Amsterdam City Guide

When to visit Amsterdam

Amsterdam peaks with people around Easter and July-August but both of these times have their pros. April to May sees daffodils and tulips come to life through the cracks in the crowds. The beautiful summers are a great time to grab a bite and a drink alongside a canal. While winter can be a bit bleak it's rarely extremely cold, and sheltering in the cosy-hearthed pubs will give you a chance to meet 'real' Dutch. Also around this time accommodation is cheaper (except around New Year) and the best sights are all but deserted.

Weather

Weather in Amsterdam

Amsterdam's summer months are wonderful, as the weather turns soft and balmy and the whole city seems to live outdoors. From mid-October to mid-March the climate is miserable, with so much rain you'll have trouble distinguishing street from canal. Spring is pretty damp too, but redeemed by the delightful profusion of bulbs in the window boxes and markets.

Events in Amsterdam

It doesn't happen every year, but when it does it's legendary: if the canals freeze right, you can't miss the 'Eleven Cities Journey' (www.elfstedentocht.nl), a gruelling skating marathon through the countryside of Friesland, held in January. In March, Catholics walk along the Holy Way in the Silent Procession, which commemorates the Miracle of Amsterdam.

Queen's Day, on 30 April, is the day to be in Amsterdam - there's a free market, street parties, live music and lots of beer. National Windmill Day is in May and open garden days are held the same month. The Holland Festival (www.hollandfestival.nl), the country's biggest arts festival, runs throughout June, and in August (the busiest time of year for festivals) local theatre groups and orchestras perform free throughout the city.

In November Sinterklaas arrives by ship from Spain. Also in November, the Cannabis Cup (www.hightimes.com) celebrates the sacred herb. Sinterklaas, the traditional Dutch Christmas, is held on 6 December, although gifts are handed out the evening before. The standard-issue Christmas is also celebrated on the 25th.

For a great online guide to what's happening in Amsterdam during your trip, head to the I amsterdam portal (www.iamsterdam.com).