The Netherlands in May: Weather, Tips and More
Planning a trip to the Netherlands in May is a great option, as you will find enjoyable temperatures and sunny days, which you don’t see a lot in this country. With favorable temperatures, you also get to enjoy the late spring. There are fewer crowds in May compared with the high season. Rent a bike and explore some of the Netherlands' best national parks, such as Hoge Veluwe National Park, head to Flevoland and see the stunning flower fields characterizing these lands, or explore Amsterdam and stay out till late, partying in one of the city's popular clubs.
- Patricia Hoson
- From Australia
The Netherlands weather in May
The weather in the Netherlands in May is quite enjoyable as it is late spring, with temperatures ranging from 8°C (48°F) to 17°C (63°F). Rain is common but still low compared with other months. Amsterdam, the capital city, experiences 15 days of rain, and yet it isn't a lot. The truth is that in the Netherlands, precipitation is extremely common regardless of the month you’re visiting, so you’d better embrace the Norwegian saying: ‘There’s no bad weather, only bad clothes.’
In the south of the country, cities such as Dordrecht, located next to the famous Nationaal Park De Biesbosch, experience highs of 17°C (63°F) and lows of 8°C (48°F) with an average rainfall of 17.2 days. The north is slightly colder and drier, with towns such as Giethoorn experiencing temperatures ranging from 8°C (47°F) to 16°C (61°F) and receiving 16 days of rainfall on average.
For a seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit the Netherlands.
Why visit the Netherlands in May
Despite the precipitation, there are plenty of reasons why you should travel to the Netherlands in May. Here are just some of our favorites:
- Tulip season: The first half of May is one of the best times to see the stunning flower field of Flevoland. Here you will find over 5,000 hectares of tulip fields scattered in all directions. Dronten, Swifterbant, Zeewolde and Lelystad are some of the areas to visit if you want to see these colorful fields. You can either explore these areas by car or bike, following the many Tulip Routes in Flevoland.
- Better rates: May is right before the high season in the Netherlands, meaning you will be able to save money on your accommodation, flight, and other services. The average price for accommodation in the country for a period of four weeks in August is significantly higher than for the same period in May.
- Low crowd: This is also the last month in which you can visit tourist sites such as the Van Gogh Museum or Anna Frank House without tons of tourists overcrowding every corner. However, keep in mind that Flevoland will be more crowded than usual as this is the flower season.
Where to go and what to do
The Netherlands offers plenty of places to visit in May for all types of tourists. If you love nature, you should check out one of the many parks in the country. From Schoorl Natural Reserve to Het Nationale Park De Hoge Veluwe, and Nationaal Park De Biesbosch, your options are endless. Enjoy a relaxing day in nature while also trying to spot the many birds inhabiting these areas.
And if it’s raining outside, the Netherlands offer plenty of indoor attractions to keep you engaged. You can book a trip to Amsterdam and head to one of the many famous museums in the city, such as the Stedelijk Museum or the Rijksmuseum, watch a movie in one of the many cinemas located in the ancient crooked Dutch houses facing the water, or get a taste of Jenever, in a local distillery. Another great idea is to visit small towns. You can head to Giethoorn and check out the Museum Giethoorn 't Olde Maat Uus to learn everything about the Dutch lifestyle in the past. Alternatively, you can go to Volendam and enjoy a refreshing pint of crafted beer or visit the local Alida Hoeve Cheese Farm, where you can learn how Dutch cheese is made.
If you are looking for a more active trip, you can try kayaking or canoeing over one of the many canals in Amsterdam, such as the Singel or the Prinsengracht. Another great option is to go on a hike. The Bomenroute 's-Gravelandse Buitenplaatsen is a popular hiking route, which takes nearly five hours to complete. Along the way, you will get to see some of the oldest trees in the Netherlands.
Of course, if you're in the Netherlands, you cannot miss your chance to ride a bike. Not by chance, this country is known for having more bikes than people. The Amsterdam to Waterland loop is extremely popular and is only 34 kilometers long, meaning that you can easily complete the loop within a day. Parks in the Netherlands also feature mountain bikes and bridle paths, so if you’re up for a more adventurous day, you can either rent a bike for a day. Check out our cycling tours in the Netherlands.
Whether you want to opt for an active adventure or a relaxing trip exploring Dutch culture, May will surely be one of the best months to plan your trip to the Netherlands. Ride a bike through one of the many national parks, visit picturesque towns such as Giethoorn and Volendam, or head to the north to see the stunning flowers of Flevoland. With fewer tourists, great weather conditions, and lower prices, a trip to the Netherlands in May has plenty to offer for everyone.
If you need help planning a customized trip to The Netherlands in May, you can always reach out to our local travel experts, who can devise a tailored itinerary for you.
Other articles:
The Netherlands in April
The Netherlands in June
