Amsterdam in summer
In summer Amsterdam runs at full speed: warm days, long light evenings and life lived outdoors. The canals, terraces and parks are at their best, and there is a festival or event almost every week.
From June to August the temperature is usually between 17 and 22 degrees, with the occasional really warm day. It stays light until almost eleven in the evening, ideal for a sunset canal cruise or a drink on a rooftop terrace. August is the busiest month, so booking ahead is a must.
The summer highlight is Pride Amsterdam, in late July and early August, with the world-famous Canal Parade in which dozens of decorated boats sail through the canals. There is also music everywhere, from open-air concerts to big names at the Ziggo Dome and the Johan Cruijff ArenA.
A houseboat with its own deck is worth its weight in gold in summer: your own spot on the water, right in the city. Going to a concert? Choose a B&B with a fast connection to the ArenA and Ziggo Dome. Book early, because summer is high season and the best places fill up quickly.