Where to Cool Down if You’re Pregnant in Amsterdam This Summer

Pregnant in Amsterdam this summer? You’re probably asking Google:

• Where can I find air conditioning in Amsterdam?

• How do I stay cool while pregnant in a Dutch heatwave?

• Best places to escape the heat while pregnant in Amsterdam?

If so, this post is for you my friend.

Let’s be honest: summer in Amsterdam is beautiful… but if you’re expecting, it’s also hot, sticky, and sweaty in all the wrong places. And since most Dutch homes (and many public spaces!) don’t have air conditioning, it can feel like there’s nowhere to escape.

Don’t worry, we’ve found the best cool and air-conditioned places in Amsterdam for pregnant women to relax, rest, and reset.

1. IKEA Amsterdam – Koel en Zwanger-Vriendelijk

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Location: Arena Boulevard, Amsterdam-Zuidoost

Why pregnant people love it:IKEA is basically a pregnant woman’s paradise in summer. It’s huge, climate-controlled, full of places to sit, and there's ice cream at the end.

Need to walk slowly? Totally fine. Want to just sit on a showroom sofa for 45 minutes? No one will blink.

Bonus: Free parking and easy public transport access.

2. The American Book Center – Quiet, Cool, and Comfy

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Location: Spui, Amsterdam Centrum

Why it’s a great spot: A peaceful, air-conditioned haven in the city center. Grab a book or magazine, sit down, and enjoy actual cool air while your body does its superhuman work.

You’ll often find other moms-to-be doing the same.

Bonus: Right next to cozy cafés if you want a chilled lemonade or snack after.

3. Hotel Lobbies – Your Secret Cooling Strategy

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Examples: Pulitzer, De L’Europe, Conservatorium, or PillowsWhy this works:Five-star hotels in Amsterdam are always air-conditioned, have elegant lounge seating, and are open to walk-ins. Order a juice or tea, take a seat, and enjoy a taste of luxury — and working AC.

4. Movie Theaters (Pathé & FC Hyena) – Two Hours of Cool Bliss

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Top choices: Pathé Tuschinski, Pathé Noord, FC HyenaWhy they’re perfect:Movie theaters in the Netherlands are one of the few places you can guarantee cool air, plus they offer comfy seats and snack breaks. Even if you snooze during the film, it’s two hours of pure relief.

Bonus: Matinees are usually quieter if you need space to stretch out.

5. OBA Oosterdok – The Coolest Library in Town

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Location: Oosterdokskade, next to Amsterdam Central StationWhy pregnant people love it:With six floors of books, bean bags, elevators, clean bathrooms, and actual air flow — the main public library in Amsterdam (OBA) is a sanctuary in the summer.

Bring water, find a window seat, and call it “baby prep time.”

Bonus: Beautiful views from the top floor café and lots of private corners to relax.

Final Tips for Pregnant Summers in Amsterdam ☀️

• Hydrate constantly (carry water everywhere)

• Wear light, breathable layers

• Don’t feel guilty for doing less — growing a human is enough

• Cool showers and feet in the tub work wonders at home

• Ask for help. Seriously.

You’ve got this.Whether you're sipping lemonade in a hotel lobby, curled up at OBA, or sweating it out at Prepped to Parent — you’re doing the important work of showing up for yourself and your baby.

Now go find that air-con, queen. 👑