things to do in Amsterdam in April. One of the best things to do is to take advantage of the mild weather and explore the city's many parks and gardens, such as the Vondelpark or the Keukenhof Gardens. The latter is particularly stunning in April, as the tulips begin to bloom.

Another great thing to do in Amsterdam in April is to visit the city's museums and galleries, which offer a wide range of exhibitions and events throughout the month. From the famous Van Gogh Museum to the innovative Stedelijk Museum, there's something for every art lover in Amsterdam.

Overall, while the weather in Amsterdam in April can be unpredictable, there are still plenty of things to do and see in this beautiful city. So pack an umbrella, put on some comfortable shoes, and get ready to explore all that Amsterdam has to offer.

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Things to Do in Amsterdam in April

One of the best ways to experience Amsterdam is by taking a canal cruise. The city's canals are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer a unique perspective on Amsterdam's stunning architecture and rich history. You can opt for a guided tour or simply rent a boat and explore the canals on your own. Along the way, you'll see picturesque bridges, historic buildings, and charming houseboats. It's a peaceful and relaxing way to experience Amsterdam.

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The Anne Frank House is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history or literature. The museum is located in the building where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II, and it provides a glimpse into their daily lives during the war. The museum includes the original diary of Anne Frank, as well as exhibits on the history of the Holocaust. After visiting the museum, take a walking tour of the city to see some of the places Anne Frank mentions in her diary, such as the Westerkerk and the Jewish Historical Museum.

Click Here to Book Now: Anne Frank Museum Tickets

The Van Gogh Museum is one of Amsterdam's most popular attractions, and it's easy to see why. The museum houses the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh's works in the world, including iconic paintings such as "The Potato Eaters" and "Sunflowers." You can also learn about the artist's life and the influences that shaped his work. The museum is located in a beautiful building in the Museumplein area, so be sure to take some time to explore the surrounding park and enjoy the outdoor art installations.

You May Also Book: Van Gogh Museum Tickets

If you're visiting Amsterdam in the spring, a visit to the Keukenhof Gardens is a must. Located just outside the city, the gardens are home to millions of tulips, daffodils, and other spring flowers. You can stroll through the gardens and take in the stunning displays of color, or take a bike tour of the surrounding countryside. The gardens are open from late March to mid-May, so plan your visit accordingly.

Also Book: Keukenhof Gardens Tickets

The Rijksmuseum is another must-visit museum in Amsterdam. It houses a vast collection of Dutch art and artifacts, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Dutch masters. The museum's stunning architecture and beautifully curated exhibits make it a fascinating and inspiring place to visit. Be sure to check out the famous "Night Watch" painting by Rembrandt and the stunning Asian Pavilion.

Checkout and Book: Rijksmuseum Tickets

Beer lovers won't want to miss the Heineken Experience , a museum and brewery tour located in a former Heineken brewery. The experience includes a self-guided tour of the brewing process, interactive exhibits, and of course, a tasting of Heineken beer. You can also take a rooftop tour for stunning views of the city.

You Can Also Book: Heineken Experience VIP Tour

For a unique drinking experience, head to the Xtracold Icebar. The bar is made entirely of ice and kept at a chilly -10°C, so you'll be given a warm coat and gloves to wear during your visit. The bar serves a variety of cocktails and drinks, all served in glasses made of ice. It's a fun and memorable way to beat the heat during the summer months.

Book Now: XtraCold Icebar Amsterdam Tickets

The Red-light District is one of Amsterdam's most unique neighborhoods, with a reputation for its legal sex work and vibrant nightlife. But it's also a fascinating place to explore during the day, with its narrow streets, historic architecture, and bustling markets. The district also includes several museums, such as the Museum of Prostitution, which provides a look into the lives of sex workers in Amsterdam. While it's not for everyone, the Red-light District offers a glimpse into a unique aspect of Amsterdam's culture and history.

Click Here to Book Now: Red Light District Walking Tour

For families and thrill-seekers, a visit to the Efteling Theme Park is a must. Located just outside of Amsterdam, Efteling is the largest theme park in the Netherlands, with dozens of rides, attractions, and shows. The park is known for its fairy-tale-themed attractions, including the enchanting Droomvlucht dark ride and the thrilling Baron 1898 roller coaster. There are also plenty of dining options and souvenir shops to enjoy.

Do Checkout & Book: Efteling Theme Park Tickets

If you're interested in learning more about Amsterdam's history and culture, a visit to the Amsterdam Museum is a must. The museum is located in a historic building in the heart of the city, and its exhibits cover everything from the city's origins to its modern-day culture. You can learn about the Golden Age of Dutch art, the city's role in World War II, and the development of Amsterdam's diverse neighborhoods. The museum also offers a variety of tours and events, so be sure to check the schedule before you go.

Must Checkout: Amsterdam Canal Cruise

FAQ's About Amsterdam in April

What are some popular festivals or events that happen in amsterdam in april.

Amsterdam has several popular festivals and events in April, such as King's Day, a national holiday celebrated on April 27th with parades, street parties, and live music. The Holland Festival, a celebration of music, theater, and dance, usually starts in late April and lasts until June. The National Museum Week takes place in April and offers free entry to many of the city's museums.

Also Checkout: Heineken Experience Tickets, Amsterdam

Is it a good time to visit Amsterdam in April for tulip season?

April is the perfect time to visit Amsterdam for tulip season, as the Keukenhof Gardens, located just outside of Amsterdam, open in mid-April. Visitors can admire millions of colorful tulips in bloom, along with other spring flowers like daffodils and hyacinths.

Are there any outdoor activities to enjoy in Amsterdam in April?

There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Amsterdam in April, such as cycling or walking along the city's canals or in its many parks. Visitors can also take a boat tour through the canals, go on a picnic, or rent a paddle boat. Additionally, there are many outdoor markets to explore, like the Flower Market, where visitors can buy tulips and other fresh flowers.

How crowded is Amsterdam in April?

Amsterdam is less crowded in April than during the peak summer season, but it's still a popular time for tourists, especially during King's Day. However, with the right planning and timing, visitors can avoid crowds and long lines at attractions.

What are some local foods to try while visiting Amsterdam in April?

When it comes to local foods to try in Amsterdam, visitors can't miss out on stroopwafels, a popular Dutch snack made of two thin waffles with caramel syrup in the middle. Other must-try foods include raw herring, a Dutch specialty served with pickles and onions, and bitterballen, deep-fried balls filled with beef ragout. Additionally, visitors should try Dutch cheeses like Gouda and Edam, often served on bread or as a snack.

You May Also Like: Albert Cuyp Market Food Tours

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What To Do In Amsterdam In April

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Setting Foot into the Spectacular Spring in⁤ Amsterdam

So, what exactly can you do in Amsterdam in April? Worry not, we’ve got​ you covered. April in Amsterdam opens an array of enticing‌ attractions and cultural activities for both locals and international‍ tourists alike. As the ​capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is famous for its artistic‌ heritage, canal system , and narrow‌ houses, offering⁣ a fascinating and‍ diverse landscape. This guide will explore in depth the remarkable experiences you can⁢ indulge in ⁣during your ‌April visit.‌

A Splendid Sight: Tulip‍ Season ⁤in Full​ Swing

April marks the debut of nature’s most colorful show in Amsterdam – ⁢the tulip season . As winter’s cold eases up, the city comes to life with a vivid display of tulips in various forms and hues. It is as though a painter’s palette⁢ of dazzling colors has spilled over into the city streets and gardens.

The Tulip Festival: a Technicolor Dream

In Amsterdam, tulips are not just casual⁢ specters of beauty; they represent a cherished tradition. The city celebrates its beloved​ flowers with an annual‍ Tulip Festival, typically spanning the entire month of April. From tulip gardens to public ⁢galleries, expect to⁣ discover streaks of pink, purple, red, orange, and yellow burst forth in joyous celebration of spring.

Remarkable Rijksmuseum: A Dive into Dutch Art

Compact ⁤yet rich with engaging exhibits, Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum is ‍more than a time filler; it’s a⁢ treasure trove ‌of Dutch art and history. ⁣Enjoy this‌ urban gem ‍in April’s⁣ pleasant weather, browsing through displays bursting with stories, secrets, and the genius of masters such as Rembrandt and Vermeer.

The Night Watch: A Masterpiece ​to Marvel at

While wandering the halls of the Rijksmuseum, don’t miss the star of the show — Rembrandt’s “Night Watch”. This exhibit truly embodies⁣ the saying, ‘saving the best for last.’ This colossal painting is unparalleled, epitomizing the Golden Age of Dutch art in ⁤its glorious details.

Canal Cruising: An Exhilarating Experience

April’s mild weather makes ‌it ⁤an ideal period to explore Amsterdam’s sprawling canal system. ⁤Leisurely gliding through the pristine waterways offers glimpses into ​the city’s historic sites, charming houseboats, and iconic architecture — a quintessential Amsterdam experience.

After⁣ Dark: Canal Cruise with a Twist

For night owls, there’s the option of an⁣ after-dark canal cruise . Illuminated bridges and waterfront structures weave a magical, flickering path through a city ‌already famed for⁣ its fairy-tale charm. This remarkable evening experience ⁤is not to be missed.

Conclusion: Seize the April in Amsterdam

Whether it’s walking amid vibrant ⁢tulip fields or exploring Dutch art heritage at the Rijksmuseum, or sailing along serene canals with a glowing sunset as backdrop, Amsterdam in​ April boasts myriad unique experiences. Embrace the charm of ​this Dutch city, ⁣and you’ll​ treasure these memories for lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why should I visit Amsterdam in April?

April is an ideal time to⁢ visit Amsterdam. The weather is generally mild, ‌and flowers, especially tulips, bloom across the city, creating a vibrant and colorful landscape.

2. Is ⁣the Tulip festival free in Amsterdam?

While some tulip‍ fields may ​charge an entry fee, many areas participating in the Tulip⁣ Festival⁣ are accessible for free.

3. What‍ paintings are in the Rijksmuseum?

The Rijksmuseum houses many ​notable⁣ paintings from the Dutch Golden Age, ⁤including works from artists ⁣like Rembrandt, Vermeer, ​and Hals.

4. ⁣ Are‌ the canals ‌in Amsterdam natural?

The canals in Amsterdam are man-made and were built during the 17th century ‌for trade, transport, ​and water management.

5. What should I⁣ wear in Amsterdam ⁣in April?

Weather in Amsterdam‍ during April can​ vary. It’s wise to pack layers ‌for ⁢colder mornings​ and​ evenings, and lighter clothing for warmer‍ afternoons. Don’t forget ⁤a waterproof jacket for those unpredictable showers!

Welcome to Amsterdam Vacay! I'm Michael Gonzales, an airline pilot, avid traveler, and the creator behind this blog. My career has taken me around the world, but Amsterdam has captured my heart like no other city. Through Amsterdam Vacay, I share my passion and insider knowledge to help you discover the best of Amsterdam. This blog is a culmination of my adventures and experiences, offering detailed guides, tips, and insights for an authentic Amsterdam experience. My aim is to help you explore Amsterdam beyond the tourist trails, from hidden gems to local favorites, all based on personal exploration and careful research. Off-duty, I pour my travel experiences and love for Amsterdam into this site, striving to make your visit as memorable as mine. Whether it's the charm of the canals, the richness of its history, or the vibrancy of its culture, let Amsterdam Vacay guide you to the heart of this remarkable city. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Let's make your Amsterdam vacation unforgettable! Best, Michael Gonzales

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Best Things to do in Amsterdam in April 2024 (by a local)

By: Author Wandermust Daddy

Are you looking for the best things to do in Amsterdam in April? Then you have come to the right place! As someone who has lived and worked in Amsterdam for several years I can say that April is actually my favorite month to visit Amsterdam because of the amazing seasonal activities on offer? In this guide we round up what to expect of the weather in Amsterdam in April, what to pack and best things to do in Amsterdam in April along with our top tips for the city.

Note : Written by an Amsterdam local

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Amsterdam in April

Amsterdam isn’t a city short on things to do whatever time of year you visit. However I love April because of its special events.  In this section we will look at the special things to do in April in Amsterdam as well as things that you should always have on your Amsterdam itinerary no matter the time you visit.

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

Kings Day 2024

The main special event in Amsterdam in April is Kings Day or Koningsdag in Dutch and is actually my favorite day in the Dutch calendar. 

Kings Day is celebrated every year on the birthday of King Willem-Alexander, 27th April ,(until 2013 it was Queens Day but since Queen Beatric’s abdication, the day has been moved to celebrate King s birthday). The day is a national holiday in the Netherlands and it doesn’t move unless it falls on a Sunday in which case the festivities will be held on the following Monday. 

One of the key things about King’s Day is that no licenses are required to trade in the city so across the squares and the parks locals will set up street markets to sell their goods or set up street games to play.

As we are in Amsterdam with our toddler our favourite place to go on Kings Day is Vondel Park where there is a children’s market. Parents and kids will set up stalls selling second hand clothes and unwanted toys as well as some novelty stalls where you can play games like hammer the tomato and egg throw to name a few. However you will find markets in all neighbourhoods and parks

After a stroll through Vondel park we love to head towards the inner canals of Amsterdam. The canals will become filled with boats – some of the boats on the canals on Kings Day are so full they look like they might sink. But they are a real spectacle to watch. 

If you want to hire a boat on Kings Day you will need to book your boat well in advance as this is a very popular activity and books up months in advance. Also if you are not used to driving a boat, we don’t recommend getting a self drive boat on Kings Days as the Canals are absolutely rammed. Personally I like to wander around the city on Kings day and save my amsterdam canal cruise for a different day. 

Top Local Tip: If you are visiting with children, you may want to plan on going out earlier in the day as it can get quite raucous in the evening. 

Also be sure not to forget to pack plenty of bright orange orange clothes. Orange is the color of the Dutch royal family and all the locals will be wearing bright orange from head to toe! But don’t worry if you don’t have any as it is easy to find in the city. We recommend heading to Dutch chain store HEMA as they always have good value orange t shirts on sale at this time of year. 

Note: Kings day will be held on Saturday 27th April 2024. 

Bredeweg Festival

The Bredeweg Festival is held over Kings Day in the WaterGraafsmeer area. The festival is full of live music, street performers, flea markets, a fairground and children’s opera making it one of the best places to celebrate Kings Day with children. 

Best Time to Visit Keukenhof Gardens

After Kings Day, the main reason to head to Amsterdam in April is to see tulips. Now there are a lot of ways to see tulips in Amsterdam but my favorite place is to see tulips is Keukenhof Garden.

Keukenhof is actually the world’s largest flower garden and is filled with over seven million flower bulbs planted in the park every year. And these aren’t just tulips, you will also see beautiful displays of daffodils, irises, roses but the main attraction is of course the tulips which the Netherlands is most famous for. 

As all the flowers at Keukenhof are seasonal spring blooms the gardens have a very limited opening which is traditionally from mid to late March to Mid May every year. In 2024 Keukenhof’s opening season runs from 21ast March until 12th May 2024. 

The peak or full bloom can be hard to predict at Keukenhof as it is weather dependent, however generally speaking I think April is the best time to visit Keukenhof and usually has the highest amount of flowers in bloom.

Keukenhof Gardens are a day trip away from Amsterdam but are easy to reach via public transport via train however lots of company’s offer tickets with shuttles to the garden

Top Local’s Tip : The queues to get inside Keukenhof can be HUGE so be sure to buy your tickets in advance. We also recommend getting to the gardens early in the day to try and beat the crowds. It will ensure you get better photographs and allow you to get more up close to the flowers without the crowds. 

Tulip Fields 

Another great way to see tulips in Amsterdam is of course to head to the tulips fields. The tulip fields are a day trip away from Amsterdam around Keukenhof Gardens in an area called Bollenstreek. 

This is around 40km away from Amsterdam in Lisse. The best way to see the fields is by cycling around them. The fields are beautiful and multicoloured and photos from them are one of my favorite Amsterdam souvenir s to come away with. 

Local Advice : Please be aware that these are working fields and these fields are people’s livelihood – do not traipse through the fields for photographs. Stick to the edges of the fields and designated photo areas and not walk through the fields as you will darademage the crops!

Dutch Flower Parade

Another April only event is the Dutch Flower Parade. In 2024 this parade will be held Saturday 20th April 2024 and is the 77th parade. 

The parade route is a whooping 42kms / 26 miles and runs from Noordwijk, a seaside Dutch town through the flower fields of Lisse and ends in Haarlem so you have a choice of viewpoints along the way.

Local Tip: I wouldn’t advise trying to visit the tulip fields or Keukenhof on the day of the parade. The Gardens usually sells out and the tulip fields will be excessively busy and some may be unreachable due to the parade route. 

Tulip festival 

The Tulip Festival is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam in April

If your Amsterdam itinerary doesn’t allow time for day trips, then fear not, you can still see tulips in Amsterdam city limits. Every year in April Amsterdam hosts the tulip festival.

The tulip festival is held at around 85 locations across the city where beautiful tulip displays will be on view and is one of the best free things to do in Amsterdam in April. Some of my favorite locations to visit include Dam Square and the Skinny Bridge which is photographed above. 

Local Tip : The venues for the tulip festival do chance slightly year on year so be sure to check the   Tulip Festival website  for this years 

Flower Market 

No matter what time of year you are visiting the flower market in Amsterdam is an absolute must. The Bloemenmarkt, is in central Amsterdam and is a great place to buy tulip bulbs to take home (dependent on your import legislations of course). 

Local’s perspective : It is quite a touristy place, but all my visitors love to go to buy their souvenirs but shouldn’t be viewed a substitute for Keukenhof and the flower fields. 

Hortus Botanicus 

The Hortus Botanicus  is Amsterdan’s royal botanic gardens and is one of my favourite places in Amsterdam especially in April. While not dedicated to tulips you will see plenty of other varieties of flowers blooming including gorgeous wisteria as well as being able to stroll around the beautiful tropical greenhouses. 

Amsterdam Bos Cherry Blossoms

Best things to do in Amsterdam in April

If you aren’t flowered out then you there are lot of other horticultural attractions to visit in Amsterdam. One of the free ones is to see the cherry blossoms. Although not as renowned as Japan or DC for their cherry blossoms, Amsterdam does have some great ones. 

The best place to see these sakura is the Amsterdamse Bos, (Amsterdam Woods) which is a short cycle outside of the city on the city’s border with Amstelveen. 

Local Tip: Be sure to get there early as the cherry blossoms get very busy. There is usually a queue system in operation to get into the cherry blossom area and there are very long lines especially later in the day. And if you can go on a weekday you will find it substantially quieter. 

The area can be reached by public transport but it is easiest to visit by bike.

Feeding Baby Goats at Geitenboerderij

Goat Farm – one of the best free things to do in Amsterdam with kids

And while you area in Amsterdamse Bos we recommend heading to the Geitenboerderij too which is nearby. The Geitenboerderij is basically a goat farm, where you can feed adorable baby goats. 

There is also a lovely on-site playground that toddlers and smaller children will love and it is a nice day be sure to indulge in the locally made goat ice cream. 

Museum Week

Garden at the Rijksmuseum – one of the best things to do in Amsterdam

Another April only event in Amsterdam is the famed Museums Week. This event is held across the Netherlands and the national museums become free to enter during the week / weekend. So if you are in Amsterdam on a budget this can be a real cost saving. 

Some of the museums in Amsterdam that take part include: the Rijksmuseum,  Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam Museum, Stedelijk Museum to name just a few.

The museums will usually also host lots of workshops and family friendly events during this week too, so it is worth keeping your eye on the  National Museum Week  website and the individual museum websites for the program. 

Please note: the dates for the 2024 National Museum Week have not yet been released but we will update this post when we have these dates. 

