Are you wondering what to wear to Amsterdam in November? Although November in Amsterdam is still Fall/Autumn, the weather is definitely starting to feel more Wintery. In this guide we will tell you how to pack for Amsterdam in November for sightseeing, the Fall weather, dress codes, cycling, dinner and more.
Important Note: This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Weather in Amsterdam in November
Amsterdam in November is still technically classified as Fall. Or autumn as we would say in Europe. However there is definitely a Wintery chill in the air. But how cold is Amsterdam in November?
Is it cold in Amsterdam in November?
The weather in Amsterdam in November ranges from average highs of 10C/50F and average lows of 4C/39F.
And of course the later in the month you travel the cooler it will be. Also depending on the level of wind and rain, it can feel much cooler, especially at night. So layers are definitely needed when traveling to Amsterdam in November.
Therefore the key to an Amsterdam Packing list for November is to have plenty of layers with you.
And if your visit covers two months be sure to check out our other Amsterdam monthly guides. The weather does change in Amsterdam month to month, and you never known when there are some special events that do require at alteration to the dress code:
Does it rain a lot in Amsterdam in November?
Amsterdam can be rainy city no matter the month you visit. However November is one of the rainiest, if not the rainiest month in Amsterdam.
Generally speaking there are around 10 days of rain in the capital in November so it is worth having some waterproof wear and of course a travel umbrella with you. And if you plan on cycling around the city, which we definitely recommend, you will also need some waterproof trousers with you too.
As someone who has lived in Amsterdam I can say that I experienced a fair bit of rain in November in Amsterdam and it ranges from heavy downpours to light drizzles.
Does it snow in Amsterdam in November?
To be honest, snow in Amsterdam is quite a rare occurrence in November. However occasionally you will get a light dusting in Late November. But generally speaking this shouldn’t be your primary concern when packing as it is not common.
Note: we always recommend checking the forecast at your destination(s) 7 days out from travel to make sure there are no expected weather fronts i.e. heatwaves or cold snaps.
What do people wear in Amsterdam ?
Local people in Amsterdam are very practical and this is reflected in the Amsterdam November dress code. The locals in Amsterdam in November tend to wear plenty of layers, smart casual attire and are always prepared for the rain.
However although the Amsterdam dress code errs on the practical and casual side, it is worth remembering the Dutch are a stylish bunch. Don’t mistake casual for scruffy because the Dutch really nail stylishly casual outfits.
Also you will notice that many Dutch people have transitioned from their Fall Capsule Wardrobe to their Winter capsule wardrobe in November.
What to wear in Amsterdam in November
Best Shoes for Amsterdam in November
Boots
If you are traveling to Amsterdam in November I would always advise you to add a pair of thick heeled boots to your Amsterdam packing list.
Thin heeled shoes generally are on my what not to wear in Amsterdam list. This is because Amsterdam has lots of cobbled streets and uneven walkways. Therefore thin heels are dangerous so should be replaced with thick heels.
Thick heeled boots are also much safer to cycle in if you are planning to do so and are much better even than sneakers.
I personally recommend packing ankle boots instead of knee high boots for travel as they are easier to pack. However if you feel more comfortable and have space for knee high boots feel free to add these to your packing list instead.
And for more information on how to pack boots for travel check out this post.
Click here to shop boots for Amsterdam.
Sneakers
Sneakers are a great shoe for Amsterdam in November when sightseeing. And you won’t look like a tourist in Amsterdam in sneakers as locals wear them too.
Also you don’t need to worry about the type of sneaker you need to wear as you will see all sorts of styles from bright white, sports trainers to more fashion sneakers. My advice is to wear whatever is your most comfortable pair for walking.
My favorite brand of sneakers for walking are Hoka and AllBirds. I personally avoid white sneakers in November due to the wet and risk of discoloration however this is just a personal style choice.
Also for this time of year a waterproof sneaker such as an Ecco is a good pick for rainier days.
For a full guide on the best shoes for Amsterdam check out this post.
What to wear in Amsterdam in November for women
T Shirt
Amsterdammers during the day are relatively casual. But don’t confuse casual for unstylish. The Dutch are in fact very stylish.
T Shirts are a common thing to be seen on the Dutch streets however I would advise plain and stylish ones over bold, bright and graphic t shirts.
If you are heading to Amsterdam in November I would advise adding more long sleeved t shirts than short sleeve tees.
Blouses / Shirts
Blouses are perfect for Amsterdam in the Fall for both sightseeing and going out to dinner. They are a versatile layering item and can be dressed up or down depending on where you are going.
Layers
For Amsterdam in November layers are going to be your best friend. For a week in Amsterdam I will usually pack the below layers:
- a cardigan,
- a hoodie, and
- smart sweater.
I like to stick to neutral colors as a personal style preference in Amsterdam in November. I particularly love to pack a camel cardigan along with a smart merino wool sweater.
However you also can’t go wrong with black as this is a very popular color amongst the locals in Amsterdam.
Pashmina
A pashmina or thicker wrap is always on my Amsterdam packing list especially in Fall.
It can act as a scarf to dress or a a more casual outfit but is a useful extra layer on cooler nights and days.
Trousers
If skirts and dresses aren’t your thing then trousers are a great choice. As November is getting cooler we recommend picking thicker trousers made of heavier fabric.
Jeans are perfect for sightseeing during the day. I would recommend picking smarter jeans such as black jeans or dark blue jeans that are more fitted or skinny jeans however you will see all sorts of styles of the streets of London. So it is most important that you feel comfortable.
