August in Amsterdam: Warm, Lively and Sunny — But Not Reliably Dry
Amsterdam weather in August is usually warm, pleasant and summery — by Dutch standards. Expect comfortable sightseeing temperatures, green parks, busy café terraces and evenings that stay light well past dinnertime.
But this is still Amsterdam. A sunny morning can turn into a sudden shower, and a week of glorious summer weather can be followed by several grey, unsettled days. Hot, humid spells occur as well. Pack for summer, but add one light layer and something rainproof.
August Weather Snapshot
- Average daytime high: about 22°C (72°F)
- Average nighttime low: about 13°C (56°F)
- Warm days of 25°C (77°F) or more are quite possible; temperatures above 30°C (86°F) occur during heatwaves
- August is one of Amsterdam’s sunnier months, with about 204 hours of sunshine on average
- It is also the wettest month by total rainfall as measured at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, but much of that rain falls in showers rather than as day-long drizzle
- Expect measurable rain on roughly 11–12 days during the month
- Daylight decreases from about 15½ hours on August 1 to 13¾ hours on August 31
- Bring summer clothes, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a light layer and a compact rain jacket
Also good to know
- August is peak summer season. Amsterdam is lively, photogenic, and busy.
- Major museums, canal cruises and popular day trips can sell out. Book anything important ahead.
- In 2026, WorldPride Amsterdam continues through August 8, with the world famous Canal Parade on August 1.
- The Grachtenfestival (Canal Festival) fills unusual locations throughout Amsterdam with classical music and jazz from August 7–16.
- On the first warm day, Amsterdammers head for terraces, parks, boats and swimming spots. We do not waste good summer weather here. We know better. In fact, we don’t even wait for August. We’re sitting outside as early as late March, winter coats and all.
Current Weather in Amsterdam
Here’s the current forecast:
12°C | °F - Temperature
- Precipitation
- Rain Chance
- Wind
- Humidity
- Pressure
Do not be alarmed if the forecast shows rain. In August, a rain symbol can mean a brief shower during an otherwise usable day. Check the expected timing and the rain radar, especially before a canal cruise, long walk or bicycle tour.
Where to swim in and around Amsterdam
Amsterdam Webcams: See What The Weather Looks Like Right Now
Local Amsterdam Note: Born and raised here, I have learned not to treat an August forecast as a promise. Blue skies, towering white clouds and a passing shower can all belong to the same afternoon. Fortunately, the rain often disappears as quickly as it arrived.
August Weather Deep Dive • Packing • To-Do Tips
What to Expect from Amsterdam Weather in August
Amsterdam in August usually feels like summer. Most days are mild to warm rather than fiercely hot, so the weather is generally comfortable for walking, cycling and sightseeing.
The good news is that you can spend a great deal of time outdoors. Parks are green, terraces are full, canal cruises run from morning until evening and the city does not begin to feel autumnal yet.
The catch? Dutch summer weather is famously changeable.
You may get a week of sunshine and temperatures well above 25°C (77°F). You may also encounter a kwakkelzomer: an unsteady summer with alternating spells of sunshine, clouds, wind and showers. Sometimes the air is humid and muggy; at other times a breeze from the North Sea makes the same temperature feel surprisingly fresh.
In other words: August is usually easy weather, but not guaranteed weather. Bring sensible summer clothes and one light layer, then get on with enjoying Amsterdam. [Packing tips]
August at a glance:
Temperature in Amsterdam in August
- Average daytime high: about 22.4°C (72.3°F)
- Average nighttime low: about 13.4°C (56.1°F)
- Average temperature over the full day and night: about 18°C (64°F)
- Days above 25°C (77°F) occur regularly during warm spells
- Temperatures of 30°C (86°F) or more are possible, but they are not the August norm
- Evenings are usually mild, though wind beside open water can make them feel cooler
Typical temperatures gradually decline during August. These are climate averages, not a forecast:
| Period | Daytime Highs | Nighttime Lows |
|---|---|---|
| August 1–10 | 22°C to 23°C (72°F to 73°F) | 14°C to 15°C (57°F to 59°F) |
| August 11–20 | 21°C to 22°C (70°F to 72°F) | 13°C to 14°C (55°F to 57°F) |
| August 21–31 | 20°C to 21°C (68°F to 70°F) | 12°C to 13°C (54°F to 55°F) |
Does It Rain a Lot in Amsterdam in August?
