The Netherlands is beautiful year-round, but if you ask us, spring is the ultimate time to visit the land of windmills and stroopwafels.
With tulip fields in full bloom, longer sunny days (finally!), and a unique, lively atmosphere, the country truly comes to life between March and May — giving you plenty of reasons to plan your trip.👇
1. Explore the canals in perfect weather
After a grey and rainy winter, Dutch spring boosts the mood with mild temperatures and longer days, making it the ideal time to explore the Netherlands’ iconic canals.
Whether you’re taking a canal cruise in Amsterdam, strolling along Utrecht’s wharf cellars, or enjoying a waterside café in Leiden, the Dutch canal-side charm is at its peak during this season.
Plus, with fewer tourists than in summer, you’ll have more space to soak in the beauty of these historic waterways.
2. Outdoor markets and terraces come alive
As soon as the first signs of sunshine appear, the Dutch flock to terrasjes to soak up the fresh air (and the occasional biertje). ☀️
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Markets are in full swing during this time too, offering fresh local produce and delicious Dutch treats. This gives visitors the perfect chance to mingle with the locals while getting to know Dutch culture.
Sipping a beer on a canal-side terrace in Amsterdam? Strolling over the flower market in Haarlem? However you may decide to spend your days, spring is the perfect time to enjoy the Dutch outdoor lifestyle.
3. It’s the season of innovation
Spring isn’t just about nature and sunshine — it also brings fresh, innovative energy to the Netherlands’ thriving tech scene.
In the spring, cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam are buzzing with startup events, conferences, and networking opportunities as entrepreneurs and creatives launch new ideas.
With cutting-edge developments in fields like AI, sustainability, and digital entertainment, spring is the perfect time to experience the Netherlands as a hub of technological progress.
From exploring co-working spaces to attending a tech summit or even trying innovative online casino platforms with live roulette, the fascinating Dutch tech scene is just waiting to be explored.
4. Tulips are full bloom
If there’s one thing the Netherlands is famous for, it’s tulips.
Every spring, the Dutch countryside transforms into a sea of colours as millions of tulips bloom across the country. 🌷
READ MORE | The ultimate guide to tulip season in the Netherlands in 2025
The best way to experience this floral spectacle is with a visit to Keukenhof, the world-famous garden that showcases over seven million flowers.
For a more authentic experience, you could also rent a bike and explore the tulip fields in the Bollenstreek region.
5. Get up and close with Dutch windmills
The Netherlands’ iconic windmills are a must-see at any time of year, but they’re especially stunning in the spring.
National Mill Day (held in May) allows visitors to explore hundreds of windmills across the country, many of which are open to the public just for the occasion.
We recommend a trip to the world-famous Kinderdijk or Zaanse Schans mills to admire these historic structures set against a lush springtime backdrop. 🍀
6. Pet the baby animals at local petting zoos
Spring is the season of new life, when Dutch national parks like the Hoge Veluwe are home to newborn deer, horses, and other young wildlife.
Dutch cities are dotted with farms and petting zoos, many of which open their doors for visitors to meet baby lambs, goats, and calves. 🥹
It’s a perfect activity for families or anyone who wants to experience the Dutch countryside in its most charming season.
7. The iconic King’s Day celebrations
Last but certainly not least, spring is the season of one of the biggest and most exciting events of the year: King’s Day (April 27)!
As the name suggests, this day is a nationwide celebration in honour of the Dutch king’s birthday.
Expect an explosion of orange (the national colour), lively street markets, boat parties on the canals, and music festivals throughout the country.
Wherever (and however) you may choose to celebrate, you’ll be swept up in the contagious party atmosphere. 🕺
From breathtaking tulip fields to lively celebrations, spring is hands-down the best time to visit the Netherlands.
The weather is lovely (most of the time), the landscapes are at their most beautiful, and the atmosphere is buzzing with energy. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and book that trip (you have our blessing 🤲).
What’s your favourite season to explore a new country? Share your thoughts in the comments.
