Amsterdam in Autumn: Weather, events, activities and more!

Last Updated on May 8, 2025 by Lauren Allen

If you’re planning to visit Amsterdam in autumn, get ready for one of the cosiest and most picture-perfect city breaks of your life!

At this time of year, the crowds die down and the Dutch capital becomes an autumnal paradise. With hues of red and orange taking over the city, it’s one of the best times to explore this European gem. 

If you want to escape the crowds, you’ll find fewer people around compared to Amsterdam in spring or summer. This makes it one of the best times to explore the city. 

Not only does the city offer fewer crowds at this time of year, but you’ll generally have a more budget-friendly experience. Accommodation is much cheaper meaning it’s easy to save some cash while on the road. 

In fact, after visiting the city at different times throughout the year, my autumn trips are always much cheaper in terms of accommodation. 

As someone who visits Amsterdam on a regular basis, I’ve personally explored the city twice in Autumn; both in October and November. Offering a relaxed atmosphere, there are many great events worth checking out during your time in the city.

Despite autumn being the low season, you can still have a fabulous getaway full of exciting excursions, fun activities and museums galore. In this post, I’ll share my expert knowledge to help you have your ideal autumnal getaway to the Dutch capital. Let’s get to it! 

Read more: A complete guide to visiting Amsterdam in Spring

Everything you need to know about visiting Amsterdam in Autumn 

After experiencing autumn in Amsterdam twice myself, I’m going to cover the following in this post:

• Amsterdam weather in autumn 
• What to do in Amsterdam in the fall (including popular events in the city)
• Tips for visiting Amsterdam at this time of year  
• FAQs about visiting Amsterdam during the fall  

Amsterdam weather in Autumn 

With much cooler days, autumn is a great time to explore Amsterdam. Especially if you’re not a fan of the hot weather you’ll experience in the Dutch capital during August.

However, the weather in the Netherlands can be unpredictable at the best of times. One minute the sun is shining and the next, it’s pouring down. You never know what you might get! Despite that, it’s generally rainier at this time of year so that’s certainly something to consider. 

Weather in Amsterdam in September 

In September, the weather in Amsterdam starts to cool down after summer. However, it’s still quite warm. With lows of 11 degrees and highs of 19 degrees, you could easily get away with wearing a light jacket.

As night falls, it does get cooler so make sure you come prepared! In terms of rain, it should be expected at this time of year so consider packing an umbrella. Although, you have more chance of getting lucky with nice weather in September so I highly recommend packing layers and lighter outfits just in case. 

Weather in Amsterdam in October 

In October, the weather gets milder still with rain way more likely than in previous months. With lows of 7 degrees and highs of 15 degrees, you should strongly consider packing warm clothes. While you may get treated to the occasional sunny day, rain is highly likely. 

Make sure you come prepared by packing warm clothes, sturdy shoes and an umbrella. Furthermore, I recommend planning lots of indoor activities in case the weather doesn’t hold out as let’s be honest, that’s pretty likely in the Netherlands. 

Amsterdam November weather  

With lows of 4 degrees and highs of 10 degrees, November is a particularly cold month to visit Amsterdam. Furthermore, rain is highly likely at this time of year with approximately half of the month seeing at least some rainfall.

Luckily, there are plenty of things to do in Amsterdam in the rain! With museums to suit all interests, tons of indoor activities and cosy cafes to warm up in, it’s still worth visiting Amsterdam in November. 

Autumn events in Amsterdam 

With a whole host of events held throughout the year, Amsterdam is an incredibly cultural city. Autumn is a particularly good time of year with a wide selection of varied events for different interests.

With everything from film festivals to art weekends, you’re bound to find something that interests you. Some of the most popular events to check out are:

• Free Fringe Festival 
• Jordaan Neighbourhood Festival 
• Open Monuments 
• Amsterdam Art Fair
• Amsterdam Dance Event
• Museum Night 
• Amsterdam Light Festival 
• Art and Antiques Fair
• Amsterdam Art Weekend

What to do in Amsterdam in Autumn 

Looking for the very best things to do in Amsterdam in the fall? Then consider adding the following to your itinerary: 

Visit the best museums in Amsterdam 

Amsterdam is a city known for its museums. With the likes of the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, there’s something for everyone in this well-loved European destination. 