August has an odd-sounding combination: it is a sunny month, but also Amsterdam’s wettest month by average rainfall total.
At Schiphol, August averages about 98.6 mm (3.9 inches) of precipitation. Measurable rain of at least 1 mm falls on approximately 11–12 days.
That does not mean 11 or 12 completely rainy days. Summer rain often comes in showers, and one heavy downpour or thunderstorm can add a great deal to the monthly total. A morning may be wet and an afternoon sunny — or the other way around.
Dutch forecasters often say showers will occur hier en daar: “here and there.” In practice, one part of Amsterdam may get soaked while another part stays almost dry.
A light rain jacket is useful. A small umbrella is optional, but large umbrellas are awkward on narrow pavements and nearly useless when the wind gets involved.
Tip: If a shower appears, do what locals do. Wait it out in a café, shop or museum, or take a tram to your next stop.
What Is a “Kwakkelzomer”?
A kwakkelzomer is a disappointing or unsettled summer, with short periods of warm, dry weather repeatedly interrupted by clouds, cooler conditions and rain showers.
It does not necessarily mean rain all day, every day. It can mean bright sunshine one moment and a shower the next — followed, naturally, by more sunshine just as you have finally put on your rain jacket.
Some Augusts are warm, dry and sunny. Others are cool, wet and somber. That unpredictability is part of the Dutch maritime climate and the reason long-range forecasts should be treated with caution.
Do not underestimate the wind
August is generally less cold and blustery than spring, but wind still makes a difference.
A pleasant 21°C (70°F) can feel warm on a sheltered terrace and distinctly cooler on a bridge, along the river IJ or aboard an open canal boat.
A thin windproof layer is more useful than a heavy sweater. If you take an evening canal cruise, bring it even when the afternoon feels warm.
Is Amsterdam humid in August?
It can be. Average relative humidity at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is about 78%, and warm spells may feel muggy, particularly in crowded streets, on public transport, and in rooms without air conditioning.
Not every hotel or apartment in Amsterdam has air conditioning. If you are sensitive to heat, check before booking rather than assuming.
Humidity also means mosquitoes. Dutch pharmacies and drugstores sell muggenmelk – literally “mosquito milk” – along with the usual insect repellents. The name is peculiar; the product is useful.
Sunshine and Daylight: How Long Does It Stay Light?
August averages about 203.5 hours of actual sunshine, or roughly 6½ hours per day. That is different from daylight: the sun can be above the horizon while hidden behind clouds.
- August 1: sunrise around 06:00, sunset around 21:31 — about 15 hours 31 minutes of daylight
- August 31: sunrise around 06:49, sunset around 20:32 — about 13 hours 42 minutes of daylight
The days become almost two hours shorter during the month, but there is still ample evening light for canal walks, photography, outdoor dining and one more drink on a terrace.
Bottom Line: Is August a Good Time to Visit Amsterdam?
Yes — especially if you want warm weather and a city in full summer mode.
August is well suited to canal cruises, walking, cycling, parks, terraces and day trips. The main disadvantages are peak-season crowds, higher accommodation prices and the possibility of humid heat or unsettled weather.
Book major attractions in advance, pack for both sunshine and showers, and do not build an itinerary so rigid that one rain cloud can ruin it.
Bonus Top Tip: Bring Swimwear, but Choose the Right Water
Amsterdam has public swimming pools and approved natural swimming locations. On a hot day, a swim can be far more appealing than another crowded museum.
