Discover the Netherlands in Summer: Festivals, Tulips & More

Planning a trip to Europe but tired of the same old "crowded beaches and sweltering heat" routine? Let TravelThru introduce you to Europe's best-kept summer secret: the Netherlands in summer.

While everyone else is melting in 90-degree weather or fighting for pool chairs, the Dutch are living their best life with perfect 70-degree days and sunlight that lasts until 9 PM. Yes, you read that right – 9 PM sunsets are basically the norm here.

The Dutch summer is like that friend who always has the perfect plan. Want to cycle through flower fields? Check. A canal cruise with a cold beer? Double check. Feel like dancing at a world-famous music festival? Triple check. This tiny country somehow manages to pack more summer fun per square mile than places ten times its size.

Ready to discover why smart travelers are ditching the Mediterranean for Dutch summer magic? Prepare for Instagram-worthy moments and pleasant experiences.

Summer Weather in the Netherlands

Typically, the summer months – June, July, and August – offer the warmest and sunniest days of the year. You can generally anticipate the Netherlands' summer temperature ranges to hover comfortably between 17°C and 22°C (63°F to 72°F). 

However, it's not uncommon to experience warmer spells, with temperatures occasionally climbing into the high 20s (around 77-82°F+), especially in July and August. These warmer days are when you'll see locals flocking to parks, lakes, and coastal areas.

Sunshine hours are generous during summer, with long daylight periods allowing for extended sightseeing and outdoor activities. June often boasts the longest days of the year. While sunshine is frequent, it’s wise to remember that this is Northern Europe. Cloudy spells can roll in, and a completely overcast day isn't out of the question.

And what about rain? While summer is drier than other seasons, the Netherlands wouldn't be so green without some precipitation. You can expect the possibility of occasional summer showers. These are often short-lived, passing through quickly, but it’s always a good idea to have a light rain jacket or a compact umbrella handy. Statistically, July and August might see slightly more rainfall than June, but this can vary year to year.

Regional variations:

While the country is relatively small, you might notice slight regional weather differences:

• Coastal areas: Often a bit breezier, which can be very pleasant on hot days. Temperatures might be a degree or two cooler than inland due to the sea breeze.
• Inland & Southern regions: Can sometimes experience slightly higher temperatures during heatwaves compared to the coast.

>>> Read more: When is the best time to visit the Netherlands?

Top Things to Do in the Netherlands in Summer

Dutch Beaches & Seaside Fun

• Scheveningen (The Hague): The most famous beach resort in the Netherlands, Scheveningen boasts a long sandy beach, a vibrant pier with a Ferris wheel, surf schools, and numerous beach clubs. It's perfect for a lively day out with activities like bungee jumping or simply enjoying fresh seafood with your toes in the sand.

   

• Zandvoort: Easily accessible from Amsterdam, Zandvoort is another popular choice, known for its motorsport racetrack nestled in the dunes, as well as its wide beach and trendy beach pavilions.

   

• Texel & the Wadden Islands: For a true escape, head to Texel, the largest of the Wadden Islands (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Here, you can enjoy vast beaches, cycle through nature reserves, visit charming villages, and even go seal spotting. The other islands, like Vlieland and Terschelling, offer similar natural beauty and a more laid-back vibe.

   

• Other Notable Beaches: Consider Bloemendaal aan Zee for its hip beach clubs or Domburg in Zeeland for its historic charm and family-friendly atmosphere.

Beyond sunbathing and swimming, try your hand at windsurfing, kitesurfing, or paddleboarding. Many beaches have rental facilities and schools.

Glide Through the Canals

• Amsterdam Canal Cruises: A classic for a reason! Observe the famous canal houses from an alternative viewpoint. Opt for a daytime tour for history and sightseeing or an evening cruise for a magical, illuminated experience. For a more personal experience, consider private or open-boat tours.

   

• Rent Your Own Boat (Sloep): In cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, Leiden, and Haarlem, renting an electric "sloep" (a small, open boat) is a fantastic way to explore the canals at your own pace with friends or family. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sunshine.

