Amsterdam’s best parks
Whether you want to get fit, let the kids go wild or just sit and chill in the sun, Amsterdam’s parks offer a surprising range of beautiful places to hang out, each with its own unique charm and history. Find yourself a relaxing spot to unwind with our guide to Amsterdam’s lush and open green spaces.
Amstelpark
Located along the banks of the Amstel River, Amstelpark is a large green space covered in trees. At its southern end, you’ll find the Riekermolen (Rieter windmill) and, within the grounds, an orangery, rose garden and even a Japanese garden. It’s a popular place for families thanks to mini-golf, a labyrinth, a miniature train, and a petting zoo.
What to see in Amstelpark:
- Visit the rhododendron valley, where 130+ varieties bloom
- See the Belgian cloister and rose gardens
- Experience Monument Rozenoord, a moving memorial to the men executed at the end of World War II by German forces
Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest)
Amsterdam’s largest park, the Amsterdamse Bos, is in Amstelveen and has much to offer. You’ll find several attractions in its vast area, including the Bosbaan, a rowing course that regularly hosts the World Rowing Championship. Along with ponds suitable for swimming, an open-air theatre - the Bostheater, and camping facilities, the park also has a fabulous forest with dazzling cherry blossoms in spring. Keep your eye out for Scottish Highlanders as you wander this beautiful spot in the city and naturists if you venture near De Zonneweide.
What to see:
- Watch rowers ply the Bosbaan
- Visit the goat farm Geitenboerderij Ridammerhoeve, where kids can pet goats and sample goat milk ice cream
- See artworks by Tom Claassen, Serge Verhuegen and others
Beatrixpark
Named after the much beloved Queen Beatrix, Beatrixpark is nestled behind RAI in the city’s south. Originally designed by Jakoba Mulder, the park was redesigned with a more modern style following WWII when the park was renamed Beatrixpark. Traces of the original park can be found in the oldest part, which was influenced by English parks.
What to see:
- Small pavilions throughout the park are all that remains of the 1972 Floriade exhibition
- Visit De Artsenijhof, a medicinal herb garden on the eastern side of the park
Erasmuspark
Named after Dutch humanist Desiderius Erasmus, the small Erasmuspark is a little jewel in Amsterdam’s west. The central part of the park is essentially an island and features green fields, gardens, and a charming neighbourhood café called Terrasmus. It’s a popular spot with fitness fiends.
What to see:
- Visit the Miracle Garden, a creation of Dutch artist Elspeth Diederix, featuring unique blooms
- See several artworks, including a large marble bear by Simona Vergana
- Take-in Amsterdam School design elements in bridges bordering the park
Flevopark
Located in Oost, Flevopark features playgrounds, an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, barbecue areas, and various routes that are popular with runners. It’s also where you’ll find the Joodse Begraafplaats Zeeburg, a Jewish cemetery that is now heritage-listed and the Flevoparkbad open-air swimming pool. You can enjoy a range of activities throughout the year and try distillations at Nieuwe Diep’s idyllic location.
What to do:
- Visit the distillery and tasting room Nieuwe Diep in the centre of the park
- Discover the Jewish cemetery in Zeeburg
- Unwind at Jeugdland, an adventure park for kids on the edge of Flevopark
Gaasperpark
Located on the shores of Gaasperplas, this park in the city’s Zuidoost district is a lush green area with many attractions. Easily reached by Metro, the park is home to playgrounds, water slides, and places to grab a bite. Cool off in the lake or camp in the park during summer.
What to see:
- Go swimming in the lake
- Take the kids and let them play all-day
- Get some fresh air and walk through the park's ample green areas
Hortus Botanicus
Located in the famous Plantage district, Hortus Botanicus is one of the world’s oldest botanical gardens. Now a part of the University of Amsterdam, it was originally a medicinal herb garden and today is home to an astounding 6,000 plants. No matter the weather, Hortus Botanicis is beautiful.
What to see:
- Visit the tropical greenhouses, which are home to exotic plant species
- Walk through the impressive entrance gate built in the early 1700s
- See the famous Persian ironwood tree
Nelson Mandelapark
Originally called Bijlmer Park, the park was renamed in 2014 to Nelson Mandelapark to honour the South African politician. Completely redesigned between 2009 and 2011, this civic park features sports areas, kids' playgrounds and a small forest featuring the national trees of residents living there. You’ll also find a skate park and the Bijlmerpark Theater.
What to do:
- Visit the Magnolia Valley in spring when it’s in full bloom
- Discover the walking and cycling routes dotted with artworks
- Don’t miss the vibrant Kwaku Summer Festival, usually beginning in late July-August each year
Noorderpark
This vibrant green oasis in the heart of Amsterdam Noord is home to a lively mix of visitors, from the young and the old to locals and visitors alike. The park boasts four pavilions that host an entertaining line-up of concerts, performances and shows throughout the year.
What to do:
- Take time out at Pompet
- Take a dip at the Noorderparkbad swimming pool at the north end of the park
- Walk along the Noord Amsterdam Kanal on the park’s eastern edge
