September in Amsterdam: Mild, Often Pleasant and Less Crowded — But Autumn Is on the Way
First published: September 1, 2025Last updated: Monday, September 28, 2026
Amsterdam weather in September is usually mild and often very pleasant. The fierce heat of summer is less likely, the largest holiday crowds begin to thin out, and there is still enough daylight for long walks, canal cruises and café terraces.
But September is a month of transition. Early in the month can feel like an extra slice of summer; by the final week, mornings and evenings are noticeably cooler and autumn may already be knocking at the door. Bring layers, something rainproof and shoes that will not object to wet pavements.
September Weather Snapshot
- Average daytime high: about 19.2°C (66.6°F)
- Average nighttime low: about 11°C (51.8°F)
- Average temperature over the full day and night: about 15.1°C (59.2°F)
- Warm days above 20°C (68°F) are quite common, especially during the first half of the month
- Temperatures of 25°C (77°F) or more remain possible during a warm spell, but they are not the September norm
- September averages about 154 hours of sunshine, or a little over five hours per day
- Average precipitation at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is about 84.4 mm (3.3 inches)
- At least 1 mm of rain falls on roughly 11 days, although that does not mean 11 completely wet days
- Daylight decreases from about 13 hours 37 minutes on September 1 to 11 hours 41 minutes on September 30
- Pack light layers, comfortable closed shoes and a lightweight windproof or waterproof jacket
Also Good To Know
- September is usually less crowded than July and August, but Amsterdam is never exactly empty. Major museums, the Anne Frank House and popular canal cruises can still sell out.
- The Amsterdam Fringe Festival runs from September 3–13, 2026, with more than 200 performances at locations throughout the city.
- The Amsterdam City Swim takes place on September 6, 2026. Thousands of swimmers enter the canals to raise money for ALS research, and canal traffic is temporarily affected.
- Open Monument Day takes place on September 12–13, 2026. Around 50 historic buildings and other sites open their doors free of charge. Some popular locations require advance booking.
- The 40th Dam tot Damloop takes place on September 19–20, 2026. Expect extra crowds and temporary traffic changes around the route from Amsterdam to Zaandam.
- September can produce beautiful, low-angled light — excellent for photography along the canals, particularly in the morning and late afternoon.
Current Weather in Amsterdam
Here’s the current forecast
10°C | °F - Temperature
- Precipitation
- Rain Chance
- Wind
- Humidity
- Pressure
Do not be alarmed if the forecast shows rain. In September, a rain symbol may mean a passing shower during an otherwise useful day. Check the expected timing and the rain radar before a canal cruise, long walk or bicycle tour.
Amsterdam Webcams: See What The Weather Looks Like Right Now
Local Amsterdam note: Born and raised here, I have learned not to treat a September forecast as a contract. Morning sunshine, an afternoon shower and a crisp evening can all belong to the same day. The trick is not to cancel your plans; it is to keep one extra layer and a rain jacket within reach.
September Weather Deep Dive • Packing • To-Do Tips
What to Expect from Amsterdam Weather in September
September often provides some of Amsterdam’s most comfortable sightseeing weather. It is generally mild enough for long walks and outdoor activities, yet usually cool enough that you do not arrive at every museum looking as though you swam there.
Early September can still feel summery. Terraces remain busy, parks are green and warm spells can lift afternoon temperatures above 20°C (68°F). On particularly good days, locals behave as though summer has been granted an extension — because, as you may have noticed, we do not waste decent weather here.
As the month progresses, the change becomes more obvious. The days shorten rapidly, nighttime temperatures fall and wind or damp air can make an apparently mild day feel cooler. Grey periods lasting several days are possible, but so are settled stretches of dry, sunny weather.
In short: September is often one of the best months in which to visit Amsterdam, but it is still Amsterdam. Pack for mild weather, sunshine, showers and cooler evenings — sometimes all on the same day.
Our take as locals:
Most years, Amsterdam weather in September is nice — very nice, indeed.
And with the summer crowds gone, many think this is the best time to visit Amsterdam.
September at a Glance
Temperature in Amsterdam in September
- Average daytime high: about 19.2°C (66.6°F)
- Average nighttime low: about 11°C (51.8°F)
- Average temperature over the full day and night: about 15.1°C (59.2°F)
- The temperature reaches at least 20°C (68°F) on roughly ten days during an average September
- Days of 25°C (77°F) or more occur occasionally, most often during an early-autumn warm spell
- Evenings become progressively cooler, especially beside open water
Typical temperatures gradually decline during September. These are climate averages, not a forecast:
| Period | Average Daytime High | Average Nighttime Low |
|---|---|---|
| September 1–10 | 20.3°C (68.5°F) | 11.9°C (53.4°F) |
| September 11–20 | 19.1°C (66.4°F) | 10.7°C (51.3°F) |
| September 21–30 | 18.1°C (64.6°F) | 10.3°C (50.5°F) |
Does It Rain a Lot in Amsterdam in September?
September is not Amsterdam’s wettest month, but it is certainly not dry. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol averages about 84.4 mm (3.3 inches) of precipitation during the month.
