Description
The Dutch capital is home to world-class parks and gardens. Here’s a guide to the best of them.
Keukenhof
Located around an hour outside Amsterdam, Keukenhof’s expansive flower gardens are only open to the public for two months each year, making it a must-see for springtime visitors. Garden tours typically include admission and private transfers, and may also feature additional stops in nearby rural villages.
Vondelpark
This English-style municipal park in the heart of Amsterdam is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Its 111 acres are perfect for lounging on lake-side lawns or enjoying performances at the open-air stage. The park can be easily explored by bike, or visitors can learn more about the city on a guided stroll along its shady avenues.
Amsterdam Forest (Amsterdamse Bos)
Situated on the city’s southern border, Amsterdamse Bos is a haven for nature lovers, featuring a petting zoo, botanical garden, and several outdoor trails. Visitors can explore its 2,471 acres on foot or by bike, or spend a relaxing afternoon renting a boat or having a picnic on the man-made lake.
Oostvaardersplassen
Northeast of the capital, this nature reserve in Flevoland province is one of Europe’s most unspoiled areas. An early example of rewilding, this 13,840-acre marshland has been allowed to thrive naturally for 40 years and is now home to diverse wildlife, including wild birds and ponies. Tours are available with round-trip transfers for easier access.
Westerpark
As a cultural hub of Amsterdam, Westerpark is conveniently located near many hop-on-hop-off-bus routes, making it a great place to relax after sightseeing. This park, developed on the site of a former gasworks, features repurposed industrial architecture, skate-friendly areas, paddling pools, and dining terraces, all while maintaining an urban oasis vibe.