10 Best Walks In Amsterdam
Welcome to Amsterdam, where canals crisscross the city like a hodgepodge of Venetian dreams and where bikes outnumber people. It’s not all about the wheeled wonders, though; this city is a walker’s paradise too. Whether you’re a local looking for an afternoon escape or a tourist trying to walk off that third helping of stroopwafels, here are 10 fantastic walks to get your feet yearning for adventure. Grab your map or your GPS (because who needs paper nowadays?), and let’s get strolling!
The Scenic Canal Ring
If you didn’t expect this one, you’ve probably never even seen a picture of Amsterdam. The Canal Ring, or “Grachtengordel,” is what postcards are made of. Stroll along the concentric circles of water and cobbled streets, and you’d better have a camera ready. Between the beautiful architecture and the boats gently bobbing in the water, it almost feels like stepping back into the Golden Age—minus the beaver hats.
Vondelpark Stroll
Amsterdam’s version of Central Park, Vondelpark is the perfect place to immerse yourself in greenery right in the middle of the city. Find your zen amongst the local joggers, summer picnickers, and musicians busking their hearts out. Word of advice: watch out for runaway frisbees. You didn’t come to Amsterdam for a concussion.
Jordaan District Wander
If hipster was a place, it’d be the Jordaan. Once home to the working class, this now-trendy area is full of indie boutiques, art galleries, and some of the cutest cafes you’ll ever see. It’s easy to get lost here—and you might find yourself contemplating existential questions like, “Where can I get a good oat milk latte?” If you do get lost, just follow the aroma of freshly baked sourdough.
Pijp Neighbourhood Adventure
Pronounced “pipe”, the Pijp neighbourhood offers a vibrant mix of culture with its bustling Albert Cuyp Market and a plethora of international cuisines. It’s a lively area that retains a sense of its past with working-class roots. Warning: you might end up with more groceries than you intended—those cheese samples are dangerous!
Amstel River Walk
Follow the Amstel River, and you’re in for an iconic experience that layers the natural beauty of the countryside with quintessential Dutch windmills and meadows. It’s like walking through a Dutch painter’s canvas. There are fewer tourists here, making it extra-special if you’re craving some peace and quiet to accompany your selfie session.
De Plantage Exploration
For a walk infused with culture and history, head to the leafy Plantage area. With attractions like the Artis Zoo and the stunning Hortus Botanicus, you can walk, learn, and become one with nature. And if you’re feeling particularly smart, impress your walking companions by pointing out the oldest chestnut tree in Amsterdam—because, fun fact, trees have age too.
Western Islands Saunter
A lesser-known gem, the Western Islands are a cozy refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city. Cute, colorful houses line the narrow streets, and you might feel like you’ve teleported to a small village. It’s charming and rustic, with a perfect touch of maritime flavor. Be sure to take lots of photos to increase your chances of breaking Instagram with your perfectly curated aesthetic.
NDSM Wharf Walkabout
For an industrial twist, take a free ferry to the NDSM Wharf, an open-air museum in itself. Funky murals cover repurposed shipping containers, and the creative energy is palpable. This is an epicenter of culture, with events, festivals, and even a giant robot. Yes, you read that right—there’s a giant robot. And no, it’s not planning to take over the world… probably.
Canal House Surfin’
Stay afloat without getting wet by discovering the canal houses that flank some of Amsterdam’s most beautiful waterways. The wealth of the Dutch Golden Age is on display here, where richly decorated façades tell stories of long-gone merchants. As you walk past, play a game of “which house belongs to the richest merchant?”. Trust us, it never gets old.
So grab your walking shoes, leave your worries behind, and step into one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in the world. If you’re up for more adventures, check out other walks in Amsterdam. You’ll never run out of paths to explore, nor cheese samples to devour. Happy walking!