Please note : the Anne Frank House is not usually part of the museum week celebrations however we recommend always including this on your Amsterdam itinerary. But be sure to book your tickets in advance to ensure entry. 

Celebrating Easter in Amsterdam

In 2024 easter weekend is held over March and April. Easter Sunday is on the 31st March 2024, however Easter Monday will be on April 1st. Usually you will find there are lots of Easter festivities in the city, including on Easter Monday such as Egg Hunts. Check local attraction websites for specific events. 

Meibockfestival

Although from the name you may think this event is held in May, it is actually held in April. This is an annual beer festival and celebrates spring beers aka ‘bocks’ is a must for beer lovers in the city. Entry to the festival is around 10 Euros and then beer inside is usually less than 2 Euros. 

If you aren’t traveling to Amsterdam when the Meibockfestival is on don’t worry as there are lots of beer experiences in the city year round including the Heineken Experience and the Genever experience at House of Bols. 

FAQs About Visiting Amsterdam in April

What is the weather like in amsterdam in april.

There are so many amazing things to do in Amsterdam in April but what can you expect from the weather in April?

When we were living in Amsterdam one of the things that surprised me was that April was one of the drier months in the city. However even if you do get showers on your trip as there are lots of great things to do on a rainy day in Amsterdam . And the average temperatures usually hover between highs and lows of 6C / 43F and max 13C /  56F which is very pleasant sight seeing weather. 

What to Pack to Visit Amsterdam in April

If you have decided to book your vacation to Amsterdam in April you will want to know what to pack. 

Although April is not the rainiest month in the city it is always advisable to travel to Amsterdam with a compact travel umbrella and some waterproof shoes and wear. Also we always recommend having sneakers with you as you will be doing a lot of cycling and walking in Amsterdam so having comfortable walking shoes is a must.

And as I said above, if you are traveling over Kings Day (April 27th) you will want to have some orange clothes with you to fit in with the locals. If you don’t have any orange in your wardrobe then be sure to head to HEMA on arrival to grab a Kings Day outfit. For a full guide on  what to wear in Amsterdam in April check out this post. 

Is April a good time to go to Amsterdam?

April is my favorite time to visit Amsterdam because of tulip season and King’s day celebrations, my favorite day in the Amsterdam calendar. However the only downside to visiting Amsterdam in April is the cost. 

April is definitely the start of high season in the Dutch capital

Have you been to Amsterdam in April? Tell us your favourite thing to do in Amsterdam in the comments below. 

best things to do in Amsterdam in April

Visiting Amsterdam in April, Best Things to do in Amsterdam in April

Friday 21st of January 2022

Love this blog post so much. It was extremely helpful. Do you have any suggestions on a central area for accommodations? Thanks!

Wandermust Daddy

Thursday 16th of November 2023

We like the Pijp and the Jordaan

Kariss Ainsworth

Sunday 9th of February 2020

I love Amsterdam, I've only been in the Autumn

Meghan Emcee

Saturday 8th of February 2020

Good to know Amsterdam is still worth visiting in April despite the higher cost and increase in crowds. I'd love to go for Kings day and see the tulips but I was always nervous.

The costs are higher, but I think the seasonal stuff really makes it worthwhile. A good way of reducing costs is heading out and staying in Amstelveen which is a short tram ride from the centre of Amsterdam but is much cheaper accommodation wise.

Charlotte Lint

Would love to combine a visit to Amsterdam in April with seeing the tulip fields! <3

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Amsterdam in April: Weather, events, & tips by a former resident

March 5, 2019 by Karen Turner 1 Comment

As a former resident of Amsterdam, I can confidently write that April in Amsterdam is one of the best times of the year to visit Amsterdam. This blog post with insider tips will include key Dutch holidays in April, the weather in Amsterdam in April, what to wear in Amsterdam in April, tips for avoiding the crowds in Amsterdam, how to see the tulips outside of Amsterdam in April, celebrating King’s Day in Amsterdam, and some great events in Amsterdam in April.

Why visit Amsterdam in April

• The weather in Amsterdam in April

What to wear in Amsterdam in April

• How to avoid the crowds in Amsterdam in April
• Tips for seeing the tulips outside of Amsterdam
• King’s Day in Amsterdam
• Great events in Amsterdam in April
• 1 Why visit Amsterdam in April
• 2 Temperature in Amsterdam in April
• 3 What to wear in Amsterdam in April
• 4.1 The tulips outside of Amsterdam in April
• 4.2 Easter (April 1-2)
• 4.3 King’s Day (April 27th)
• 4.4 Meibockfestival
• 4.5 Amsterdam Tulip Festival (all of April)
• 4.6 National Museum Week: April 8-14th
• 5 Have you been to Amsterdam in April? Let me know if you have questions!

Amsterdam truly blooms in April. Whether it’s the tulips that often decorate the flower boxes along the scenic canals of Amsterdam, the tulips outside of Amsterdam that explode in spectacular colors, or the colorful celebration of the King’s Birthday, I must say that April is a fantastic time to visit Amsterdam for first-time visitors. Keep reading for the best things to do in Amsterdam in April!

Temperature in Amsterdam in April

April in Amsterdam can be rainy and cloudy on average, but you might get lucky with a few days of blue skies. The average temperature in Amsterdam in April is around 55°F / 13°C during the day with 40°F / 4°c low temperatures at night. The wind can be more intense in the Netherlands due to the wind from the North Sea, which can make the temperature feel 10 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius) colder. The average wind in Amsterdam is around 12 miles per hour.

The weather tends to be pretty cloudy with some overcast. On average, the chance of rain in April in Amsterdam is around 25%. Rains don’t usually last long. They’re generally brief showers, but I’d still recommend wearing waterproof shoes.

The days are pretty long in April, around 12ish hours. The sunrise will be somewhere between 6:12am and 7:15am depending on the day while the sunset will be between 8:15 and 9: 05pm . This should give you plenty of time to enjoy Amsterdam while finding a great place to watch the sunset!

Amsterdam in April is a weird time in terms of dressing. It can become quite warm on some days while others will be fairly chilly due to the wind chill and rain. You’ll want to be sure to bring a warm jacket that is fairly water resistant, so that you can layer up underneath it during the evenings with a warmer sweater. My choice for a jacket in April is a comfortable leather (or fake leather) jacket . It’s still a good idea to bring an umbrella with you!

Otherwise, I recommend wearing a pair of closed shoes (e.g. booties) that have been coated with a water-resistant coating at home with jeans . You don’t need to wear rain boots, but something comfortable is best as the cobblestones can be hard on thin shoes. Jeans are ubiquitous in the Netherlands, so be sure to bring at least a pair of comfortable pants with you.

If you’re intent on wearing a dress, I recommend wearing a warm pair of tights underneath your skirt or dress. Luckily, heels (beyond heeled boots) aren’t too popular, so you can wear your comfortable boots with your dress for maximal comfort.

In terms of bags, I recommend avoiding backpacks. A crossbody bag with a zipper is a great option for keeping your items safe as you can hold it in a crowded around like the Red Light District where pickpockets love to look for targets. Be sure to make sure that your camera (or phone) can fit inside!

The best things to do in Amsterdam in April with annual events during April

This section will discuss some of the best things to do in Amsterdam in April. Of course, you can visit many of Amsterdam’s great museums, including the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House, and the Rembrandt Museum. (You might want to consider the iAmsterdam card , which includes admission to many museums in Amsterdam, free public transit rides, and a canal cruise.) You can read a general itinerary for Amsterdam here although I’ll be focusing on events that only occur in April.

The tulips outside of Amsterdam in April

Of course, you cannot write about Amsterdam in April without mentioning the nearby tulips. Contrary to popular perception, you cannot find tulip fields within Amsterdam. It’s an easy day trip to the tulip fields of Holland as well as Keukenhof , a beautiful garden filled with tulips.

Depending on the year, you might be able to see tulips (or other flowers) in the fields as of early April, but I tend to recommend mid-April as the best time to see the tulips. You can still see the tulips at the end of April and into early May, but it’s a bit harder. You can click for my self-guided walking tour along the tulip fields.

Easter (April 1-2)

Easter doesn’t always fall in April, it will for April 2019! Be warned that hotel rates might be slightly higher as people travel during this period …. A popular tradition in Amsterdam is to hear Bach’s Matthäus Passion performed at many of the concert halls throughout the city!

King’s Day (April 27th)

The single best day to experience in Amsterdam is King’s Day in Amsterdam. This occurs on April 27th. Amsterdammers, along with Dutchies and tourists, put on orange to dance in the street, sell their goods, and celebrate the King’s Birthday. I recommend bringing lots of cash to pay for toilets, beer, and other oddities found on the streets of Amsterdam. You can read a complete guide to King’s Day in Amsterdam here.

It is very important to note that Queen’s Day is not celebrated anymore . After King Willem-Alexander ascended to the throne, Queen’s Day became King’s Day. Don’t be that tourist that all the locals pity looking around for a good party on April 30th. Celebrate on the 27th instead.

A word of advice: buy your orange as well as your alcohol in the days before King’s Day as many shops will be closed or sold out . Similarly, book your hotel as far in advance as you can . Many hotels increase their rates substantially and/or require multi-night stays during King’s Day weekend…

Meibockfestival

One of my favorite festivals in April in Amsterdam is the Meibockfestival. In case you’re a beer lover, you will definitely want to check out this beer festival in Amsterdam focused around meibocks , a lighter kind of bock beers. The dates have not yet been announced, but it typically takes place in the Posthoornkerk on Haarlemmerdijk in mid-April. Be sure to bring some euros for entry. You can click for a craft beer guide to Amsterdam.

Amsterdam Tulip Festival (all of April)

One of the perks of April in Amsterdam are the tulips that spring up around the city. I’m not talking about tulip fields, but rather the flower boxes of tulips spread throughout the city as you walk or bike around Amsterdam. It makes a canal shot even more beautiful and they’re free to enjoy. (Please don’t pluck out the tulips!)

National Museum Week: April 8-14th

If you’re visiting Amsterdam on a budget, you’ll definitely want to see if you can visit Amsterdam during National Museum Week. During this time, you can visit many of Amsterdam’s famous museums for free, so be sure to check the agenda (National Museum Week) to see if your favorite Amsterdam museums have free entry! Pictured above is one of my favorite quirky museums in Amsterdam!

Have you been to Amsterdam in April? Let me know if you have questions!

• Your perfect Amsterdam itinerary
• Insider tips for visiting Amsterdam for the first time
• Solo female travel guide to Amsterdam
• How to get from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam City by train
• Couple’s guide to Amsterdam
• Amsterdam off the beaten path

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

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January 12, 2020 at 8:03 pm

I loved reading your blog here…so helpful and upbeat. I can’t wait to visit Amsterdam this April. Thank you so much for writing this!!

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Best Things to Do in Amsterdam in April

This post covers the best things to do in Amsterdam in April, including family-friendly, nighttime, as well as free activities, festivals, and events, all updated for 2024. 

Amsterdam is still cool in April with temps in the 50s. Read our April weather post for more details on what you can expect weather-wise.

Here are a few other popular posts where you can learn about year-round attractions in Amsterdam:

• Hop on Hop off Boat and Bus
• Amsterdam Canal Cruises
• Red Light District Tours
• Amsterdam Bike Tours
• Amsterdam Discount Passes

For even more ideas, check out our post covering the best things to do in Amsterdam .

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN APRIL

The following list will provide a variety of fun activities in Amsterdam for April 2024.

We include several concerts, sporting events, festivals, and other interesting things happening in the city this month.

1. Go to a Concert

No matter when you visit Amsterdam, there are usually at least a few notable musicians performing each month.

Here are some of the best concerts you can attend this month:

• Echo and the Bunnymen | April 5th
• Simple Minds | April 6th

Music Festival

• Kingsland Festival | April 27th
• Spring Break Amsterdam | April 7th-11th

Check out this list of even more concerts in Amsterdam  in April.

2. Attend a Sporting Event

The month of April will bring multiple games and matches to Amsterdam.

Their popular home team, the AFC Ajax, will have 3 home games.

Footbal l (Soccer)

If the game dates don’t fit into your schedule, the whole family might enjoy going on an ArenA stadium tour to see where the famous home team spends most of its time. 

• 2024 Cazoo Premier League Darts

For even more great games to attend, check out this list of sporting events in Amsterdam.

3. Take in the Tulip Festival

The Netherlands is known the world over for its bright tulip fields, organized in neat rows.

While you won’t find full fields in Amsterdam’s city centre, you’ll be able to see blooming flowers in more than 80 spots of the city for the entire month of April. 

This includes around buildings, in museum gardens, in streetside planters, and anywhere else flowers can conceivably be planted! The entire city helps plant bulbs each autumn. 

The Tulip Festival website lists all participating locations and has an interactive map to make the tulips easy to find. The festival will run from March 21st - May 12th.

Check here for even more details .

If you’re just interested to see the tulip fields, April is the best month to go! You can find several half-day or full-day trips to Keukenhof, the most famous flower field.

• Half-Day Guided Keukenhof Tour
• Full-Day Tour of Keukenhof and Zaanse Schans, plus a Cruise

Of course, you can also rent a bike and make your own way! 

You might also want to consider a trip to the Amsterdam Tulip Museum, and you can find out more about this attraction on our post covering 60+ Museums in Amsterdam .

NOTE: The Tulip Festival Pass includes admission to the gardens, a transfer from Amsterdam, and an audio guide to the area at a discounted rate!

4. Take a Sightseeing Tour

With the weather beginning to warm up, this is the perfect time to go on a sightseeing tour in Amsterdam, and there are a variety of different outings to choose from.

Here are just a few options you may want to consider this spring:

• Amsterdam City Center
• Red Light District
• Alternative Amsterdam
• Amsterdam Food Tours
• Amsterdam Pub Crawls

While a lot of tours will require a ticket, there are some free tours and audio guides you can take which will make it easier to save some money.

We have a list of pay-what-you-like tours you can take here . 

5. Save Money With a Tourist Pass

If you’re planning to visit multiple popular attractions while in Amsterdam, you could save 50% or more off admission prices by using a tourist pass .

There are three different types of passes to choose from, each one serving a different purpose.

While the all-inclusive pass is excellent for anyone planning at least 4-5 activities per day, a preset package might be better for visitors with limited time.

There is also a museum pass you can use which will grant access to all of the best museums in Amsterdam!

Here are a few of the more notable attractions included with Amsterdam tourist passes:

• Hop on Hop off Bus Tours
• Hop on Hop off Canal Cruises
• The Heineken Experience
• Rembrandt House Museum
• Ripley’s Believe it or Not!
• The Amsterdam Dungeon
• Van Gogh Museum
• Stedelijk Museum
• Madame Tussauds
• Rijksmuseum
• Body Worlds

For additional information on how to use these services and which one will save you the most money, please read our post covering Amsterdam tourist passes .

Or, passes can be purchased here: All Inclusive - Amsterdam GoCity | Explorer - Amsterdam Go City

6. Take the Family to Bredeweg Festival on King's Day

On April 27th you'll find celebrations throughout the country for King's Day, which celebrates the birth of King Willem-Alexander.

Amsterdam's city centre will be packed with locals and tourists alike to take part in the festivities.

Over the full weekend, you'll find live music, dancing in the streets, rides for kids, face painting, street food, a parade, and open-air markets.

If you want to blend in with the locals, wear orange!

Check the Amsterdam Bredeweg Festival website for more details.

7. See ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo

With spring right around the corner, this would be a great time to take the whole family to Amsterdam’s zoo to see a variety of different animals such as giraffes, zebras, ostriches, tigers, and more.

In addition to all the hooved animals, large cats, and reptiles, there is also a butterfly pavilion, an aquarium, and even a planetarium!

There are plenty of educational talks and easy viewing points at ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo – which means there's something for everyone. You can even save some money on tickets by using a tourist pass !

We have more suggestions for entertaining the kids in our full family-friendly post . 

8. See the Cherry Blossoms

For even more springtime fun, consider heading to see the Cherry Blossoms up until around mid-April.

400 trees, given by Japan to the Dutch, can be found in Kersenbloesempark.

You can also find them at Blosempark in Amsterdamse Bos, Wasterpark, Museum Square, Hotel Akura, and throughout the Amsterdam area.

Walking amongst the Cherry Blossoms is truly a beautiful experience you won't want to miss.

9. See the Dutch Flower Parade

If you’re near Amsterdam on Saturday, April 20th, 2024, you’ll have the chance to see the 77th Dutch flower parade, Bloemencorso , the most famous flower parade in the country.

You’ll see floats covered entirely with tulips, hyacinths, and other spring flowers. It draws over one million spectators and thousands of volunteers each year. The route covers the same amount of ground as a marathon - 42 km (26 miles). 

The parade begins at the Noordwijk beach at 9:30 am, which is roughly an hour away from Amsterdam’s city centre by train.

It will pass through the charming flower town of Lisse If you’re looking to explore smaller Dutch towns, Lisse is perfect with its Parade Market and prime parade viewing spot in the town square. 

If you’re planning a visit to Keukenhof Tulip Gardens and are willing to deal with the crowds, the parade will pass through Keukenhof Boulevard too.

It ends in Haarlem, an easy 15-minute train ride from Amsterdam.

Looking for more budget-friendly activities? We have a full post about free things to do in Amsterdam .

10. Go to a Museum

It’s always a good time to visit one of the many breathtaking museums in Amsterdam, where you can learn about almost anything from art or history to the current local industry.

Here are a few of Amsterdam's most popular museums:

• Anne Frank House
• Jewish Historical Museum
• National Maritime Museum

If you’re interested in visiting more than one of these museums, keep in mind that each one on this list is included at a discount with several available  tourist passes . 

Honorable Mentions

There are a few other events taking place in April that you might enjoy.

Kaboom Animation Festival | April 4th-14th

Kaboom is home to all things animated, with "cutting-edge experimental arthouse to colorful stories for families and kids."

The show takes place at their headquarters at 25 De Wittenstraat.

Amsterdam Coffee Festival | April 4th-6th

The festival, which includes tastings, live music, and much more takes place at Westergas.

International Amsterdam Motor Show | March 28th-April 1st.

Car enthusiasts will enjoy seeing sports cars, classic cars, supercars, and more.

RELATED POSTS:

• Where to Store Luggage
• How is the weather in April in Amsterdam?
• Free Walking Tours
• Tourist Attraction Discount Passes
• Things to Do (any time of year)

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The 10 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam in April

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Spring is an amazing time to visit Europe . It’s a time when the chilly winter temperatures are far in the past and a rainbow of flowers is beginning to bloom. Out of everywhere you could travel to at this time of year, Amsterdam in the Netherlands stands out for its high-energy festivals, transforming the city into a hub of spirit, laughter, and joy. 

It’s not all about the festivals – there are plenty of other incredible things to do in Amsterdam in April, too. There are micro-neighborhoods bursting with cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops; cute canals begging you to take a cruise; huge parks accented with colorful tulips; and fascinating museums that offer shelter should the weather turn.

With so many things to see and do, it can be tricky to know where to begin. To help you out, here’s a list of the very best things to do in Amsterdam in April. From getting tipsy at beer festivals to visiting museums for free and seeing the famous tulips bloom, there’s absolutely loads going on in the Netherlands capital at this time of year. Make the most of it!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 10 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam in April

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

1. Say ‘Proost!’ at the Meibockfestival

Munich isn’t the only place that hosts an amazing beer festival. Every year around the third week of April, Amsterdam holds its own remarkable boozy bash – Meibockfestival. A huge number of craft beer brewers from all over the country gather around the Posthoornkerk building and dish out their delicious creations to anyone who comes by.

The entry fee is around €7 and includes an official glass. When you’re ready, simply walk up to one of the brewers, hand over your glass along with €1.50, and they’ll fill it to the brim with golden nectar. Sip, rinse, and repeat!

