What's the Weather like in Amsterdam in May
Visiting Amsterdam in the month of May is one of the last opportunities to avoid the huge crowds of the summer months. The weather is also typically pleasant, as the days are usually pleasantly warm without ever becoming uncomfortably hot.
Temperature
The average high temperature for the month of May is 17°C (62°F) with most days reaching 12°C (53°F), compared to June, which has an average temperature of around 15°C.
The evenings are still cool enough to need a light jacket with an average overnight low of 8°C (46°F) but heavier clothing can be left at home.
Average Sunshine Hours
Sunshine is generally plentiful in May with an average of 10 hours per day, the same as April. The northerly position of the Netherlands means that daylight hours rapidly increase during this time of the year.
Rain
An average rainfall amount of just 45mm spread over an average of 12 days in the month means wet weather is unlikely to ruin your trip.
You can check the forecast here.
Amsterdam Hotels in May
If nightlife is what you want, but you crave a scene not quite as wild as what is found in the City Centre, then Leidseplein may be the ideal location. Located to the southeast of the center of the city, this location is home to plenty of excitement for any visitor.
The area is full of coffeehouses as well as a more traditional nightlife than found in other parts of Amsterdam. The area can be a little overwhelming on weekends, but is otherwise a hub for restaurants, concerts, movie theaters and more.
Hotel Vondel
To be just minutes away from nightlife, try the Hotel Vondel. Located in the heart of the city's center, Hotel Vondel's rooms contain wooden furniture and white-washed walls. The hotel's biggest draw, however, is its courtyard garden.
Blue Sheep B&B
Those looking to explore everything that Amsterdam has to offer, may want to check out the Blue Sheep B&B. Just steps from the Red Light District, Anne Frank's House and many other attractions, this bed and breakfast offers large, airy rooms complete with parquet floors, exposed brickwork and wooden beams.
Hotel Arena
If you want a hotel in an unconventional setting, Hotel Arena might just be your best bet. Located near the Ooosterpark, this imposing hotel has lived an interesting life, as it was originally an orphanage before going onto become a youth hostel. Today it breathes new life as an upscale hotel, and is only a short journey from the city centre by public transport.
Bars and Restaurants
Visit any café or restaurant in the city and someone is having koffie verkeerd. This is the Dutch version of the caffe latte or café au lait. The drink gets its name because koffie verkeerd mans "wrong coffee."
This is because regular coffee would only have a dash of milk, while this mixture is almost 50/50. Many times this treat is taken with breakfast or in the afternoon.
De Kas Restaurant and Nursery
For something a little more substantial, try De Kas Restaurant and Nursery. Located in a glass conservatory, this restaurant offers a fixed daily menu of five dishes for dinner and four for lunch based on whatever comes out of the restaurant's own farmland and on-site garden.
Pluk
If a light lunch or nutritious afternoon snack is what you're looking for, head to Pluk. This innovative eatery brings the best of healthy eating to Amsterdam city centre and features an interior which is as quirky as its menu.
Sandwiches and salads are the order of the day, and there's also an enticing smoothie selection to win you over if you're not feeling particularly peckish.
Breda
For a special occasion, Breda is definitely worth considering. This gourmet restaurant is quickly earning itself a reputation within the city's dining scene and the restaurant celebrates the best of contemporary European cuisine. Due to its popularity and central location, this restaurant is busy throughout the week, so it's worth ringing ahead to make reservations.
Hanneke's Room
Those looking for something a little stronger should try Hanneke's Boom. This glorified shack houses one of the coolest bars in Amsterdam and really comes alive when the sun is out after work. It's also a great place to sit and enjoy a drink while watching the boats go past on the canal.
Hiding in Plain Sight
Another canal-side bar worth heading to is Hiding in Plain Sight. Like its name suggests, this trendy hangout keeps a low profile throughout the day, but really comes alive after dark. It might seem a little underwhelming from the outside, but once you're in, you'll be impressed by the range of beverages available, not to mention the attentiveness and knowledge of the staff.
Things to do in Amsterdam in May
Albert Cuypmarkt
With the weather beginning to improve, now is the time to head outdoors and spend some time at one of Amsterdam's many markets. One of the most famous is the Albert Cuypmarkt.
This particular marketplace runs through the heart of Pijp and offers anything visitors could desire. In fact, most neighborhoods have their own version of a market with Kappermarkt in Oost and Lindenmarkt in Jordaan as two of the other favorites in Amsterdam.
Art Galleries
May is also a good time to hit the streets to check out the local art scene. While Amsterdam is home to numerous wonderful art galleries, there is also plenty of art to be seen on just about every corner in the city. There are styles for every taste with many sellers avant-garde artworks.
Haarlem
Contrary to popular belief amongst some visitors, there is life beyond Amsterdam in the Netherlands and you should make a day trip if you're looking for a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
A short train journey from the city is the charming town of Haarlem, which is steeped in history and wins over tourists with its quaint canals, grandiose buildings and cobbled alleyways.
Important Dates
Remembrance Day
May sees the start of festival season in Amsterdam and there are numerous events visitors can choose from. One of the month's first festivals comes just days into May on the 4th. Remembrance Day is a time to remember those who lost their lives during World War II with a ceremony at Dam Square.
While there are other similar events that take place throughout The Netherlands, the royal family often attends this particular event.
Liberation Day
The following day on May 5th marks Liberation Day to celebrate the date in 1945 in which the country was liberated from Nazi occupation. Because the Canadians were the first liberating troops to arrive, Canadian flags are part of the celebration.
Other Celebrations
Numerous concerts and celebrations take place in Amsterdam and throughout the country with the largest in Museum Square in the southern part of the city.
When one thinks of the Netherlands, they often think of windmills and there are over 1,000 in the country and six in Amsterdam. On the second Saturday in May, more than half of them are open to the public for tours.
