Weather in Amsterdam in October

How October compares

October is the 6th warmest month of the year in Amsterdam and ranks 133rd of 134 destinations we compare for October - see where else is hot in October. Against London's average high of 14.6°C in October, Amsterdam is 0.7°C cooler by day and 0.7°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in October

The typical October day in Amsterdam peaks at 13.9°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 17.7°C or more. Roughly 1 in 1000 days top 25°C. Nights average 9.1°C; one night in ten drops to 5.0°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings - it is genuinely cool after dark. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest October day here reached 25.1°C (2018-10-13) and the coldest night -2.5°C (1997-10-29).

Rain in October

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 13 days with 1 mm or more, 70 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest October was 1998 with 160 mm, the driest 1995 with 11 mm. Humidity averages 82%.

Sea temperature in October

The sea averages 13.0°C - too cold for most (under 18°c). Depending on the year it ranges from 12.2°C to 14.1°C. For the warmest sea here, come in August (19.5°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 3.1 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 10.3 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 08:06 and sets about 18:47 local time in mid-October. Average cloud cover is 70%.

Is October a good time to visit Amsterdam?

October is not the strongest month here: cool days and frequent rain. The best months for Amsterdam on our scoring are July, August, June.

Cool days, with a sharper chill after dark

October is comfortable for walking if you dress for the temperature rather than expect autumn warmth. A jumper under a jacket gives you flexibility as the day changes, while long trousers and closed shoes are a sensible starting point. The warmer days can reach around 18°C, but that is a bonus rather than something to build your packing around. At the colder end, nights can drop to 5°C or below, so bring a warmer layer if you plan to stay out late. This month suits travellers who prefer cool conditions to midday heat; it is a poor choice if warmth is central to the trip.

Allow room for rain and limited sunshine

Rain is a practical catch in October, so avoid making every day depend on a long spell outdoors. A waterproof jacket and shoes that cope with wet pavements will be more useful than fair-weather clothing. About 3.1 hours of sunshine within 10.3 hours of daylight means you should not expect bright skies throughout the day, though there is still daylight for outdoor plans. Keep those plans movable and use brighter spells when they arrive. The rainy-day figure does not mean constant rain, but it does make a rigid outdoor itinerary a gamble. If frequent sunshine is your priority, October is not a strong fit.