Amsterdam in May: A guide to a magical trip!

Amsterdam is known to be a magical and beautiful city filled with incredible architecture and atmosphere. In May, the city reaches its peak of beauty as it is decked with gorgeous blooms and glowing sunshine. Since it is spring during this month, the city has an abundance of flowers decorating the city, with a pleasant and calm weather. For the same reason, you can also find the city swarmed with tourists to enjoy a similar experience. This makes for a peaceful trip, along with a range of activities for you to engage in. If you are planning to visit, then Amsterdam in May is the perfect time to plan your Amsterdam tour packages! 

Temperature in Amsterdam in May

May is the perfect time for you to visit if you are looking to spend your vacation outdoors. The Amsterdam climate in May is pleasant and sunny, with a tint of cold weather and occasional rain. The average sunshine lasts for about 7 hours a day. The early part of the month gets 15 hours of sunshine and later parts of the month get 16 hours. The early month of May has more rainfall and is said to be colder than the later month. However, the climate is still warm enough and suitable for outdoor activities, with the possibility of rain still present. The average temperature in Amsterdam in May ranges from the lowest temperature of 8°C to the highest temperature of 16°C. However, there is bound to be around 12 days of moderate rainfall in Amsterdam in May.

Best places to visit in Amsterdam in May

1. Amsterdam Museum
2. Royal Palace of Amsterdam
3. Rembrandt House Museum
4. Artis Zoo

1. Amsterdam Museum

The Amsterdam Museum, located in the heart of the city, is a beautiful museum that is a storehouse for the rich culture, heritage and history of the city. The museum holds several historical artifacts, artworks and even interactive displays from the medieval origins. They have over 100,000 collections in their facility and aim to educate visitors on the history of the city. This is done even through workshops, guided tours and educational programs. 

this museum should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Amsterdam in May. The museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm and costs 18 euros for adults and free entry for those under the ages of 18 years. 

2. Royal Palace of Amsterdam

Located on the west side of Dam Square is one of the most architecturally astonishing buildings, the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. This is one of the three palaces located in the Netherlands that is used by the Dutch Royal House. It is one of the major locations for royal events and occasions. If you are a history buff looking to immerse yourself in a living and breathing historical location, then this is one of the best places to visit in Amsterdam in May. 

Let yourself get lost in the rich history, the magnificent paintings and sculptures, and the exquisite architecture. It takes around 1 or 2 hours to complete a trip through the palace, where entry is free for people below the age of 18 years and costs 12 euros for adults. The timing differ based on whether or not there are any royal events happening that season. So make sure to check ahead and plan your visit on your trip to Amsterdam in May.

Also read: Dam Square In Amsterdam – History, Attractions, Shopping And Tips

3. Rembrandt House Museum

All the art lovers are dying to step into this marvel and have their minds blown by the beauty of this place. This museum is deeply loved and popular among both locals and tourists alike. This is due to its exhibition of artifacts, artworks and collections only dedicated to the famous and talented Dutch painter Rembrandt. Here, you get the complete Rembrandt experience where you can explore his home in his city, which birthed several masterpieces, nurtured several pupils and left behind so much history. If you want to get to know the man behind the art in its truest form, plan a visit to the Rembrandt House Museum in your trip to Amsterdam in May.

The museum is open from 10 am to 6 pm every day, with the last entry at 5.30 pm. The entry for adults above the age of 25 is 19.50 euros and up to the age of 25, it is 10 euros. For children between the ages of 6 years to 17 years, it is 6 euros and for children under the age of 6 years have free entry. 

4. Artis Zoo

If you are wondering, “What to see in Amsterdam in May?” then this is the place for you. The Artis Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Europe and has an abundance of different species of flora and fauna. Whether you are travelling with your family or with your partner, this is definitely a must visit spot, especially if you are an animal lover. Not just flora and fauna, it also features diverse aquatic life, micropia, insectarium, butterfly pavilion and even planetarium.  

