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Your guide to Amsterdam in March: Weather, festivals & top things to do

March is ideal for Amsterdam! Tulip season begins, offering stunning displays at Keukenhof. Fewer crowds than summer mean easier access to attractions like canal cruises and museums. Milder temperatures and longer days make outdoor exploration comfortable. Plus, you can often find better deals on flights and hotels. Some absolute must-sees are Keukenhof, Amsterdam Canal cruises, Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and the Albert Cuyp Market.

Amsterdam in March at a glance

  • Weather: The temperature ranges between 3℃ and 10℃, with a slight rise towards the end of the month. Expect rain for at least 10 days.
  • Daylight: You’ll see 6 to 8 hours of daylight every day, with sunrise at 7am and sunset at 6:50pm.
  • Key events: Amsterdam Tulip Festival, The Jungle Weekender, Jazz Sabbath, and Country Music Festival are major events in March.
  • Tourist season: March sees significantly fewer visitors than the peak months of April and May, allowing you to explore the city more leisurely.
  • Packing essentials: While it is warmer than the winter months, it may be slightly chilly, so carry a light jacket and a thick scarf. Woolen hats, gloves, and winter shoes are also recommended.

Popular things to do in Amsterdam in March

Keukenhof

Keukenhof, popularly known as the Garden of Europe, is one of the world’s largest flower gardens. Here, you can see over 7 million flower bulbs spread across 32 hectares, with tulips being the star of the show.
Special events: Head to Keukenhof to enjoy the annual Amsterdam Tulip Festival from March 20 to May 11.
Recommended experiences:

  • From Amsterdam: Day Trip to Keukenhof & Tulip Farm
  • From Amsterdam: Keukenhof & Zaanse Schans Windmills Guided Tour

Insider tip: Check out the indoor exhibitions and glasshouses to see tulips and other flower arrangements, including daffodils, roses, and carnations.

Tulip Experience

Explore over 700 varieties of tulips, and learn about the history of tulip cultivation in Amsterdam at the family-run Tulip Experience.
Special events: From March 20 to May 11, the Amsterdam Tulip Festival will feature a Farmers’ Market, art exhibitions, and more specially curated for children. Your kids will also enjoy the special Easter weekend scavenger hunt.

Recommended experience:

  • Tulip Experience Amsterdam Tickets

Insider tip: The Tulip Experience also lets guests pick their own tulips from the indoor picking garden, so don’t forget to go flower-picking.

Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is the national museum of the Netherlands, and home to over 800 works of art from the Dutch Golden Age. Here, you can spot masterpieces by the likes of Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Vermeer.
Special events: The Rijksmuseum hosts the following exhibitions throughout March: Frans Hals, Express Yourself, and Slavery: 10 True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery.
Recommended experiences:

Insider tip: When visiting, explore the less popular galleries like the Asia Pavillion and Special Collections. You can explore the more popular galleries in the early morning or in the evening.

Van Gogh Museum

This art museum is dedicated to Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries. See the largest collection of his paintings, including The Potato Eaters, drawings, and personal letters.
Special events: In March, catch the Power of Pigments and the Anselm Kiefer—Sag mir wo die Blumen sind exhibitions.
Recommended experiences:

Insider tip: Do not miss the Sunflower Room, which houses Sunflowers; the Timeline Room, which maps out the key events in Van Gogh’s life and work; and the Phone Call Room, to get a deeper understanding of Van Gogh’s relationship with his brother, Theo.

H’ART Museum

The H’ART Museum, formerly associated with the Hermitage Museum of Saint Petersburg, is known for its temporary exhibitions, often showcasing some of the most famous works of art, borrowed from other museums worldwide.
Special events:* Explore the Happy Birthday Amsterdam, Amsterdam Museum, and Animal Therapy exhibitions at H’ART Museum.
*Recommended experience:**

  • Small-Group Amsterdam Hidden Gems Walking Tour

Insider tip: The H'ART Museum sometimes has extended hours or special programs on Wednesday evenings. This can mean fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.