   

• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: For a more active experience, many canals and lakes offer kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals, providing a unique workout with stunning views.

   

• Giethoorn ("Venice of the North"): This picturesque village, with its thatched-roof farmhouses and car-free center, is best explored by "punter" (a traditional flat-bottomed boat) or electric boat through its myriad canals and under its charming wooden bridges. It's incredibly popular, so consider visiting on a weekday or booking ahead.

Enjoy the Netherlands' Summer Festivals

While specific dates change annually, look out for major events like the North Sea Jazz Festival (Rotterdam), Kwaku Summer Festival (Amsterdam), De Parade (traveling theatre festival visiting various cities), and numerous Pride celebrations (Amsterdam Pride being the largest and most famous, usually late July/early August). Many cities also host their own local "zomerfeesten" (summer parties).

Explore the Netherlands by Bike

There's no better way to experience the Dutch landscape and lifestyle than by bicycle, especially when the summer weather is inviting.

Pleasant temperatures, long daylight hours, and blooming nature make summer ideal for cycling. The flat terrain and extensive network of dedicated cycle paths make it accessible for all fitness levels.

Popular cycling routes:

• Explore the lush greenery around Amsterdam, like the Amstel River or the Waterland district with its traditional villages.
• Cycle through national parks like Hoge Veluwe or along the coastal dune paths.
• While the main tulip season is spring, the routes through flower-growing regions remain scenic, and you might catch late summer blooms or other agricultural beauty.
• Many cities offer themed urban cycling routes to discover hidden gems.

Renting a bike is easy and affordable, with rental shops found in almost every town and city, and near train stations. Consider an e-bike for longer distances or if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

Discover Iconic Landmarks

Windmills: Witness the iconic windmills at Kinderdijk (a UNESCO World Heritage site with 19 windmills) or Zaanse Schans (a historic open-air museum with working windmills, traditional houses, and artisan workshops). Summer allows for leisurely exploration and beautiful photo opportunities.

Historic cities beyond Amsterdam:

• Delft: Famous for its blue pottery, charming canals, and connection to Johannes Vermeer.
• Haarlem: A delightful city with a beautiful market square, a medieval church, and excellent shopping, just a short hop from Amsterdam.
• Leiden: A historic university city with picturesque canals and numerous museums.
• Maastricht: Located in the south, offering a different architectural style, rolling hills nearby, and a distinct Burgundian atmosphere.
   

Charming villages: Venture out to Volendam, Marken, and Edam for a taste of traditional Dutch culture, complete with wooden shoes, historic costumes (mainly for show), and delicious cheese.

Castles: Explore magnificent castles like Kasteel de Haar (near Utrecht), the largest castle in the Netherlands, or Muiderslot Castle (near Amsterdam), a well-preserved medieval fortress.

Connect with Nature of the Netherlands

Want to enjoy nature in the Netherlands this summer? There are many beautiful places to explore away from the busy cities.

One big park is Hoge Veluwe National Park. It has forests and open fields. You can ride free white bikes there. There is also a good art museum in the park with Van Gogh paintings. You might see animals too. Another cool place is De Biesbosch National Park. This park has lots of water, like rivers and small islands with trees. You can go on a boat or kayak. It's a good place to see birds.

You can find quiet green spots in cities, too. Vondelpark in Amsterdam is a big park. People like to have picnics there or just walk around. Many Dutch cities have nice parks. If you like looking at plants, you can visit a botanical garden. The garden in Leiden is very old. Amsterdam has a nice one too.

Even though the famous tulips bloom in spring, you can still see flowers in summer. Dahlias are pretty summer flowers. So, you can enjoy lots of nature on your summer trip.

Food Markets & Outdoor Dining

Summer is a great time to try fresh food and eat outside in the Netherlands. You should definitely visit a food market. Amsterdam has the famous Albert Cuyp Market. It's a busy street market where you can buy fresh fruit, cheese, warm stroopwafels, and much more. 

