What to Wear in Amsterdam

Two things shape how people dress in Amsterdam: the wind coming off the water and the fact that locals cycle in every kind of weather. A hooded, windproof and waterproof jacket is far more useful here than a flimsy umbrella, which North Sea gusts will turn inside out on the first open bridge you cross.

Amsterdam style is relaxed, practical and understated. Smart trainers or flat leather ankle boots, dark jeans, a merino jumper and a tailored raincoat or trench will take you from a morning at the Rijksmuseum to a canal-side dinner in the Jordaan without ever feeling out of place.

Season by season

• Spring (March to May): temperatures swing between crisp mornings and mild afternoons. Bring a waterproof jacket, a warm mid-layer, a scarf for canal boat rides (it is always colder on the water) and, if visiting on 27 April for King's Day, something bright orange.
• Summer (June to August): light shirts, t-shirts, trousers or dresses and sunglasses, plus a light rain shell and a cardigan for breezy evenings on the terraces.
• Autumn (September to November): water-resistant footwear, layered knitwear and a proper rain jacket. Wet brick pavements and fallen leaves along the canals can be slippery.
• Winter (December to February): a warm wool or down coat, hat, gloves, scarf and waterproof boots. Humid cold by the water feels sharper than the thermometer reading suggests.

Practical extras

• Flat shoes with grip: historic canal houses have extremely steep, narrow wooden staircases, and the streets are paved with bricks (klinkers) and cobbles.
• A small cross-body bag or daypack: large backpacks must be checked into lockers at major museums.
• A Type C or F European plug adapter and a contactless payment card. Check seasonal weather patterns before packing.