ARTIS Royal Zoo

The ARTIS Royal Zoo is the Netherlands’ first public zoo and one of the five oldest zoos in the world. Explore the Zoological Garden, and see reptiles, lions, jaguars, elephants, and more.
Special events: Check out the late Lizan Freijsen’s hand-tufted wool carpets at the special Pillars of Life exhibition.
Recommended experience:

  • Small-Group Amsterdam Hidden Gems Walking Tour

Insider tip: Plan to visit during feeding times and demonstrations for a unique way to see the animals active, and don’t miss Micropia, the world’s first and only museum dedicated to microorganisms.

Moco Amsterdam

Enjoy modern, contemporary, and street art at Moco Amsterdam, where you can see works by modern artists like Banksy, Dali, and Hirst.
Special events: Check out the Planet Positive Disruption and DREAMS exhibitions at Moco Amsterdam in March.
Recommended experiences:

Insider tip: Download the Moco PLAY app to see artworks like Let Her Be Free come alive through augmented reality.

Nightlife

Amsterdam is known for its nightlife, especially its dance clubs and live music. Whether you’re a fan of techno, house, trance, hip-hop, funk, or even jazz, there’s something for everyone.
Special events: The Jungle Weekender from March 7 to 10, Let’s Party Like It’s 1999 on March 28 at Ijland, and White Moon - 10 Year Anniversary on March 29 at H7 Warehouse are go-to events.
Recommended experience:

  • Tickets to Leidseplein Pub Crawl in Amsterdam

Insider tip: Don’t forget to check out live music venues like Bourbon Street Music Club. You can also visit traditional pubs like Proeflokaal Arendsnest to sample a variety of Dutch beers.

Rembrandt House Museum

Rembrandt House Museum, the former residence of Rembrandt between 1639 and 1658, is dedicated to the life and works of the Dutch painter. Step back in time to the 17th century and see his prints as well as learn about his personal life and influences.
Special events: Enjoy The Illusionist exhibition, running till May 4, 2025, on your visit to the Rembrandt House Museum in March.
Recommended experiences:

Insider tip: Take advantage of the limited live demonstrations of Rembrandt’s etching and painting techniques for a better understanding of 17th-century art practices.

Amsterdam in March highlights: Must-do experiences for families, couples, and more

Families with kids

Must-experience: The Efteling theme park is a fantastic choice for families due to its unique blend of fairytale atmosphere, rides, and engaging shows. Hop on a wide range of rides and attractions, from gentle boat rides through the Fairytale Forest to roller coasters like Python. You can also enjoy shows throughout the day, including the Aquanura, Europe’s biggest water show.
Better in March: While Efteling is enjoyable year-round, March provides a sweet spot with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and the beauty of spring, further enhancing the fairytale ambiance. The park comes alive with colors as spring flowers start to bloom on the grounds, and you can feed ducklings or enjoy the spring warmth on special benches and terraces.

Couples

Must-experience: Glide through the UNESCO-listed canals on an Amsterdam canal cruise. Seeing the city from the water offers a unique perspective, revealing hidden corners and architectural details that might be missed on foot. Many cruises offer wine and cheese platters, perfect for couples seeking a more intimate experience.
Better in March: March is the peak of tulip season in the Netherlands. As you cruise along the canals, you'll witness vibrant tulips in full bloom, adding romance to the scenery. While still cool, March offers milder temperatures than the winter months. This makes for a comfortable and enjoyable cruise on open-air decks or even flower boats.

Art and culture lovers

Must-experience: Moco Amsterdam boasts a collection of modern and contemporary art, featuring works by artists like Banksy, Warhol, Lichtenstein, and Hirst. The museum regularly hosts new exhibitions, showcasing both established and emerging artists. Moco also incorporates interactive elements into its exhibits, making the experience more engaging and memorable.
Better in March: March often sees the opening of new exhibitions at Moco Amsterdam. While still a popular attraction, March generally sees fewer visitors than peak summer months so you might experience shorter queues at the entrance and for popular exhibits like Andres Reisinger’s DREAMS or Frankey’s Planet Positive Disruption.

