What Should You Pack for Amsterdam?
Amsterdam’s weather can be a bit unpredictable, so packing for a mix of conditions is key. In spring and fall, you’ll need layers—sweaters, long sleeves, and a waterproof jacket will help with cooler, rainy days. In summer, the weather is mild, but pack a light jacket for evening walks along the canals. Winters are cold, so you’ll need a warm coat, scarves, and gloves, especially if you plan to explore on foot or by bike. And don’t forget comfortable shoes for walking on Amsterdam’s cobblestone streets!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting the Anne Frank House, exploring the Van Gogh Museum, cruising the canals, biking through Vondelpark, and experiencing Amsterdam’s famous flower markets.
Dress Code
Amsterdam’s style is casual but trendy, so think comfortable yet fashionable outfits for daytime activities. Locals often wear jeans, sweaters, and jackets while biking through the city or visiting cafes. When visiting museums or enjoying a canal cruise, casual chic is perfect—smart-casual is always a safe bet. If you’re planning to experience Amsterdam’s nightlife, consider packing a dress or stylish pants for the evening. Layers are essential due to the city’s unpredictable weather.
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Spring
45 – 60°F
(7 – 16°C
)
Summer
60 – 75°F
(16 – 24°C
)
Fall
45 – 60°F
(7 – 16°C
)
Winter
35 – 45°F
(2 – 7°C
)
Spring: Cool with frequent showers
Summer: Mild with occasional rain
Fall: Cool and rainy
Winter: Cold, with occasional snow and rain
Spring
2.5 inches of rain
Summer
2.4 inches of rain
Fall
3.1 inches of rain
Winter
2.7 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for warm days spent biking around the city—I loved having mine for exploring Amsterdam’s parks!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for layering on cooler days, especially when visiting outdoor markets or walking along the canals.
3. Sweaters: Ideal for chilly mornings or evenings by the canals.
4. Casual Jacket: A versatile jacket is great for cool weather, whether you’re strolling through museums or biking in the park.
5. Rain Jacket: Essential for staying dry during Amsterdam’s unpredictable rain showers!
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable and stylish for walking and biking through Amsterdam’s streets—I loved wearing mine while exploring the canals!
2. Leggings: Perfect for layering or for a casual day exploring the markets.
3. Shorts: A great option for summer days when visiting the city’s parks or flower markets.
4. Dresses: Perfect for a stylish day out visiting museums or dining at a canal-side cafe.
5. Skirt: A nice option for a casual yet stylish day of sightseeing.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for Amsterdam’s cobblestone streets and bike rides—I loved how reliable mine were for exploring the city!
2. Flats: A stylish yet comfortable option for evenings out at restaurants or cafes along the canals.
3. Sandals: Perfect for warm summer days spent exploring Vondelpark or the markets.
4. Hat: Great for sunny days while visiting outdoor markets or taking a canal cruise.
5. Scarf: A useful accessory for chilly days, especially in spring or fall.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for short trips and for keeping essentials handy—I loved mine for weekend getaways in Amsterdam!
2. Daypack: Ideal for carrying water and snacks while exploring Amsterdam’s canals or parks.
3. Purse: A stylish and practical option for keeping personal items secure while visiting museums or shopping.
4. Tote Bag: Useful for carrying layers or small shopping finds from Amsterdam’s markets.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layers: Amsterdam’s weather can shift quickly, so packing layers is essential for comfort.
- Waterproof jacket: Rain showers can pop up at any time, so a waterproof jacket is handy.
- Comfortable shoes: Amsterdam is a walking and biking city, so comfortable shoes are a must.
- Casual chic: Amsterdam’s laid-back yet stylish vibe means you can dress comfortably but look good while exploring the city.
Amsterdam Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT AMSTERDAM?
May is the best month to visit Amsterdam. May’s also great because the weather is mild, tulip fields are in full bloom, and the city is alive with outdoor festivals and markets. Crowds are lighter than in summer, making it ideal for sightseeing and biking around the city.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN AMSTERDAM?
King’s Day (April 27): A national holiday with street parties and markets, perfect for friends and families who enjoy celebrating with locals.
Amsterdam Light Festival (December – January): A magical festival of light art installations along the canals, great for solo travelers and couples.
Pride Amsterdam (August): One of the world’s largest LGBTQ+ pride events, ideal for solo travelers, groups, and families.
Holland Festival (June): A cultural arts festival showcasing theater, music, and dance, perfect for couples and art lovers.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN AMSTERDAM?
Amsterdam offers a mix of historic and modern attractions. Start with the Anne Frank House for a moving experience, then head to the Van Gogh Museum to admire the famous artworks. One of my favorite spots is Vondelpark, where you can relax or rent a bike to explore the city. Don’t miss a canal cruise to see Amsterdam’s unique architecture from the water, or visit the trendy De Pijp district for street food and cafes. The Bloemenmarkt is also a must-see for its floating flower stalls.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT AMSTERDAM?
3-4 days is ideal to see Amsterdam’s highlights, including museums, parks, and canal cruises. A weekend can cover the major attractions.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit the Anne Frank House, explore the Van Gogh Museum, and take a canal cruise in the evening. On day two, bike through Vondelpark, visit the Bloemenmarkt, and enjoy dinner in the Jordaan district.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit the Rijksmuseum and stroll through the Museumplein. Spend day four exploring the De Pijp district and enjoying street food. On day five, take a day trip to Zaanse Schans to see the traditional Dutch windmills.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, visit the Heineken Experience for a brewery tour and explore the nearby Albert Cuyp Market. On day seven, relax at Hortus Botanicus and visit the Artis Zoo for a peaceful day in nature.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, explore the NDSM Wharf and its vibrant street art scene. Spend day nine visiting the Hermitage Amsterdam and Rembrandt House. On day ten, take a boat trip to the IJmeer for views of Amsterdam’s modern waterfront architecture.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, take a day trip to Haarlem for its historic buildings and art museums. Spend days twelve to fourteen exploring the Dutch countryside, including Keukenhof Gardens and the windmills of Kinderdijk.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN AMSTERDAM?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 3 Dresses
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 4 Dresses
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR AMSTERDAM?
High heels: Amsterdam’s cobblestone streets and biking culture make high heels impractical for walking.
Heavy winter coat: Even in winter, layers and a medium-weight jacket are usually sufficient for most days.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO AMSTERDAM ?
Airfare: $500-$1,000 depending on the season and departure city, with higher prices during summer.
Accommodation: $100-$300 per night, with higher rates near the city center and during peak seasons.
Transportation: $30-$70 for public transit and bike rentals, as Amsterdam is a very walkable and bike-friendly city.
Meals: $30-$70 per day depending on whether you eat at casual cafes or upscale restaurants.
Activities: $30-$80 per day depending on whether you visit museums, take canal tours, or explore nearby towns.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN AMSTERDAM? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is appreciated but not expected in Amsterdam. Rounding up the bill at cafes or restaurants is common, and leaving a 10% tip at restaurants is considered polite.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT AMSTERDAM BEFORE I VISIT?
- Use public transport: Amsterdam’s trams and metro are efficient and cover most areas, but biking is the most popular way to get around.
- Watch for bikes: The city has a huge biking culture, so always be mindful of bike lanes.
- Bring an umbrella: Amsterdam’s weather can change quickly, so it’s a good idea to have a compact umbrella with you.
- Cash is useful: Some smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards, so it’s good to have some euros on hand.