Are you visiting and wondering what to wear in Amsterdam in August. This ultimate Amsterdam summer packing list covers everything from how to dress for the weather in Amsterdam in August to how to dress for cycling around the city and more.
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Amsterdam Weather in August
How Hot Is Amsterdam in August?
August in Amsterdam is actually one of the hottest months in the city. And I should know having lived there for several years.
On average the high temperature will be around between 20 C and 23 C (68-73 F) but it can get hotter and certainly can fill hotter when you are cycling around the city.
And the low tends to hover around 13C / 55F.
But what about rain? Do you get much rain in Amsterdam in August?
Does it rain in Amsterdam in August?
Although August is one of the hotter months in Amsterdam it still does get rain. In fact any month you travel to Amsterdam there is a risk of rain.
However in August, you will find the rain comes in the form of scattered showers rather than prolonged rain storms.
Please note: if your trip to Amsterdam falls over two months be sure to check out our other monthly guides:
- What to wear to Amsterdam in July
- What to wear to Amsterdam in September
What to Wear in Amsterdam in August for Women
As someone who has lived in the city for several years I would recommend adding the below items to your Amsterdam August Packing List.
Lightweight Pjs / Nightdress
Now one thing that surprises people who come to Europe, particularly from the US, is the fact that much Amsterdam acommodation, both hotels and Airbnbs is that they aren’t often air conditioned.
Therefore top of my summer packing list is lightweight nightwear.
Shop lightweight nightwear here
Summer Dresses
I love a summer dress and I think they are perfect for nights out in Amsterdam and for sightseeing during the day.
However I would issue a word of warning for those who are adding lots of dresses to their Amsterdam Capsule Wardrobe. If you are planning on cycling around the city just be sure that your summer dress isn’t too long so that it can get stuck in the chain.
Why do I say this, well when I moved to Amsterdam I got my long dress caught in my bicycle chain. It was both embarrassing and could have been dangerous.
For this reason in Amsterdam I prefer to wear midi length dresses as opposed to maxi dresses that I wear in other European cities in summer.
T Shirts
One of the things I love about Amsterdam is that it’s dress code isn’t very formal even at night.
Now don’t get me wrong, the Dutch are a stylish bunch just not formal. T shirts are a staple of everyday wear in the city and will be comfortable for cycling.
You can also wear these in the evening no problem if you are in a bar or restaurant that doesn’t have a dress code that says otherwise.
Blouse
Blouses are also commonplace in the city. Just pick something loose and lightweight that is comfortable walking around the city and even for cycling.
Also, there can be some mosquitos in the city during this month so a longer sleeve paired with a pair of linen trousers can reduce your risk of being bitten.
Pashmina
All of my packing lists no matter the destinations includes a pashmina and Amsterdam is no different.,
Pashminas and scarves are very popular in Amsterdam and are great for creating a day to night look. They double up as a great accessory or a scarf depending on temperature.
Trousers
If you want to pack trousers for Amsterdam in August the best types are linen trousers or chinos. These are more breathable and will be more comfortable in the warmer weather. (Note: if you want to pack linen check out our guide on how to pack linen without wrinkling).
Jeans do tend to be too hot for August in Amsterdam but if you really must pack a pair we recommend packing light weight denim or even ripped jeans.
Shorts
As Amsterdam isn’t a formal place and people are so active cycling on a day to day basis it is not uncommon to see people wearing nice tailored shorts around the city.
Also as churches are not a big draw for tourists in the city you don’t have to worry about dress code for religious settings.
Lightweight Waterproof
Having lived in Amsterdam for several years I can promise you that it can be rainy whatever month you are visiting.
For this reason we recommend you pack a lightweight waterproof even in August.
And I would recommend packing something looser as this will make cycling much easier.
If you don’t have anything like this in your wardrobe and you don’t want to buy anything expensive have some basic water proof gear like a poncho. But if you need to purchase these in Amsterdam you should head to the cheap shop HEMA which always stocks waterproofs whatever the season.
Or if you plan to travel with a compact travel umbrella then you could bring
A Denim Jacket
What to wear in Amsterdam in August for men
To be honest if you are asking for how to dress in Amsterdam in August for men I would have to say the rules are generally the same as for women. The key things you will need for your wardrobe are
Lightweight Chinos and Tailored Shorts
Though the Dutch are casual we recommend sticking to chinos and tailored shorts. Shorts are more appropriate for the day while we recommend lightweight chinos at night and during the evenings.
T Shirts
T Shirts are fine for men during the day.
Shirts
Shirts are good for sightseeing in the Netherlands during the day and evening.
Best Shoes for Amsterdam in August
Sneakers
Amsterdam is a casual city. You won’t feel out of place anywhere in sneakers or trainers and these are perfect for cycling and walking on the cobbled streets of the city.
Common brands that you will see on the streets of Amsterdam are Allbirds, converse as well as more sporty brands.
Wedges
For smarter shoes for evenings out I recommend packing Wedges. Wedges are the best shoes for Amsterdam as you can walk on cobbles in them.
Heels, especially thin ones and stilettos are on my what not to wear in Amsterdam list. This is because they can get caught in the cobbles. Wedges are safer for those wanting to add some height to their outfit.
Optional Things for Your Amsterdam Summer Packing List
Swimwear
There are very few hotels in central Amsterdam that have their own pool so the truth is that you probably won’t need your swimwear with you for using in hotel pools.
However there are lots of lovely beach day trips from Amsterdam. Some of our favorite are Castricum and Zaandvort which are a short drive or train ride away respectively. If you plan on adding a beach to your Amsterdam itinerary then you will want to add swimwear to your packing list.
However I also have a word of caution for you too! In Amsterdam in Summer it is inevitable that you will see a lot of people jumping in the river and canals and having a go at wild swimming.
Having lived in Amsterdam, however I would strongly advise tourists against this. It is not safe and the canals and rivers are busy with boats. Therefore we urge you to only swim at beaches and in pools.
What Else to Pack for Amsterdam in August
Theft Proof Bag
A theft proof bag is always on our list whenever you go to a European capital. Although Amsterdam is a very safe city you ca get pickpockets everywhere which is why we recommend a theft proof cross body bag.
Sunglasses
Amsterdam is a bright city and the canals can be quite dazzling. For this reason we recommend packing sunglasses with you.
Umbrella
As I mentioned, Amsterdam in August can be a pretty rainy place. Don’t forget a handbag sized umbrella. Click here to shop travel umbrellas here.
Power Pack
Amsterdam is a beautiful city especially in the summer and I promise you your phone will be constantly out so be sure to have a power pack with you to recharge those batteries.
Plug Adapter
Amsterdam uses the traditional European plugs. So if you are coming from the UK or USA etc you will need an adapter to make your electronics work. Click here to purchase!
Is there anything else you would add to this Amsterdam in Summer packing List. And let us know what you wore in Amsterdam in August below.