What is the weather like in Amsterdam in February?
DutchAmsterdam.nl — February is the coldest month throughout the Netherlands, and the coldest time of the year to spend in Amsterdam.
And yes, due to Global Warming thus far February 2020 has been — and continues to be — exceptionally mild.
Normally the average high temperature is 6° Celsius (42.8° Fahrenheit), and the average low temperature is 0.5° Celsius (32.9° Fahrenheit).
The wind chill factor usually makes the feels like temperature 3-4 degrees colder.
The good news is that February is one of the driest months, second only to April which normally sees the smallest amount of rainfall.
Until now the winter of 2019-202 has been rather mild, by the way. We had a very mild January. Thus far, February also has temperatures (well) above the long term averages.
When the trees are bare it’s much easier to see and photograph the beautiful gables, such as here on Prinsengracht
Amsterdam February Weather Forecast
As a service to our visitors we update this page with current weather forecasts throughout the month of February.
At other times during the year the information on the rest of this page will help you understand what kind of weather you can expect.
Where our weather information comes from
Our weather information is based on long-term averages as reported by various meteorological services, including the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI).
Average Low And High Temperatures in February
| Normal Average Low and High Temperatures in February in Amsterdam | ||
|---|---|---|
| Date | Minimum | Maximum |
| February 1-10 | 1° Celsius (33.8° Fahrenheit) | 6° Celsius (42.8° Fahrenheit) |
| February 11-20 | -0.2° Celsius (31.64° Fahrenheit) | 5.4° Celsius (41.72° Fahrenheit) |
| February 21-28 | 0.7° Celsius (33.26° Fahrenheit) | Max. 6.5° Celsius (43.7° Fahrenheit) |
Things To Do
Even in February, lots of tourists visit Amsterdam. Book museums, excursions and activities ahead of time:
Hotels
Hotel prices are relatively low during this time of the year. Take advantage by booking your hotel as early as possible.
Remember Valentine’s Day: Wednesday, February 14.
Seen the weather forecast? Now you’ll understand why we’ve got so many museums (and pubs)
Ice skating on the canals of Amsterdam?
Normally in February the average day-time temperature in Amsterdam is 2.4º Celsius (36.32º Fahrenheit) – but wind and fog (and yes, storm) can make it feel much colder than that.
The nights are very cold, with temperatures usually below freezing.
Ice skating fun on Prinsengracht, February 2012
Amsterdam weather in February isn’t quite the same from year to year, though.
In 2012 during the second week of February we had a deep-freeze the likes of which we had not experienced in about ten years. People were ice skating on the canals of Amsterdam (video). (And take a look at wintery Amsterdam as seen from the air).
February of 2013 — 2016 brought no such skating opportunities.
There’s a lot to see and do in Amsterdam any time of the year.
That’s why tourists visit all year round.
The earlier you look for a hotel, the wider the choice. [View Amsterdam hotels on a map]
The winter of early 2014 was one of the mildest since the Dutch started keeping a record of the weather — in 1706. Mind you, it was still cold, but not nearly as cold as normal. And no, no ice skating on the canals whatsoever.
February 2017 was mild and quite somber, and the ice skates stayed in the closet.
Anyway, on average in February you can expect 78 hours of sunshine in Amsterdam, compared to 51 in January and 42 in December. But don’t make the mistake of thinking sunny days are warm. They’re sunny and cold.
What to wear in Amsterdam in February
When you visit Amsterdam during the month of February bring warm clothes, including long-sleeved sweaters, sweats, and a winter proof coat or jacket.
Thermal underwear is not a luxury. Neither are leggings, warm socks and padded insoles.
Come prepared to dress in layers, because coffee houses, coffeeshops, restaurants, café’s and homes will be cozily warm.
Tips
- If you prefer to travel light you can always pick up a pair of earmuffs, along with knitted winter gear (hats, scarfs, mittens) at downtown souvenir shops. For inexpensive basic warm undies shop at any HEMA or Zeeman department store. You’ll find a HEMA right inside Amsterdam Central Station
- The trees are still bare, allowing a much better view of the gabled canal-side houses than you get during spring and summer. Take advantage of a sunny day for a canal tour (See the photography/filming tip there). If you prefer to walk along the canals, walk on the shadow side so you can take photos of the sunny side.
- When you explore the city, steer clear of fast-food outlets, and instead warm up at a café or two. Here’s how the locals do it. And, for the love of coffee, stay away from Starbucks.
Amsterdam Weather Facts: February
Temperatures
• Average lows: -1° C (30.2° F)
• Average highs: 5.5° C (42° F)
Sunrise & Sunset
• February 1 – 8:22 a.m. / 5:27 p.m.
• February 28 – 7:31 a.m. / 6:17 p.m.
Rainfall
• Average 44mm (1.7 inches) in 72 hours
Suffice it to say that he knows when to stay indoors with a freshly brewed cup of coffee, some jazz and soul on the radio, and a pot of chili on the stove.
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