At least 1 mm of rain falls on approximately 10.9 days. If tiny amounts are included, some precipitation is recorded on about half the days of the month. That sounds worse than it usually feels: many showers are brief, local and followed by brighter weather.
There can also be longer spells of grey, damp weather, particularly later in the month. A forecast showing rain does not automatically mean a ruined day, but neither should it be dismissed. Look at the hourly forecast rather than the daily weather symbol.
Dutch forecasts often say showers will occur hier en daar — “here and there.” One neighbourhood may get a drenching while another receives little more than a few spots.
A lightweight rain jacket is more useful than a heavy coat. A compact umbrella is optional, but large umbrellas are awkward on narrow pavements and tend to lose arguments with Amsterdam wind.
Tip: If a shower appears, wait it out in a café, shop or museum, or take a tram to your next stop.
What is a Nazomer?
A nazomer is a spell of warm, settled late-summer weather that arrives after the main summer season. In September it can bring blue skies, light winds and temperatures above 20°C (68°F) — sometimes for several days in a row.
It is one of the pleasures of September, when it happens. Café terraces fill up again, jackets disappear and everyone behaves as though autumn has been postponed by popular demand.
But a nazomer is a weather spell, not a promise for the entire month. Long-range forecasts should still be treated with caution.
Is September Summer or Autumn in Amsterdam?
Meteorological autumn begins on September 1. Astronomical autumn begins at the equinox, which falls on September 23 in 2026.
Weather, naturally, pays little attention to either definition. The first half of September can feel summery, while the final week may feel unmistakably autumnal. Think of September as the bridge between the two seasons.
Do not underestimate the wind
September is not normally as blustery as late autumn or winter, but wind makes a substantial difference to how the temperature feels.
A sheltered terrace at 18°C (64°F) can feel pleasantly warm. The same temperature may feel distinctly cool on a canal bridge, beside the river IJ or aboard an open boat after sunset.
A thin windproof layer is more useful than a heavy sweater. Bring it on an evening canal cruise even if the afternoon feels warm.
Is Amsterdam humid in September?
Average relative humidity at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is about 82% in September. That does not mean the city feels tropically muggy all month. Cooler air reaches a high relative humidity more easily, so mornings and evenings often feel damp or fresh rather than hot and oppressive.
Warm, still days can nevertheless feel muggy, particularly on crowded public transport or in rooms with little ventilation. Many older hotels, apartments and canal houses do not have air conditioning. It is usually less important than in July or August, but worth checking if warm rooms bother you.
Sunshine and Daylight: How Long Does It Stay Light?
September averages about 154.2 hours of actual sunshine, or roughly 5.1 hours per day. Sunshine is not the same as daylight: the sun can be above the horizon while hidden behind cloud.
- September 1: sunrise around 06:51, sunset around 20:28 — about 13 hours 37 minutes of daylight
- September 30: sunrise around 07:39, sunset around 19:20 — about 11 hours 41 minutes of daylight
Amsterdam loses almost two hours of daylight during September. There is still plenty of time for walking, photography and outdoor sightseeing, but late dinners no longer take place in full summer daylight.
Bottom Line: Is September a Good Time to Visit Amsterdam?
Yes. In fact, September is one of our favorite months in Amsterdam.
The weather is usually mild, the city remains lively and the peak summer crowds begin to ease. September is well suited to walking, cycling, canal cruises, parks, museums and day trips.
The disadvantages are the increasing chance of cool or damp weather, rapidly shortening days and several popular events that can make particular weekends busy. Pack layers, reserve must-see attractions and leave enough flexibility to take advantage of the good weather when it arrives.
Bonus Top Tip: Use the Best Weather First
Check the hourly forecast each morning. If the day begins dry and bright, use it for canal walks, parks, photography or an open-boat cruise. Save museums, shops and brown cafés for showers or the cooler end of the day.
Amsterdam rewards flexible visitors. A rigid itinerary is less useful than a good rain radar and the willingness to swap Tuesday afternoon with Wednesday morning.
September vs August and October in Amsterdam
| Compare | August | September | October |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average high | 22.4°C / 72.3°F | 19.2°C / 66.6°F | 14.7°C / 58.5°F |
| Average low | 13.4°C / 56.1°F | 11°C / 51.8°F | 7.7°C / 45.9°F |
| Sunshine per day | 6.6 hours | 5.1 hours | 3.8 hours |
| Rainfall | 98.6 mm / 3.9 in | 84.4 mm / 3.3 in | 86.7 mm / 3.4 in |
| Typical feel | Warm, summery and busy | Mild and changeable, with cooler evenings | Cool and increasingly autumnal |
August is warmer, brighter and busier. September is cooler but often offers the best balance between pleasant weather and somewhat lighter crowds. October brings proper autumn: cooler temperatures, shorter days and changing leaves.
