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AMSTERDAM may be known for its charming canals, but its vibrant cultural center has much more to offer tourists than beautiful waterways. This popular destination is home to world-class museums, an array of mouth-watering restaurants and great cycling trails.
And even though a city with so much going on doesn’t really have an off-peak period, you’ll definitely notice certain times are busier than others. High season or peak season in Amsterdam is crowded from April to September.
Shoulder season or the time period between peak season and low season from October to December and March. Amsterdam is least visited during January and February.
Unwana van der Werk, guest relations manager at the Amsterdam Conservatorium, details the best times to visit the Dutch capital because of good weather, fewer crowds, colorful flowers and more.
Smaller crowd
“November and February are relaxed months in the Netherlands, and that is especially true in Amsterdam,” explains van der Werk. Foodies, art lovers, and history buffs who don’t mind about the weather will find that tickets are available for a variety of attractions this month.
You can also expect shorter lines and smaller crowds at the museum. This means that you will see the priceless masterpieces of the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum up close. It’s also much easier to get a last-minute restaurant reservation or get a table at a crowded bar.
Nice weather
The city is at its liveliest from June to September, when the weather is stunning and the days stretch into the evenings. It also makes it a great time of year to enjoy outdoor activities. Take a scenic boat tour along the canals, or cycle the beautiful, sunny brick roads.
Or, see the colorful blooms that abound in the countryside. Several flower shows, parades, music festivals and cultural events also take place during the summer.
Lower prices
As with most destinations, demand drives up prices in Amsterdam. Rates soar in the busy summer months; on the other hand, the slower months of November and February are when you can save a few dollars, according to van der Werk.
Flowers are blooming
The legendary Dutch flower time of bloom starts to appear in early April, and they also lure bud hunters in May. “You can explore the world’s largest flower garden, with tulips of every color, or celebrate King’s Day with the locals (orange clothing required to join the festivities),” van der Werk said of the season. “This is the prettiest time to take a bike tour through downtown or the countryside.”
Worst time to visit Amsterdam
Again, Amsterdam doesn’t really have a low season, but there are times when gray skies and chilly temperatures change the city’s mood. January and February tend to be quite chilly and dreary, so you’re unlikely to see people lingering in outdoor cafes.
However, the locals never stop cycling, and the gray skies make selfies look grim. Plus, the lack of lines at many cultural attractions and lower rates is something to think about. [tempo.co/photo special]
