Sticky bikes, sunburnt tourists and stroopwafels that melt in your hand — welcome to Amsterdam in July.

The Dutch might be masters of managing water, but when it comes to tropical heat? Let’s just say… we’re still adapting. That said, summer in Amsterdam has its own kind of sweaty magic — especially if you know where to go, what to eat, and how to act like a true local (hint: complain a little, but enjoy a lot).

Here’s how to survive — and even thrive — in Amsterdam during a heatwave.

Water, Water Everywhere (So Go Jump In It)

When the mercury rises, Amsterdammers don’t sit still — they hit the water.

• Sloterplas is a city beach where locals splash around, tan on the grass, and pretend they’re at the Mediterranean. There’s even a sandy shore and lifeguards, because we take our swimming semi-seriously.

• Want something quieter? Nieuwmeer is a hidden gem just outside the city with surprisingly clear water and fewer floaties shaped like flamingos.

• Prefer to stay dry but still feel cool? Rent a boat (electric, please, we’re modern) and cruise the canals. Bonus points for boats with shade and a bottle of rosé.

• For culture with a breeze, step into the Scheepvaartmuseum — a maritime museum with air conditioning and a replica ship. So Dutch it hurts.

• For something a bit more structured (and chlorinated), check out Het Brediusbad — an open-air public pool in Amsterdam-West that feels like a retro summer postcard. Think sunbathers, cannonballs, and that distinct scent of sunscreen and pool water. It’s cheap, cheerful, and very Dutch.

Parks & People-Watching

We may not have backyards, but we’ve got parks — and in the summer, they’re the living rooms of the city.

• Vondelpark is the classic. Expect ice cream bikes, slackliners, barefoot picnics and the occasional impromptu techno party.
• Westerpark has more space and fewer seagulls, plus craft beer bars, art spaces and food trucks. Hipster heaven with trees.
• Oosterpark is where locals actually go to relax — shady, peaceful and usually free of bachelor parties in matching banana suits.

Bring a blanket, some snacks, a Bluetooth speaker (at a respectful volume, please), and settle in. Don’t forget sunscreen — even Dutch sunburns are efficient.

Cold Snacks, Dutch Style

We might not be famous for frozen treats, but the Netherlands has its own quirky way of cooling down.

• Van der Linde’s iconic whipped ice cream (part ice cream, part whipped cream, all delicious) is worth the queue on Nieuwendijk. Don’t blink or it’ll melt right onto your flip-flops.
• Think haring isn’t a summer snack? Think again. Salty, cold and protein-packed, it’s the Dutch equivalent of a refreshing slurp of seawater. In a good way.
• Craving a caffeine fix? Dutch iced coffee has finally grown up. Head to spots like Coffee & Coconuts, Ree7, Back to Black or Cafecito for the chill you need — literally and emotionally.

Escape the Heat (with Culture & Airco)

Let’s be honest: air conditioning is rare in Amsterdam. But we do have some blessed spots.

• Museums like the Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk and Hermitage are not just world-class — they’re also blissfully cool.
• De Hallen is a former tram depot turned food hall. Come for the shade, stay for the bitterballen and bao buns.
• For cinematic chills, Pathé Tuschinski offers airco and pure Art Deco glamour. It’s like sweating in style.

Do As the Dutch Do (and Complain Lovingly)

The Dutch heatwave strategy? Mild panic, zero preparation, and maximum complaining.

You’ll see:

• Locals cycling with portable fans and cases of water strapped to the back.
• Children attacking strangers with water guns (usually under supervision, sometimes not).
• Flip-flops in professional settings. Yes, even at the bank.

We moan. We wilt. But we also make the best of it. Because secretly, we love it.

Conclusion: Beating the Heat, the Amsterdam Way

From city lakes to shady parks, iced haring to sweaty museums, Amsterdam in summer is a special kind of chaotic charm. So if you find yourself melting on a bike seat or contemplating life over a lukewarm iced coffee — just know, you’re doing it right.

And if you want to dive even deeper into the city’s culture, food and hidden gems (with or without sun), come walk with us. Our Dutch Food Tours guides know exactly where to go — rain, shine, or heatwave.

Just don’t forget your water bottle… and maybe a fan.