If you’re unlucky in terms of weather, museum hopping in Amsterdam is a great way to spend your trip. Here are some of the best museums you should add to your Amsterdam itinerary:  

• Rijksmuseum: In addition to its beautiful hidden library, the Rijksmuseum is bursting at the brim with historical artefacts and stunning art. 
• Van Gogh Museum: Home to the largest collection of this world-renowned artist’s work, the Van Gogh Museum should sit atop your Amsterdam bucket list if you’re an art lover (like myself).
• Anne Frank House: Although it’s a harrowing place to visit, Anne Franks’s House is a must-see if you’re in Amsterdam. Especially if you’re visiting the city for the first time.
• Museum Of Our Lord In The Attic: As one of the most unique churches in Europe, you’d expect the Museum Of Our Lord In The Attic to be a popular attraction in Amsterdam. However, it’s more of a hidden gem. You should visit before crowds decent on the church like many of the city’s top hot spots.
• Fashion For Good: Located on The Damrak, Fashion For Good is a fashion museum that highlights the importance of sustainable fashion while showcasing some eco-friendly designs. 
• Stedelijk Museum: A must-see for contemporary art lovers, the Stedelijk Museum is one of the best galleries in the capital.
• Amsterdam Museum: If you’re looking to learn more about the history of the city, Amsterdam Museum is the best place to go.

Check out the best Instagram spots in Amsterdam

The beautiful golden hues of Amsterdam during autumn make stunning backdrops for photos. As you stroll around the city at this time of year, stop at the best photo spots to get your snaps for Instagram. There are a number of photogenic outdoor locations including: 

• Outside the Rijksmuseum 
• The Damrak 
• Nine Streets 
• Jordaan Neighbourhood
• De Pijp
• NDSM Wharf

There are also some very Instagram-worthy museums such as:

• Moco Museum 
• The Upside Down Amsterdam 
• Straat Museum 
• WONDR Experience

Shop til’ you drop in the city’s best stores 

Amsterdam is also known for its selection of beautiful boutique stores. If you’re on the hunt for home decor pieces, trendy clothes or shoes, you’re in the right place. In fact, this bustling capital is a haven for shopaholics! 

Across the city, you’ll find shops selling anything you could ever need. From vintage clothing and antique treasures to stunning art to hang in your home. No matter what you’re looking for in Amsterdam, you are bound to find it. 

Some of the best places for shopping in Amsterdam include De Pijp, the Nine Streets and Kalverstraat (AKA the best place for retail therapy in the Netherlands). Why not check them out for yourself? You deserve it (wink wink).

Take a day trip to Haarlem 

Visiting Haarlem is one of the best day trip options from Amsterdam. As a city bursting with great clothing boutiques, cosy cafes and incredible museums, it’s well worth the short journey from the Dutch capital. 

There are so many things worth doing in Haarlem so I’ll write a more in-depth blog post on the topic. However, you should consider: 

Checking out some of the city’s best cafes

Just like Amsterdam, Haarlem is home to many cool brunch spots. Make sure you check one out during your day in the city. Some of the very best options include Fortuyn, Teds and by LIMA.

Exploring Teyler’s Museum

As the first and oldest museum in the whole country, the Teylers Museum shouldn’t be missed. With a varied selection of exhibits, there’s something for everyone at this popular Haarlem attraction. For example, there are historical exhibits, stunning art and beautiful gems on display. 

Discovering more about famous Dutch painter Frans Hals

Despite being Belgian, Frans Hals spent the majority of his life living and working in the city of Haarlem. Nowadays, the city is home to the Frans Hals Museum. It’s the perfect place to discover more about the story of this world-renowned artist. 

Grabbing a pint at the Jopen Brewery

Once you’ve hit up some great cafes and museums, the Jopen Brewery is an ideal spot for a drink. Serving a selection of beers to suit all tastes, the bar also offers a bustling atmosphere. 

Escape the rubbish weather in cosy cafes 

Another great way to escape cold and rainy days is to check out the best cafes in Amsterdam. What better way to experience a city than to check out its top brunch spots? 