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 September
- T-shirts and other short-sleeved tops for mild or warm days
- One or two long-sleeved tops
- Jeans, trousers or other comfortable long bottoms
- Shorts, a skirt or a dress if warm weather is forecast — but not as your only option
- A light sweater, cardigan, hoodie or fleece
- A lightweight windproof or waterproof jacket
- Comfortable closed walking shoes with decent grip
- Sandals if warm weather is forecast, but not as your only footwear
- Sunglasses; September can still produce bright, clear days
- Sunscreen, especially during the first half of the month
- A small daypack for water, rain gear and an extra layer
- A refillable water bottle
- A compact umbrella only if you prefer one to a rain jacket
- Swimwear only if you plan to use a pool or an approved outdoor swimming location during a warm spell
Dress in light layers. A pleasant afternoon can give way to a much cooler evening, particularly near canals and the river IJ.
What Not to Bring
- A heavy winter coat
- Several thick woollen sweaters
- Bulky rain boots
- A large umbrella
- Only hot-weather clothing
- Only sandals or flip-flops
You are unlikely to need full winter clothing. Equally, a suitcase containing nothing but shorts and T-shirts is optimistic. A light waterproof jacket and one warm layer solve most September weather problems.
Rain or Shine: The Best Things to See and Do in Amsterdam
If it 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
- Explore one of the participating buildings during Open Monument Day, if your visit falls on September 12 or 13
- 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 covered or glass-topped 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
- Check the Amsterdam webcams before changing your plans; the weather elsewhere in the city may already be improving
Amsterdam in September Tips
- Check the short-range forecast and rain radar in the morning, then look again before a long outdoor activity
- Dress in layers and keep a light waterproof jacket in your day bag
- Wear shoes with decent grip; cobbles, brick pavements and tram rails can be slippery when wet
- Book the Anne Frank House, major museums, popular canal cruises and special events ahead
- Bring a light windproof layer on an evening canal cruise
- Plan outdoor activities earlier in the day as sunset moves from 20:28 to 19:20 during the month
- Avoid a rigid hour-by-hour itinerary; September weather rewards flexibility
- Expect extra crowds and transport changes around the Amsterdam City Swim, Open Monument Day and Dam tot Damloop
- If you plan to swim outdoors during a warm spell, use only an approved location and check current water-quality advice
- Do not assume your hotel room has air conditioning, although most September visitors will not need it
Frequently Asked Questions About Amsterdam Weather in September
Is September a Good Time to Visit Amsterdam?
Yes. September is one of the best months for an Amsterdam city break. Temperatures are usually mild, the city remains lively and peak summer crowds begin to ease. Rain and cooler evenings remain possible, so bring layers and a waterproof jacket.
How Warm Is Amsterdam in September?
The average daytime high is about 19.2°C (66.6°F), while the average nighttime low is about 11°C (51.8°F). Early September is usually warmer than the final ten days. Occasional warm spells can lift temperatures above 25°C (77°F).
Does It Rain Every Day in September?
No. At least 1 mm of rain falls on roughly 11 days during an average September. Even on those days, rain may arrive as a passing shower rather than continue from morning until night.
Is September Summer or Autumn in Amsterdam?
Meteorological autumn begins on September 1, while astronomical autumn begins at the equinox on September 23 in 2026. In practical terms, early September often feels like late summer and the end of the month feels more autumnal.
Can I Wear Shorts in Amsterdam in September?
Yes, when the weather is warm. Shorts, skirts and dresses can be comfortable during an early-September warm spell. Also bring jeans or trousers and a light layer for cooler days and evenings.
Do I Need a Jacket in Amsterdam in September?
Yes, but not a winter coat. A lightweight windproof or waterproof jacket is ideal. Add a sweater, cardigan or fleece that can be removed when the afternoon warms up.
Do I Need an Umbrella in Amsterdam in September?
Not necessarily. A rain jacket is often more practical in Amsterdam’s wind and on narrow pavements. If you prefer an umbrella, choose a compact, reasonably wind-resistant model.
Is Amsterdam Busy in September?
It is generally less crowded than July and August, but it is not quiet. Major attractions still sell out, and festivals, Open Monument Day and the Dam tot Damloop bring extra visitors on particular dates.
Can I Swim in Amsterdam in September?
Sometimes, especially during a warm spell early in the month. Use a public pool or an approved outdoor swimming location. Do not simply jump into a central canal: boat traffic, submerged objects, steep canal walls and water quality make many places unsafe or prohibited.
What Time Does the Sun Set in Amsterdam in September?
Sunset is around 20:28 at the beginning of September and around 19:20 at the end. Daylight decreases from about 13 hours 37 minutes to 11 hours 41 minutes during the month.
Sources
- KNMI: Schiphol climate table, 1991–2020
- KNMI: Ten-day climate normals, 1991–2020
- Time and Date: Sunrise and sunset in Amsterdam, September 2026
- Amsterdam Fringe Festival 2026
- Open Monument Day Amsterdam 2026
- NN Dam tot Damloop 2026
One More Tip: Know How to Do Gezellig
Jump-start your understanding of Dutch culture by learning the meaning of gezellig.
More about Amsterdam
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 Monday, September 28, 2026 CET (Central European Time)
Do not republish or repost.
