From picturesque canal walks to colorful tulip fields and charming outdoor cafes, we’ve got all the tips you need to experience the beauty of springtime in Amsterdam. Let’s embrace the sunshine, the blossoms and the endless possibilities that this wonderful season brings!
Visit the Monday Flower Market
Every Monday, the charming Amstelveld square transforms into a colorful paradise of flowers. From vibrant tulips and roses to exotic orchids and lush greenery, there’s something for everyone! Our favorite part? At some stalls, you can even pick your own bouquet! How perfect for spring, right?
@welikeamsterdam 📍Amstelveld flowermarket, every Monday from 09:00 to 17:00💐🌸 #amsterdamguide #amsterdamtips #amsterdamlocal #thingstodoamsterdam #flowermarket
Dance at One of Our Many Festivals
The Amsterdam festival scene is amazing, there is so much to choose from! As locals who’ve been to almost all the festivals Amsterdam has to offer, we’ve made you the perfect list for the entire 2024!
Rent a Boat
As locals one of our favorite activities in the city is cruising the canals ourselfs on a little boat. We always bring lots of food, drinks and music and enjoy Amsterdam from the water with our friends.
TIP >> Fun route: Singelgracht – Bloemgracht – Prinsengracht – Amstel – Rokin – Oudezijdsvoorburgwal – Oudeschans – Herengracht – Brouwersgracht
Have a Drink on a Sunny Terrace
We’ve listed the best sunny terraces in Amsterdam for spring! We can slowly start to enjoy terrace season again. Oh, and how we love that. You will find us either for breakfast, coffee, drinks or dinner at the terrace so we know where to go for sure! Check out our blog post 15 x Favorite Sunny Terraces for the best spots in the sun.
Cruise Through Amsterdam On a Fatbike
Cruise through Amsterdam like a local on a 2-hour guided e-bike tour. Discover the magic of exploring the Dutch capital on two wheels. You will make several stops to explore. You will pass by the majestic Central Station and Prinseneiland, the Amstel River, ARTIS Zoo and a ferry ride to the northern district.
Admire the Cherry Blossoms & flowers in the City
There are actually only 2-3 weeks a year that we can watch the beautiful Japanese cherry blossom trees bloom! There are several different locations to visit. Check out our full guide on how, when and where.
Visit a Food Festival
One of our favorite things to do in May is visiting Rollende Keukens. Here you can enjoy food from 100 different food trucks serving dishes from all over the world. It’s the biggest open-air terrace in the city and a must-visit if you can! Bring your blanket and have a picnic with some nice wines.
You can visit Rollende Keukens between May 8th and May 12th at the Westerpark in Amsterdam. It’s open daily from 1 PM until 11 PM. Entry is free! The only rule is that you don’t bring your own drinks and food.
Have a Picnic With a View
Enjoy a picnic on the wooden boardwalk right next to the ‘West-Indische huisbrug’ bridge on the Brouwersgracht. This spot offers an amazing view of the canal, old warehouses, houseboats and is perfect for people-watching. Bring a blanket, uncork a bottle of wine and enjoy the view.
The Best Spring Brunches
Yessss, a nice brunch spot is always welcome right? But during the spring season, we’re all getting out more so let’s name a few favorites:
- Brasserie Marie – with a view overlooking the Amstel River, this is an exceptional spot for an elevated brunch
- Buffet van Odette – They use fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You can sit perfectly next to the canal and they also have a lovely terrace outside.
- Kikkie van de Prinsensluis – A charming café located near the canal with a sunny terrace until late.
Go On a Visit to the Newborn Animals at Artis
Spring is a magical time to visit Artis and witness the arrival of adorable newborn animals. As the flowers bloom and the sun begins to shine, the zoo comes alive. Get your tickets to adore all the newborns here.
See the Tulip Fields with +7 Million Tulips
For us, it’s a yearly tradition to visit Keukenhof; we love tulips! Keukenhof is open from March 21st to May 12th. In addition to visiting Keukenhof, we’ve also curated a route along the tulip fields in the nearby area. We’ve listed transportation options and fun activities, such as a bike route and you can even take a helicopter ride over the tulip fields! Check out the full guide here.
Visit Open Air Concerts
Spring marks the opening of the Vondelpark Open-Air Theatre! It’s a beloved spot for many Amsterdammers to visit on weekends. Every weekend offers music concerts, dance performances, theater shows, and spoken word events on a donation basis. There’s something for everyone to enjoy. Grab a picnic, gather your friends, and soak up the sunshine while immersing yourself in the creative energy of this cherished outdoor theater. See the agenda here.
Rooftop Sessions
As the weather warms up, there’s no better way to enjoy the stunning views of Amsterdam than from a rooftop terrace. Some of our favorites:
Canvas – Canvas is a rooftop restaurant and bar located at the Volkshotel in Amsterdam East. It has a laid-back vibe, making it the perfect spot to soak up the sun from morning until evening.
Hopp Amsterdam – Sip on local craft beers and enjoy their delicious snacks in Amsterdam East
W Hotel – In the city center this rooftop offers great views of the city, complete with a stylish ambiance and vibrant atmosphere. It’s the ideal spot for both daytime lounging and nighttime cocktails.
NEMO – This rooftop terrace offers stunning 360-degree views of the city. You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks or indulge in refreshments at their cozy restaurant. It’s a popular spot among both locals and tourists.
Want to explore our favorite street markets in the city? Check them out here! We’ve also made a complete Sunny Terrace Guide.
