Are you exhausted from feeling like you are missing out on the best activities in Amsterdam in the month of May? It can be depressing to see others enjoying all the events and attractions while you are looking for some fun things to do in Amsterdam.
But Don’t worry. Our detailed list of things to do in Amsterdam in May will give you so many fun activities and suggestions. From city attractions to events, we’ve covered you with all the top activities that will make the most of your time in Amsterdam. Take advantage of creating memories and experiences.
Let’s explore Amsterdam.
Amsterdam in May: Why is it worth visiting?
Absolutely. In Amsterdam in May, the weather is soft and pleasant. You can enjoy the city as it gets warmer without being too cool or too hot.
May marks the peak of tulip season in the Netherlands. Places like Keukenhof Gardens are ideal for seeing beautiful tulip fields. During May, many events and fairs are held throughout the month.
From King’s Day celebrations to Liberation Day, there are countless opportunities to experience Dutch culture. May is a better period because it is less crowded. There will be no long queues at popular places and you will see more real-life side of the city.
Amsterdam Weather in May
The month of May in Amsterdam is characterized by warm weather with average temperatures ranging between 10°C and 18°C (50°F and 64°F). You will be able to take a walk or ride a bicycle around the city without thinking about too much heat or cold.
The good weather makes it simple to walk or cycle leisurely. Even as you wander through the streets, you don’t have to worry about extreme temperatures. However, since there can be sudden weather changes, make sure that you carry some layers and an umbrella.
Top attractions and things to do in May
Amsterdam is a bustling city in the Netherlands, with plenty of exciting things to do and see. During May, visitors can enjoy numerous attractions and activities. Here are some top places to visit and things to do in Amsterdam during May:
Van Gogh Museum – Experience Art and Culture
The Museumplein holds the Van Gogh Museum, a paradise for art enthusiasts. It owns the most extensive collection of works done by the renowned Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh. Tourists will be amazed by this famous artist’s artwork. This museum has various masterpieces and colourful painted sunflowers.Book Van Gogh Musem Ticktes.
Madam Tussauds – Rub Shoulders with Celebrities
Madam Tussauds Amsterdam is where you should go to meet your favourite historical heroes or celebs. They are from the movies or the music industry. This popular wax museum has almost live statues of famous personalities from politics, sports, entertainment, etc. Visitors can take pictures with their most prominent stars, from Hollywood actors to world leaders, making impressions they’ll never forget. Book Madam Tussauds Tickets.
Anne frank House -A journey of remembrance
The Anne Frank House trip is a poignant journey back into history and a testament to resilience. She was a young woman who hid from the Nazis during World War Two. This museum is dedicated to her. She wrote about her experiences in a diary. People can explore the hidden annex where Anne and her family lived when they were hiding. The museum serves as a strong caution against intolerance and its consequences. Book Anne Frank House Reserve Access.
Canal cruise – Explore Amsterdam’s Beauty
A canal tour allows you to see Amsterdam uniquely. From the sea, you can glance at the city’s charming bridges, beautiful buildings, and lively atmosphere. Alongside calm water, you will pass by ancient constructions, houseboats, and heavy traffic.
Amsterdam Canal Cruise is an excellent way to unwind while learning about the history and culture of this town. This visit through waterways offers visitors a rare opportunity to see Amsterdam’s beauty once in their lifetime. Take a guided tour to learn about the city’s exciting past and essential sites. Book Amsterdam City Canal Cruise Tickets.
Rijksmusuem – Home to Rembrandt and Vermeer’s Masterpieces
The world-renowned Rijksmuseum is a fantastic place for studying Dutch art and history. Many masterpieces by notable artists such as Rembrandt or Vermeer can be found in this museum. But due to the popularity of this, you need to book a ticket in advance From here.
“The Night Watch” and “The Milkmaid,” among other famous works, will mesmerize you while you walk through the halls and rooms of this museum. You must never fail to walk around the grounds and courtyards of this museum; they are lovely.
Vondel Park – Amsterdam’s Green Oasis
For a peaceful afternoon, go to Vondelpark. This is the largest and most well-known park in Amsterdam. It provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can enjoy a leisurely walk along twisting lanes covered with dense foliage or have lunch on one of its expansive grasslands. During May and September, beautiful flowers fill the park and make it ideal for resting.
Keukenhof Gardens – The Encjhanting Escape
Keukenhof is a gorgeous flower garden near Lisse, also known as the “Garden of Europe.” May is the most beautiful season for visiting Keukenhof because of millions of tulips, daffodils, and other flowers. May is also the best time to see the most beautiful flower gardens in the Netherlands. The parks were built with different plants.
Jordaan- The Charming Streets
In Amsterdam, Jordaan is a charming area known for its pretty canals, shops, and cozy coffee shops. In May, bright flowers bloom in windows and along the streets, making the town come to life. On a relaxed stroll along the canals, tourists can enjoy the scenery and look at the historic buildings.
De Wallen -Discover the Vibrant Nightlife
May at De Wallen is a busy and exciting part of Amsterdam with its distinctive feel. This area, also known as the “Red Light District,” offers various activities to people who come here. During May, De Wallen is very vibrant with its locals and tourists.
At this time of year, the streets burst alive with energy and history. In the night hours, De Wallen offers vibrant nightlife where bars, clubs, and restaurants open till late hours.
Basically, during a trip to De Wallen in May, one gets an opportunity to combine everything from past events to diverse cultures with entertainment.
May Events in Amsterdam
Amsterdam blossoms in May with several enjoyable activities and festivities. This city is vibrant and lively. It offers something for everybody. Here’s a closer look at some of the most exciting things that happened here during May.
