Amsterdam is a city for all seasons. Come wind, rain, snow or shine, there’s always something to do and see! But never is Amsterdam more alive than in summer, when the city’s streets, canals and parks transform into a buzzing kaleidoscope of activity.
Whether you want to party all day long at a festival, lounge on the beach, explore the canals by boat, or barbecue in the park, there’s an endless choice of things to do in Amsterdam during the warmer months. Here are just a few reasons why the Dutch capital is the perfect summer destination.
Museums
- Rijksmuseum, South of Amsterdam
This museum is probably on the to-visit-list of every tourist and with a good reason: It is the most beautiful museum in Amsterdam! Comparable to the Louvre in Paris, one you must see once in your life. While you are at it, check out the Nachtwacht of Rembrandt van Rijn (1642).
Markets
- Noordermarkt, Jordaan
A flea market and farmers’ market in one, Noordermarkt’s Saturday stalls are a heaven for delicious, organic produce including honey, cheese and homemade cakes, as well as antiques, books and vintage fashion. To avoid the weekend crowds, head there on Monday morning for a second flea market – and it’s worth stopping for a comforting apple pie at the famous Winkel 43 nearby.
- The Albert Cuypmarkt, De Pijp
The largest and most popular outdoor market in the Netherlands, with 260 stands selling everything from typical Dutch treats such as raw herring or freshly made stroopwafels.
- Bloemenmarkt, City Centre
A permanent fixture in downtown Amsterdam, this floating flower market is not to be missed. Situated on a stretch of the Singel canal, Bloemenmarkt's glass houses are filled with vibrant colours and the smell of fresh flowers.
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- Pure Markt, several locations
One of the newer markets on the scene, Pure Markt brings artisanal produce and creativity to locations in and around Amsterdam and boasts a mix of Dutch and international cuisine from Suriname roti to freshly chucked oysters. Drink it down with an organic beer served in luscious green surroundings. At Park Frankendael every last Sunday of the month or Amstelpark every second Sunday.
- Sunday Market Westergas, Amsterdam-West
Head to Westerpark for Sunday Market Westergas, where the Westergasterrein and market hall fill with stalls, food trucks, live bands and plenty of opportunities to shop for unique gifts from some of Amsterdam’s finest makers, from ceramics and affordable art to vintage fashion. Every first Sunday of the month.
Food or Dance festivals
A lot of Food Fests like Pure Markt, Kwaku Summer Festival and Funky Vegan Festival (11th of June) are happening in the city in Summer time. Just like the "you do you" celebrations like Amsterdam Gay Pride, the dance fest Milkshake. We will make another update on the dance festivals in Amsterdam in Summer. That is an article on its own ;-)
