Cheapest & Most Expensive Time To Visit The Netherlands

The cheapest and most expensive times to visit the Netherlands depend on the season, weather, and local events. While many people flock to Amsterdam in spring to see the tulips bloom or in summer for the canals and cafes, prices during those months can be high. If you're trying to figure out when to go—without overspending or missing the best experiences—here’s a full breakdown of the off-season, peak season, and shoulder months across the Netherlands.

Cheapest Time to Visit the Netherlands

The cheapest time to visit the Netherlands is during the winter months, from mid-January through early March. This is the off-season, especially after the December holiday rush dies down. While the weather can be cold and damp, airfare and hotel rates drop significantly. Cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague are less crowded, and many museums, galleries, and indoor attractions are still in full swing.

This is also when you're more likely to find last-minute deals on accommodations and enjoy the country without huge tour groups. Just pack layers, bring a raincoat, and plan for indoor activities and cozy cafes.

Off Season Highlights

• Lowest hotel and flight prices of the year
• Fewer tourists at museums and historical sites
• Great time for cultural trips and indoor sightseeing
• Off-peak discounts at popular hotels in Amsterdam

Most Expensive Time to Visit the Netherlands

The most expensive time to visit the Netherlands is during spring (mid-April to early May) and summer (June through August). Spring is when the tulips are in full bloom, especially around Keukenhof Gardens, and it attracts visitors from all over the world. Flights and hotel rates rise sharply around this time, especially in Amsterdam and Leiden, where many flower fields are located.

Summer brings warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and peak tourism season. Outdoor cafes, canal cruises, and festivals are all in full swing. But with all of that comes higher prices, long lines at attractions, and booked-out accommodations.

Peak Season Highlights

• Best weather for walking tours, biking, and canal cruises
• Tulip season (late March to early May) is the country’s busiest period
• All tourist attractions and restaurants fully open
• Major festivals, including King’s Day and Pride Amsterdam

Best Time to Visit the Netherlands on a Budget

If you're trying to save money but still want good weather and a lively atmosphere, go during the shoulder seasons—late March to early April or September to mid-October. Prices are lower than during peak spring and summer, but the weather is still comfortable, and most attractions remain open.

In early spring, you can catch the start of tulip season without paying the highest hotel rates. Fall offers fewer crowds, colorful foliage, and smaller lines at museums and popular landmarks. It's also a great time for bike rides and day trips outside of Amsterdam.

Shoulder Season Highlights

• More affordable hotels and airfare than peak months
• Mild weather for sightseeing and biking
• Better availability on tours and day trips
• Easier to get museum tickets and canal cruise reservations

Knowing the cheapest and most expensive times to visit the Netherlands can help you plan a trip that fits your budget without missing out on what makes the country special. From tulips in the spring to off-season museum visits, each season offers something unique.