The Jordaan neighbourhood is a popular place for this with lots of fabulous cafes on offer. For example, New Dutch Amsterdam, Kessens and D&A Hummus Bistro are highly rated thanks to their delicious food and picture-perfect decor. 

Explore the golden hues of Vondelpark

As one of the very best free things to do in Amsterdam, wandering through Vondelpark to admire the autumnal vibes is a great way to end your day.

Consider taking a leisurely walk while breathing in the crisp air of autumn nights. It’s a blissful escape from bustling city life where you can truly appreciate your peaceful surroundings with a hot chocolate in hand!

Enjoy traditional hearty dishes from The Netherlands 

With colder weather at this time of year, trying traditional Dutch food in Amsterdam is a lovely way to warm up after being out in the cold. Some popular hot meals to try in Amsterdam are:

Stamppot

Typically made with mashed potato, vegetables and sausage, stamppot is a traditional Dutch dish well worth trying during your time in Amsterdam. Served hot, it’s the perfect hearty meal to warm you up after a long day of exploring. 

Erwtensoep

Dating back to the 16th century and commonly served thick, erwtensoep (or pea soup in English) is a popular dish to eat during autumn in The Netherlands. 

Appeltaart

Alongside pancakes and other sweet treats such as stroopwafels, apple pies are popular desserts to eat in The Netherlands. In autumn, they’re especially popular as they are served warm with fresh cream. 

Explore the city on a canal cruise 

Amsterdam is known for its picture-perfect canals, and taking a canal tour is a fantastic way to admire the city from a different perspective. While autumn brings cooler weather and changing colours, it’s still a lovely time to check out the Dutch capital from the water. 

In autumn, the weather in Amsterdam is unpredictable. You have the option to choose between covered or open boats on your canal tour. Covered boats provide an escape from the rubbish weather as you appreciate your surroundings.

Celebrate Halloween in Amsterdam

Taking place at the end of October, Halloween is a popular holiday that locals and travellers alike love to celebrate.

Like many cities across Europe (and the globe), the city holds a number of events and parties to celebrate Halloween each year. For example, you may want to get dressed up for a club night, have a movie night or check out the Amsterdam Halloween Festival. 

What is the most popular time of year to visit Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is popular year-round. However, travellers flock to the city in their millions between the months of March and May. This is the perfect time to admire the tulip season in the city.

Afterwards, the summer crowds descend into the capital to enjoy beautiful weather and exciting summer events. In fact, a lot of people visit Amsterdam during August. Eventually, crowds die down in fall despite the autumnal charm of the city.

While everyone certainly has their preferences in terms of travel, I truly believe you won’t be disappointed no matter what time of year you visit Amsterdam! 

Click here for an expert guide on where to stay in Amsterdam!

Tips for enjoying Autumn in Amsterdam  

Pack warm clothes

As you’ll know already, Amsterdam (and the Netherlands as a whole) can get pretty chilly in autumn. Especially during the end of the season when temperatures are much lower. 

Make sure you prepare by packing layers and warm clothes. I’ve been to Amsterdam in early November and often felt quite cold. By wrapping up, you can discover the Dutch capital without catching a chill.

Consider purchasing an Iamsterdam City Card

Amsterdam is full of incredible museums. With rain more likely during autumn, you may end up exploring more than you otherwise would. If this is the case, you should consider buying an Iamsterdam City Card. The cards offer free or discounted entry into a lot of the city’s best museums.

Not only that, but the Iamsterdam Card also boasts free bike rental for a whole day, free access to most public transport methods, discounts at several establishments across the city and a whole host of ideas and inspiration. 

Check out this post to decide whether or not the card would be worth it for you. 

FAQs about visiting Amsterdam during Autumn 

Conclusion

Ultimately, there are many reasons to head to the Dutch capital in autumn. From the many incredible events to the vibrant nightlife, unique attractions and everything in between, there’s lots to keep you busy at this time of year! 

Although the weather can be hit-and-miss, plenty of indoor activities mean you can escape the rain and still have a good time. You could easily spend hours on end checking out the city’s top art galleries, museums and bustling events. 

What are you waiting for? Book your autumnal adventure to Amsterdam today! 

Are you planning a trip to Amsterdam in autumn? Feel free to share your exciting plans below! 

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