Forget the usual suspects like Paris and Rome—let's talk about Amsterdam, the unsung hero of European travel, with a vibe like no other. Sure, it might not always be the first name that pops into your head when planning a European trip, but trust me when I say this -- it's a gem waiting to be discovered.
Amsterdam is like the ultimate chill pill for your soul, something that will help you unwind and compel you to leave behind your worries! Picture this: cozy canals, stunning architecture, and a laid-back atmosphere that just begs you to relax and have a good time. Plus, there's so much history and culture to soak up, along with a little recreational fun. And why must your spend your October in Amsterdam? Absolute magic. Trust me!
What makes Amsterdam in October special?
- Amsterdam has been experiencing a rise in yearly tourist count for a few years now. The city sees as many as 15 million yearly tourists. The high seasons can get very busy in the city. Thankfully, October falls in the shoulder season in Amsterdam. There is a considerable reduction in the crowd and the attractions in the city are more accessible.
- The city of Amsterdam is very pretty and this visual appeal increases tenfold at the onset of the Autumn season. When the foliage changes its color, you can’t help but marvel at the city’s adorned parks and gardens. The warm tones suit the city and therefore is another reason October is one of the best times to go to Amsterdam.
- The weather, coupled with the visual appeal brings out the festive side of the locals in October. Throughout the month, you will be entertained events like the Amsterdam Music Festival, The Dutch Art Fair, and the Carnival of the Dead.
Amsterdam in October: Weather
Although it's not exactly warm in Amsterdam in October, the weather is not freezing yet. It is cold enough for the streetside cafes to pack up the patio furniture, though. You are also likely to see some rain during the month. The days are shorter and the hours of sunshine keep dwindling throughout the month.
Amsterdam in October: Things to do
1
Amsterdam Canal Cruise
The name Venice of the North is justified for Amsterdam. In case you want to find out the reason, you should be heading for a canal cruise. The canal system in Amsterdam makes for a wonderful way to explore the city while enjoying its autumnal hues. If you are looking for a romantic activity, look no further than the Dutch Wine and Cheese Candlelight Cruise.
October Timings
Cruise timings depend on tour chosen
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Getting There ›
2
Van Gogh Museum
The world will never forget the artistic genius of Vincent Van Gogh. His works have been immortalized at one of the most important landmarks of Amsterdam. Inside the Van Gogh Museum, you will find the largest collection of his works. If you are in a hurry, you should buy a combo ticket that covers the canal cruise along with the entry to the Van Gogh Museum.
October Timings
Monday: 1pm to 7pm
Tuesday - Wednesday: 11am to 7pm
Thursday - Friday: 11am to 8pm
Saturday: 1pm to 7pm
Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam,
Netherlands
Getting There ›
3
Amsterdam Dungeon
Every place has a side that is far from merry. The Amsterdam Dungeon is a thrilling attraction that has been modeled to let visitors experience the dark side of the Netherlands. The attraction currently has 11 activities that target all the human senses to bring you one of the best experiences you are ever likely to encounter in a similar attraction.
October Timings
Sunday to Friday: 11am to 5pm
Saturday: 11am to 7pm
The Amsterdam Dungeon, Rokin 78, 1012 KW
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Getting There ›
4
Anne Frank House & Walking Tour
Europe, World War II, and Anne Frank are inseparable from each other. She has influenced the history of the continent irrevocably. Consequently, it would be a bad decision to skip the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam. At the house and during the walking tour, you will be seeing the city from Anne Frank’s point of view. The story of pain and valor will lay bare before you on this tour.
October Timings
Depends on the chosen tour
Prinsengracht 263-267, 1016 GV Amsterdam,
Netherlands
Getting There ›
5
A Day Trip to Zaanse Schans and Volendam
Although you won’t be overwhelmed with the crowd in October, it is still recommended that you get out of Amsterdam to visit a few other places that are near Amsterdam. Zaanse Schans is one of the places you should be heading to if you want to know what a typical Dutch pastoral lifestyle looks like. Volendam, on the other hand, is a popular fishing village towards the northeast of Amsterdam. Both these places are in close proximity to the city and are worth the commute.
October Timings
Depends on the chosen tour
Zaanse Schans, Zaandam
Netherlands
Getting There ›
6
Heineken Brewery
If you are in Amsterdam, it is likely that you are interested in alcohol. Either way, the Heineken Experience is one of the most unique experiences that Amsterdam has to offer. Head to the brewery that was once churning out all the Heineken products that existed. Take a behind-the-scenes look at the setup and end your day by drafting your own beer and sampling a few.
October Timings
Sunday to Thursday: 10:30am to 7:30pm
Friday & Saturday: 10:30am to 9pm
Stadhouderskade 78, 1072 AE Amsterdam,
Netherlands
Getting There ›
7
Amsterdam Icebar
The name of the place keeps no secret. This is an unusual bar in Amsterdam that is made of ice. The place is also known for its vivacious nightlife. Amsterdam Icebar is visually stunning and now you can experience a 3D ride through the icy landscape of the place. You can experience all of this with complimentary drinks in your hand if you can grab hold of a combo ticket.