In Rotterdam, you can visit the Markthal. It's a big, beautiful building with lots of food stalls inside, offering food from all over the world. Many towns also have their own markets each week. These are good places to buy local food for a picnic.

One of the best things about summer in the Netherlands is eating and drinking outside at a "terras." When it's sunny, cafes and restaurants put tables and chairs out on the sidewalks, near canals, or in town squares. It's a lovely, friendly feeling. Sitting on a terras is a perfect way to have a coffee, a beer, or a meal while you watch people and enjoy the city. Also, look for special Dutch summer treats like sweet Dutch strawberries ("Hollandse aardbeien") or a yummy ice cream ("ijsje") to enjoy on a warm day.

7-Day Netherlands Summer Itinerary

Wondering what your trip could look like? We've put together some great ideas for 7 summer days in the Netherlands to help you make the most of the sunny Dutch season.

Day 1-2: Amsterdam highlights

Focus on key canals, museums, and parks. Consider a bike tour on Day 2 to cover more ground.

Day 3: Keukenhof Area (if late spring/early summer flowers linger) or Charming Haarlem

• Morning: 

   

If your trip is in very early summer, check if any late-bloom flower fields or summer flower shows are accessible near Lisse (Keukenhof gardens themselves close mid-May, but the region is still pretty).

Alternatively, take a short train ride to Haarlem. Discover the charm of the Netherlands by visiting the beautiful Grote Markt and the St. Bavo Church. Enjoy the city's relaxed vibe and explore its unique boutique shops.

• Afternoon: Cycle along the Spaarne River in Haarlem or visit the Frans Hals Museum.
   

Day 4: The Hague & Scheveningen Beach

• Morning: Travel to The Hague. Visit the Binnenhof (Parliament buildings), Peace Palace, and the Mauritshuis museum (home to Vermeer's "Girl with a Pearl Earring").
• Afternoon: Head to Scheveningen beach. Walk the pier, enjoy the sea breeze, and perhaps try some fresh herring from a stall.
• Evening: Dinner at a beach club in Scheveningen.

Day 5: Delft & Rotterdam

• Morning: Day trip to Delft. Visit a Delft Blue pottery factory, explore its charming canals, and climb the New Church tower for panoramic views.
• Afternoon: Travel to Rotterdam. Explore its modern architecture, including the Cube Houses, Markthal (enjoy lunch here), and the Erasmus Bridge.
• Evening: Consider a harbour tour in Rotterdam or enjoy the vibrant Witte de Withstraat.

Day 6: Utrecht's Unique Charm & Canals

• Morning: Travel to Utrecht. Climb the Dom Tower for stunning views.
• Afternoon: Explore Utrecht's unique two-level canals on foot or rent a kayak/canoe. Enjoy the wharfside cafes and shops.
• Evening: Find a cozy restaurant in one of the converted wharf cellars.

Day 7: Windmills of Kinderdijk & Departure

• Morning: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kinderdijk to see the impressive collection of 19 authentic windmills. Consider a boat tour or rent bikes to explore the area.

• Afternoon: Depending on your flight schedule, travel to Schiphol Airport (Amsterdam) or your departure point.
   

  >>> If you're planning a shorter visit focused on the capital, our 3-day Amsterdam itinerary will help you cover all the highlights.

   

  So there you have it – the Netherlands in summer isn't just a vacation destination, it's basically a cheat code for the perfect European getaway. While your friends are complaining about tourist traps and weather disasters, you'll be sipping coffee at 8 PM sunset (because Dutch summer days are generous like that) and wondering why it took you so long to discover this place.

  
  It’s a season where the Dutch "gezelligheid" truly comes alive outdoors. So, whether you're dreaming of leisurely bike rides through verdant countrysides or vibrant evenings spent on a bustling terrace, now is the time to make those dreams a reality. Start planning your incredible journey and discover all the wonders of the Netherlands' summer holidays.