The zoo is open between 9 am to 6 pm and you will have to book separate tickets for the three venues. They are Artis Park, Artis Micropia and Artis Groote. It is recommended to buy tickets only for all three venues as you can get a 3 euros discount. For visitors above the age of 13 years, the tickets are 26.50 euros for Artis Park. Whereas it is 17.50 euros for Artis Micropia and Artis Groote. For children between the ages of 3 to 12 years old, the cost of a ticket for the Artis Park is 22.50. Although it is free for the other two venues. There are some combination ticket prices available; make sure to check the website and book them according to your convenience for your trip to Amsterdam in May.

Also read: Top 10 Free Things to Do in Amsterdam for a Fun Time!

Best things to do in Amsterdam in May

1. Taking a walk at Vondelpark
2. Visit the Keukenhof Gardens 
3. Taking a canal cruise
4. Shopping at the Waterlooplein flea market

1. Taking a walk at Vondelpark

If you are looking for one of the best things to do in Amsterdam in May, it is to visit the Vondelpark. This is an ideal spot for you to just have a chill evening or an afternoon picnic with your friends and family or even have a solo date. This peaceful ambience accompanied by the beauty of the tulips, makes May an ideal time to visit the park. You can carry out a range of activities like cycling, skating or hiking trails in the park. Additionally, you can even indulge in one of the many delicious cafes present in the park. 

Also read: 10 Best Parks In Amsterdam For A Fun Day Out With Your Loved Ones!

2. Visit the Keukenhof Gardens 

Amsterdam in May is famous for its spring and the canopy of gorgeous tulips that envelop the city. So, what better place to experience the prime of the blooms than one of the world’s largest flower gardens? The Keukenhof Gardens is a beautiful garden that has over 800 different varieties of tulips and unique themed gardens for you to explore. Tickets for the Keukenhof Gardens often get sold out soon, so it is advisable to book in advance. Since this month also marks the month of the Tulip Festival in Amsterdam, which is celebrated in the Keukenhof Gardens, it makes this one of the best things to do in Amsterdam in May. 

For adults above the age of 18 years, the tickets cost 20 euros. For children between 4 to 17 years of age, it costs 9 euros and free entry for children under 3 years. If you want to book combination tickets, make sure to check the website and book in advance as this is an experience you do not want to miss. This is definitely a must visit place to add to your Amsterdam tour packages.

3. Taking a canal cruise

If you plan on visiting Amsterdam in May, then you have to do it right. Taking a canal cruise is one of the best ways to experience the sights and beauty of the city by cruising through the waters. There are several ways to enjoy the city; you can either take a group guided tour, a romantic moonlight cruise, a private cruise and much more, all to your convenience. Enjoy a pleasant and peaceful experience coupled with the gorgeous tulip sights and create company! The timings and the cost depend on the type of cruise you have chosen, so make sure to check and book in advance. 

4. Shopping at the Waterlooplein flea market

No trip is complete without a shopping spree. But whether or not you are travelling on a budget, it is always nice to shop at a place where you can get a great deal of things for a great deal too! One such place is the Waterlooplein flea market. This is also a paradise land for shopaholics and bargain hunters, as you can get a range of things like antiques, drinks, food, wine, books and more. What’s even better is that the entry is free. Add this place to your trip to Amsterdam in May and take back home a bag full of souvenirs and memories. 

Also read: Shopping in Amsterdam: Top 9 Places to Shop in Amsterdam

Events in Amsterdam in May

1. Tulip Festival
2. Remembrance Day and Liberation Day
3. Moving Futures Festival

1. Tulip Festival

The Tulip Festival, which is celebrated through the month of April, is one of the most anticipated and awaited festivals in Amsterdam. However, if you are planning to visit Amsterdam in May and want to attend the tulip festival, worry not. The Keukenhof Gardens features and displays several million tulip collections for everyone to enjoy with over 800 varieties. Amsterdam is known for tulips and it would be a trip completed and even wasted if you did not stop to pay a visit to this beautiful garden. But make sure to catch this bloom in the early part of May, where the tickets cost around 23 euros per person. Make sure to check the dates and the prices on the website and book in advance before you visit!