2. Get Lost in De Negen Straatjes

When it comes to what to do in Amsterdam in April, exploring De Negen Straatjes is always a good idea. This neighborhood is at its finest at this time of year – when the weather is just starting to get warm enough to sit outside, and window boxes are overflowing with pretty flowers.

Here you’ll find Amsterdam’s first photography museum ( Huis Marseille ), the House Boat Museum , and the world’s first gay rights monument ( Homomonument ). I recommend you check out Proeflokaal van Wees, too. It’s the tasting room for the A. van Wees Distillery , where you can pair delicious Dutch liqueurs with traditional bar snacks. 

3. Celebrate King’s Day with a Boat Ride 

King’s Day is one of the top April events in Amsterdam and it’s something that everyone can join in with. Currently celebrated each year on April 27 (it changes according to the monarch’s birthday), this city-wide holiday is held in honor of the Dutch monarchy and includes loads of outdoor activities that are completely free to enjoy.

From music concerts and flea markets to street parties and fairs, there’s absolutely loads going on. Signing up for a canal cruise is a great way to take in all the festivities while avoiding the crowds on the streets. Thousands of boats descend on the canal for this day, decorated specially for the occasion and pumping out upbeat music.

4. Have a Picnic at Vondelpark

The weather in Amsterdam in April can be temperamental. But when the sun comes out and the temperature is pleasant, heading to Vondelpark for a picnic is a fantastic idea. The largest park in the city, this beautiful green space is home to various mini gardens filled with flowers (the rose garden is a personal favorite) and plenty of grassy spots where you can chill out.

Can’t be bothered packing a picnic? Stop by one of Amsterdam’s automats on your way to the park instead. These sophisticated vending machines dish out all kinds of hot, freshly-cooked snacks, like croquettes, fries, frikandellen, bitterballen, and burgers, that you can turn into a speedy picnic.

5. Check Out Amsterdam’s Museums for Free

National Museum Week is one of the best April events in Amsterdam. This week usually falls at the very beginning of the month, when around 450 museums put on an extra-special program packed with events. As an added bonus, many of the museums are free to enter during this week!

From workshops, tastings, and music concerts to guided tours, treasure hunts, and reenactments, there’s absolutely loads going on this week. No idea where to begin? Here are some of my favorite museums in Amsterdam: 

• Anne Frank House Museum : Walking in her footsteps is something you’ll never forget.
• NEMO Science Museum : It has loads of family-friendly interactive exhibits.
• Rijksmuseum : It’s home to a huge collection of paintings from the Dutch Golden Age.

6. Dig into International Eats in Food Hallen

April may not be the best time to visit Amsterdam for good weather – it really can go either way during this month. But if you do get a spot of rain during your vacation, De Hallen is a fantastic place to seek shelter.

The building was originally an old tram depot, but today, it’s a thriving cultural hub, home to a hotel, boutique stores, a cinema, and a tempting food court. Known as Food Hallen , the sprawling food court features 47 unique stalls where you can dig into everything from freshly cut sashimi and decadent steak sandwiches to delicate petit fours and smoky BBQ.

7. See Tulips in Keukenhof Gardens

April is undoubtedly the best time to visit Amsterdam for tulips – the city’s streets are lined with gorgeous flower beds of every color. While you can see these beautiful flowers all over Amsterdam, Keukenhof Gardens puts on a display unlike anywhere else.

One of the largest flower gardens in the world, Keukenhof Gardens boasts millions of colorful tulips, which are laid out in all kinds of grandiose displays. There’s so much beauty around you that you won’t know where to look first!

If you’re visiting Amsterdam at the start of April and you’re worried about being too early for tulips, head straight to the greenhouses at Keukenhof Gardens. This is where you’ll find tulips growing and blooming as early as March.

8. Unleash Your Inner Gamer at Blast Galaxy

The evenings can get pretty chilly at this time of year. If you’re stuck for what to do in Amsterdam in April after dark, check out Blast Galaxy . This cool retro arcade is hidden away in a warehouse in Amsterdam Noord. You’ve got to catch a ferry from behind Centraal Station to get there, but the trip is more than worth it for the chance to play on 100+ unique game consoles.

Here you’ll find everything from old-school classics like Space Invaders arcade machines to more modern, sleek consoles like the Nintendo Switch. After you’ve paid your entrance fee, you can play as many different games as many times as you want for free!  

9. Dine at Vuurtoreneiland

April is a definite contender for the best time to visit Amsterdam due to the gorgeous tulips and exciting festivals. There’s another reason the city seems to come into its own at this time of year – its incredible cuisine. For one of the best gastronomic experiences of your life, make reservations for a meal at Vuurtoreneiland .

This tiny island is home to a 19th-century fort that has been transformed into an intimate dining room where you can savor a 5-course set menu during this month. Every single ingredient served here is fresh, seasonal, local, and of the highest quality. Between courses, wrap up warm and head outside, where you can enjoy the calming silence while cozying up next to a campfire.

10. See Endless Flowers at the Dutch Flower Parade

There’s no argument – the best time to visit Amsterdam for tulips is April. And if you’re planning to be in the city around the 20th, you’re just in time for the spectacular Dutch Flower Parade.

This larger-than-life event is made up of a sensational parade that stretches on for a whopping 42 kilometers (26 miles)! The parade begins in Noordwijk, where hundreds of floats decorated with daffodils and tulips begin their route to Haarlem. The floats are almost too astonishing to be true, with tiny flowers used to create everything from giant dragons to teddy bears and the Easter Bunny.

My favorite spot to watch the Dutch Flower Parade is on Keukenhof Boulevard, just a 5-minute walk from Keukenhof Gardens. The parade usually passes by here around 3-4 pm, and extra entertainment is put on to keep you amused while you wait.

There you have it! The 10 best things to do in Amsterdam in April. What’s your favorite thing to do in Amsterdam at this time of year?

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Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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April in Amsterdam – Events, weather, and travel tips

April events in Amsterdam

National Museum Weekend – Each April over 500 of the countries museums offer free or discounted entry and also run special programs meant to draw locals into these fine institutions. The official website is only in Dutch so it’s hard to sort out exactly who’s doing what, but it appears that all the museums in Amsterdam will participate one way or another. The 2009 weekend runs in early April, with dates yet to be confirmed.

Easter – In 2009 Easter is celebrated on April 12. Obviously there will be church services, and Good Friday and Easter Monday are days off for most of the country. Most offices are closed at least one of those days, so this is a big travel weekend for the Dutch, but in Amsterdam nearly all the tourist-oriented shops, restaurants, and coffeeshops will be open their normal schedules.

Queen’s Day – April 30 – This national holiday is one of the biggest parties of the year as Amsterdam fills up with tourists and residents of nearby areas alike. Many people dress in the national color of orange as they celebrate the day through. A citywide flea market pops up on every street, and all major squares and parks fill with stages and events. Vondelpark is dedicated to the kids, and alcohol is abundant nearly everywhere in the city on this one special day. It’s Thursday, April 30 in 2009. When April 30 falls on a Sunday it’s shifted to the Saturday April 29.

>>more information about Queen’s Day in Amsterdam

April weather in Amsterdam

Average high temperature: 53 °F / 11 °C Average low temperature: 40 °F/ 4 °C Average precipitation: 1.5 inches / 3 centimeters

The April Amsterdam weather is usually quite nice. You’ll still need a jacket and maybe some layers, but you won’t need to worry about snow in April, and you probably can leave that umbrella at home as well. April is actually Amsterdam’s driest month on average, although obviously it can still come down on you a bit if you get unlucky. The daytime highs are usually warm enough that wind whipping off the water won’t cause much harm, and a medium coat with a sweater/jumper will usually do the trick at night.

Getting to Amsterdam in April

Flights to Amsterdam from North America reach their tipping point, price-wise, in April. If you buy in advance you can often get rock-bottom winter prices during the first half of the month, but for the second half you’ll usually have to pay the spring prices, which can be a couple hundred dollars higher. Starting from Europe prices don’t go up as dramatically, but obviously demand is starting to go way up so good deals are harder to find, especially if you wait until the last minute. The city totally fills up for Queen’s Day at the end of the month, so try to avoid that time unless that’s precisely why you are coming.

Where to stay

Again, through the first part of the month you can get great deals at many hotels in Amsterdam , and most Amsterdam hostels don’t adjust their prices up until late in the month either. April is your last chance of the year to find really good deals, but fortunately prices tend not to go up too much during summer on hotels in the city.

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10 Amazing Things to do in Amsterdam in April

• September 28, 2022 May 19, 2023

Last updated on May 19th, 2023 at 02:23 pm

In this post, I will take you through my 10 thing to do in Amsterdam in April. When we moved to the Netherlands in 2021, we lived in Amsterdam for 1 month, before moving south to Eindhoven.

Since then I have spent many weekends there, showing friends and family who visited around the Dutch capital. So here are my suggestions and tips I have learned along the way.

• Walibi Holland
• A’DAM Lookout
• Heineken Factory
• Glow in the Dark Mini Golf
• Red Light District
• Anne Frank House
• Cycle around the Parks
• Visit the many Museums

What is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

What is the weather like in amsterdam in april, where should you stay in amsterdam, nice places to eat in amsterdam.

Maybe you want to visit Eindhoven? It is only 1hr 20 minutes by direct train, then have a look at this post on things to do in Eindhoven .

For your next trip you might fancy a weekend in Rome , check out my 3 day Rome itinerary .

Want some tips on planning your tip abroad? Have a look at a recent post with 30+ Essential Holiday Planning Tools & Useful Resources

If you are a solo female traveller, check out these must know tips

1. Walibi Holland

Number 1 of the top 10 places to visit in Amsterdam is Walibi Holland. When I visited, I felt like a child at Christmas. Walibi Holland Amusement Park is heaven for the thrill seekers out there. It offers a variety of thrilling rollercoasters and some tamer rides as well. I have been once and would definitely go back again. You can queue on your phone too which is very handy.

I would advise getting there as early as possible and queuing up for the best rides first (such as lost gravity) when the queues are shorter.

To get to Walibi Holland from Amsterdam, you will need to get the train from Amsterdam Centraal to Amersfoort Central. Then you will need to change and get another train from Amersfoort Central to Harderwijk. The two train journeys will take roughly 1 hour 15 minutes.

If you are going in a group of 3 or more at off-peak hours, it will be cheaper to buy a group ticket. To read more about the off-peak hours or to buy a group ticket, click here . If it is just 1 or 2 people that are going, tickets can be bought at the train station or online here .

At Harderwijk train station, visitors can take the Walibi Express bus that will take you straight to Walibi Holland. The bus trip takes about 25 minutes. Tickets can be purchased on board.

2. Keukenhof

An essential thing to do in Amsterdam in April is to visit the Keukenhof. The Keukenhof is an incredible display of flowers that covers 32 hectares (79 acres). It is a feast for the eyes! The gardens gather massive crowds each year. I have been twice and both the men and women enjoyed it!

The Keukenhof is only open for 8 weeks from mid-march, to mid-may, so the best time to visit the Keukenhof is around the last 2 week of April for the best chance to see the blooming. Get the exact dates it is open here as it is different each year.

The easiest way to get there, if you do not have a car, is to get the combo ticket that includes a direct bus journey from Amsterdam centre plus the entry ticket to the gardens. For more routes from Amsterdam you can check the details here .

3. A’DAM Lookout

If you want to get a view over Amsterdam on Europe’s highest swing, then go to the A’Dam lookout. I would highly recommend – you can get a 360 degree view of Amsterdam. It costs €14.50 and you can get your tickets here . There is also other options to get the VR experience as well which costs extra.

4. Heineken Factory

As Amsterdam is the home of Heineken, the Heineken Experience is interesting to do. You get some of the history of Heineken and are taken on an experience through the factory. They show how the Heineken is made and what it contains and more.

You get a small drink along the way. Then you get another 2 free drinks at the end of the tour at the bar, where there is music playing. The drinks you get nearly cover the price of the ticket. The tickets are €21 and you can buy them here .

5. Boat Tour

Another must do while in Amsterdam in April is a boat trip along the city’s canals. It is a good idea to do at the start of the trip as you can see what the city has to offer and get an idea of its location.

One of the cheaper options can be bought here . This is a one hour boat tour on an enclosed boat with an audio guide. Or if you prefer an open boat and commentary from the skipper, this is a good option here .

I did both and I preferred the open boat, you can see more, there is much less people on board and it is a more personal experience.

6. Glow in the Dark Mini Golf

This mini golf is really good fun. You can buy a drink at the bar and take it around the course with you. There are 18 holes and it takes about 45 minutes. I would highly recommend this, especially if there is a group. Throw on a bet between the group to make it even more exciting. You can buy a ticket here .

7. Take a walk down the Red Light District

Let’s face it, the majority of people will want to see the Red Light District when they are in Amsterdam, even if they won’t admit it. So go and take a walk down….

Between 11pm and 3am is when this area is at it’s liveliest. But be careful if you are going at this hour, make sure there is a group of you together. Also be wary of pick-pocketers, keep your hand on your bag. Apart from that, it is an experience like no other. Enjoy the walk through the unique red light district of Amsterdam.

8. Anne Frank House

If you read the Diary of Anne Frank and have an interest in World War 2, then you should pay a visit to Anne Frank’s house. It is nice to see the place in reality that you have read about and be reminded of what the family lived through by listening to the audio guide. Tickets cost €14 for an adult and can be bought here .

9. Cycle around Vondelpark and Rembrandt Park

Another nice thing to do in Amsterdam in April is to rent bikes and cycle through Vondelpark and Rembrandt park. In Vondelpark, there is a restaurant, where you stop for a drink and a bite to eat to relax ad enjoy the nature for a while.

Rembrandt Park is quite close to Vondelpark so you should cycle through there too. There is a petting zoo there and you will see plenty of dogs and ducks roaming around as well.

10. Visit the many Museums

If you are interested in art or science, then check out some of the museums Amsterdam has to offer. It has a large selection to choose from – Madame Tussauds, Van Gogh, Rijksmuseum, Nemo Science museum, Ripleys believe it or not, body worlds, the list goes on… If this is up your alley you can check out tickets here .

April is a great time to visit Amsterdam as they weather is fair, there are not so many tourists around and the tulips are in full bloom. September is also good when the weather is still nice and the crowds of tourists start to die down.

May to July is also a good option weather wise but crowds will be bigger.

The weather in Amsterdam in April can be cool with some warmer days. The temperature gets higher towards the end of the month. Temperatures range from about 10° celsius to 25° celsius throughout the month.

You can get really nice sunny days in April, but also a good chance of rain so be prepared for both.

It is one of those in between months where you are not sure what to wear, one minute your cold, the next minute you are sweating. Bring a rain jacket for sure, not too light or too heavy. Also, take with you some long pants, t-shirts and some jumpers or sweaters.

Also Buienradar is a useful website to predict rain in the Netherlands.

Finding accommodation in Amsterdam can be very tricky. Firstly, it is super expensive to stay in Amsterdam.

Secondly, due to the canals there are many mice and rats scurrying around. I have experience of staying in a hotel there where I was woken up by a few mice in my room and Eoin experienced the same in a hostel he stayed in. So here are a few recommendations from previous stays. Note that these are ranked cheapest to most expensive.

*For extra money saving tips while you are in the Netherlands, read about my experience of costly things not to do in the Netherlands

Train Lodge

For a further cheaper hostel option, check out Train Lodge Hostel. A unique experience where you will stay in a train carriage for the night.

One thing to note the carriages are very tight on space, so keep that in mind. The price is roughly €55 per bed per night for a single bed in a 6 bed dormitory.

It is based on the outside of the city just a 4 minute walk from Sloterdijk station where you can get a 5 minute train to Amsterdam Central. But be aware that you may need to get an uber back if you are out late after the trains stop running.

XO Hotels Park West

This is the only one listed myself or Eoin have not stayed in but I felt like the list was missing another mid-range option. The price is around €170 per night for a double room. The reviews on booking.com are good at 8.4 out of 10. This is located a good bit outside of Amsterdam near Sloterdijk. It is about a 10 minute walk from Sloterdijk station where you can get a 5 minute train to Amsterdam centraal.

Inntel Hotel Landmark Amsterdam

Inntel Hotel Landmark Amsterdam is a really nice 4 star hotel on the east of Amsterdam. It is a bit out from the centre – you would need to get a tram (walk about 10 minutes and get a 6 minute tram) or an uber. Roughly €250 per night for a double room.

Hotel Nes is a 3 star hotel located in the city centre, this is a nice option where you can get to most places easily by foot. The price is roughly €350 per night.

Westcord City Centre Hotel

Westcord City Centre Hotel is a 3 star hotel too and I would highly recommend it if you are looking for something based in the city centre. You can walk easily to most places from here. It is a more expensive option though. Around €400 for a double room per night.

• The Happy Pig – unreal pancakes and waffles including vegan ones, don’t miss this one!
• Belushis/The Winston Bar – cheap and tasty food including burgers, chips, wings & a nice spot for drinks too.
• Van Kerkwijk – a quaint restaurant that provides a cool experience where there is no physical menu. The food is very tasty although a bit pricey.
• Croissanterie Egstorf – tasty, large stroopwafels (a traditional Dutch delicacy) that are made right in front of you and are warm when you get them. A must try!
• Mellys Cookies Bar – nice for a sweet treat, plenty of cakes and biscuits, the caramel biscuit is very good. Not much seating there but nice to pick something up on the go too.
• Eetcafe Singel 404 – great option for breakfast or lunch, really tasty paninis.

I hope you got some inspiration for your trip and you get a chance to explore these 10 things to do in Amsterdam in April. If you fancy seeing more of what the Netherlands has to offer take a read of a recent post on 5 Must Visit Places In The Netherlands . If you have any questions or comments, feel free to comment below. Please subscribe for more.

Thanks for reading,

If you are on a budget in the Netherlands, you will want to read 7 costly things not to do in the Netherlands .

• Don't forget to get travel insurance before you set out on your adventure. Safety Wing is a great choice and so reasonable.
• If you are looking for accommodation, then Hostelworld or Booking.com are good options with plenty of accommodation choices.
• Looking to book tours, entry tickets and more, check out Get your Guide.
• Follow me on instagram @wandererlane 🙂 

5 thoughts on “10 Amazing Things to do in Amsterdam in April”

I want to visit Amsterdam soon, so this was great info!

Great to hear Jeanette!

love Amsterdam. overdue a visit!

Great read – love Amsterdam!

Thanks for your post. My brother just got back from a work trip in Amsterdam. Said he had a great time. This is definitely a place I’d like to visit.

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Amsterdam in April | Visiting during the tulip season

Things to do in Amsterdam Amsterdam Travel Guide Best Time to Visit Amsterdam Amsterdam in April

Europe is spangled with tourist destinations. While Paris is an all-time favorite, there’s no better place for romance than Rome . Art and history have found its safe haven in Prague . Amsterdam , however, is in its own league. Visitors from all over the world come to Amsterdam to have some unadulterated fun. There is something in the Amsterdam air that dusts the worries away. With its snaking canals and gabled buildings, the Venice of the North is one of the hottest destinations in Europe, especially in April.

What makes Amsterdam in April special?

Every year, Amsterdam attracts over 15 million tourists, making it a bustling destination. However, your experience in the city may heavily rely on the tourist crowd. April, falling within the shoulder season for tourism, presents a rare opportunity with moderate visitor numbers, making it ideal for exploration. In April, Amsterdam blooms with the vibrant colors of spring. The city exudes a unique charm accentuated by the diverse tulips in full display. As the sun emerges, so do the local residents, creating an inviting atmosphere for exploration. With longer daylight hours, April offers ample time to discover Amsterdam's iconic landmarks. Moreover, the city comes alive with festivities such as Easter and King's Day, offering lavish celebrations that shouldn't be missed. These events are among the top reasons to experience Amsterdam in April.