October Timings
Open daily from 11:45am to 1am
Amstel 194, 1017 AG Amsterdam,
Netherlands
Getting There ›
8
Madame Tussauds Amsterdam
Madame Tussauds Amsterdam is a historic museum as it was the first of its kind in mainland Europe when it was founded in 1970. The institution is known for its amazing collection of wax statues of well-known figures and celebrities. The Amsterdam establishment also has a number of Dutch historical figures, which makes this museum worth a visit.
October Timings
Open daily from 10am to 8pm
Dam 20, 1012 KW Amsterdam,
Netherlands
Getting There ›
9
ARTIS Royal Zoo
Wildlife is something that every tourist destination in the world is proud to showcase. ARTIS Royal Zoo holds an astonishing variety of flora and fauna in Amsterdam. If you are in the city with your kids, you can head to the zoo during feeding time and see the animals up close. There are a number of aquatic species at the zoo as well.
October Timings
Open daily from 9am to 6pm
Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam,
Netherlands
Getting There ›
10
Red Light District
Only in Amsterdam will a longstanding taboo become a center of tourist interest. The Red Light District in Amsterdam is unlike any other in the world. It is not a hotbed of shady activity but a very safe and legitimate place to visit on your trip. As long as you follow the basic rules, you can visit the bars in the area and end up having a wonderful night of unadulterated fun.
October Timings
Tours start every hour from 8am to 9pm
De Wallen, Amsterdam,
Netherlands
Getting There ›
Amsterdam in October: Itineraries
Check out our Amsterdam trip planners to plan your trip like a pro! For More Amsterdam Itineraries:
Amsterdam in October: Essentials
LanguageDutch
Time zoneGMT+1
Country Code+31
Socket Type C, E and F
CurrencyEuros €
Where to stay in Amsterdam in October?
Amsterdam is used to the high seasons. It has plenty of hotels, hostels, and lodges for you to pick from. If you know the places you want to visit during your trip, you should pick the hotels accordingly as October generally sees many hotels go empty. Here are some of the top hotels categorized according to budget:
What to pack for visiting Amsterdam in October?
The weather in Amsterdam can be notoriously unpredictable. You would be well advised to make every effort to shield yourself from October weather in Amsterdam. Pack plenty of warm clothing. Do not discount the wind chill that is occasionally freezing. If you want to leave after sunset, you must have enough layers on yourself. Waterproof jackets and boots might also come in handy. You will also need a chapstick as the air can get dry in October.
Getting around Amsterdam in October
Amsterdam has a commendable transport network spread all across the city. Even though Amsterdam has a reputation for being on the expensive side, it is fairly cheap to commute around the city. First things first, when you are in the Venice of the North, you must try out the water transport options in the city. They are a scenic way to get from one place to another. The most reliable means of transport are trams. They are slow, but given that you will be in the city in Autumn, a slow ride through the city is a blessing in disguise. Biking is a viable means of traveling as well. If you are heading outside the city limits, you are better off opting for the metro.
Amsterdam in October: Seasonal delicacies
Fries are loved by people all over the world. The Dutch have their own way of preparing fries. Thick Dutch Fries are served in a cone with a selection of toppings that give the snack its unique taste. The authentic Dutch taste comes from the patatje oorlog or patat speciaal sauce, which you can request. Head to Frietboutique to have the best Thick Dutch Fries.
It might be a bit terrifying to read the name of this dish but fret not. It is way more appetising than it sounds. Street food is the sure-shot way of understanding the culinary heritage of any place, and this dish proves the same for Amsterdam. Head to any herring cart and ask for broodje haring, which is a fish sandwich. You can go to Frens Haringhandel to taste one of the best Raw Herring in Amsterdam.
As the mercury dips in October, booze cruises tend to become more and more tantalizing. And for a truly great night of partying, you need a pub essential to keep you going. When in Amsterdam, there is nothing better to have than Bitterballen. You should give the Bitterballen at De Ballenbar a try at least once.
Not many dishes in the world have a history as interesting as this. Tompouce is named after a performing dwarf who was called Tom Pouce. Not much is known about this character but once you taste the namesake dish, you are bound to remember it. It consists of a rectangular piece of pastry topped with pink icing. Taste Tompouce at Stefs Bakery.
Stroopwafel is a Dutch classic and you must not pass up on a chance to have it on your October trip. Stroopwafel basically consists of two waffles stuck together with sweet syrup. The best way to have it is when it’s still hot and gooey. Original Stroopwafels offers great Stroopwafels in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam in October: Visiting tips
- Look out for deals on flights as October sees a considerable fall in the tourist crowd in Amsterdam.
- Keep off the bike lanes. With the weather getting colder, you are likely to see more and more locals on bikes.
- Enjoy the Denim Days event in the city as Amsterdam celebrates the revolutionary invention.
- Take a walk around the city’s parks and gardens to witness the true natural gifts of Amsterdam.
- Book your hotels early to get attractive discounts during the shoulder season.
- Do not try to click photos or engage in conversation with the workers without any purpose on your trip to the Red Light District.
Explore Amsterdam through the year
Check out our comprehensive Amsterdam Travel Guide and the top things to do in Amsterdam for inspiration to plan your trip better!
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