Got a winter trip planned to Netherlands? Netherlands can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cold and dry, with temperatures averaging around 44°F (that's 7°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?
First and foremost, you'll need to dress warmly, as the temperatures can drop below freezing. A coat, scarf, and hat are going to be essential. Layering is also key, so consider wearing a sweater or vest under your coat. Boots with some grip are a good choice of footwear, as they'll keep your feet warm and dry whatever the conditions.
In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Netherlands in winter—whether you're visiting Amsterdam, exploring Keukenhof, going on a canal cruise, visiting The Hague, or touring Mauritshuis.
What should women wear in Netherlands in winter?
Netherlands in winter is generally cold, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: heavy coat, thermal baselayers, jeans, hat and scarf, and cardigans. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Netherlands has to offer.
Heavy coat
You're definitely going to want to have a coat with you in Netherlands, for those icy cold snaps. When choosing a coat, look for one that is both waterproof and windproof. A hood is also a nice feature to have, as it will help protect your head and face from the elements. And make sure to pack your coat in an easily accessible place so you can grab it quickly if the weather takes a turn for the worse when you arrive.
I found these which would all work great:
Thermal baselayers
As Netherlands in winter has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Netherlands trip despite the cold weather.
Any of these should work:
Jeans
You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Netherlands, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.
Here are a few of my top picks:
Hat and scarf
A trip to Netherlands in winter can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to be prepared for the chilly weather. A hat and scarf are essential accessories to keep you warm. A good hat will protect your head and ears from the cold, while a scarf can help to insulate your neck and trap heat. A statement beanie or colorful scarf will also really make your outfit pop.
Need some inspiration? Start here:
Cardigans
A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Netherlands in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.
Why not treat yourself before you go:
What should men wear in Netherlands in winter?
For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: heavy coat, thermal baselayers, jeans, button-down shirts or polos, and cardigans. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Netherlands in comfort and style.
Heavy coat
You're definitely going to want to have a coat with you in Netherlands, for those icy cold snaps. When choosing a coat, look for one that is both waterproof and windproof. A hood is also a nice feature to have, as it will help protect your head and face from the elements. And make sure to pack your coat in an easily accessible place so you can grab it quickly if the weather takes a turn for the worse when you arrive.
Here are some options I'd recommend:
Thermal baselayers
As Netherlands in winter has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Netherlands trip despite the cold weather.
These are some of my favorites:
Jeans
You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Netherlands, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.
Here's a few ideas to get you started:
Button-down shirts or polos
Button-down shirts or polos are always a good idea to pack. They don't wrinkle easily and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They're also perfect for layering when the weather gets cooler at night. Pick ones that are comfortable and breathable, and ideally lightweight too. It's also a good idea to choose neutral colors like white, black, or blue as they can be easily teamed with other pieces in your wardrobe.
Here are a few of my top picks:
Cardigans
A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Netherlands in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.
Here are a few of my top picks:
FAQs
Is winter a good time to go to Netherlands?
Winter is considered the low season in Netherlands, as temperatures can get very cold. However, if you don't mind bundling up (or mostly just want to stick to indoor activities), winter can be a great time to enjoy Netherlands without the crowds.
How do people typically dress in Netherlands in winter?
People in Netherlands dress in a variety of different ways depending on their personal style, the occasion, and the weather. However, many winter outfits you will see in Netherlands typically include coats, scarves, and boots.
What should you NOT wear in Netherlands in winter?
There are no specific restrictions on what you should wear in Netherlands. It's fine to dress casually when out and about, although it's still important to be respectful of cultural norms—especially when visiting sites of historical or religious significance. Some places may have their own dress code, so be sure to follow any local guidelines.
I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Netherlands will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Netherlands has to offer!