Amsterdam in April weather

April in Amsterdam is typically charmingly mild. With an average high of around 12°C and lows hovering at approximately 4°C, the weather tends to be humid. Rainfall graces the city on roughly 12 days throughout the month. Moreover, daylight extends gradually, offering about 10 hours of illumination by April's end.

Amsterdam in April: Things to do

Amsterdam canal cruise.

Uncover the origin of Amsterdam's moniker as the Venice of the North. Amsterdam's meticulously designed network of canals offers an enchanting cruising experience, inviting you to leisurely explore the city's prominent landmarks at your own pace.The Amsterdam Canal Cruises are indeed a thing of beauty, and you, should certainly not miss out on them!

April Timings Cruise Timings depend on Tour chosen

Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Van Gogh Museum

Vincent van Gogh is one of the most prolific artists the world has ever seen. At the Van Gogh Museum , you will be able to observe the largest collection Van Gogh’s works. This museum is situated in the middle of Amsterdam’s famous museum district. Buy combo tickets like the Dutch Masters & Marvels Tour to experience the canal cruise and Rijksmuseum along with this attraction.

April Timings Daily from 9am to 6pm

Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Anne Frank House and Walking Tour

Anne Frank's life and story are deeply ingrained in the history of World War II. This unique experience allows you to immerse yourself in Anne Frank's world, seeing the city through her eyes. The tour guides you through a city that bore the brunt of the war's devastating consequences. Know the story of Anne Frank and how her diary ended up being published by her father Otto Frank.

April Timings Tours start daily from 9am to 11pm

Prinsengracht 263-267, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Rijksmuseum

At the heart of the museum district lies another spot famous for its vast collection. Rijksmuseum holds around 8000 pieces of art that you can explore if you have the time. The collection at Rijksmuseum mainly focuses on Dutch history. It has some of the most influential works of art in terms of historical significance. The Night Watch by Rembrandt Van Rijn and Self-Portrait by Vincent Van Gogh are two of the most famous pieces at the museum.

April Timings Daily from 9am to 5pm

Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Day Trip to Keukenhof

The Netherlands is known to be the land of tulips. Surely, you aren’t planning to come to Amsterdam in Spring and leaving without seeing the flowers in full bloom? Keukenhof is the largest flower garden in Europe. It has a number of species of flowers, all of which are in full bloom in April. You can a wonderful picnic in the garden and go home with some amazing photos. You may also visit the nearby bulb farms to know more about horticulture.

April Timings Tours start daily from 8am to 7:30pm

Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse, Netherlands Getting There ›

Heineken Experience

The Heineken Experience is one of the places you must include in your Amsterdam itinerary if you love beer. The tour takes you to the brewery that was once responsible for manufacturing all of their products. Currently, you can explore some pieces of equipment and have an authentic behind the scenes tour of a brewery. You can even draft your own Heineken to top the experience off.

April Timings Monday to Thursday - 10:30am to 7:30pm Friday & Saturday - 10:30am to 9:00pm Sunday - 10:30am to 7:30pm

Stadhouderskade 78, 1072 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Xtracold Icebar

We have mentioned before that Amsterdam is not like any other place in the world. Well, the Amsterdam Icebar proves us right in that regard. The entire bar is made of ice and it boasts of great nightlife. You may also experience a 3D ride through an Icy landscape. Buy the combo ticket and relish the complimentary drinks as the music and the decor hold your attention.

April Timings Monday to Thursday - 3:45pm to 10:40pm Friday to Sunday - 11:45am to 1:00am

Amstel 194, 1017 AG Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Red-light District

In most places in the world, you might be well advised to stay away from the shady part of the city. However, turns out Amsterdam’s shady part is not so shady after all. At the Amsterdam Red-Light Distict , you could meet locals and acquaint yourselves with the simple rules to follow when in the area. Explore the most famous street in the city, Warmoesstraat, or go to a brewery in Chinatown. Not only is the place safe, but it is happening too.

April Timings 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM Night tour: 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM

De Wallen, Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Amsterdam Museum

The city of Amsterdam has a rich history. The Amsterdam Museum is dedicated to the past of the city and presents the visitors with the opportunity to explore it in detail. The rich architecture of the building itself is one to behold. Audioguide is available to enrich your visit with nuggets of information. Despite the slightly higher crowd in April, Amsterdam Museum is a must visit.

April Timings Daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm

Kalverstraat 92, 1012 PH Amsterdam, Netherlands Getting There ›

Amsterdam in April: Events to look out for

Tulip festival

All month! Running throughout the month from April 1st to April 30th. This festival showcases the beauty of tulips in various locations across the city, including parks, gardens, and public squares. You can stroll through fields of colorful tulips, take picturesque photos, and learn about the history and significance of these iconic flowers to Dutch culture. It's a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of springtime in Amsterdam.

King’s Day Celebration (Koningsdag)

27th April, 2024 the King’s Day Celebration, known as Koningsdag, happening on April 27th. It's a national holiday in the Netherlands, and Amsterdam goes all out to celebrate the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. Expect the city to be decked out in orange, the national color, as people take to the streets to party, enjoy live music, street performances, and participate in various activities and events. It's a vibrant and lively atmosphere, with flea markets popping up all over the city where you can find all sorts of treasures.

Amsterdam in April: 5-day Itinerary

Canal Cruise

Royal Palace of Amsterdam

Rembrandt House Museum

Day trip to Keukenhof

Anne Frank House

Red Light District

Albert Cuyp Market

Amsterdam essentials.

Language Dutch

Time zone GMT+1

Country Code +31

Socket Type C, E and F

Currency Euros €

Amsterdam Weather in April

An average day in April in Amsterdam tends to be damp, owing to its geographical characteristics. However, the sun shines more frequently compared to previous months, raising the temperature to a pleasant level. A gentle breeze often accompanies the day. Even when the sky starts clear, showers are still common in Amsterdam during April.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam during April

Amsterdam has a long history of welcoming visitors, resulting in a plethora of hostels, lodges, and hotels dotting the cityscape. These accommodations cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets, ensuring options for every type of traveler.

• Luxury : Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam, Conservatorium Hotel, InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam
• Mid-range : Pillows Anna van Den Vondel, Banks Mansion, Pulitzer Amsterdam
• Budget : Zoku Amsterdam, Mauro Mansion, Hotel V Fizeaustraat

What to Pack for Visiting Amsterdam in April

Before preparing for your trip to Amsterdam, remember the Dutch saying, "April doet wat hij wil," meaning April does as it pleases. This suggests packing a variety of clothing options: warm layers, lightweight attire, and a waterproof jacket to cover all weather possibilities. Don't forget to bring along an umbrella and waterproof boots for unpredictable rainy moments. Comfortable walking shoes and a water bottle are also essential items to have on hand for exploring the city.

Getting Around Amsterdam in April

Amsterdam boasts an extensive public transport network, offering convenient options despite its reputation for high costs. Among these options, the tram stands out as the most dependable mode of land transportation, despite its leisurely pace. Its widespread coverage and affordable fares compensate for any lack of speed. For journeys beyond the city center, the metro is the preferred choice, providing efficient connectivity. Meanwhile, the ferries offer a delightful blend of sightseeing and transit, allowing travelers to enjoy Amsterdam's scenic waterways en route to their destinations. Alternatively, embracing the local culture, one can opt for cycling, a popular mode of transport facilitated by the abundance of bicycles available for rent, outnumbering the city's residents. Thus, transportation in Amsterdam offers diverse and accessible means to explore the city and beyond.

Amsterdam in April - Must try Delicacies

As terrifying as this may sound, Raw Herring is something that will tantalize your taste buds and make a place for itself in your heart. Head to any Herring cart you spot and ask for a broodje haring, which places the fish in a sandwich. The Raw Herring at Frens Haringhandel is legendary.

It is likely that you'll go beer binging during your time in Amsterdam. Beers in the Netherlands are typically stronger than elsewhere, and as such you need to pair it up with Bitterballen, a pub essential in Amsterdam. It is basically deep-fried meatballs served with mustard dip. Try the Bitterballen from De Ballenbar.

The thick fries indigenous to the Netherlands is another must-try delicacy. The thick fries are served hot in a paper cone with a number of toppings. To get the authentic Dutch taste, ask for patatje oorlog or patat special sauce to go with the fries. The best Dutch Fries are served at Grizzl and Frietboutique.

Not many Dutch sweet treats are known to the world, but this one definitely deserves the recognition. Two plain waffles are stuck together with sweet syrup and served hot and gooey. You may choose to go for this treat at a street market or try it from Original Stroopwafels

This sweet treat has an interesting history. It was named after a performing dwarf who went by the name of Tom Pouce. It comprises of a rectangular piece of pastry topped with pink icing. Try this dish at Stefs Bakery.

Tips to visit Amsterdam in April

• Make sure you squeeze in a trip to Keukenhof Gardens in April. The tulips festival is on full swing from March to May and there's no leaving Amsterdam without seeing the tulips.
• Visit the outskirts of the city on the weekends as the main city could get crowded during those days in April.
• Be mindful of the bike lanes. As the weather gets warmer, more and more locals will be seen on the street with their bicycle.
• Look for deals on flight and hotel bookings in April as the high season is yet to begin.

Deals, Offers & Promo Codes in Europe

What are the top things to do in amsterdam in april .

With longer days in April, you have more time to visit the numerous essential spots of Amsterdam . April is also a festive time in the city. Easter and King’s Day spark lavish celebrations in the city. These are not to be missed and are few of the biggest reasons to visit Amsterdam in April.

What is the temperature in Amsterdam in April?  

Amsterdam is delightfully pleasant all of April. The average high is around 12°C and the average low hovers around 4°C. About 12 days in the month features some rain.

What are the best day trips to take from Amsterdam in April?

If there’s anything you should when you’re in Amsterdam in April, you should take a day trip to Keukenhof, the largest flower garden in Europe to watch Netherland’s famous tulips in full bloom!

What is an ideal itinerary for visiting Amsterdam in April?

Depending on the number of days you’d like to visit Amsterdam, check out our tailor made itineraries for visiting Amsterdam in April.

Is April a good time to visit Amsterdam?

Yes! With the arrival of spring and the entire city dipping into the festive mood, April is the best month to visit Amsterdam to the fullest!

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Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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Amsterdam in April: A Relaxing Two Day Spring Weekend

Thank you to I amsterdam and A’DAM Lookout for hosting me. As always, all opinions and recommendations are my own. This post also contains affiliate links. You can read my full disclosure policy here .

While Easter weekend was busy, it was a fantastic time to visit in terms of tulips and weather. If you don’t have a lot of time, Amsterdam is a great stopover city and can be easily explored in two days. As such, when I found out we would be visiting Ireland and the United Kingdom in the month of April, I knew I HAD to add Amsterdam to our itinerary. We did that very thing and this is how we spent a relaxing weekend in Amsterdam in April!

Amsterdam in April

I amsterdam sign.

It is iconic. So iconic in fact, that it was removed from its popular location at the Rijksmuseum to reduce the number of tourists in the square.

Former location at the Rijksmuseum | Fall of 2016

Now, the I amsterdam sign will move around the city. Currently, this one is at the A’DAM Lookout but it will only be there until July 7, 2019.

There are other temporary locations, but your best bet of getting a photo of the iconic sign is at the Schipol Airport. This is the only permanent location so get it as you are arriving or departing Amsterdam!

Travel Tip Get the up-to-date sign locations on the I amsterdam website .

Canal Cruise

Arguably one of the top things to do in Amsterdam (and quite possibly my favorite thing to do) is taking a canal cruise. It is a fantastic way to see so much of the city. Canals are what Amsterdam is so famous for and there are 165 of them in the “Venice of the North”.

Travel Tip The hour-long canal cruise is included on the I amsterdam City Card.

Thankfully, we had beautiful weather to cruise the canal, but if it isn’t pretty the day you are there, it’s not always a bad thing. Rainbows are plentiful in Amsterdam. This photo from my first trip was taken from the same canal cruise dock just in the opposite direction.

Some of (but not nearly all) the things you will see along the way…

Houseboats are quite common in Amsterdam as you can imagine with 165 canals. They are super cute so be on the lookout for them. You can even rent an Amsterdam houseboat to stay in!

Nationale Opera & Ballet

The Nationale Opera & Ballet is a pretty cool building (as most are in Amsterdam) and where you can catch an opera, the ballet as well as guided tours.

Travel Tip Receive a discount at the Nationale Ballet & Opera with the I amsterdam City Card.

EYE Filmmuseum and A’DAM Tower

If you like film, the EYE Filmmuseum should definitely be on your itinerary. It has many things to do all relating to film including exhibitions. You can even watch films in their three different theaters!

Right next door is the A’DAM Tower which houses the A’DAM Lookout at the top. For more on the A’DAM Lookout, look for its section further down in this post.

Travel Tip The EYE Filmmuseum is open daily and free to access.

NEMO Science Museum

I found NEMO! Okay, so it’s not THAT Nemo, but I did find a NEMO -the Science Museum , that is. Full of all kinds of cool exhibitions, this is a family-friendly place!

Travel Tip Free access to NEMO Science Museum with the I amsterdam City Card.

National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum is also family-friendly and has exhibitions, a library, and guided tours all related to sailing. While the museum building is cool, I personally love the replica of the Amsterdam which sank in 1749 in the English Channel on its maiden voyage to Batavia.

Travel Tips Open most days 9 am – 5 pm (closed on King’s Day-April 27th). The restaurant, shop, and library are accessible without an entrance ticket. But entrance to the Maritime Museum is included if you have the I amsterdam City Card.

Walking Tour of Amsterdam

General scenery.

One of the nicest features of Amsterdam is the fact that it is quite walkable. The springtime is a really nice time to walk around. The Dutch capital is a gorgeous city with beautiful architecture!

Travel Tip You could bike around the city as well, but I thoroughly enjoy walking it. Personally, I think you see much more than you would if you were buzzing by on a bike.

View of the Zuiderkerk from the Staalmeester Bridge

Leaning, Crooked Houses

Yep, there are leaning houses in Amsterdam. Tall, skinny, crooked, leaning houses. As you can see in the photo above, they all look “off” and they actually are. Some are built on wooden stilts and do have foundational issues.

Most all of them are built tilted forward for good reason. They have very tiny, steep staircases making it hard to move things up to the higher floors. Which brings me to the next part of this whole fascinating phenomenon. Hooks.

The houses all have hooks on them. See them at the top…right below the rooflines? Those are used to hoist things to the upper levels. The houses are built leaning forward enough so that items like furniture won’t come in contact with the building on their way up. Isn’t that all kinds of interesting?

Spring Flowers

You can see tulips in Amsterdam too, not just Keukenhof!

Don’t forget to look up! How beautiful are these cherry blossoms? I know, surprise, right? Tulips might be the star of the show in the spring, but cherry blossoms make a great supporting cast.

Travel Tips Cherry blossoms can be found scattered throughout the city and in some parks. They don’t last as long as the tulips. Here is more information on cherry blossoms in Amsterdam .

Red Light District

For obvious reasons, I didn’t take photos here. However, I did want to mention the RLD. It’s just something you can’t miss in Amsterdam if you haven’t already seen it.

The Smallest House in Amsterdam

Dating back to 1738, the Smallest House in Amsterdam is only 6 feet 7 inches wide and 16 feet 4 inches deep. It has the cutest interior where you can buy teas, chocolate, and other assorted goodies. The family that owns it is extremely friendly and can tell you all about the history of the house as well as the city of Amsterdam!

Travel Tip For a truly unique experience, check out how to have afternoon tea in the Smallest House in Amsterdam down below in Where To Eat!

Churches of Amsterdam

I love to see churches all around the world when I travel. Everything from the architecture and stained glass windows to the steeples, clock towers, and marble floors, I find them so beautiful. Amsterdam definitely has its share of gorgeous churches you won’t want to miss.

The Zuiderkerk (Southern Church) was an influential part of Rembrandt’s life as well as the subject of a Claude Monet painting. Constructed between 1603 and 1611, it was the first church in Amsterdam built specifically for Protestant services. However, it closed as a church in 1970 and since 1988 has served as a municipal information center.

I personally love its clock tower steeple!

Travel Tip Don’t miss the iconic view of the Zuiderkerk from the Staalmeester Bridge.

Located near the main central train station, the Church of Saint Nicholas is Amsterdam’s primary Roman Catholic Church. Its Neo-Baroque and Neo-Renaissance architectural styles explain why it’s my favorite of all the churches in Amsterdam. For some reason, I tend to love the Baroque style and typically my favorite churches are constructed in this design.

The church only recently received its basilica minor status in 2012.

Built between 1620 and 1631, the Westerkerk (Western Church) is the largest church in Amsterdam built for Protestants and is still in use to this day.

The church’s tower, called the Westertoren (Western Tower), is the highest church tower in all of Amsterdam with a height of 286 feet.

Interesting facts of the Westerkerk include the fact that Rembrandt was buried as a poor man here. Though his grave number was lost, there is a memorial marker and every year, his birthday is celebrated on the 15th of July. Also, Anne Frank wrote in her diary that the ringing of the bells of the tower was a source of comfort for her.

There are many other churches in Amsterdam to see. Don’t miss the De Oude Kerk (The Old Church) at the start of the Red Light District.

Anne Frank House

Definitely one of the most popular attractions in Amsterdam, the Anne Frank House is a historical icon. Walking through the house where Anne hid for two years before being betrayed to the Nazis is a very emotional experience.

Travel Tips This is NOT included in the I amsterdam City Card. You can only get tickets on the website and they go FAST. Get them as SOON as you know your Amsterdam travel dates. If they are sold out on your date, check the website at 9 am sharp on the day you want to go. They release about 20% of their daily ticket allotment then, first come, first serve.

You might also like: AMSTERDAM TO KEUKENHOF: A PERFECT BUCKET LIST DAY TRIP FOR TULIPS

Bridges of Amsterdam

While there are 165 canals in Amsterdam, there are many more bridges. 1,281 to be exact! Here are a few I enjoyed seeing.

Bridge 222, also known as Aluminiumbrug (Aluminum Bridge) crosses over the Kloveniersbrugwal Canal. It is a drawbridge not currently in use and is made primarily of brick, granite, and steel. It gets its name from its feature of an aluminum deck.

The Walter Süskindbrug (Walter Süskind Bridge), bridge 237, is a double drawbridge constructed between 1969 and 1972. The bridge was named after Walter Süskind, a man who, along with others, allowed Jews and Jewish children to escape from Hollandsche Schouwburg and a nearby daycare center during the Nazi regime.

The Bridge of Bridges is the point where you can see up to 15 bridges at once. Stand where the Reguliersgracht meets Herengracht for this view. Pretty cool to see bridge after bridge after bridge.

Travel Tip Best place to see all directions is from water level during a canal cruise. But for the land view, see the location marked on the map at the end of this post.

Probably my favorite bridge, the Staalmeesterbrug (bridge 227) is located on Staalstratt and is also an out-of-operation drawbridge.

It’s my favorite for two reasons: its view of the Zuiderkerk and the colorful adornments of the love locks.

Travel Tips These are just a few of the many, many bridges in Amsterdam. Be sure to also check out the Blauwbrug , the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), and the Pythonbrug (Python Bridge or High Bridge). I’m so sad I missed the Python Bridge while I was there. I can’t believe I’ve been to Amsterdam twice and didn’t know about it until AFTER I got back from this recent second trip!

Amsterdam Tulip Museum

You’re here in the spring, so why not visit the Amsterdam Tulip Museum ? You’re visiting the tulips so it just makes sense, right?

