The Weather in Amsterdam in May?

Updated: 5 enero 2024

This post is about the weather in Amsterdam in May, including average temperatures, precipitation, and tips on packing and sightseeing activities.


HOW COLD IS AMSTERDAM IN MAY?

May in Amsterdam tends to be cool but with several comfortable afternoons, especially near the end of the month.  

Daytime high temperatures are about 15 C (in the upper 50s F) early in the month warming to 17 C-18 C (into the mid-60s F) by the end of the month.

A few of the warmer afternoons, especially near the end of May can get up to 23 C-24 C (into the mid-70s F). 

The all-time record high for Amsterdam during May is 29 C (84 F).

Average Temperatures in Amstedam in May

Late night and early morning lows generally are 6 C-7 C (in the mid-40s F) and early in May warming to 9 C-10 C (the upper 40s F) by the end of the month.

A few of the colder mornings early in the month can dip down to 2 C-3 C (the mid to upper 30s F).

The record low temperature in Amsterdam during May is -1 C (30 F).

Amsterdam Walking Tours

HOW MUCH SUN OR RAIN?

Skies during May tend to be sunny, or at least partly sunny on 14-15 days with about 12 days reporting some rainfall.

Only about 8 days, however, will record 1 mm (0.04 inches) or more of rain. A rainy day is somewhat more likely near the end of the month than at the beginning. 

Weather Calendar Amsterdam May

Daylight continues to increase through this month from just under 15 hours on the first to nearly 16.5 hours by the 31st.

The wind in Amsterdam during May tends to be mostly gentle at 12-19 kph (at 8-12 mph) but can often be moderate at 20-28 kph (at 13-18 mph) with higher gusts. 


WHAT TO WEAR?

May brings spring weather to Amsterdam with warmer afternoons but still cool to chilly nights and mornings.

You should back a couple of sweaters, at least one lightweight jacket or coat as well as some long-sleeved shirts and long pants.

What to Wear Amsterdam in May

More spring attire like cotton shirts, pants, or skirts will do well during the warmer afternoons. 

You may also wish to bring along an umbrella, or raincoat for the wet days and don’t forget to bring along some comfortable walking shoes.


WHAT TO DO IN AMSTERDAM IN MAY

This section lists the highlights of what to do in Amsterdam in May.

For even more suggestions of free things to do, family-friendly activities, and evening entertainment this month and year-round, read our full post for the best Amsterdam activities.

TIP: When you purchase a tourist discount pass, you can see more while saving money on the most popular attractions. Some city passes will give up to 55% discounts!

May Highlights:

  • Visit the Keukenhof Gardens in full bloom
  • Explore Amsterdam by water on a canal cruise
  • Go to a rock or pop concert or musical festival
  • Attend a football match or the Formula 1 Dutch Grand Prix 
  • See Trevor Noah perform his stand-up comedy
  • Take a free walking tour
  • Hear the Dutch National Opera for free
  • Discover the best beers in Amsterdam on a beer tour
  • Check out the annual Open Jewish Homes event 
  • Celebrate the annual Liberation Day on May 5th

Find more detail about these top things to do in our full Amsterdam in May post.

About The Author

Fred Pickhardt

Fred is a marine meteorologist and sailed briefly with American Export Lines in the Far East trade. He has extensive experience in weather analysis, weather forecasting, and forensic weather event reconstructions. Fred founded Ocean Weather Services and currently provides forensic marine weather reports to the maritime industry.
Updated: enero 5th, 2024
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