Amsterdam vs Cancun: Best Time to Visit (2026)

Amsterdam, Netherlands vs Cancun, Mexico: Which Should You Visit in 2026?

Quick Verdict

For a vibrant cultural immersion with charming cityscapes and pleasant spring or autumn weather, Amsterdam is ideal. If your priority is relaxation on sun-kissed beaches and vibrant nightlife with warm, consistent sunshine year-round, Cancun takes the crown.

Best for Beach Lovers

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun's extensive coastline and warm, inviting waters are unparalleled for beach-centric vacations.

Best for Culture

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam boasts a rich tapestry of history, art, and unique urban experiences, from world-renowned museums to its distinctive canal system.

Best for Budget Travelers

Cancun, Mexico

While both can be done on a budget, Cancun often offers more affordable all-inclusive packages and a wider range of budget-friendly accommodation and dining options, especially outside peak seasons.

Best Weather in Summer

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam experiences more moderate and pleasant summer temperatures with less intense humidity compared to Cancun's often hot and humid summer months with higher rainfall.

Best Next Step

This comparison is close. Check live prices for both destinations before you decide, flight pricing often makes the winner obvious.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Tours & Activities Compare Flights

Cancun, Mexico

Tours & Activities Compare Flights

Choosing between the charming canals of Amsterdam and the sun-drenched beaches of Cancun offers a delightful dilemma for any traveler. Amsterdam, with its rich history, picturesque waterways, and vibrant cultural scene, promises an experience steeped in European elegance and artistic flair. It's a city that invites exploration on foot or by bicycle, rewarding visitors with hidden courtyards, world-class museums, and the unique charm of its distinct neighborhoods.

Conversely, Cancun embodies the quintessential tropical getaway. Famous for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lively atmosphere, it's the ultimate destination for relaxation and water-based adventures. Whether you seek to unwind under the sun, dive into ancient Mayan history, or experience the thrill of aquatic sports, Cancun delivers an unforgettable Caribbean escape.

Weather Comparison: Amsterdam, Netherlands vs Cancun, Mexico

Month	Amsterdam, Netherlands High	Amsterdam, Netherlands Rain	Cancun, Mexico High	Cancun, Mexico Rain
Jan	43°F	68mm	84°F	45mm
Feb	45°F	50mm	86°F	30mm
Mar	50°F	56mm	88°F	25mm
Apr	57°F	41mm	90°F	40mm
May	64°F	54mm	91°F	75mm
Jun	68°F	61mm	91°F	120mm
Jul	72°F	76mm	91°F	100mm
Aug	72°F	79mm	91°F	125mm
Sep	66°F	71mm	90°F	150mm
Oct	59°F	85mm	88°F	110mm
Nov	50°F	71mm	86°F	60mm
Dec	45°F	76mm	84°F	40mm

When to Visit

For Amsterdam, the best times to visit are April-May for tulips and pleasant spring weather, or September-October for crisp autumn air and fewer crowds. Cancun is ideal from December to April for its dry, sunny weather, though late April to June offers a good balance of warmth and fewer tourists before the main rainy season.

Amsterdam, Netherlands vs Cancun, Mexico: Pros & Cons

Amsterdam, Netherlands

•Pros: Rich history and art scene, picturesque canals, excellent public transportation, cycling culture, diverse culinary experiences.
•Cons: Can be expensive, weather can be unpredictable and cool even in summer, high tourist volume in peak seasons.
•Pros: Stunning natural beauty with beaches and cenotes, vibrant nightlife, rich Mayan history nearby, water sports galore, generally good value for money.
•Cons: Can be very crowded and tourist-focused, significant humidity and rain during hurricane season (June-November), potential for sargassum seaweed on beaches.

Cancun, Mexico

•Pros: Beautiful white-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters, warm year-round climate, numerous resorts and all-inclusive options, abundant water activities, vibrant nightlife.
•Cons: Can be very touristy and commercialized, high humidity and potential for hurricanes during summer and fall, sargassum seaweed can be an issue, less authentic cultural immersion in resort areas.
•Pros: Direct flights from many major cities, easy to navigate with various transportation options, unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities.
•Cons: Can be perceived as expensive, weather can be rainy and cool in shoulder seasons, requires more active exploration rather than pure relaxation.

Planning a trip to Amsterdam, Netherlands? Grab a guidebook.

Browse Lonely Planet, Fodor's, Rick Steves, and more on Amazon — packed with maps, itineraries, and local tips.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Planning a trip to Cancun, Mexico? Grab a guidebook.

Browse Lonely Planet, Fodor's, Rick Steves, and more on Amazon — packed with maps, itineraries, and local tips.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Amsterdam, Netherlands or Cancun, Mexico cheaper?+

Generally, Cancun can be more budget-friendly, especially if you opt for all-inclusive packages and travel outside the absolute peak season. Amsterdam tends to be more expensive, particularly for accommodation and dining, although it's possible to find budget options with careful planning and by utilizing public transport.

Which is better in summer?+

Amsterdam offers a more comfortable summer experience with average highs in the low 70s°F and less humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Cancun's summers are hot and very humid, with a higher chance of rainfall and the possibility of hurricanes, though the ocean temperatures are perfect for swimming.

Amsterdam, Netherlands or Cancun, Mexico for first-time visitors?+

Both are excellent for first-time visitors, but cater to different interests. Cancun is perfect for those new to beach destinations seeking relaxation and vibrant nightlife. Amsterdam is ideal for first-time visitors to Europe looking for a charming city experience with rich culture and history.

How far apart are Amsterdam, Netherlands and Cancun, Mexico?+

Amsterdam and Cancun are located on different continents, with a significant distance between them. A direct flight from Amsterdam to Cancun is approximately 10-11 hours long.

Can you visit both Amsterdam, Netherlands and Cancun, Mexico in one trip?+

Yes, it is certainly possible to visit both Amsterdam and Cancun in one trip, but it requires significant travel time and a longer overall itinerary. Given the distance, it's best to allocate at least a week to each destination to truly experience them, meaning a combined trip would ideally be two weeks or more.

Start Planning Your Trip

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Browse Tours & Activities Search Hotels

Compare Flights Compare Hotels

Cancun, Mexico

Browse Tours & Activities Search Hotels

Compare Flights Compare Hotels

Get Seasonal Travel Picks

We'll send you the best destinations to visit each month — right timing, less crowds.

Explore Full Destination Guides

Best Times to Visit Amsterdam, Netherlands →Best Times to Visit Cancun, Mexico →