Also read: An Insider’s Guide to Visiting the Amsterdam Tulip Festival.

2. Remembrance Day and Liberation Day

Visiting this culture rich city in the month of May marks two of the most important historical events to celebrate. These events celebrate the Dutch freedom. Remembrance Day is marked on the 4th of May. It commemorates the Dutch military personnel and civilians who lost their lives during the World War II. Locals observe two minutes of silence for the lost souls and you can also notice official ceremonies occurring the in the Dam Square. This is a heartfelt experience that tourists can engage in their trip to Amsterdam in May and feel like the local. 

Secondly, Liberation Day is celebrated on the 5th of May to celebrate the liberation of the Nazi tyranny and the onset of freedom and democracy in 1945. You can witness (and participate) in various music festivals, parades, public events and much more. If you find yourself in Amsterdam in May, especially on these dates, this is a unique experience to enjoy.

3. Moving Futures Festival

If you are a dancer or someone who loves to watch dances, then this is a festival you should not miss out. The Moving Futures Festival is a contemporary dance festival that is meant to showcase emerging choreographers and dancers. Usually the festival ranges from April to May and then in November, so make sure to check dates ahead. Amsterdam in May is filled with a lot of festivals and cultural events, so make sure you make the most of it. The costs for the individual performance vary along with the dates, so make sure to check the schedules and book ahead of the trip if needed.

Crowd and Costs in Amsterdam in May

Amsterdam in May is a peak tourist season due to the beautiful tulip blossoms and the public holidays. So expect to find a large crowd of both tourists and locals alike during this month. The popular tourist attractions are all filled in May and tickets are typically sold out unless booked in advance. 

The cost for accommodations and flights is generally high during this time. It is highly advisable to book in advance to get discounted prices and beat the tourist rates. The same applies for tickets to events as well, booking in advance could help with securing the tickets at discounted prices. Restaurants tend to be busier, so reservations would be a lifesaver on your trip. 

What clothes to wear in Amsterdam in May?

Amsterdam in May is said to be on the pleasant side of climate, with average temperatures being 8°C to 16°C. You would have to pack for three seasons at once. There are sunny days towards the end of the month, rainy days in between in the beginning, and colder temperatures in the mornings and evenings. 

• Sweaters and jackets for the cold temperatures in the early morning and late evenings. You might also need a beanie, gloves and scarf.
• A raincoat or an umbrella to stand against the occasional rainfall.
• Sweatshirts or long sleeved outfits in case it gets cold during the day.
• Cute outfits you have planned to make your photos look extra dope!
• T-shirts to wear underneath the jacket and jeans to beat the cold.
• Loungewear to chill in.
• Comfortable shoes for sightseeing. 
• A bag full of fun and excitement!

Frequently Asked Questions About Amsterdam in May

Amsterdam is a dreamland that everyone wishes to travel to. However, Amsterdam in May is even more of a trip to paradise land. Since it falls under the peak season, it is important to plan ahead, book in advance and prepare for hassle free and enjoyable trip. This city and its country is a beautiful pick to mark the beginning of your journey with your partner, particularly when the tulips bloom along with your love. Plan your Netherlands honeymoon tour packages with us and experience the best vacation of your life; supported by us, curated for you and cherished by all of us!

Happy journeying!

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Read more on Amsterdam through the other months

Amsterdam in January | Amsterdam in February | Amsterdam in March | Amsterdam in April | Amsterdam in June | Amsterdam in July | Amsterdam in August | Amsterdam in September | Amsterdam in October | Amsterdam in November |  Amsterdam in December