Do not assume that every picturesque canal is safe for swimming. Boat traffic, poor visibility, submerged bicycles, steep canal walls and changing water quality make many locations dangerous or prohibited.
See our guide to where to swim in Amsterdam, including safety advice and suitable locations.
See also: How many people drown in Amsterdam’s canals?
August vs July and September in Amsterdam
| Compare | July | August | September |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average high | 22°C / 72°F | 22°C / 72°F | 19°C / 66°F |
| Average low | 14°C / 57°F | 13°C / 55°F | 11°C / 52°F |
| Sunshine per day | 7.3 hours | 6.6 hours | 5.1 hours |
| Rainfall | ±84 mm / 3.3 in | ±84 mm / 3.3 in | ±70 mm / 2.8 in |
| Typical feel | Warmest part of summer | Warm, pleasant, changeable | Mild, with cooler evenings |
July and August are almost identical in average temperature. July has longer evenings and slightly more sunshine; August has major events and a greater average rainfall total. September is cooler, but often more relaxed.
Planning Ahead? Compare Amsterdam Weather Throughout the Year
| January | February | March |
| Coldest month, quieter season | Cold, fewer crowds | Early spring, still chilly |
| April | May | June |
| Tulips & changeable weather | Mild, one of the best spring months | Pleasant, longer days |
| July | August | September |
| Warmest month, busy period | Warm, peak summer travel | Mild, great for visiting |
| October | November | December |
| Cooler, autumn colours | Chilly, more rain | Cold, festive atmosphere |
Plan your Amsterdam trip:
- Save on accommodation from hostels and apartments to luxury hotels
- Pick your hotel on this map of Amsterdam and surroundings
- Cheap flights to Amsterdam
- Unlimited Public Transport 1-7 days
- Things to do in Amsterdam
- Key to the City: I Amsterdam City Card (Big Value)
- Visitor’s Guide
What to Pack and Wear in Amsterdam in August
- T-shirts and other short-sleeved tops
- Shorts, skirts, dresses, jeans or light trousers
- One light sweater, cardigan, hoodie or fleece
- A light windproof or waterproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes with decent grip
- Sandals if you like them, but not as your only footwear
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- A cap or sun hat
- A small daypack for water and an extra layer
- A refillable water bottle
- Swimwear if you plan to visit a pool or approved swimming spot
- Mosquito repellent if you tend to attract them
- A compact umbrella only if you prefer one to a rain jacket
Dress in light layers. Warm afternoons can give way to fresher evenings, particularly near canals and the river IJ.
What Not to Bring
- A heavy winter coat
- Thick woollen sweaters or scarves
- Bulky rain boots
- A large umbrella
- Only hot-weather clothing
- Only sandals or flip-flops
You are unlikely to need cold-weather clothing, but a suitcase containing nothing except shorts and T-shirts is a gamble. One light layer solves most August weather problems.
Rain or Shine: The Best Things to See and Do in Amsterdam
If the weather is sunny
- Walk along the canals, through the Jordaan or beside the Amstel
- Take a canal cruise; choose an open boat in settled weather or a covered boat if showers are possible
- Sit at a café terrace and practise the useful Dutch phrase Zullen we een terrasje pakken? — “Shall we sit on a terrace?”
