Exploring Amsterdam’s Outdoor Wonderland
Welcome to Amsterdam, where the canal views are charming, the air is filled with the smell of stroopwafels, and bicycles outnumber tourists (just about). Whether you’re a local seeking fresh spots or a tourist going beyond the cheese and clogs, we’ve got a list of outdoor things to do in Amsterdam that will make you fall in love with this city. Get ready to embrace the unique blend of culture, history, and green spaces—because when it comes to outdoor fun, Amsterdam has it all.
Canal Cruise: Float Your Boat
What’s better than exploring Amsterdam by foot? Exploring it by water! Grab a canal boat for an iconic cruise. You can choose a guided tour and learn amusing titbits about the city’s history or opt for a pedalo and turn it into a DIY workout session. They say seeing ‘Amsterdam by night’ from the water is magical—cue the romantic light reflections and the smell of… well, canal water. Pack a picnic and set sail for a truly Dutch experience.
Vondelpark: The Green Heart
Ah, Vondelpark, where joggers, dog-walkers, and picnickers unite! This lush oasis is in the heart of the city and offers a perfect spot for relaxation or people-watching. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, or challenge yourself to spot as many peculiar cyclists as you can. BONUS: Free open-air concerts happen in the summer, making it a compelling spot for music lovers. Be on the lookout for in-line skaters attempting a tricky move or two—that’s free entertainment!
Amsterdam’s Famous Windmills
Yes, those postcard-perfect windmills aren’t just in rural Holland. Cycle over to the outskirts of Amsterdam to find some charming old farm-style windmills, and if you’re particularly interested, you might spot more at Zaanse Schans with its backdrop of green pastures. Visiting a windmill might feel like stepping into a novel (just don’t get your fingers stuck!). A fabulous day trip for historical enthusiasts and Instagram aficionados alike.
Food Science at Pure Markt
If you find yourself in Amsterdam on a Sunday, make your way to Pure Markt. This is not your typical market—think of it as a farmers’ market on delicious steroids. With an array of organic and traditional foods, it’s a haven for foodies and curious wanderers. Treat your taste buds while enjoying live music and vibrant crowds. Just try not to drool publicly.
The Art of Beer: Brouwerij ‘t IJ
It wouldn’t be a trip to Amsterdam without indulging in the local culinary scene. Dutch beer has an impressive following, and at Brouwerij ‘t IJ, located under a picturesque windmill, you can sip on freshly brewed lagers and ales. Nestled near some of the most intriguing bars in Amsterdam, the brewery tour offers insights into craft beer production, and the tasting sessions are delightful for your taste buds.
Pedal Away on A Bike Tour
Giving the phrase “on a roll” a new meaning, bike tours around Amsterdam are an exhilarating way to explore. Rent a fiets (that’s bike in Dutch) to embody local living. Guide or no guide, cycling is a quintessential part of the Amsterdam experience. Just remember: avoid walking in the bike paths unless you want to face the wrath of truly determined cyclists!
A Day at Artis Zoo and Botanical Gardens
If you think Amsterdam has a strange obsession with animals roaming freely, you’d be right! Artis Zoo doesn’t just have animal exhibits but also historic architecture and lush, meticulously kept gardens. Spend the day amidst nature, learn about the animals, or simply talk to the flamingos—they’re great listeners.
A Historical Stroll: The Tapestry of Time
One simply doesn’t come to Amsterdam without indulging in its palpable history. Why not enjoy easy but informative walks in Amsterdam? From the infamous Red-Light District to the Anne Frank Museum, walking tours offer everything—a bit of history, a dash of culture, and naturally, a sprinkle of unexpected fun facts delivered by amusing guides. You’d be surprised at what even locals discover anew.