Dutch Memorial Day
Doddenherdenking, also known as Dutch Memorial Day is held on May 4 every year. It is a sombre day. The nation pays its respects to those soldiers and civilians who died during World War II. There are numerous events countrywide commemorating this day. On this day of reflection, every citizen recalls those who gave their lives for freedom and peace in the Netherlands.
Liberation Day
The day of liberty is May 5 in the Netherlands. It is an enjoyable way to remember the end of the Nazi rule in World War II. It symbolizes freedom, equality, and the Dutch people’s strength. Around the country, people welcome this day with music, parades, art shows, and other cultural events. It’s a time to celebrate and be grateful for our freedoms today.
Keukenhof Gardens Tulip Festival
Keukenhof Gardens is the venue where the Festival of Tulips happens. The festival is a viral event that takes place from late March to mid-May each year. Lisse, which is near Amsterdam, hosts the occasion. Keukenhof Gardens occupy vast tracts of land and will delight any flower enthusiast.
At this event, there are numerous tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and other brilliant-coloured flowers planted in well-thought-out arrangements. People from all over the world visit Keukenhof because of the variety of colours displayed in different themed gardens.
Amsterdam in May 1 Day Itinerary
This city is a great place to spend the day exploring, with its charming canals, old buildings, and busy atmosphere. We have planned this so that we can take you through some of the key places to visit or things to do. What an exciting journey we are going to have!
9.00 AM: Rijksmuseum
Go to the legendary Rijksmuseum right away in the morning. It has a vast collection of Dutch art and history. If you are an art lover this is one the ideal place for you to explore.
11.10 AM: Vangogh Museum
Visit the Van Gogh Museum to discover more about the life and work of a famous Dutch artist. So many famous artworks by van Gogh here is exhibit.
12.45 AM Vondelpark
This is one of the famous parks in Amsterdam. Take a walk through the wonderful Vondelpark. It’s an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy nature.
2.00 PM Anne Frank House
Your next destination should be Anne Frank House. This is gonna be an emotional journey for you. Discover the historic Anne Frank House, an emotional memory of Amsterdam’s role in World War II.
3.45 PM Jordaan
Explore the gorgeous Jordaan neighbourhood, famous for its cute streets and shops.
4.55 PM De Pjip
In the De Pijp area, the Albert Cuyp Market is a lively place to buy souvenirs and try Dutch snacks.
6.00 PM Amsterdam City Canal Cruise
Take a canal tour to see the city’s stunning architecture from the water. From this canal cruise, you will see cities stunning view
8.10 PM Red Light District
Walk through the Red Light District at the end of the day to witness how Amsterdam at night lives. If you are a nightlife explorer you are gonna enjoy the Red Light district.
Have a great day while exploring Amsterdam!
5 Tips to Visit Amsterdam in May
Amsterdam has a combination of old and new elements, making it an unusual place to visit. There are many cultural attractions as well as natural landscapes. In Amsterdam, every person can find something they like. Here are some ideas for May trips to Amsterdam.
- Outdoor Activities: May has longer days and better weather, making it a fantastic month for outdoor activities in Amsterdam. You can rent a bike and ride around the city like a real local or take a canal cruise and enjoy lovely views.
- Food and Drink: During your visit to Holland, never fail to taste traditional Dutch snacks such as stroopwafels, bitterballen, or raw herring. Remember to explore busy food markets like Albert Cuypmarkt, where tasty street food can be found.
- Shopping: Towards the end of May, there are sales in most Dutch stores. Clothes, accessories, and gifts are sold at discounted prices. Many people shop on Nine Streets because it has lots of quirky businesses and vintage stores.
- Places to Stay: Reserve your stay well ahead, especially if you plan for weekends or holidays that fall within these dates. If you want more authentic experiences, you might prefer areas such as Jordaan or De Pijp.
- Transportation: Amsterdam’s extensive public transportation system makes getting around easy. You can easily board trams buses or metros with OV-chipkaart at hand . Alternatively, you could walk or cycle through the streets of Amsterdam while appreciating its quaintness.
Conclusion
To sum up, Amsterdam in May is full of fun. There is sightseeing at Amsterdam’s bright tulip fields in Keukenhof and boat trips along its picturesque canals. With festivals, markets, and cultural events, this city shows off its rich history and creative spirit.
This beautiful city has something for everyone. Let us pack our bags and dive into the spring mood. Amsterdam is waiting for us to create memories that we will never forget. Europeans know Amsterdam as a place worth visiting because it combines historical, traditional, and contemporary aspects. However, you can also plan your next month’s plan from things to do in Amsterdam in June.
Frequently Asked Questions
What clothes to wear in Amsterdam in May?
Amsterdam’s weather is generally moderate in May, with temperatures ranging between 10°C to 20°C. In case of rain, it is advisable to come prepared with layers like light sweaters, a jacket, and a rainproof coat. For city walks or bike rides, footwear should be comfy. Always carry an umbrella or hat; this will make you prepared for both rain and sun.
What makes Amsterdam in May special?
The city of Amsterdam comes alive when flowers blossom during May, tulips particularly. At the moment Keukenhof Gardens is filled up with flowers that look amazing to the eye. On the other hand terrace season starts at this time as well as open-air events and festivals thus leading to a feeling that the entire city is pulsating with life.
What is the weather like in Amsterdam in May?
The weather in Amsterdam in May is usually mild and pleasant. This month, the average temperature is between 9°C and 18°C. Also, May is one of the driest months in Amsterdam, though it does rain sometimes.
Are there any local festivals or events in May in Amsterdam?
In May, many festivals and events in Amsterdam showcase the city’s vibrant arts and culture. They include Liberation Day on May 5, when people can visit the city’s famous towers. Another local festival is Open Tower Day, which is a food festival.
