Weather
The Netherlands experiences mild summers, so if you're visiting from a part of the world with scorching or muggy summers, you might find the Netherlands a pleasant respite in June. The weather is famously unpredictable so you could experience cool drizzle or a sunny heatwave, but in general, you can expect daytime high temperatures of around 68°F (20°C). These are generally good conditions for getting out and about throughout the Netherlands, and there's not much regional variation in the climate.
Crowds & Costs
The comparatively good weather of June makes this a popular month to travel to the Netherlands. However, because it's after the flower-centric festivities of April and May, and before the main summer European vacation months of July and August, this month could be considered a lull between busy seasons. Or to put it another way, the shoulder season. Book accommodation in advance if you're visiting ever-popular Amsterdam, but you might find some deals elsewhere (if you look early). Plus, everything across the country will be open during this month.
Where to Go
While you might not think of the Netherlands as a beach destination, the Dutch coastline offers many charming attractions. Plus, in a country this compact, the coast isn't far from many main cities, meaning you can make a day trip if and when the weather allows. Zeeland province's Zoutelande has a lovely beach and is close to the town of Middelburg. Alternatively, plan a bicycle trip along the coastline, including crossing the Oosterscheldekering to Walcheren and following narrow bicycle lanes through forest and along coastline.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
Many arts and music festivals are held in Dutch cities during June (see more below) so enjoy a range of cultural attractions in Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, and elsewhere. These cities are also vibrant dining and nightlife hubs, and the warm weather and long days mean many cafes and bars spill out into the street.
Cycling is a quintessential Dutch activity, and the flat terrain makes getting around on two wheels a breeze. While it's easy to explore Dutch cities on foot, venture into the countryside on a bicycle and visit windmills, flower gardens, canals, and coastline.
Events in June
World Press Photo Exhibition. This annual press photography contest begins in April and runs until June, and is held in Amsterdam. Admire some of the best press photos from around the world.
Holland Festival. This annual festival held in Amsterdam for the whole month of June is the country's largest performing arts festival. See music, opera, theatre, and dance from around the Netherlands and the world.
Festival Classique. This week-long festival in The Hague celebrates classical music.
Pinkpop. Despite its cutesy name, the three-day festival in Landgraaf in mid-June is a large rock music festival that has featured heavy acts such as Metallica and Pearl Jam. It's been running for over fifty years.
Parkpop. Another rock music festival, Parkpop is a free event in The Hague held on the last Sunday in June, attracting hundreds of thousands of people.
Rotterdam Architecture Month. Sometimes running into July, this event includes talks, exhibitions, and tours related to all things architecture.
Traveling to the Netherlands in June? Check out these great itineraries
Coastal Highlights of the Netherlands - 10 Days. Visit some of the highlights of the Dutch coast, from picturesque Amsterdam and the beautiful Oosterschelde National Park to the charming artisan center of Delft and easy coastal cycle paths.
Cycling Tour of the Netherlands - 7 Days. Pedal through forests, flower fields, and sand dunes, stopping to see picturesque windmills and historic monuments along the way.
Family Tour of The Netherlands - 5 Days. Filled with outdoor adventures and cultural highlights, this family-friendly tour is a wonderful introduction to the Netherlands.