The European Netherlands features a temperate maritime climate (Köppen classification Cfb), heavily influenced by the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. This results in relatively mild winters, cool-to-warm summers, and precipitation that is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
Average daytime temperatures in the winter (December to February) generally range from 2°C to 6°C (35°F to 43°F), with occasional frost and light snowfall, though prolonged freezing periods have become less common. Summer (June to August) temperatures typically range from 17°C to 24°C (62°F to 75°F), punctuated by occasional, brief heatwaves.
The weather is famously changeable, and wind—often brisk and coming from the southwest—is a constant feature of the Dutch climate, historically powering the nation's iconic windmills. The best time to visit is typically from mid-April to mid-October. April and May are particularly popular for witnessing the spectacular spring tulip blooms.