Travel Tips Entrance to the Amsterdam Tulip Museum is included on the I amsterdam City Card. If you have more time, the Amsterdam Cheese Museum is located next door.

Amsterdam at Night

Explore Amsterdam after dark. The city comes alive at night. The bridges over the canals light up making beautiful reflections in the water.

Double light trails in your photos are possible from boats down on the water and cars on the bridges above.

And Thorbeckeplein is the perfect location for a new trick I learned called “light painting”.

Wondering what camera equipment I use ? Find out what is in my camera bag and all my other travel tech favorites too!

Day Trip To Keukenhof

If you’re in Amsterdam in the spring, I know what you came for. Tulips! A day trip to Keukenhof is a must and it’s extremely easy to do from Amsterdam with the ARTT Card .

Only open two months of the year, Keukenhof and its flowers will blow you away and deliver an unforgettable Dutch experience! However, if you aren’t there during spring there are several other day trips from Amsterdam to take.

A’DAM Lookout

For incredible views of Amsterdam, head up to the A’DAM Lookout located at the top of the A’DAM Tower. With 360° views of Amsterdam, you can even see Schipol airport, the port, and the city center.

When we first arrived, A’DAM properly introduced himself.

On our way to check in to pick up our tickets, we saw the I amsterdam sign currently located here. But hurry because as I mentioned above, it will only be here until July 7, 2019!

In addition to the spectacular views, you can swing out over the edge in Europe’s highest swing!

Views of Amsterdam from A’DAM Lookout

Photo Credit: My Parents

Don’t forget to have your photo taken with A’DAM!

The Highest Swing in Europe

Amsterdam in April is the perfect time to swing high above the city!

There are 3 swings and the entire experience lasts around five minutes. But those fives minutes are truly both thrilling and amazing!

Photo Courtesy of A’DAM Lookout

I had the time of my life feeling the wind breezing through my hair while gazing out over all of Amsterdam.

Travel Tips Go late afternoon so you can get photos during the day and then watch the sunset. There are also restaurants where you can eat or grab a drink.

Getting Around Amsterdam

I amsterdam city card.

I highly recommend getting the I amsterdam City Card for your visit to Amsterdam. You can choose a 24, 48, 72, 96 or 120-hour card so there is one to fit all lengths of visits.

Why should you get the card? It will save you a LOT of money because it includes unlimited public transportation, so many free museums and attractions as I have pointed out above, a free canal cruise, and more. It also saves you a lot of time not having to stand in line to buy tickets.

Travel Tips The card will also get you skip-the-line access to the Rijksmuseum , and a free timeslot for the Van Gogh Museum. However, it does not include transportation via train from the airport into the city. This can be purchased with the ARTT Card described below. For more information, see the FAQ page .

Combine your I amsterdam City Card with the ARTT. The Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket will get you transportation from Schipol Airport into a city-center train station as well as regional transportation outside of Amsterdam.

The ARTT comes in one, two and three-day consecutive passes so they are great for a day trip, weekend or even a three-day trip.

Travel Tip This is the travel ticket you want for a day trip from Amsterdam to Keukenhof !

Where To Eat

For fine dining, try Spectrum for a Michelin star experience. For more casual dining, these are my recommendations below.

Tea at the Smallest House in Amsterdam

Yes, you can have afternoon tea at the Smallest House in Amsterdam ! How cute is the interior?

Our place setting complete with the perfect tea timer! We could try unlimited tea flavors and so I started with the Strawberry Banana. This is one of my favorite flavors and was the first time I’d ever seen it as a flavored tea. I followed that up with two cups of Strawberry which is one of my all-time favorites.

In addition to unlimited tea flavors, we were also served freshly squeezed orange juice and water. For an additional fee, you can add a glass of champagne.

The food is a little different than traditional, English afternoon tea, but it was really good and plentiful. We had a tiered tray of sandwiches followed by scones, fruit, and sweets!

The assortment of sandwiches included goat cheese/tomato/cucumber/pesto, tuna/tomato/cucumber, and chicken/cucumber. I am not a fan of cucumber so I removed all of those. After doing so, my favorite was definitely the goat cheeses/tomato/pesto. 😊

Next up, we were served scones, strawberries, and sweets. The plain scones were served with lemon curd and strawberry preserves.

We even had homemade mascarpone cheese to dip these beautiful strawberries in. They were fantastic! I should also mention that the mascarpone was made while we were there so it was homemade AND fresh!

To finish off this unique experience, they served their homemade Dutch Apple Pie. A family recipe, this authentic Dutch Apple Pie is different from our American version in that it doesn’t have the gelatinous filling we put in ours.

This apple pie is something everyone needs to try when they come to Amsterdam!

Travel Tips With the Smallest House comes the smallest tea rooms so reservations are recommended . Here you will also find more information including the menu.

Ellis Gourmet Burger

We stopped one night for a quick bite at Ellis Gourmet Burger . What I liked most about EGB is that there are all kinds of options.

There is the Classic or choose the Mini Classic (on the kids’ menu) like I did if you aren’t overly hungry.

Then there is the Baby Spinach Salmon version which is a salmon filet with coleslaw, tomato, homemade herb and mint yogurt, baby spinach, and watercress.

Travel Tip They offer vegetarian and vegan options so there really is something for everyone!

The Pancake Bakery

Open since 1973, The Pancake Bakery is a favorite in Amsterdam. Breakfast, lunch, dinner…whatever you’re in the mood for, they have it!

My Dad opted for the Brazilian , one of their international pancake specials featuring walnut ice cream, mocha sauce, Amaretto, almonds, and whipped cream. I tasted it and my favorite part was the walnut ice cream with the mocha sauce and hints of Amaretto!

I got my usual (I had been before), a Pancake with Bananas, Chocolate Sauce and Nutella . It is heavenly! That’s saying a lot since I almost always pick savory over sweet.

Speaking of savory, if you aren’t a big sweets person, they have savory pancakes too. My Mom ordered the Pancake with Ham, Cheese, and Mushrooms . I tried hers with sour cream and if I could have eaten both, this is the other one I would have ordered. It hit the spot!

Travel Tips You can’t go wrong with anything you order here. The food is fantastic! If it’s nice outside, grab a table by the canal.

Where To Stay

Pulitzer amsterdam.

I loved staying in the Pulitzer Amsterdam , a luxury hotel with top-notch service and very unique rooms with canal views. This hotel is located close to the Anne Frank House, The Pancake Bakery, and the Jordaan neighborhood.

Mozart Hotel

If you need a more affordable option, the Mozart Hotel also has a great location not far from the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum and it’s only about a 25-minute walk across the city to Amsterdam Centraal. They offer triple rooms and breakfast is included. The downsides are the rooms and the bathroom are tiny (common in Europe) and the elevator is very slow.

More or Less

I love this!

If you have more time…

Check out the Museum of Bags and Purses, GASSAN Diamonds, the Van Gogh Museum and a day trip to see the famous Cube House Museum in Rotterdam (bucket list item for my next trip to Amsterdam).

If you have less time…

Then my 36 Hours in Amsterdam post might work better for you and fits any time of the year as it doesn’t include tulip season.

That’s how we spent our spring weekend in Amsterdam in April. It was fun, but relaxing and that’s exactly what I was aiming for.

Have you been to Amsterdam in April or during the spring at all? What was your itinerary like? As always, I love hearing from you!

‘Til next time…

Trimm Travels,

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40 Comments

I love reading of your travels. I noticed your Mom posted pictures on FB. We lived in Belgium for a number of years, so visiting Holland was always so much fun. You bring back a lot of memories. Mary McLean

Hi Mary-So cool you lived in Belgium. I was supposed to visit there last summer and it got messed up. But I will get there. Holland is definitely a fun place. Thanks for reading! 🙂

Love this post! Great job! Helped me relive our trip! Dad loved also.

Glad you both loved it! It was a fun time with both! Thanks for reading! 🙂

There is no way I would do that swing in Amsterdam. I looked it at that earlier this year and thought..bugger that and walked on! (I was drunk at the time). 😀 Havent seen the smallest house in Amsterdam yet, been there four times to the city and I keep missing this!

Hi Danik-Haha! You have to see the smallest house. It’s so cute! Thanks for reading! 🙂

You certainly packed a lot in Heather! I have not been to Amsterdam for many years, but you have reminded me how much I enjoyed this city. I agree: it is a wonderful, characterful city to just walk and explore, but I too remember thoroughly enjoying the canal trip and learning about the architecture. I found the Anne Frank House very moving and memorable. And if nothing else persuaded me to make a return visit to Amsterdam, those swings certainly will. I have to do this! Wonderful pictures and great information as usual.

Hi Jane-Yes, you have to try the swing! It’s so much fun!! Hope you get return sooner than later and thanks for reading! 🙂

I last visited Amsterdam years ago, and my favorite parts were the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum and the Heineken Brewery. I missed the tulips and many other great attractions and clearly need to go back.

Hi Catherine-You sound like me my first time to Amsterdam. I knew I had to return in the spring for the tulips. I hope you get to go soon, like next year! Thanks for reading! 🙂

Wow Heather, your photography is looking beautiful. I used to go to Holland every couple of years for work but Jenn has yet to visit. It’s very high on our places to go list. We would probably do a bit more biking but she just has to see Amsterdam. Beautiful post.

Hi Ed-Thank you so much! Yes, Jenn needs to go to Amsterdam soon! A trip next spring would be fantastic so you could see the tulips! Thanks for reading! 🙂

Love the look of Amsterdam in April. The skies are so blue and the tulips so colorful. And so much delicious food too. Will do this trip in summer sometime.

Hi Punita-I hope you have the best time ever! Thanks for reading! 🙂

Your title of your blog is very misleading (cheeky said) as you have offered so many options that it is hardly relaxing 2 days! But I love it all! I would especially spend time just cruising up and down the canal, walking and biking the streets taking in the fabulous architecture, yes, even the leaning buildings, hoping to catch a glimpse of seeing the hooks in action. I also love how they have decided to move the I amsterdam sign around the city. Such a great way for locals and tourists to visit parts of the city that they might not have already seen. I have pinned this for future reference as I hope to travel here one day soon!

Hi Renee-Funny! I suppose that could definitely be true. For me it was pretty relaxing because it’s so easy to see so much of that in not a lot of time. You hit a lot of it on the canal cruise. Amsterdam is very walkable and relatively small. Just a great city to explore. Hope you get to go soon and thanks for reading! 🙂

I heard about the houseboats in Amsterdam and always wondered how much of it moved around or if they were pretty stable. I have seen a few Airbnb houseboats and would love to stay in one if I visit Amsterdam. I had no idea they started moving the famous I amsterdam sign around the city. A good tip that there is a permanent one at the airport 🙂

Hi Candy-Some of the houseboats don’t move and some do. I think it depends on the owner and how they own the space they are in but I’m not entirely sure. It would be really cool to stay in one! Yep, the sign is moving…catch it when you can! LOL! Thanks for reading! 🙂

I spent 3 days in Amsterdam back in 2010 and I have to be honest I didn’t really enjoy it. In retrospect I think the weather which was terrible at the time and the fact we have been travelling for 8 weeks didn’t help.

We were thinking about giving it another try on our next trip to Europe and your article has convinced me we really should. Thanks for sharing

Hi Paula-I totally get how weather and long lengths of traveling can contribute to those kinds of feelings. I’ve been there with other cities. I’m so glad to hear you are considering giving Amsterdam another shot. I really do think you will like it! Thanks for reading! 🙂

Wow… You were able to squeeze in so much in your 2-day itinerary. I have never seen I am Amsterdam sign so uncrowded as in your picture. I would love to go for a walking tour of the town someday. Great pictures.

Hi-Thank you so much! I was somewhat surprised to get the Iamsterdam sign without people in it too! Walking the city is, in my opinion, the best way to truly see it! Thanks for reading! 🙂

Beautiful picture! You’ve covered the area well and very informative. The tilted houses and hooks are interesting 🙂

Hi Kristina-Thanks and thanks for reading! 🙂

I love your blog! thanks

Hi Nick-Thanks and thanks for reading! 🙂

So fun! I love all the beautiful colours of Amsterdam! I did not know that about the houses leaning forward, that’s so smart. I think, I too, would jump from on a canal cruise! Some of the best views will be from the water! It looks like spring is the perfect time to go!

Hi Olivia-Spring is the perfect time because of the tulips and yes, a canal cruise is definitely the best way to see so much of the city with unobstructed views. It’s especially great if you don’t have a lot of time. And if you do, take several! Thanks for reading! 🙂

I actually didn’t know that there were multiple iAmsterdam signs, or that they moved around! I saw only one when I was in Amsterdam, and just kind of happened upon it, too. I love how Amsterdam looks in the spring. It’s so flowery and cheerful! I enjoyed my trip in November but would definitely love to return in a different season!

Hi Sarah-My first trip was actually in November too (a few years ago) and I LOVE Amsterdam in the fall. All the fall foliage falling into the canals is beautiful. But I knew I had to get back to see the tulips and I’m so glad I did. I highly recommend it if you can get there in the spring! The I amsterdam sign hasn’t always moved around I don’t think. They took the one down at the Rijksmuseum and started moving it around in 2018. Thanks for reading! 🙂

Your pictures are gorgeous! I’ve never gotten to see Amsterdam in the sunshine; it’s always raining when I go. So much prettier in the sunshine. And the tulips! Gorgeous! Maybe I should try to go in April so I see the flowers. And the Anne Frank House. I didn’t have a chance to get tickets for that, either.

Hi Juliann-Yes, the Anne Frank House is hard to get tickets for. I worked with them on my first trip to Amsterdam and it is an emotional experience. If you don’t get them when you plan your next trip, they do release about 20% of their daily allotment at 9 am available same day! Thanks for reading! 🙂

Amsterdam is soooo beautiful in the spring!! You are brave getting on that swing, I don’t think I could do it 🙁 but luckily there are so many other wonderful things to see and do! I went with my family to the keukenhof gardens and totally loved it too. The tulip fields in spring are also spectacular for the rows and rows of tulips!

Hi Alex-Yes, the tulips are absolutely beautiful aren’t they? And the swing…totally get it isn’t everyone’s thing but A’DAM Lookout has spectacular views at the top without having to get on the swing so definitely go up next time you’re in Amsterdam! Thanks for reading! 🙂

You did so much in two days! After traveling with you a bit, I’m not surprised 😉 I’ve been to Amsterdam before but it was so long ago and I was with family and on a time crunch so I don’t remember but how beautiful it was. Would love to go back one day and experience more!

Hi Ashley-Yep, haha! As you know, I can cover some ground! But, honestly, it seems like more than it really was. Amsterdam is not overly big and you can see a lot on the canal cruises alone. I highly recommend going back in the spring if you get the chance! Thanks for reading! 🙂

Whoa! That’s quite a long read.But, surely, it is an interesting one. I have been seeing a lot of articles about Amsterdam. But there are still a lot to learn about this great city.

I really those picture of Amsterdam at night. The light painting looks cool too.

And those tulips are indeed amazing!

Hi Cat-Yes, there is so much to do in Amsterdam. The tulips though are definitely the highlight. I highly recommend going if you get the chance! Thanks for reading! 🙂

I went to Amsterdam years ago and realizing I missed so many things (it was a short stay). I want to go back and hit more of the museums and the sunrise photography class. I also don’t I appreciated the bridges enough. Sounds amazing. Maybe it wasn’t there at the time, but I also haven’t done the Iamsterdam sign. Thanks for sharing!

Hi Nancy-I understand, there is so much to do in Amsterdam and it often gets overlooked! Not sure when you went last so I don’t know if the I amsterdam sign was there or not. It rotates now but there is one always at the airport. The bridges are amazing. Hope you get to go again soon! Thanks for reading! 🙂

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9 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam in April

Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ capital. It is known for its imaginative legacy, elaborate trench framework, and houses with gabled veneers. In addition, these are the traditions of the city’s seventeenth-century Golden Age. Let’s look at the 15 things to do in Amsterdam in April.

9 Things to Do in Amsterdam in April

• Enjoy the Tulip Festival
• Experience the Heineken
• Get Ready to King Day Festival
• Visit Anne Frank House
• Floating Flower Market
• Explore the Royal Palace of Amsterdam
• Enjoy at Meibockfestival
• National Museum Week
• Fun at Easter Festival

1. Enjoy the Tulip Festival

Witness Amsterdam’s blooming excellence at the Tulip Festival, which happens in different nurseries of the city’s historical centres and lodgings. Firstly, partaking in the tulip celebration is quite possibly the most amaze and free activity in Amsterdam in April, as this is the season when nature is at its pinnacle.

Secondly, these blossom shows are a brilliant method to partake in the bright scene that spring brings to Amsterdam. While visiting in and around Amsterdam, guests can see more than 500,000 tulips of different shadings and assortments. Moreover, the most popular approach to encounter the Tulip Festival in the entirety of its quality is to lease a bicycle and cycle through the bloom fields or to take a boat ride from the windmill in Keukenhof.

2. Experience the Heineken

Firstly, in 1864, the distillery was started. Today Heineken is one of the three biggest brew makers on the planet. Heineken’s rich and fruitful history has been introduced in their old dead bottling works in Amsterdam. With a few entertainment mecca attractions added to the display, this is renamed as Amsterdam Heineken Experience.

Secondly, the historical centrepiece of the show stays intriguing. The Heineken family received well-known gold adornment from The Universal Exhibition in Paris in 1889. It could be seen replicated on each jar of Heineken, notable metal brew tanks, and a tranquil pony stable.

In conclusion, the entertainment part involves taste. Some will like its happy nature, and some may not. There are screenings of old brew ads or a senseless film where models are swimming with Heinekens.

3. Get Ready to King Day Festival

Lord’s Day Festival has a progression of occasions. It coordinates to the entire day, like a city-wide road market for purchasing recycled products, electronic live concerts facilitated by the best DJs, and boat march on the waterways. Therefore, it resembles an amusement park where individuals show their nationalism and appreciate it with energy by singing and moving in the city.

At the point when we say Amsterdam gets smashed for King’s Day, we aren’t joking. It showcases somewhere in the range of 600,000 and 1 million individuals showing up in the city for the celebrations. Moreover, it is to be told 250,000 individuals show up via train ON King’s Day! If you’re anticipating joining in, it would be wise to book your bed quickly.

Praise the yearly merriments on the event of King Willem-Alexander’s birthday in Amsterdam in April. Therefore, this is one of the 15 things to do in Amsterdam in April. Here, you can see a crowd of orange-dressed individuals anticipating and absorbing the enthusiasm and soul of this occasion.

4. Visit Anne Frank House

A visit to the Anne Frank House is an unquestionable requirement in case you are in Amsterdam. The house is where the youthful Anne Frank, her family, and four others crawled under a rock during World War II. Today, you can visit the huis, which was an office with an extension. Anne’s dad, Otto Frank, ran his organization here. He managed items like gelatin, spices, and flavours. The workplace incorporated a lab for trying different things with natural product jams.

Once you visit the Anne Frank House, you will see firsthand the view, where Anne saw from the second-story room window. To keep people inside hidden, different windows are covered. The only window in the storage area is allowed to glimpse the outside world.

5. Floating Flower Market

It is quite possibly the most fantabulous spot to visit in Amsterdam in April. Take part in looking for flower bundles and single roses. The blossom market is brimming with uncommon sprouts like tulips, narcissus, snowdrops, carnations, violets, peonies or orchids, and so on to fill in as a vivid holiday for the eyes.

Perhaps the most important presentation of nature, the gliding blossom market in Amsterdam, is hailed as one of its sorts. This market has been in presence since 1862. Moreover, it is coordinated by houseboats which return you to the old world appeal of the city.