- Visit Vondelpark, Westerpark, Oosterpark or the Hortus Botanicus
- Take the free ferry behind Central Station for views across the river IJ
- Visit ARTIS, preferably early on a hot day
- Swim at an approved location or outdoor pool
- Explore a neighbourhood without trying to turn every minute into an appointment
If the weather is rainy
- Visit one of Amsterdam’s museums, such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum or Stedelijk Museum
- Take a canal cruise
- See a film at EYE or Tuschinski; most foreign films are shown in their original language with Dutch subtitles
- Explore an Amsterdam brown café
- Use the tram to move between neighbourhoods while staying reasonably dry (Public Transport Tickets)
- Check the Amsterdam webcams before changing your plans; the weather elsewhere in the city may already be improving
Amsterdam in August Tips
- Check the short-range forecast and rain radar in the morning, then check again before a long outdoor activity
- Bring sunscreen even on a partly cloudy day; the August UV index can still be high
- Carry water during hot weather, particularly if you are walking all day
- Book major museums, the Anne Frank House, popular canal cruises and special events ahead
- Bring a light layer on an evening canal cruise
- Avoid a rigid hour-by-hour itinerary; August weather rewards flexibility
- If your accommodation has no air conditioning, close curtains during the day and ventilate when the outside air becomes cooler
- Use insect repellent in the evening if mosquitoes like you
- Never jump from bridges or swim in busy canals
- Expect crowds around Pride and WorldPride events, especially along the Canal Parade route and at Museumplein
Frequently Asked Questions About Amsterdam Weather in August
Is August a Good Time to Visit Amsterdam?
Yes. August is warm, lively and well suited to outdoor sightseeing. It is also peak season, so expect large crowds, higher accommodation prices and popular attractions that require advance booking.
How Hot Is Amsterdam in August?
The average daytime high is about 22.4°C (72.3°F), while the average nighttime low is about 13.4°C (56.1°F). Warm spells above 25°C (77°F) are common enough, and occasional heatwaves can push temperatures beyond 30°C (86°F).
Does It Rain Every Day in August?
No. Rain of at least 1 mm falls on roughly 11–12 days during an average August. Even then, the rain is often a shower rather than an all-day event.
Is August Amsterdam’s Rainiest Month?
At Schiphol, yes: August has the highest average monthly precipitation total, about 98.6 mm (3.9 inches). That figure can be boosted by heavy showers and thunderstorms, so it does not mean August has the greatest number of completely wet days.
Do I Need an Umbrella in Amsterdam in August?
Not necessarily. A lightweight rain jacket is often more practical in Amsterdam’s wind and on narrow pavements. If you prefer an umbrella, bring a compact one rather than a large model.
Can I Wear Shorts in Amsterdam in August?
Yes, on warm days. Also bring light trousers or jeans and a thin layer for cooler, windy or rainy periods.
Do I Need a Jacket in Amsterdam in August?
You do not need a heavy coat, but a light windproof or waterproof jacket is useful — particularly in the evening, on open water and during showers.
Can I Swim in Amsterdam in August?
Yes, at public pools and suitable approved swimming locations. Do not simply jump into a central canal: boat traffic, submerged objects, water quality and steep canal walls make many places unsafe or prohibited.
Do Amsterdam Hotels Have Air Conditioning?
Some do, but many older hotels, apartments and canal houses do not. Check the room details before booking if air conditioning matters to you.
What Time Does the Sun Set in Amsterdam in August?
Sunset is around 21:31 at the beginning of August and around 20:32 at the end. Daylight decreases from about 15½ hours to 13¾ hours during the month.
Sources
- KNMI Climate Viewer: 1991–2020 climate normals
- KNMI: Schiphol climate table, 1991–2020
- KNMI: Ten-day climate normals, 1991–2020 (PDF)
- Sunrise and sunset in Amsterdam, August 2026
- WorldPride Amsterdam 2026
One more tip: “know how to do “gezellig
Jumpstart your understanding of Dutch culture by learning the meaning of “gezellig.”
Anton and Janet Hein live and work in Amsterdam. We are the publishers of DutchAmsterdam.
Anton was born on a houseboat in the center of Amsterdam, right across from the iconic Westertoren and what later became the Anne Frank House museum. Having lived in nearly every district since then, he knows the city like his own back pocket.
Janet was born in England and raised in Ireland before moving to Amsterdam 43 years ago. Even to date she brings an expat’s perspective to the DutchAmsterdam website.
Last updated Saturday, August 29, 2026 CET (Central European Time)
Do not republish or repost.
