Weather
September is the start of autumn in the Netherlands and while temperatures may remain summery earlier in the month, expect cooler temperatures and more rain as the season progresses. Average daytime temperatures in September are around 60°F (15°C), but cooler when it's overcast or when there's rain. There isn't much regional variation throughout the Netherlands as it's a small country, but coastal areas tend to be windier. Pack for both warmer and colder temperatures if you're traveling to the Netherlands in September and, as always, bring waterproofs.
Crowds & Costs
September is the shoulder season for travel to the Netherlands. There are likely to be other visitors around, prices will be moderate, and you should book accommodation in advance in popular places like Amsterdam. But lines at art galleries and museums are not so long as in the summer, and most attractions around the country will remain open.
Where to Go
The Dutch coast—especially around Zeeland in the southwest and the West Frisian Islands in the north—are popular summer destinations. If you'd like to enjoy the bicycle paths, small towns, nature reserves, and North Sea views of these places without the crowds but when the weather is still fine, September is a good time to go.
Amsterdam is ever-popular, and for good reason. There are so many things to see and do there, with the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Anne Frank House to name just a few. The city gets very busy in the midsummer, but the crowds thin in the shoulder season—to enjoy the Dutch capital in greater comfort, visit in September.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
Enjoy the Dutch countryside during the last gasp of warm weather and join a cycle tour through the countryside. With flat terrain, a good network of cycle paths, and a national culture of cycling, the Netherlands is a great place to travel on two wheels. Self-guided bike tours are ideal if you enjoy the freedom of independent travel but want a bit of assistance setting up an itinerary. Cycle through farmland and flower fields between cute old towns and historic windmills (the 18th-century, UNESCO-listed Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk near Rotterdam is a highlight), or along coastal paths with views of the North Sea.
Events in September
Netherlands Film Festival. Held over ten days in September and/or October in the city of Utrecht, this film festival showcases Dutch films. Many films are subtitled in English for those who don't understand Dutch.
Traveling to the Netherlands in September? Check out these great itineraries
Cycling Tour of the Netherlands & Belgium - 14 Days. Pedal past windmills, tulip fields, and castles on this wonderful two-week cycling tour of the Netherlands and Flanders, the Dutch-speaking area of Belgium.
Art Tour of the Netherlands - 7 Days. Johannes Vermeer, Vincent Van Gogh, Rembrandt van Rijn, Frans Hals, and Piet Mondriaan are just some of the famous artists you'll come face-to-face with on this art-focused tour of the Netherlands.
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. Cruise the canals of Amsterdam, take a steam train to Medemblik, cycle through sand dunes to the North Sea, and more.