Green Amsterdam
Goedendag!
This blog is all about the Green Side of Amsterdam, and we’re not talking about the Green Plant you can buy in one of the many coffeeshops. ?
No, instead we would like to dedicate this blog to the prettiest parks and green areas of Amsterdam, since our beautiful city has more to offer than its pretty city centre. We are writing this blog just in time for today’s “Earth Day”.
Let’s start our journey at the Vondelpark, which is clearly the best known and most visited park of the capital city of the Netherlands. With its 47 hectares, 2 kilometres of length and 400 metres of width, the Vondelpark is one of the biggest parks in Amsterdam. The park is also a good choice for cycling, because there is a bicycle route of 3,2km. Did you know where the park got its name from? Joost van Vondel was a poet and a writer from the Netherlands, who was very popular from the 16th – 20th century. In 1867 there was a statue of Vondel placed in the riding and walking park, which is known as Vondelpark since that day. But of course, there is more to see than just the statue – there is also a pretty rosegarden and several nicely designed ponds, where you can sit down and have a picnic with your friends.
Let’s move on to the next green oasis: Oosterpark, located in the east of the city. Locals like to visit it to go for a walk, have a picnic, do some sports or just read and enjoy a quiet minute. Sadly, barbecues are not allowed here, but dog owners and their faithful companions are very welcome. They must be kept on a leash on the official paths, but there are also certain areas where they are allowed to run free and play. In fact, the Oosterpark is even set to grow! In the next few years, it will be extended by 6 hectares on the north side. Surely there will be even more opportunities to do something in the fresh air then.
Have you ever heard of Westerpark? It is located south of the IJ Canal and north-west of the city centre. This large park not only has green spaces to offer. It is also known for its festive nightlife with clubs and bars, festivals, restaurants and markets. There are even two popular breweries that offer exclusive beer tastings. Westerpark is a very vibrant place where Amsterdammers like to spend the whole afternoon with friends. It is often described as multifaceted, beautiful, peaceful, well-kept and varied. Come and see Westerpark for yourself!
Let’s move on to the last park we introduce in this blog : Noorderpark, which you will find in Amsterdam-Noord, so above the IJ canal. The park was created by turning two parks into one. On the Noorderpark website you can book various activities. From culture, culinary and events to sports, there is something for everyone. Today, there is even a Noorderpark Foundation that works to fill the park with life and at the same time support residents in starting their own initiatives in the park.
Of course, there are many other popular parks in and around Amsterdam, such as Flevopark, Amsterdam Bos or Sarphatipark, but with these four parks you already have ideas for places to go if you feel like taking a break from the bustling city and spending some time in nature.
In this case, we also recommend getting out of the city and discovering the beautiful rural side of Holland. For example, visit the famous windmills of Zaanse Schans or the many tulip fields, which you can read more about in our other blogs.
We hope you enjoy your stay and look forward to welcoming you on one of our tours.
See you soon!