6. Explore the Royal Palace of Amsterdam

The Royal Palace of Amsterdam, located in Dam Square, is likely to be the most popular excursion to Amsterdam in April. For imperial celebrations and other authority gatherings, this location is used here.

As an example, in the seventeenth century, it served as a municipal lobby. The royal mansion of King Louis I of Holland has been transformed. The stunning design is a feast for the eyes of every visitor, with works by a slew of notable artists as Rembrandt, Jan Lievens, Ferdinand Bol, Govert Flinck, and Jacob Jardaens.

7. Enjoy at Meibockfestival

Meibockfestival is a must thing to do in Amsterdam in April. One can be prepared to enchant their taste buds with contemporary brews from IPAs, and organic product lagers to French-style during the Meibockfestival. This is one of the best 15 things to do in Amsterdam in April when compared to others. If you’re a sweetheart looking to conclude your spring break on a high note, here is the place to be.

At the Meibockfestival in Amsterdam in April, savour an endless supply of beer and applaud the new breed of spring brews. Therefore, It is known as spring’s grandest festival. It arguably has the most delectable combinations on the planet.

8. National Museum Week

The absolute most famous things to do in Amsterdam in April to benefit as much as possible from National Museum Week are the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum, Jewish Historical Museum, and Amsterdam Museum.

Absorb the set of experiences and culture of Amsterdam with National Museum Week during April. Plenty of occasions and exercises are coordinated to make it a noteworthy week for history darlings. This occasion praises the legacy nation by sorting out unique projects, charming exercises, and unrecorded music exhibitions in the intriguing historical centres in the town.

9. Fun at Easter Festival

This is one of the most important 15 things to do in Amsterdam in April. It is coordinated with the Easter Festival and has filled in its predominance immense sums all at once every year. Awakenings at Easter Festival attracts over 190,000 techno fans and is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enjoy during your spring vacation in Amsterdam. For the music darlings, it is unquestionably one of the not-to-be-missed activities in Amsterdam in April.

The age of a person has no bearing on their capacity to travel. So get ready to plan and explore a lot. If you want to visit Amsterdam, please go to pickyourtrail, where you may find a range of Amsterdam tour packages . It will be our delight to guide you on your next journey. You can arrange your own customized Amsterdam plan. So, start on your vacation plans. Happy Journey Folks!!Discover the enchanting beauty of India’s diverse states and indulge in unforgettable experiences with our exclusive honeymoon packages and vacation packages , tailored to make your journey truly magical.

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Don’t Miss-Out Other Best Things To Do in Amsterdam

Things to do in Amsterdam in February | Things to do in Amsterdam | Nightlife in Amsterdam | Free Things to Do in Amsterdam

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do In Amsterdam During April

A: Among the many iconic attractions in Amsterdam are the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and the historic canals.

A: Consider biking around the city, taking a canal cruise, visiting vibrant neighborhoods like Jordaan, or indulging in Dutch delicacies at local markets.

A: Amsterdam has an efficient public transportation system that includes trams, buses, and trains. Cycling is also a popular and practical mode of transportation.

A: Without a doubt! Exploring the city’s parks, visiting markets such as the Albert Cuyp Market, and admiring the architecture in the historic center are all free and enjoyable activities.

A: For an authentic culinary experience, try local dishes such as stroopwafels, Dutch pancakes (poffertjes), raw herring, and cheese tastings at markets or specialized cheese shops.

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Amsterdam in April

Amsterdam in april: why is it worth visiting, more things to do in amsterdam, amsterdam in april: top-10 things to do, keukenhof gardens visit, canal cruise, king's day celebrations (april 27), rijksmuseum visit, anne frank house, explore jordaan, enjoy the open-air markets, visit a windmill, indulge in dutch cuisine, amsterdam in april: top-5 walking tours, 1 - historic amsterdam walking tour, 2 - jordaan district walk, 3 - canal belt guided walk, 4 - amsterdam food tour, 5 - tulip and spring flower walk, amsterdam in april: top-5 best kids activities, vondelpark exploration, nemo science museum, artis amsterdam zoo, pirate boat tour, amsterdamse bos adventure, weather in amsterdam in april, amsterdam in april: 3-day itinerary, day 1: iconic amsterdam.

• Morning : Start your Amsterdam adventure with a stroll around the historic Jordaan district . Wander through its picturesque streets and canals, and maybe grab a coffee at one of the cozy cafes.
• Afternoon : Visit the Anne Frank House to touch a piece of history. Then, head over to the Rijksmuseum to marvel at Dutch masterpieces. Remember to book your tickets in advance to skip the lines!
• Evening : Enjoy a leisurely canal dinner cruise . It's a magical way to see the city lights while savoring Dutch cuisine.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

• Morning : Explore the vibrant De Pijp neighborhood and the bustling Albert Cuyp Market . Indulge in some street food and pick up souvenirs.
• Afternoon : Time for a deep dive into art at the Van Gogh Museum and the modern Stedelijk Museum . They're right next to each other, making for an easy transition from one to the other.
• Evening : Unwind in Vondelpark , perhaps with a picnic if the weather allows. Then, explore the local dining scene in the area for a perfect end to the day.

Day 3: Off the Beaten Path

• Morning: Rent a bike and head to the Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest) for a morning surrounded by nature. Visit the goat farm, and if you're traveling with kids, they'll love the playgrounds.
• Afternoon: Take a short trip to the Zaanse Schans to see traditional Dutch windmills and crafts. It's a picturesque and educational experience, offering a glimpse into the Netherlands' past.
• Evening: For your last night, why not explore the Oud-West neighborhood? It's less touristy and full of hidden gems, from indie shops to international eateries.

What to wear for a walk around Amsterdam in April?

Top-5 tips to visit amsterdam in april.

• 1 Book in Advance April is a popular time in Amsterdam, not just for the tulips but also for events like King's Day. Accommodations, museum tickets, and even some restaurant reservations can get snatched up quickly. Plan ahead to ensure you don't miss out on any must-see attractions.
• 2 Embrace the Bicycle Culture There's no better way to experience Amsterdam like a local than by bike. Rent a bicycle and join the throngs of Amsterdammers on the city's well-designed bike paths. It's not only eco-friendly but also gives you the freedom to explore hidden gems at your own pace.
• 3 Stay Flexible with Weather-Dependent Plans Given the unpredictable nature of April weather, keep a mix of indoor and outdoor activities on your agenda. This way, you can switch things around based on the day's forecast, ensuring that neither rain nor shine slows you down.
• 4 Explore Beyond the City Center While the heart of Amsterdam is undeniably enchanting, the city's outskirts and nearby towns also offer unique experiences. Consider a day trip to the tulip fields in Lisse or the historic windmills at Zaanse Schans to see a different side of Dutch life and heritage.
• 5 Partake in Local Traditions April in Amsterdam is ripe with local traditions, from the tulip festivals to the all-out orange frenzy of King's Day. Joining in these celebrations not only enriches your travel experience but also brings you closer to the heart and soul of Dutch culture.

Home » Travel » Destinations » Visiting Amsterdam in Spring: 7 Bucket List Experiences

Visiting Amsterdam in Spring: 7 Bucket List Experiences

Summer is when most cities shine their brightest, but for Amsterdam the spring season takes the crown. After a dreary winter, Amsterdam comes alive with flowers in the parks, sunshine in the skies, and boats along the canals. Visiting Amsterdam in spring is an enchanting, colorful experience that belongs on every traveler’s bucket list.

All of the city’s top events, celebrations, and attractions are available in the springtime. Plus, during this season you’ll be welcomed by an explosion of radiant tulip fields, unique festivals, and one of the most vibrant and interesting Dutch celebrations: King’s Day.

With so many exciting things to do in Amsterdam in spring, it’s easy to get overwhelmed! This guide will help you make the most of your adventures in the city and enjoy the Dutch life to the fullest.

Spring weather in Amsterdam

During the spring months, the weather in Amsterdam undergoes a noticeable shift. While winter is full of rainy days that are cold and somewhat miserable, spring months bring cool weather and bright skies.

From around mid-March until the end of May, Amsterdam is full of clear blue skies, sun, and mild temperatures. Daytime temps range from a low of 10° / 50°F to around 20° / 68°F on a good day.

You may get a few days of rain in spring. However, this only makes the grass greener and the flowers bloom more, so it is quite a welcome sight.

Best month to visit Amsterdam

Although spring lasts for a few months, April is the ideal time to plan your visit. April in Amsterdam is when the tulips are in their best bloom, and it’s also the month with the most events.

While the crowds will be heavier than March or May, the flowers and festivals make it a great time to plan an Amsterdam itinerary .

What to do in Amsterdam in spring

Spend a day at the park.

Amsterdam is a city that’s luckily riddled with green spaces. On a nice spring day, these parks are full of locals and tourists sitting in the sun having a picnic and just enjoying time with good company.

If you’re hoping to spot tulips without leaving the city, head to Vondelpark. Located on the northern edge of the Museumkwartier, Vondelpark is a long green space filled with trees, ponds, walking paths, and of course, lots of spring tulip patches.

For a unique experience without the tourists, head east of the airport to Bloesempark. This charming park is part of the Amsterdam Forest and is filled with cherry blossom trees. Depending on the weather, you can expect to find clouds of pink blooms around mid-March.

Go to a street market

During the spring in Amsterdam, all the street markets become packed with vendors selling fresh flowers, all types of food, and little trinkets. There are so many interesting and different street markets in Amsterdam, and exploring a few of them is well worth it.

Albert Cupy market and Westerstraat street are year-long favorites. However, the floating Bloemenmarkt is a must see in spring. This historic flower market is the best place to buy tulip bulbs in Amsterdam or shop for garden-themed souvenirs.

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Party on King’s Day

One of April’s highlights is the amazing celebration of the King’s birthday. This event takes place on April 27th and is a full day affair that consumes the entire city. It’s one unique Netherlands festival that you don’t want to miss!

During King’s Day, everyone dresses in orange and goes onto the streets to drink, party, and enjoy the day off. The canals are flooded with boats and people celebrating on the water, and on the land it is truly unlike any other celebration on earth.

As you might imagine, people flock to Amsterdam for King’s Day, so prices during this time will be a bit inflated.

Visit the tulip fields

From the famous floating flower market to lush city gardens, there are plenty of places to find tulips in Amsterdam . Over 1 million tourists come to Amsterdam in the spring with the intent to view these tulip fields for themselves and bask in their beauty and wonder.

However, the best spots for tulip-peeping lie just a short ride away from the city.

Most people know about the Keukenhof Gardens of Lisse. But the town is home to several quintessential Netherlands tulip fields, including FAM Flower Farm. The best way to experience the Lisse tulip fields is by renting a bike and riding along the various marked paths, which will lead you past sprawling seas of flowers.

Buses run hourly from Schipol Airport to Lisse, and there are plenty of bike rental shops in town.

Just west of Lisse you’ll find Noordwijkerhout, home to Holland’s Flower Strip (Bollenstreek). Cyclists love to ride through this vast stretch of tulip fields as they travel between Haarlem and Leidan. However, it’s possible to visit part of the strip if you journey west from Lisse and then south along Leidsevaart.

Stroll around Keukenhof

Also located in Lisse, Keukenhof is one of the world’s largest gardens and the main reason people visit Amsterdam in spring. You may have seen photos online of the unique flower gardens in different shapes and designs that make Keukenhof whimsical.

Keukenhof is a short bus right away from Amsterdam, which makes it a great day trip from the city. However, the gardens are only open from mid-March to mid-May, so plan your visit accordingly.

Since this is one of the most popular springtime attractions, you must get tickets well in advance to ensure you get the timeslot you want. In general, afternoons are best avoided if you want a less crowded experience. Also, it’s strongly advised to avoid going during the Easter weekend, as this is the peak time for visiting Keukenhof.

Go on a day trip

With sunny days and flowers blooming all around the Netherlands, it’s the perfect season to take a day trip to one of the neighboring cities. There are dozens quaint towns and villages that are just waiting to be explored. And they’ll all have far fewer tourists than Amsterdam!

If you are looking for some day trip inspiration, check out this post .

Marvel at the windmills

The Netherlands is known for their authentic wooden windmills. Although you’ll find a few scattered around Amsterdam (like the De Gooyer Windmill), the country’s windmill capital is just a short 20-minute bus ride from the city!

Zaanse Schans has a bunch of green-colored windmills and other buildings and attractions to explore. You can walk around the flat greens, go inside the windmills, eat Dutch cheese, try the fresh chocolate, and even put on Dutch clogs.

When everything is coming alive and the skies are blue, there’s no better time to explore Amsterdam than spring.

Samantha Karen

Owner of Sam Sees World

Samantha is an Amsterdam resident and the founder of the travel bog Sam Sees World. She’s a millennial traveler on a mission to seek the new and unknown so she can document her experiences and inspire others to explore this wondrous world. Her objective is to provide valuable information on the best things to do, see, eat, and experience while traveling and getting some good Instagram photos along the way.

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What’s On in Amsterdam (April 2024)

Here is our insider guide to what’s on in Amsterdam, Netherlands during April 2024.

There’s normally lots going on in the city and whilst the weather can vary there should be a few good, sunny days. The month ends with the King’s Day celebrations…

Springtime in the Netherlands

Keukenhof Gardens – The world famous tulip and flower park is a must-visit and is now open for the 2024 spring season – running 21 Mar to 12 May 2024. See Keukenhof info here or book Keukenhof entry+shuttle bus from Amsterdam here

Museums, Exhibitions & Attractions in Amsterdam (April 2024)

Fabrique des Lumières – Immersive exhibitions of classical, modern and contemporary artists using cutting-edge technology with light projections and music. Current exhibition is Dutch Masters, From Vermeer to Van Gogh with works from renowned Dutch artists. Alongside there is a short program Mondriaan, An Abundance of Colour . Runs 22 Mar to 5 Jul 2024. Book Fabrique des Lumières tickets here

Our House – A museum of electronic music culture in the centre of Amsterdam. Take a 75 minute digital storytelling journey and explore the evolution of dance music via interactive installations. Includes the world’s largest sequencer. Book Our House tickets here

Da Vinci Genius – A new immersive art experience showcasing the works of Leonardo Da Vinci including the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper. Uses interactive technology and floor-to-ceiling projections. Runs 30 Nov 2023 to 30 Aug 2024. Book Da Vinci Genius tickets here

STRAAT – A unique experience. The world’s biggest street art and graffiti museum in a 8,000 square metres warehouse at NDSM wharf and showcasing some 180 artworks, all made on-site. Book STRAAT tickets here

Amaze Amsterdam – An immersive audio-visual experience with 7 stages which varies from intense, interactive to relaxing. Located in an old industrial nightclub in Amsterdam’s West Port district. Book Amaze Amsterdam tickets here

Stedelijk – Amsterdam’s main modern and contemporary art museum. Marina Abramović , first major solo exhibition in the Netherlands of the internationally acclaimed, controversial artist. Runs 16 Mar to 14 Jul 2024. Book Stedelijk tickets here

Nxt Museum – The first “new media art” museum in the Netherlands which has large-scale, multi-sensory immersive exhibitions. Random International , exhibition of works from the postdigital art group exploring the impact of technological development on the human condition. Runs 27 Sep 2023 to 30 Jun 2024. Book Nxt Museum tickets here

Madame Tussauds Amsterdam – Get your celebrity fill by visiting the ever-popular wax work museum on Dam Square. Book Madame Tussauds Amsterdam tickets here

Amsterdam Dungeon – Interactive show featuring excellent actors and audience participation. Takes you through dark dungeon-themed rooms from Amsterdam’s murky past – scary but with a comic element. Book Amsterdam Dungeon tickets here

Rijksmuseum – The Rijksmuseum’s rich collection (including Rembrandt’s Night Watch) is a must-see in Amsterdam. Frans Hals , major retrospective exhibition of the renowned 17th century painter featuring some 50 of his finest works. Runs 16 Feb to 9 Jun 2024. Book Rijksmuseum tickets here

Van Gogh Museum – Popular museum with the world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh paintings. Matthew Wong / Vincent van Gogh: Painting as a Last Resort , exhibition of the late Chinese-Canadian artist who had much in common with Van Gogh. Runs 1 Mar to 1 Sep 2024. Book Van Gogh Museum tickets here

De Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) – World Press Photo Exhibition 2024 , annual exhibition of the current affairs photography contest. Runs 19 Apr to 14 Jul 2024. Book Nieuwe Kerk tickets here

MOCO Museum – The popular modern and contemporary art museum on Museumplein with many works by Banksy. Robbie Williams: Pride and Self-Prejudice , exhibition from the UK singer-songwriter of artworks on mental health. Runs 8 Mar to 8 Jul 2024. Book MOCO Museum tickets here

Rembrandt House – Visit the house where Rembrandt lived and worked. Directed by Rembrandt , exhibition showcasing the close connection between Rembrandt’s art and Amsterdam’s theatre scene. Runs 2 Mar to 26 May 2024. Book Rembrandt House tickets here

Rembrandt’s Amsterdam Experience – A multimedia art experience about the life of the famous painter and reconstruction of Rembrandt’s studio on Rozengracht. Book Rembrandt’s Amsterdam Experience tickets here  

H’ART Museum – The renamed former Hermitage Museum presents its inaugural exhibition Julius Caesar, I came, I saw, I met my doom – about the life of the iconic Roman general. Runs 16 Sep 2023 to 20 May 2024. Book H’ART Museum tickets here

Museum of the Mind (Outsider Art) – Who Cares? A tribute to victims and care heroes during WWII – in the fields of psychiatry and mental health care. Exhibition on view within the H’ART Museum, runs until 1 Dec 2024.

The Upside Down Museum Amsterdam – Large interactive museum and Instagram experience which includes 25 mind-bending rooms. Located near RAI Amsterdam. Book Upside Down Museum tickets here

WONDR Experience – A fun and immersive pop-up experience in Amsterdam for both adults and children alike. Book WONDR tickets here

Wereldmuseum Amsterdam – Ethnographic museum (formerly Tropenmuseum) featuring fascinating exhibitions on non-Western cultures. Book Wereldmuseum Amsterdam tickets here

Scheepvaartmuseum – Food For Thought , exhibition taking a close look at world food production through the lens of photographer and film maker Kadir van Lohuizen. Extended run until 5 Jan 2025. Book Scheepvaartmuseum tickets here

Fashion For Good Museum –  What Goes Around Comes Around , final exhibition from the museum about fashion innovation and circularity. Runs until 5 Jun 2024, the museum will permanently close and become a co-working space. Book Fashion For Good tickets here

EYE Filmmuseum –  Paravel & Castaing-Taylor – Cosmic Realism , retrospective exhibition featuring the anthropological works of Véréna Paravel and Lucien Castaing-Taylor. Runs 20 Jan to 20 May 2024. Book EYE Film Museum tickets here

Royal Palace – Visit the grand Royal Palace on Dam Square including the impressive Citizen’s Hall. Book Royal Palace tickets here

FOAM Photography Museum – Felipe Romero Beltrán Dialect , exhibition following the lives of a group of young Moroccan men in Spain. Runs 26 Jan to 1 May 2024. Book FOAM tickets here

Huis Marseille – Lisa Oppenheim Spolia , solo presentation from the American artist; Deborah Turbeville Photocollage , major retrospective of the late American artist. Both running 16 Mar to 16 Jun 2024.