If you want a smarter pant then we love a regular black pant (we love the Athleta Brooklyn ankle pant for travel) or a thick wool pant.
Click here to shop trousers for London.
Coat
November is the first month you are going to need a coat instead of a jacket for Amsterdam. Now in many places like Paris, a wool coat may be more appropriate. However given the practical nature of the Dutch, and all the cycling being done in the city a more practical outdoors coat is best.
My favorite brands are Eddie Bauer and Columbia. And I would look for something that is both waterproof and wind resistant.
Click here to shop coats for Amsterdam.
Waterproofs
No one in Amsterdam goes out without waterproofs especially those cycling. Most people cycling will wear waterproof jackets and trousers. If you plan on cycling round the city I would recommend you taking some with you.
However if you don’t have any and decide you need them stop in at HEMA. HEMA stores are everywhere around Amsterdam and always stock waterproofs for cyclists.
Click here to shop waterproofs
Hat, Scarf and Gloves
Winter accessories are a must for Amsterdam in November.
I would also recommend taking with you a matching scarf and gloves set that match your winter coat to finish off the look. Also as you are likely to be taking lots of photographs we recommend your gloves being touch screen compatible.
Click here to shop winter accessories
Underwear
Goes without saying …
Nightwear
Thicker PJs and better for November.
What to Wear in Amsterdam in November Packing List for Men
For men visiting Amsterdam in November we recommend adding the following items to your packing list:
- A Mixture of long and short sleeve t shirts for day time and night are perfect for Amsterdam in November.
- Shirts – a button down shirt is a great choice for smarter restaurants in Amsterdam.
- Trousers – jeans are great for sightseeing in November. You may want to add a smarter pair of chinos to the packing list too for nights out and fancier dinners. Wool trousers are another good choice.
- Coat – smarter ones are more in keeping with local styles however as a tourist a waterproof coat may be more useful.
- Layers – such as a hoodie, jumper and sweater alongside the coat.
- Waterproof top layer for cycling.
- Warm Coat – something with waterproofing and wind resistance.
- Sneakers
- Smarter Pair of Shoes for dinner – we recommend a pair of waterproof ankle boots.
- Pjs
- Underwear
What clothes to pack for Amsterdam at night in November
The dress code for Amsterdam in November at night is smart casual. Amsterdam is not a very formal place and therefore I would leave formal attire off your Amsterdam packing list.
And although casual would be acceptable in many places I would say the you would feel most comfortable in smart casual attire in restaurants, bars and theatres in Amsterdam.
If you are looking for more guidance on what to wear for dinner in Amsterdam check out this post.
What to Pack for Amsterdam in November (Non Clothing)
Now you know what to wear in Amsterdam in November, we will turn our attention to other non clothing essentials to pack.
Theft Proof Bag
As with any tourist city around the world there are pickpockets in Amsterdam. Therefore we recommend using a cross body anti theft bag with you such as this one.
Click here to shop theft proof bags.
Travel Adaptors
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!
Power Pack
Amsterdam is a beautiful city so you will be using your phone lots to take photos. On top of that you will be using your phone for navigation and public transit info. This obviously is a drain on your phone battery. Be sure to have a power pack with you to recharge those batteries.
Compact umbrella
Amsterdam in November is rainy. Be sure to have a handy compact umbrella with you.
Toiletries
For our essential toiletries packing list click here. However if you don’t want to overpack, and are happy to purchase these on arrival we recommend heading to the chain Kruidvat. These are all over the city and stock all health, beauty and toiletry products you would expect.
Reusable Water bottle
Especially useful for those planning on cycling around the city.
Medical Supplies
Remember to pack any medicines, prescriptions, Travel First Aid Kit and Blister plasters.
Backpack
For storing items on your day trips to places such as Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn.
Note: For more info on packing light for Amsterdam check out our guides on using the 5 4 3 2 1 packing technique or using the sudoku packing method.
FAQs about Amsterdam November Packing List
Should I pack Swimwear for Amsterdam in Fall?
Swimwear really isn’t necessary for an Amsterdam Fall Packing List. It is too cold to swim in the sea and I don’t advise any tourist to try and swim in the canals or Rivers whatever the season.
Also as most hotels in Amsterdam do not have a swimming pool. there is really no need for you to pack swimwear unless you are in one of the rare hotels with a pool.
Do I need coat in Amsterdam in November?
Given the weather in Amsterdam in November you will need a big coat. In fact this is the first month where you will need coat instead of just a jacket. We recommend picking a coat that is practical for being outside with some water proofing and wind resistance.
What to wear to Amsterdam Christmas Markets in November?
Although not as large or well known as their German counter parts, Amsterdam does have some Christmas markets.
Rather than one large market you will find small street markets across the city. There is no Christmas Market dress code just remember to pack and wear plenty of layers as well as a warm waterproof coat, especially if you plan on visiting the markets at night.
Are there any special events with dress codes for Amsterdam in November?
There is one big event in Amsterdam in November and that is the arrival of Sinterklaas and zwarte piet. Sinterklaas is Saint Nicolas. He arrives on steam boat in mid November (in 2023 this will be 19th November).
Most locals, especially families will head to the Amstel river to watch this. Although there is no dress code it is important to have lots of layers as it can get cold.
But if you have kids they may want a Sinterklaas costume which you can buy easily locally in Hema.
Do you have any questions about what to wear in Amsterdam in November that we haven’t answered here? Then pop us a comment below and we will do our best to answer them.