Solo travelers or friend groups

Must-experience: The panoramic views from the A’DAM Lookout observation deck provide a perfect setting to enjoy the scenery, including Central Station and the Amsterdam canals, or simply unwind. Strike up a conversation with fellow travelers, or enjoy Europe’s highest "Over the Edge" swing.
Better in March: March offers longer daylight hours compared to winter, allowing you to enjoy the panoramic views for a longer period. You can witness the city come alive as the sun sets, creating a magical atmosphere.

Shopping enthusiasts

Must-experience: Amsterdam offers a vibrant shopping scene with options for every taste. While Jordaan is known for its vintage shops, antique stores, and trendy boutiques, Kalverstraat offers a mix of international chains and Dutch brands. Leidsestraat offers a more upscale shopping experience with designer boutiques and PC Hooftstraat features high-end luxury brands.
Better in March: Check out Bloemenmarkt, the world-famous floating flower market, offering a colorful array of tulips, bulbs, and other flowers. Some stores might also offer spring sales or promotions. Don't hesitate to bargain at the markets, especially at the Albert Cuyp Market.

Nature lovers

Must-experience: Keukenhof, renowned as the "Garden of Europe," boasts a display of over 7 million flower bulbs, including tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and more. Keukenhof showcases the pinnacle of Dutch horticultural expertise through intricate flower arrangements and gardens. The park also features walking paths, ponds, and charming windmills.
Better in March: March marks the peak of tulip season in the Netherlands, making it the ideal time to experience the full glory of Keukenhof. Most of the tulips will be in full bloom during March, along with mild temperatures and longer days, making it comfortable for exploring the gardens. March also typically sees fewer crowds than April, allowing for a more relaxed visit.

Amsterdam in March: Your perfect 3-day itinerary

Morning: Have breakfast at Chimney Cake Bakery & Cafe before you go to the Van Gogh Museum, a world-renowned art museum dedicated to the life and work of the Dutch Post-Impressionist painter, Vincent van Gogh, including The Potato Eaters.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at the Rijksmuseum, the national museum of the Netherlands, housing a vast collection of Dutch art and history spanning over 800 years. Admire The Night Watch by Rembrandt and Frans Hals’ The Merry Drinker. Later, have lunch at Brasserie Zuiderbad.
Evening: Warm up with drinks at the Heineken Experience, an interactive journey into the world of one of the globe's most iconic beer brands. Learn about the brewing process and the brand's heritage and cultural impact. End the day at the Vegan Junk Food Bar.

Morning: Start your day early with a day trip to Keukenhof, the “Garden of Europe," in Lisse. See over spring blooms and 7 million flower bulbs covering 32 hectares, especially tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, lilies, roses, and more.
Afternoon: If you have some time to spare, visit the open-air museum of Zaanse Schans, showcasing traditional Dutch life and culture. See well-preserved windmills and wooden houses, and witness cheese-processing and clog-making.
Evening: Return to Amsterdam in the evening, and explore the A’DAM Lookout, an observation deck offering 360-degree panoramic views of the city, including the historic center, the port, and the Dutch polder landscape. Don’t miss "Over the Edge," Europe's highest swing. Have dinner at the Eye Bar & Restaurant.

Morning: Have coffee and a light breakfast at Kafenion Amsterdam. Visit the Anne Frank House, a museum dedicated to the life of Anne Frank, a young Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis in Amsterdam during World War II.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, you can board an Amsterdam Canal Cruise from the Anne Frank Pier. Glide past the Rijksmuseum, the Westerkerk, Magere Brug, and the Royal Palace on Dam Square. Later, go to Mendoza Restaurant for lunch.
Evening: You can either explore the Red Light District, renowned for its openly visible sex work, on a walking tour, or you can visit the Red Light Secrets Museum, a former brothel offering a glimpse into the history and taboos of sex work in Amsterdam. Stop by La Piazza for dinner.

