amsterdam parks

Amsterdam is a small city with lots of of parks, meaning wherever you are in Amsterdam you’re always near some green space. During the Summer months these parks come alive with a vibrant mix of tourists and locals, flocking to enjoy the unique charm and activities each park has to offer. Some you can walk to, whereas others you may want to cycle or get public transport.

See my top 5 parks and things to do in each one below!

1. Vondelpark

Probably one of the most well known parks in Amsterdam, Vondelpark is really popular for cycle rides, BBQs, and sitting on an outdoor terrace for a beer. Super close to the centre, Vondelpark is nestled between Museumplein and the street Overtoom, meaning it’s easy to visit.

I’d recommend hiring a bike, cycling round Vondelpark a couple of times and then stopping off at a bar for a drink in the sun – the Proeflokaal ‘t Blauwe Theehuis is great for a drink. Or, if you are on a budget, you can buy some drinks and snacks from a nearby supermarket and have a picnic

2. Westerpark

Westerpark is a must-visit gem, just a 30-minute walk – or a quick 10-minute cycle – from the city center. In the park is a hub of buildings called Westergas – the city’s old gasworks – which now serves as bars, restaurants and shops.

One of my favourites is Troost, a microbrewery serving amazing beers and burgers. Sign up to their regularly brewery tour to get a behind-the-scenes look at their brewing process – every Saturday at 4pm. Further into the park is Ton Ton Club, a Japanese inspired bar and restaurant that doubles as a retro arcade playground.  Think Dance Dance Revolution, arcade shooters and ping pong!

Beyond the food and fun, Westerpark itself is a lovely park to explore. Take a nice stroll, enjoy a picnic, or visit in early Spring to find the park’s stunning blossom trees in bloom. If you’re around on the first Sunday of the month don’t miss the Sunday Market Westergas, where you’dd find an eclectic mix of art, fashion, design stalls and live music.

3. Amsterdamse Bos

Not so much a park – but more of a large wood – Amsterdamse Bos is a great place to visit if the weather is warm and your stay in Amsterdam extends past a weekend. Cycling from the center takes about 40 mins, but once you’re there there’s loads to do.

Cycle along the Bosbaanweg, a man made stretch of water for rowing races, or go open swimming in one of the big lakes. Visit the Goat Farm and try some goat milk ice cream, or head to the blossom trees in Kersenbloesempark (translation: Cherry Blossom Park) in Amsterdamse Bos. There’s also places to eat and drink, check out their website.

4. Sloterpark

Sloterpark is in Amsterdam West, a 30 minute cycle from the center. Popular with locals, Sloterpark is a great place to come on a hot day to light up a BBQ and swim in the lake. But the reason it’s in my list of top parks is because of the Water Centre that offers paddle board and kayak hire. Paddleboard hire is 15 Euro per hour and is a beautiful way to escape from the hustle and bustle of central Amsterdam!

Sloterpark also has a frisbee golf course, a beach, a swimming pool, as well as seasonal festivals and dance parties.

5. Amstelpark

Located in Amsterdam South, Amstelpark is a 30 min cycle from Amsterdam Center. It is a big park with several small gardens located inside which can be explored. There are also several restaurants and cafes, an ice cream truck and a frites stand serving traditional Dutch fries. 

There’s plenty of activities, including a mini-golf course, a 2m high hedge maze, and a train that runs through the park – a great activity for kids. 

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