Stadsarchief – Déjà Vu , photo exhibition at the City Archives featuring local press photographer Erik Klein Wolterink. It shows the changing face of Amsterdam. Runs 26 Apr to 29 Sep 2024. Free entry

Grachtenmuseum (Museum of The Canals) – Chad in Amsterdam , exhibition of American writer-photographer Chad Bilyeu who moved to Amsterdam and makes his own comic book series. Runs 18 Apr to 30 Jun 2024. Book Museum of the Canals tickets here

Allard Pierson Museum – Face to Face: The People Behind Mummy Portraits , exhibition about ancient Egyptian mummy portraits. Runs 6 Oct 2023 to 20 May 2024. Book Allard Pierson tickets here

NEMO Studio – Living Looonger , exhibition on the future of ageing and the human life span. Runs 19 Jan to 30 Nov 2024. Book NEMO tickets here

Jewish Museum – Charlotte Salomon in Close Up , exhibition exploring how film influenced the Charlotte Salomon’s world famous life’s work, Life? or Theater? Runs 19 Apr to 29 Sep 2024. Book Jewish Cultural Quarter tickets here

Van Loon Museum – Home and the World , exhibition exploring the intricate connections between colonialism and nationalism. Runs 5 Apr to 7 Jul 2024.

Van Eesteren Museum – Women of the AUP , exhibition looking at the contribution made by women architects to Amsterdam’s public works department. Runs 8 Mar to 6 Jun 2024.

Body Worlds – Display of human body plastinate specimens at the permanent venue on Damrak. The exhibition focuses on happiness. Book Body Worlds tickets here

ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo – One of the city’s premier visitor attractions – a magnificent zoo set in a large park in the picturesque Plantage area of the city. Book Artis Zoo tickets here

ARTIS Groote Museum – The fascinating new Groote Museum allows you to explore your place in the living world with beautifully presented installations and exhibits. Book Groote Museum tickets here

ARTIS Micropia – The world’s only museum dedicated to microbes and micro-organisms. Book Micropia tickets here

House of Bols – The Cocktail & Genever Experience about the Lucas Bols brand, which has been making liqueurs in Amsterdam since 1575. Book House of Bols tickets here

Framer Framed – The One-Straw Revolution , exhibition on alternative ecology, exploring sustainable futures through artistic practices. Runs 11 Feb to 19 May 2024. Free entry

ARCAM – Urban Sky Lab – Designing for drones in the city , exhibition about the future of drone use in Amsterdam. Runs 29 Mar to 30 Jun 2024.

COBRA (Amstelveen) –  Cobra 75: A Cry for Freedom! Exhibition celebrating 75 years of the Cobra art movement. Runs 20 Oct 2023 to 12 May 2024. Anton Corbijn – MOØDe , exhibition from the Dutch photographer, exploring the crossover between photography and the world of fashion – includes lots of celebrity photos. Runs 22 Dec 2023 to 20 May 2024.

Rijksmuseum Schiphol – Amsterdam airport hosts a small selection of works from the Rijksmuseum collection. The museum is located on Holland Boulevard (between Lounges 2 and 3 in non-Schengen departures) and is open 24 hours a day to passengers. Free entry

Amsterdam City Passes

These all inclusive passes may save you money on a well planned Amsterdam itinerary.

Sport in Amsterdam and Netherlands (April 2024)

Football: Ajax home fixtures at Johan Cruijff ArenA Amsterdam: Ajax vs Go Ahead Eagles 4 Apr 2024 (2100) Ajax vs FC Twente 14 Apr 2024 (1645) Ajax vs Excelsior 28 Apr 2024 (1430)

It is possible to take a classic stadium tour of the Johan Cruijff Arena in Amsterdam. Book Johan Cruijff Arena Tour tickets here

Athletics/Running: NN Rotterdam Marathon – This big marathon event in the Netherlands normally attracts over 20,000 competitors including a field of world-class athletes. The 43rd edition is scheduled for 14 Apr 2024.

Cruijff Legacy 14K – Charitable fun run event over 5km and 14km around Amsterdam Zuidoost to raise money for the Johan Cruijff Foundation. 7 Apr 2024 at the Johan Cruijff ArenA in Amsterdam.

Darts: Premier League – The invitational Premier League of darts event is expected to return to the Netherlands on 18 Apr 2024 at Ahoy Rotterdam.

Korfball: League Finals – Ball sport (kind of netball-basketball cross) invented in the Netherlands. League finals day will be on 13 Apr 2024 at Ahoy Rotterdam.

See the full annual sport calendar for Amsterdam

Festivals in Amsterdam (April 2024)

Tulp Festival – This festivals brings displays of tulips across the entire city during the month of April 2024.

Amsterdam Coffee Festival – A festival event for coffee lovers and industry professionals featuring artisan coffee, gourmet food stalls, barista demonstrations, live music and art exhibitions. Runs 4-6 Apr 2024 at Westergas, Amsterdam.

Amsterdam Wine Festival – Wine-themed event offering over 300 types of wines, workshops, tastings and live music. Runs 18-21 Apr 2024 at Westergas Amsterdam.

Kingsland Festival – One day dance events at RAI in Amsterdam and Zuiderpark in Rotterdam. These are the largest King’s Day festival events in the Netherlands. Runs on 27 Apr 2024. Book Kingsland Festival Amsterdam tickets (or Rotterdam tickets here )

Kaboom Animation Festival – Cutting-edge films from experimental art-house to colorful stories for families and kids. To be held in various cinemas in Amsterdam and Utrecht. Runs 5-14 Apr 2024.

Check out our complete festival calendar for Amsterdam

Fairs & Expos in Amsterdam (April 2024)

International Amsterdam Motor Show – The biggest motor show in the Netherlands to be held at RAI Amsterdam featuring 50,000m² of cars. Runs 28 Mar to 1 Apr 2024.

IAMExpat Fair 2024 – One-day event connecting the expat community with various stands, workshops and presentations. 13 Apr 2024 (1000-1700) at Westergas Amsterdam.

Comedy & Shows in Amsterdam (April 2024)

Boom Chicago – Comedy and improv shows in English playing regularly at Rozentheater on Rozengracht. Book a Boom Chicago show here

Amsterdam Magic Show – Monthly magic and comedy show with international performers. At Boom Chicago’s Rozentheater, Rozengracht in Amsterdam. 4 Apr 2024 (1930).

Morgan Jay – The American musician-comedian plays Boom Chicago Amsterdam on 10 Apr 2024 and Comedy Cafe Amsterdam on 14/15 Apr 2024.

Classical Concerts & Theatre in Amsterdam (April 2024)

Internationaal Theater Amsterdam (ITA) – Amsterdam’s renowned theatre company performs shows in Dutch which have live English surtitles above the stage – for Thursday night shows at the Stadsschouwburg theatre.

Candlelight Concert – Atmospheric evening concert at the Portuguese Synagogue in Amsterdam featuring the Yuri Honing Acoustic Quartet. Runs 18 Apr 2024 (1930-2030).

Other Events in Amsterdam and Netherlands

Amsterdam Dinner Cruise – 120 minute evening cruise around Amsterdam’s canals with a 3 course meal and drinks. Runs every Wed/Thu/Fri/Sat (1930) in April. Check Dinner Cruise availability here

Easter 2024 – Public holiday in the Netherlands on 1 Apr (Easter Monday).

De Balie – The multimedia venue near Leidseplein in Amsterdam hosts regular events about current affairs, politics and culture.

Market Events in Amsterdam

Pure Markt – Regular market event with high quality produce, music, food stalls and other activities. 7 Apr 2024 (1100-1800) at Amsterdamse Bos, 14 Apr 2024 (1100-1800) at Amstelpark and 28 Apr 2024 (1100-1800) at Park Frankendael. Free entry

Sunday Market – Market events with a mix of fashion, design, arts, food and kids stuff. 7 Apr 2024 (1200-1800) at Westergas and 14 Apr 2024 (1100-1700) at De Hallen. Free entry

Museum Market – Museumplein hosts this Sunday market with arts and crafts, food and music. 21 Apr 2024 (1000-1800). Free entry

IJ-Hallen – Large weekend flea market event held at NDSM-wharf in north Amsterdam with 750 outdoor stands. 6-7 Apr 2024 (0900-1630).

The Maker Market – Weekend market features creative handmade products including jewelry, art and live music. Runs in the covered passage of De Hallen Amsterdam on 20 Apr 2024 (1100-1700) and 21 Apr 2024 (1200-1700). Free entry

Rock & Pop Concerts in Amsterdam

Dave Matthews Band – 2 Apr, AFAS Live Loreena McKennitt – 2 Apr, Carré UB40 – 2 Apr, Ziggo Dome Dan Owen – 3 Apr, Q-Factory Simple Minds – 6 Apr, Ziggo Dome Slash – 9 Apr, Ziggo Dome Joe Bonamassa – 12 Apr, AFAS Live Boyz II Men – 16 Apr, AFAS Live Ali Gatie – 17 Apr, Melkweg The Blaze – 17 Apr, AFAS Live Keane – 19 Apr, AFAS Live Thirty Seconds to Mars – 25 Apr, Ziggo Dome Yard Act + Murkage Dave – 25 Apr, Paradiso Tate McRae – 29 Apr, AFAS Live

King’s Day (Koningsdag) in Amsterdam 2024

King’s Day 2024 – Koningsdag 2024 is the Dutch national holiday to be held on Saturday 27 April 2024 . Following the abdication of Queen Beatrix in 2013 and the inauguration of King Willem-Alexander, the former Queen’s Day celebration has become King’s Day. The date was moved from 30 April, the birthday of the former Queen Juliana to the 27 April, birthday of the current King.

King’s Day is one of the world’s greatest open-air parties – an event everyone should try and experience at least once in their life! Amsterdam goes completely orange crazy with revellers on the streets, in parks and afloat the water. Up to 800,000 visitors used to cram into the centre temporarily doubling the city’s population.

Celebrations actually start the evening before on Friday 26 April 2024 – King’s Night (Koningsnacht) – and then continue all of the next day. On King’s Day morning each year the Dutch Royal family (House of Orange-Nassau) do a walkabout visit around a chosen town in the Netherlands which is shown live on state television – in 2024 this is in Emmen.

One of the main highlights of King’s Day in Amsterdam is the citywide free market (vrijmarkt) . This is where people set up stalls and sell clothes, food, drinks and just about anything else – from plants, old electronics, vintage items, bric-a-brac and much old tat. Prices are negotiable which is all part of the fun.

Many Amsterdam residents set up shop directly outside their own houses – days before they mark their territory with tape (“ bezet ” meaning “occupied”). There are also professional traders and opportunists who take advantage of the tax-free trading.

The free market in Amsterdam officially starts from 0600 on King’s Day and goes on all day until 2000. Bargain hunters should get there early.

Note that the city of Utrecht (30 minutes south of Amsterdam by train) starts its free market on King’s Night (26 April) from 1800 – with an authentic and friendly atmosphere, it’s well worth a visit.

For fun and games, children’s clothes, toys and young performers head to the main children’s King’s Day market at Vondelpark (Amsterdam’s main park) which opens at 0900. Other children’s markets can be found (amongst others) at NDSM-wharf, Artisplein, Amstelveld, Bellamyplein, Frederiksplein, Leliegracht,  Rembrandtplein, Sarphatipark and Westerpark.

On King’s Day the festivities continue throughout Amsterdam with the free market, food/drink stalls, concert stages, impromptu street entertainers, party boats and all sorts of weird and wonderful fun.

There are large dance parties planned which are held outside of the centre. These are: Kingsland Festival (RAI Amsterdam), Cartel Kingsday (Westerunie), Loveland van Oranje (Meerpark) and Oranjebloesem (Olympic Stadium). Entry is only for ticket holders, no at-the-door sales.

The best way of getting around Amsterdam on King’s Day is on foot – temporary signposts can guide you to areas of interest.

GVB public transport – Ferries, metro and some buses will operate on King’s day with a standard Saturday timetable. You do require a ticket as normal! Trams run a Saturday timetable with some lines running alternative routes and avoiding the inner centre. Metro station RAI will be closed.

Train services run on a special King’s Day timetable so double check with NS Dutch Railways if planning travel or going to the airport.

If coming to Amsterdam from other parts of the Netherlands by train it is preferable to arrive at Amsterdam Zuid or Amsterdam Amstel and walk in.

Expect Amsterdam stations to be extremely busy with up to a quarter of a million people arriving by train. Amsterdam RAI and Science Park will be closed.

Supermarkets do open on King’s Day though hours can be restricted in some branches. Most shops in the city centre will remain closed.

Museums which are open on King’s Day include the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk, STRAAT, MOCO Museum and Van Gogh Museum. Note that most other museums including FOAM, Maritime Museum, NEMO, Rembrandt House and Wereldmuseum Amsterdam are closed.

Be aware that the city centre can get extremely crowded in some places – expect large crowds to gather on Dam Square and Museumplein. Watch out for pickpockets and be vigilant to new perceived security threats.

King’s Day events are observed all over the Netherlands including Arnhem, Den Haag, Eindhoven, Groningen, Haarlem, Rotterdam and Utrecht.

Amsterdam Transport Passes

The following multi-day transport tickets can help you get to the various events in and around Amsterdam:

The AmsterdamTips.com What’s On in Amsterdam has been running monthly since 2008. Disclaimer: While we make every effort to keep this listing up-to-date, events can always be cancelled or re-scheduled at short notice. Please double-check with the event organisers.

Links on AmsterdamTips.com may pay us an affiliate commission.

>>> What’s On in Amsterdam (May 2024)

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Sport Calendar in Amsterdam and the Netherlands

What’s On in Amsterdam (July 2024)

What’s On in Amsterdam (May 2024)

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Going Dutch: Why April is the best time to visit Amsterdam

by Jason Brasier | 18 Apr 2023

THE ICONIC TULIP

This humble flower is as synonymous with the Netherlands as windmills and clogs, and April is when you can find them in full bloom. If you’re wondering when to go to Amsterdam, April’s technicolored fields of gorgeous flowers may sway your opinion. People from all over the world flock to see the vistas of vibrant tulips stretching as far as the eye can see. At the heart of this marvel is Bollenstreek , the flower bulb region near Amsterdam that boasts the best displays of Tulips, as well as several more floral delights.

You may also like: Where to go to find Europe’s Best Cherry Blossom Displays

WHERE TO FIND TULIPS

Just outside Amsterdam, a must-visit will be the town of Lisse, where you’ll find the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens . Here, seven million blooming flowers paint the landscape with their floral brush strokes, creating one of the most charming sights one could hope to see.

When visiting, try use the Flower Map to see which flowers are in bloom in the Bollenstreek, helping you plan scenic bicycle routes and navigate the gorgeous countryside at your own leisure.

KING’S DAY

COMFORTABLE WEATHER TO TAKE IN THE TULIPS

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• What to do in Amsterdam in April 2024
• Netherlands

Why you should visit Amsterdam in April

Amsterdam weather in april, amsterdam events in april.

• Amsterdam's top places to visit in April

Flights, tours, and hotels in Amsterdam

Video guide.

April marks the beginning of spring in Amsterdam , making it an excellent time to visit. The city comes alive with colorful blooms and blossoms, creating a picturesque and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy pleasant temperatures perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s charming neighborhoods and parks.

In April, Amsterdam experiences mild and pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging between 8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F). While occasional showers are possible, the city is also known for its sunny days during this time, providing ideal conditions for outdoor adventures and sightseeing.

King’s Day

King’s Day, or Koningsdag, is one of the most anticipated events in Amsterdam . Celebrated on the 27th of April, the entire city transforms into a massive street party with colorful flea markets, live music, and a joyful atmosphere. Locals and visitors alike dress in orange to honor the Dutch royal family.

Tulp Festival

The Tulp Festival takes place throughout April, showcasing Amsterdam adorned with thousands of blooming tulips. This city-wide event features tulip displays in public spaces, parks, and gardens, offering visitors the chance to revel in the beauty of these iconic flowers.

National Museum Week

During National Museum Week, various museums in Amsterdam participate by offering special exhibitions, guided tours, and interactive activities. This cultural event provides an opportunity to delve into the rich artistic and historical heritage of the city’s renowned museums.

Amsterdam Coffee Festival

Coffee enthusiasts can rejoice in April with the Amsterdam Coffee Festival, a gathering of coffee roasters, baristas, and coffee lovers. This event allows visitors to savor specialty coffees, attend workshops, and witness exciting coffee-making competitions.

Amsterdam’s top places to visit in April

Keukenhof gardens.

The Keukenhof Gardens, located just outside Amsterdam , is a floral paradise in April. With over seven million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in bloom, it’s a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking breathtaking displays of color and fragrance.

Vondelpark, Amsterdam ‘s most famous park, is a delightful destination in April. The park bursts to life with blooming flowers and budding trees, providing a serene setting for picnics, leisurely walks, and outdoor recreational activities.

Amsterdam Canal Belt

Exploring the Amsterdam Canal Belt in April offers a unique perspective of the city’s historic architecture and scenic waterways. The charming canal-side cafes, vibrant houseboats, and blossoming trees create a postcard-worthy ambiance perfect for leisurely strolls.

Rijksmuseum Gardens

The Rijksmuseum Gardens feature a stunning array of seasonal flora in April. Visitors can wander through the landscaped gardens surrounding the museum, admiring vibrant tulip displays and sculptures while taking in the peaceful ambiance of this cultural oasis.

Jordaan Neighborhood

The Jordaan neighborhood exudes charm in April, with its narrow streets lined with blooming trees and cozy cafes. This picturesque area is perfect for leisurely explorations, boutique shopping, and experiencing the local cafe culture.

Artis Royal Zoo

Artis Royal Zoo is an idyllic escape in April, offering the chance to see the awakening of nature as animals and botanical gardens come to life. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks while observing the vibrant flora and fauna, making it an ideal family-friendly attraction.

It’s advisable to book tickets in advance for popular attractions and events to secure your spot.

April can be a busy month for tourism in Amsterdam, so expect larger crowds at popular sites and plan accordingly.

Tours in Amsterdam

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Amsterdam   Travel Guide

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Best Times To Visit Amsterdam

The best time to visit Amsterdam is between April and May or September and November – right before or directly after the summertime high tourist season. You'll contend with fewer tourists, you'll enjoy somewhat mild temperatures (the city's weather is notoriously finicky), and you'll also experience Amsterdam as the locals do – at its laid-back best. But if it's a deal you're after – and you don't mind temperatures in the 30 to 40-degree range – you should plan a winter vacation; you'll find lower hotel rates and depleted crowds at the city's top sites. No matter what time of year you plan to visit, you'll find the city offers a jampacked social calendar (it hosts more than 300 festivals a year).

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• 15 Things to Do in Amsterdam in April
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Activities To Do In Amsterdam In April

Here is a list of things to do in amsterdam in april:, quick navigation.

Heineken Experience Tickets, Amsterdam

Activity Location: Stadhouderskade 78, 1072 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands

Activity Timings: 10:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Activity Duration: 1 Hour 30 Minutes (Approx.)

About Heineken Experience, Amsterdam:

Step into a world of beer aficionados' dreams at the Heineken Experience in Amsterdam. This immersive journey takes you through the captivating history and brewing traditions of the legendary Heineken beer. Get ready to be amazed as you explore the transformed brewery, with interactive exhibits that bring the brewing process to life. Experience the art of pouring the perfect pint and savor the delicious taste of freshly brewed Heineken. Explore the fascinating world of Heineken advertisements and unleash your creativity at the interactive photo booths. Book your Heineken Experience tickets and go on a journey that will delight your senses and quench your thirst for knowledge.

Royal Palace of Amsterdam

Amsterdam Red Light Area

Don't Miss The King's Day Festival

Stroll The Rijksmuseum

Visit Anne Frank House

Cruising At Amsterdam Canal

Amsterdam Hop On Hop Off Bus & Boat Tour

Operational Timings:

• Bus- 9:30 AM - 5:15 PM
• Frequency : Every 20 minutes
• Boat- 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Frequency: Every 30 minutes

Duration: Duration depends on your itinerary.