Pro tips for exploring Amsterdam in March

  • Where to stay: While March is considered shoulder season, popular accommodations can still be booked up, especially during weekends and holidays. Stay in the city center (within the canal ring) for easy access to major attractions and public transportation. Consider staying in a canal house, a boutique hotel, or a cozy guesthouse for a more authentic Amsterdam experience.
  • Rent a bike: Amsterdam is a very bike-friendly city. Consider renting a bike for a unique and efficient way to explore.
  • Utilize public transportation: The extensive public transportation system (trams, buses, and metro) is efficient and affordable. A canal cruise also offers a unique perspective of the city and is a relaxing way to see the sights.
  • How to save money: Consider a city pass and explore options like the I Amsterdam City Card, which offers free entry to many museums and attractions and free public transportation. Take advantage of free activities like exploring the canals on foot, visiting free museums, and enjoying the city's many parks. Explore local cafes and restaurants for affordable and delicious meals.
  • Embrace the local culture: Sample traditional Dutch dishes like stamppot, herring, and stroopwafels. Explore the Albert Cuyp Market for a taste of local life and find unique souvenirs. Basic Dutch phrases like "hello" (hallo), "thank you" (dank u wel), and "please" (alstublieft) will be appreciated by locals.
  • Day trips from Amsterdam: Consider going on half-day or full-day trips to Keukenhof, a must-visit for tulip lovers; Zaanse Schans, a picturesque village with windmills and wooden houses; Utrecht, known for the beautiful Dom Tower and a lively canal district; and The Hague, the seat of the Dutch government, offering a glimpse into Dutch politics and history.

Frequently Asked Questions about visiting Amsterdam in March

Is March a good time to visit Amsterdam?

Absolutely! March is ideal for experiencing Amsterdam’s early spring vibes. While it’s less crowded compared to the summer months, you still get to enjoy cultural events, blossoming flowers, and the tail-end of the winter festival season. Plus, fewer crowds mean shorter lines at popular attractions.

Is it peak season in Amsterdam during March?

No, March is part of Amsterdam’s shoulder season, meaning there are fewer tourists compared to the summer months. It’s a great time to explore the city at a leisurely pace and find better accommodation deals.

How are the crowds at popular attractions in March?

Crowds are relatively lighter in March compared to the high season. While landmarks like the Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum are always popular, you’ll likely experience shorter wait times.

Can I see tulips in Amsterdam in March?

Tulip season officially begins in mid to late March, depending on the weather. If you’re lucky, Keukenhof Gardens might be open towards the end of the month, offering stunning displays of early-blooming tulips.

What’s the best way to get around Amsterdam in March?

Biking is a popular choice and bike rentals are available throughout the year, but if it’s too cold or rainy, rely on the efficient tram, bus, and metro system. Walking is also enjoyable in areas like the Canal Belt and the Museumplein.

Are canal cruises available in March?

Yes! Canal cruises operate year-round, and March is a great time to enjoy them without the summer crowds. Some boats even offer heated indoor seating to keep you cozy.

Are there any seasonal foods to try in Amsterdam in March?

Yes! March is perfect for sampling hearty Dutch dishes like erwtensoep (pea soup) and stroopwafels (syrup waffles). Pair these with a warm cup of Dutch coffee for the ultimate comfort.

What’s the nightlife like in Amsterdam in March?

Amsterdam’s nightlife thrives year-round. From cozy pubs to trendy nightclubs, March offers plenty of options, including jazz evenings, dance parties, and canal-side bars.

Are hotels cheaper in Amsterdam in March?

Yes, March is part of the shoulder season, so hotel rates are generally more affordable compared to summer. Book early to snag the best deals.

How long should I plan to stay in Amsterdam in March?

A 3 to 4-day trip is ideal for covering the main attractions, enjoying cultural events, and taking a day trip or two.

Is it a good time for photography in Amsterdam?

Yes! The city’s unique light in early spring and fewer crowds make for stunning photographs, especially along the canals.

What are some hidden gems to explore in Amsterdam in March?

Visit spots like De Plantage neighborhood, the tranquil Begijnhof courtyard, or take a leisurely stroll through Westerpark for a peaceful escape.

Can I visit multiple museums and monuments in one day?

Absolutely—you can visit as many included attractions as you can fit into the day with Amsterdam Hop-on Hop-off buses

What is the Amsterdam City card?

​City card offers access to top attractions, with skip‑the‑line options.