Summer in the Netherlands: What to Expect

A netherlands canal and bridge with traditional thatched redbrick houses in the background. The houses have manicured green lawns with large shrubs and red flowers

Weather and Climate

Summer in the Netherlands, from June through August, offers mild to warm temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C on average. While it's usually sunny, brief showers and cloudy days are still common—so pack layers and an umbrella just in case.

Outdoor Activities

Beach days: Head to Scheveningen, Zandvoort, or Texel for seaside fun.
Canal tours: Amsterdam and Utrecht are perfect for relaxing boat rides.
Cycling adventures: Explore national parks and countryside bike routes.
Terrace culture: Dutch cafes spill out onto sunny terraces all summer long.

Summer Events and Festivals

Summer is festival season! Look out for:

North Sea Jazz Festival in Rotterdam
De Parade traveling theater festival
Local kermis (fairs) and open-air concerts throughout the country

Popular Destinations

Beyond the big cities, Dutch summer is great for exploring smaller gems:

Friesland: for sailing and traditional villages
Giethoorn: the “Dutch Venice” with canal-lined homes
The Wadden Islands: a peaceful escape with beach dunes and cycling paths

Local Tips

Summer school holidays mean trains and attractions can be busier—book ahead.
Take advantage of longer daylight hours—sunset can be as late as 10:30 p.m. in June!
Many Dutch take holidays in July and August, so some small shops may close for a week or two.

Make the Most of It

Whether you're visiting or living in the Netherlands, summer brings out the best of Dutch culture. From food festivals to coastal bike rides, there’s something for everyone to enjoy under the northern sun.

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