About the Hop On Hop Off Amsterdam Boat and Bus Pass:

Explore the prominent landmarks of Amsterdam by opting for this package. Take a tour of this beautiful city at your own pace by hopping on and off a boat and bus. An opportunity for you to customize this whole trip according to your convenience and visit only those attractions that you want to explore.

Visit Van Gogh Museum

Floating Flower Market

Artis Royal Zoo

Enjoy At Meibockfestival

Experience The Tulip Festival

National Museum Week

Fun at awakenings easter festival, people also ask about amsterdam, which are the best things to do in amsterdam.

1. Explore the museums & majestic buildings:  One of the best activities is visiting the intriguing museums and historical buildings in the city. Try exploring museums like Van Gogh Museum and Stedelijk Museum that showcase art and paintings by well known painters. 2. Relish local beer at a historic brewery:  One of the most recommended Amsterdam things to do in April is to taste the local beer that is famous all over the place for its taste and quality. Make sure to visit a historic brewery like the Brouwerij’tIJ which offers an open terrace where you can sit and relish some good local beer. 3. Explore the independent shopping streets:  For all shopaholics, one of the most sought-after Amsterdam things to do in April is exploring and shopping at the independent shopping streets of the city like The Nine streets, De Hallen and many more. Here, you will find a huge collection of designer dresses, makeup products, fashion accessories, and much more. 4. Visit the Anne Frank House:  To explore more about the story of the famous girl Anne Frank and other historical incidents related to her, you can definitely pay a visit to the Anne Frank House. This place will offer a lot of information about Anne Frank, Nazis rule in Germany, World war 2 and many exciting things. 5. Spend time in the Central Park of Amsterdam:  If you are seeking leisure, one of the best activities to do in Amsterdam in April for you is to spend time in the Central Park of Amsterdam. Here, you can enjoy picnicking, take cycle rides, go swimming, or simply stroll in the green valleys surrounded with pretty flowers. You can taste the famous dutch pancakes or try out the famous goat cheese in the restaurants present in the goat farms of this place.

Which are the best things to do in Amsterdam in April?

1. Explore the City Centre:  Amsterdam has a lot of activities to do in Amsterdam in April and visiting the City Centre is a must. You can visit some well renowned places, go to watch some movies or treat yourself with some shopping treats. 2. Visit a World-Class Museum:  Amserdam has numerous world class museums like Van Gogh museum, Madame Tussauds, Amsterdam Museum and many more. You will be surprised by the classic art, wax statues of famous personalities and many other amusing things these places have in store for you. 3. Explore the Free Amsterdam Markets:  The best place for you to explore is the Free Amsterdam Markets which are quite famous for their versatility. They are mostly open all year round and have a collection of antiques, flowers, books and everything else that you want to reach out for. 4. Travel Like a Local by Bike:  To try out the local living lifestyle of people in Amsterdam try to travel at least a day by bicycle through which you can explore small lanes and experience what being a local feels like. It will be quite an interesting way to explore the city.

How many days are enough in Amsterdam?

Is amsterdam cheap to visit, is it cold in amsterdam in april, where can i buy amsterdam attraction tickets, which are the best amsterdam cruise experiences that i can book from thrillophilia, which are the best day tours from amsterdam that i can book from thrillophilia.

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Amsterdam top attractions.

Designed by the Dutch architect Wim Quist, the Cobra Museum of Modern Art is a world of fundamental artwork collection from the artists belonging to the avant-garde Cobra art movement, like Asger Jorn, Constant, Corneille, Karel Appel, and Pierre Alechinsky. In our Europe holiday packages the museum displays permanent and several other temporary exhibitions of modern art, the collection of which is regularly supplemented with own purchases, donations, and long-term loans. Some of the best exhibitions held at the Cobra Museum of Modern Art are Cobra and North Africa, Visions from Ukraine, Corneille 100, and Cosmogony.Besides this, the Cobra Museum hosts different kinds of activities for children so they can learn about the Cobra Movement through interactive and engaging sessions. Some of the best activities offered by the Cobra Museum of Modern Art are Atelier CoBrA, CoBrA Workshop for Adults, Guided Tours, BSO Special: Cobra Drawing Tour, and Birthday Party at Atelier CoBrA. The children can participate in the BSO Special: Cobra Drawing Tour or celebrate their birthday parties at Atelier Cobra.Also Checkout: Amsterdam Nightlife

Constructed in 1864, the Tropenmuseum, or the Tropical Museum is one of the most beautiful museum buildings in the Netherlands that houses a vast collection of about 175000 objects representing world cultures. Located in the city center of Amsterdam in Oosterpark, this museum gives insight into the everyday life and diverse cultures of people from across the globe.When you enter the museum, you will come across an imposing central Light Hall that provides a wide glimpse of the offerings of the museum. The exhibits of the museum include eight permanent exhibitions and several other temporary exhibitions that narrate a different human story. By booking our Europe holiday packages these stories are attributed to universal human themes, like celebrating, decorating, fighting, mourning, or praying. Each of the exhibits of the museum will make you feel curious about the enormous cultural diversity in the world. The museum teaches you the fact that no matter what the difference is, we are all human beings. Besides exhibitions, the Tropenmuseum also conducts tours and workshops to provide an interactive experience for visitors.Not only adults but kids can also spend a wonderful time in the Tropenmuseum Junior, which is the oldest children’s museum in the Netherlands. This part of the museum lets children see, touch, experience, and participate to stimulate an open view of the world.Also Checkout: Amsterdam Nightlife

The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is home to a vast collection of Vincent Van Gogh’s artworks in the world that is a retreat to the eyes of art lovers. This museum includes the personal effects of the artist, along with his 200 paintings and 500 drawings. In our Europe holiday packages you will also find contemporaries, like Bernard-Van Gogh’s renowned works, ‘The Potato Eaters’ and ‘Wheatfield with Crows’. Gaugin, Monet, Toulouse-Lautrec. Visitors can learn about the driving ideas and ambitions of the artist through the letters and drawings while from the paintings one can know about the conjecture of his life.The Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam portrays the fundamental events in Van Gogh’s life and stories that led to the inspiration and success of the Van Gogh Museum. You can also walk through the galleries to behold the sight of some of the most notable artworks of Vincent Van Gogh, like The Almond Blossom, The Bedroom Sunflowers, The Potato Eaters, and much more. Being displayed since 2014, visitors can also have a look at the temporary exhibitions that took inspiration from the works of Van Gogh, including the landscapes of Vincent Van Gogh and the Impressionists named the Compressed Landscapes by Jan Robert Leegte.Also Checkout: Museums in Amsterdam

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Amsterdam’s Latest Effort to Fight Excessive Tourism: No New Hotels

The city wants no more than 20 million hotel stays annually. The measure is one of multiple efforts to control the flow of visitors.

By Claire Moses

Amsterdam has been searching for any way to rein in the number of tourists that visit the city every year.

In March of last year, the city launched an ad campaign specifically targeted at British men between 18 and 35, urging them to “stay away.”

In July, the Dutch capital announced it would bar cruise ships from docking in the city center .

The city has also long tried to control the crowds in its red-light district, where rowdy groups of tourists often cause disruptions to local residents. It has added stricter rules about smoking marijuana . It has banned new tourist shops. And still, the people keep coming.

Now, the city — which is as well known for its canals and 17th century art as for its legal sex industry and easy access to marijuana — has taken one more step to further restrict the explosive growth of tourists: It is banning hotels from being built.

“Amsterdam is saying ‘no’ to new hotels,” the City Council said in a statement. “We want to make and keep the city livable for residents and visitors,” it added.

Amsterdam, which added that it was seeking to keep hotel stays by tourists to under 20 million per year, saw its highest number of visitors before the pandemic in 2019, when there were 25.2 million hotel stays, according to the city’s data.

Last year, that number was exceeded by tourists staying over in Amsterdam, not including stays in short-term rentals like Airbnbs and cruise ships. And the measure also does not take into account daily visitors who do not stay the night.

The ban on new hotels, while sending a clear message about the city’s aim to reduce the number of visitors, is also largely symbolic. The city’s policy on hotel construction was already strict, and there had been only three proposals since 2017 that met Amsterdam’s requirements, according to the city. New hotels that had been approved or were in development — 26 in total — would be allowed to proceed for now.

Under the new rules, a new hotel can only open if another one closes. It also isn’t allowed to add more rooms than were available, according to the city.

“The effect won’t be very big,” said Ko Koens, a professor of new urban tourism at Inholland University in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. He also said that in the long run, the capping of hotels could make them more expensive to stay at.

While this ban alone would not make a huge dent in the number of visitors to the city, Mr. Koens said, taken together with other initiatives it could make Amsterdam a less appealing place to visit. But, he said, “For now, visitors don’t seem to mind.”

In total, Amsterdam has nearly 42,000 hotel rooms that can accommodate more than 92,000 people, according to Statistics Netherlands, a governmental institution that compiles data about the country. (In total, the Netherlands has more than 150,000 hotel rooms.)

Amsterdam’s initiatives to rein in tourism have been largely focused on its crowded city center. But as long as Amsterdam’s airport, Schiphol, continues to be a major European hub, it won’t be easy to keep visitors away from the city.

“There are no simple solutions,” Mr. Koens said. “It’s super complex.”

Amsterdam also announced this week it would start cutting the number of river cruises allowed to dock in its waters. In 2023, that number was 2,125. In 2028, the city wants it to be halved, with no more than 1,150. The city predicts that effort could reduce the number of visitors that come into town by 271,000. This proposal, the city said, is to improve the quality of life for residents and to reduce emissions and crowds.

“The balance in the city needs to improve,” Hester van Buren, a deputy mayor who focuses on the city’s port, said in a statement.

Amsterdam isn’t the only major European destination that has been struggling to get a grip on the growing number of tourists. Venice announced it would charge day-tripping visitors 5 euros ($5.33) to enter the iconic streets of its city center on weekends and some holidays from April 25 through mid-July, its busiest season.

Amsterdam, currently in a busy touristic time because of its famous blooming tulips, has not announced a similar measure, but it is likely there will be more efforts and experiments designed to limit visitors — like the hotel ban.

“Without such a stop, Amsterdam’s center would become one big hotel,” Mr. Koens said. “You don’t want that either.”

Claire Moses is a Times reporter in London, focused on coverage of breaking and trending news. More about Claire Moses

Amsterdam bans new hotels and puts limit on overnight tourists

Amsterdam continues to crack down on overtourism by prohibiting the development of new hotels and limiting the number of travelers allowed to stay overnight in the city. 

“We want to make and keep the city livable for residents and visitors,” the Netherlands city said in an announcement last week. 

Amsterdam has had strict policies for new hotels since 2017, but the new initiative seeks to “ensure that the number of hotel stays does not increase even further,” according to the announcement.

Under the new regulation, a new hotel may only be built “under certain conditions, if a hotel closes elsewhere,” the city said. This way, the number of accomodations in the city will stay stagnant. The hotel must also “be better,” like being more sustainable. 

Traveling to Europe soon? Barcelona is another popular European city increasing its tourist tax to battle overtourism

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Twenty-six previously approved hotel projects will proceed with their construction as planned, according to the announcement. New hotels are being encouraged to be built outside the city center. 

Along with the hotel ban, the city is also limiting the number of overnight stays to 20 million for the year. 

The limit comes after residents complained of the effects of the high number of tourists. In 2023, the city experienced 20,665,000 overnight stays in hotels alone, not reflecting holiday rentals, bed and breakfasts and cruise nights. 

The regulation is the latest in a string of moves by the popular European destination to address rowdy visitors and mass tourism. This year, the city’s tourist tax increased from 7% to 12.5% – the highest in Europe. The city also banned guided tours through its famous Red Light District in 2019.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

Amsterdam blocks construction of new hotels to fight overtourism

Dutch officials are trying to limit the number of tourists flooding amsterdam.

In another attempt to crack down on overtourism, officials in Amsterdam are banning the construction of new hotels in the Dutch capital.

The policy, announced Wednesday, only permits new hotels in a one-in, one-out system, meaning a new hotel can be built only if another closes. New hotels may not exceed the bed count of the previous hotels and must be “better,” per the city’s release, with more modern and sustainable features.

“Amsterdam says ‘no’ to new hotels,” reads a translated statement from city officials. “We want to make and keep the city livable for residents and visitors.”

The effort follows initiatives in Amsterdam to limit the influx of tourists into the city, a destination known for its tolerant drug policies, sex industry and liberated party scene.

In Amsterdam, people are not prosecuted for buying up to 5 grams of cannabis, which can be purchased in coffee shops. For years, city officials have been trying to rein in hordes of “nuisance” tourists, or those who are attracted to the city by the promise of a night of debauchery.

The city council recently implemented the “ tourism in balance in Amsterdam ” policy, which set a maximum number of overnight stays and day visits in the city, capping the annual visitor count at 20 million people per year. Wednesday’s guidance re-ups that regulation; the number of hotel nights in 2023 was 20,665,000, according to the city.

“We are now taking more measures to ensure that the number of hotel stays does not increase even further,” the city’s statement read.

Last year, seeking to curb the rowdy crowds of the Red Light District and offer residents a better night’s sleep, the city cracked down on public pot smoking in the streets and limited the hours of operation for certain restaurants and sex establishments.

Amsterdam also launched a “ Stay Away ” campaign, directly targeting British men between the ages of 18 to 35. The demographic frequents the city for “stag,” or bachelor, parties, which residents say are disruptive .

Also in 2023, city officials adopted a proposal to relocate a cruise ship terminal . In addition to addressing pollution concerns, the move sought to prevent crowds of tourists from flooding the city’s center upon docking.

It’s unclear how the city plans to enforce the new hotel construction policy; according to the release, new hotels already under construction may continue. That includes 26 hotels with existing rights.

Colleen Grablick is a writer based in D.C. Follow her on X: @colleengrablick .

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

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Why Queen Letizia of Spain Sat to Greet Guests in Her Ballgown at State Banquet in the Netherlands

The Queen of Spain had a relatable reason for saying hello while sitting down

Janine Henni is a Royals Staff Writer for PEOPLE Digital, covering modern monarchies and the world's most famous families. Like Queen Elizabeth, she loves horses and a great tiara moment.

Alamy Live News

Queen Letizia of Spain was in sparkling form at the state banquet during her royal visit to the Netherlands, but some wondered why she was seated while greeting guests at the glittering gala. 

The Queen of Spain, 51, wore the Diamond Loop Tiara with a voluminous blue ballgown by Spanish brand The 2nd Skin CO. at the Royal Palace in Amsterdam on April 17, where she was photographed sitting down while greeting guests. Queen Letizia was the only royal seated during the ceremonial welcome with her husband, King Felipe , and their hosts, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands, for a relatable reason.

It's widely reported that Queen Letizia suffers from foot problems, and her seated position may have been more comfortable at the state banquet. The royal has also recently stuck to stylish flats or kitten heels rather than sky-high stilettos in her shoe choices.

Queen Letizia also sat for a formal portrait that preceded the diplomatic dinner, taking a spot in the front row alongside the also seated King Felipe, 56, King Willem-Alexander, 56, and Queen Maxima, 52.

Three other members of the Dutch royal family rounded out the ranks by standing behind the monarchs and their wives. Willem and Maxima’s eldest daughter, Princess Catharina-Amalia , 20, the future queen of the Netherlands, stood at the center, flanked by her great-aunt Princess Margriet and her grandmother Princess Beatrix, the former queen who abdicated in 2013.

Patrick van Katwijk/Getty

Queen Letizia stood to raise a glass following the Kings' speeches at the glam banquet, which capped the first night of the two-day state visit. Both King Willem-Alexander and King Felipe spoke about the special relationship between their nations and referenced the sweet fact that Willem-Alexander and Maxima first met in Spain.

"Spain has a special place in our hearts. First of all, because it was in your country that our life together began. We were at the Feria de Abril in Seville 25 years ago. The sparks began to fly. The rest is history," King Willem-Alexander said in his address, which prompted a bright smile from his wife and laughs from the Spanish royal couple.

Willem-Alexander met the Argentinian-born Maxima Zorreguieta at Seville’s spring fair in April 1999, where the future King introduced himself simply as "Alexander." Maxima, who then worked in banking in New York, reportedly didn’t believe him when he eventually revealed his identity as a member of the Dutch royal family!

After a transatlantic courtship, the couple announced their engagement in March 2001 and married in February 2002. They went on to welcome three daughters — Princess Catharina-Amalia, Princess Alexia, 18, and Princess Ariane, 17.

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

During his address at the state banquet, the monarch expressed his gratitude to Felipe and Letizia for their part in making it possible for Princess Amalia to safely study abroad in Spain. The Princess of Orange is a student at the University of Amsterdam, but she quietly studied in Spain after security threats prevented her from continuing to live in student housing in her home country in 2022.

"Last year, circumstances required her to live in Madrid. From there, she was able to continue her studies at the University of Amsterdam. This was made possible by the kind efforts of many of your compatriots and yourselves," King Willem-Alexander said. "A touching demonstration of friendship at a difficult time. I'd like to express my heartfelt thanks to you and to everyone else who helped arrange this."

The state banquet held in honor of the Spanish royals doubled as an exciting milestone for the Princess of Orange — her first state banquet. Though Princess Amalia is currently focused on school (like many other royal heirs to the throne of her generation), she occasionally joins her parents for special occasions like royal weddings.

On April 18, she tagged along for the final reception of Queen Letizia and King Felipe’s state visit to the Netherlands.

Carlos Alvarez/Getty 

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Amsterdam was flooded with tourists in 2023, so it won't allow any more hotels

Ayana Archie

Tens of thousands of people watched as dozens of colorfully decorated boats toured the Dutch capital's historic canals Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023, in the most popular event of a six-day Pride Amsterdam festival that attracts tens of thousands of visitors to the city. Peter Dejong/AP hide caption

Tens of thousands of people watched as dozens of colorfully decorated boats toured the Dutch capital's historic canals Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023, in the most popular event of a six-day Pride Amsterdam festival that attracts tens of thousands of visitors to the city.

Amsterdam's local government is cracking down on local over-tourism by putting a ban on new hotels, it said Wednesday .

New hotels can only be built if another closes down, and the city is urging developers to choose a site outside of the city center.

If a new hotel is built in place of an old one, it must be more modern or more sustainable. Twenty-six hotels that have already been issued permits will not be affected by the ban, the city said.

In Amsterdam, even the tourists say there are too many tourists

The move was triggered by Amsterdam's "Tourism in balance" policy, which was created in 2021 after a public initiative in which 30,000 residents called for more control of the tourism industry.

Under "tourism in balance," aims to limit overnight stays in hotels by tourists to 20 million a year. In 2023 tourists spent about 20.7 million nights in Amsterdam, a number that doesn't include vacation rentals, bed and breakfast stays or cruise trips. That means "the municipal executive is obliged to take action," the city says.

Amsterdam also has been attempting to curb other behaviors by tourists, including banning cannabis smoking in certain parts of the city , closing some clubs and bars earlier, placing new limits on canal cruises and converting some hotels into homes or offices.

April 23, 2024. Amsterdam officials now trying to limit river ships from visiting! Who elects these people‪?‬ The Daily Cruise and Travel News "Podcast" with Tom Drake

Suprise Suprise! Fincantieri will not have Star Princess ready for its inaugural sailing! Carnival President Christing Duffy is inducted into the CLIA Hall of Fame! Royal Caribbean releases its "we have cleaned up our act" environmental report! Amsterdam officials vote to reduce riverboat visits going forward! The one German frigate in the Red Sea protecting their freighters is going home. Thanks for stopping by!!  

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Blinken to meet Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is due to meet Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on Friday for talks across a range of complex issues, including deepening strains over China's backing of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.