Outdoor Activities in Amsterdam

Explore the vibrant city of Amsterdam beyond its canals! Here are some exciting outdoor activities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and unique charm of this city.

Cycling

• Rent a Bike: Amsterdam is synonymous with cycling. Rent a bike and join the locals in navigating the city’s extensive network of cycle paths.
• Vondelpark: Visit Vondelpark, the most famous urban park in Amsterdam, offering various sports facilities, picnic spots, and concerts during summer evenings.
• Amsterdamse Bos: Escape the city bustle at Amsterdam Forest (Amsterdamse Bos), the largest recreational park in the Netherlands with walking trails, a lake, playgrounds, and bike rentals.

Walking Tours

• Canal Ring: Stroll along the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Canal Ring area, taking in its historic houses, charming bridges, and beautiful gardens.
• Jordaan District: Wander through the Jordaan district, known for its picturesque streets, art studios, vintage shops, and cozy cafés.
• Artis Zoo: Combine a walk with some wildlife! Artis Zoo is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands, home to over 700 species of animals.

Boat Tours

• Canal Cruise: Experience Amsterdam from a different perspective with a canal cruise. Choose from various tours that cater to your interests, whether it’s history, architecture, or even food!
• Amsterdamse Grachtenvereniging: Opt for an eco-friendly boat tour with Amsterdamse Grachtenvereniging (Amsterdam Canals Association), which uses electric boats.

Parks & Gardens

• Hortus Botanicus: Discover the oldest botanical garden in Europe, Hortus Botanicus, home to over 4.500 species of plants from around the world.
• Botanische Tuin Plantage Middenlaan: Explore another beautiful green space in Amsterdam, Botanische Tuin Plantage Middenlaan, featuring tropical glasshouses and a historic garden.

Outdoor Festivals & Events

Keep an eye on Amsterdam’s event calendar to catch outdoor concerts, festivals, or markets during your visit. Some notable events include the Grachtenfestival (Classical Music Festival), Gay Pride Canal Parade, and Amsterdamse Oerol (Performing Arts Festival).