Green Spaces in and around Amsterdam

Green, green and more green: the lush city

Amsterdam is renowned for many things, one of which is being one of the greenest cities in Europe. In general, European cities are characterised by tall buildings, neon lights and activity around the clock. Amsterdam, however, proves that a city can have the best of both worlds by melding nature and urban life together. The numerous parks dotted around contribute to the city's beauty and create a number of wonderful green spaces throughout Amsterdam. Vondelpark is the oldest and largest city park, with approximately 10 million people passing through it annually. The park contains a playground for children, free music performances and concerts held in the open-air theatre and large expanses of grass to sprawl across and soak up some tranquillity. Another wonderful park to visit is the Sarphatipark. Situated down the road from the Albert Cuyp Market, visitors can spend some time picking out delicious local specialities before heading down to the park to enjoy a little spur-of-the-moment picnic. A great effort has been made to provide locals and tourists with green spaces in Amsterdam, the result being that one can enjoy this city at a more comfortable pace than elsewhere in Europe.

Boats and bicycles

Amsterdam's iconic canal system consists of 165 waterways covering an area of 100 km. With numerous services – from water taxis to house boats – the canals offer a cheap and effective method of transport. For something different, try swapping a day of walking around the green spaces of Amsterdam for some water-based exploration instead. Take a guided boat tour or spend the night on a house boat and enjoy the serene experience of sleeping on the water.
Amsterdam is almost as famous for its love of bicycles as its canal network. It is estimated that local Amsterdammers collectively cycle a staggering 10 million km per day around the city! There are numerous reliable and affordable bicycle rental agencies in the city. With flat terrain, an excellent network of cycling routes and the multitude of green spaces in Amsterdam, it truly is the ideal way to explore the city. Just remember: there are approximately 800,000 bicycles being ridden by locals around Amsterdam so it is advisable to stay off the cycle paths during rush hour, as the inexperienced cyclist may find this volume of traffic somewhat intimidating and frustrating.

Dutch beaches

If you've spent enough time enjoying the green spaces of Amsterdam then why not take a trip outside the city to do some further exploring? Although Amsterdam is situated inland, the excellent public transport system allows for easy access to a number of beaches. You will typically need to make use of both the train and bus systems to reach the beaches, however it is very possible to do and this is often recommended over driving due to the popularity of the beaches (and difficulty parking) on sunny days. With fine sand and delicate dunes, the beaches are popular with locals and tourists. However, keep in mind the cold temperature of the North Sea water and brave a swim at your own risk! Some beaches are renowned for their excellent wind and kite surfing, so for those into water sports it's definitely worth checking which beach is best suited to your interests.

An affordable hotel in the city with the best facilities? Check out NH hotels on a budget in Amsterdam.

Author: Lana de Wit

Guest Relations Manager at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky

My name is Lana de Wit, Guest Relations Manager at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. Together with the Guest Relations and Guest Services team we are making sure that all guests are having the best experience at our hotel and look after their special requests, celebrations and expectations. I get energy out of solving problems and striving for the best there is possible and I love the fact that every day is different and full of surprises. I always wanted to work at Krasnapolsky since I was a little girl, so being able to work here the past years has been a dream together with my fantastic colleagues. My biggest mission is to let every guest leave with extraordinary stories and unforgettable memories to take home. I look forward to welcoming you here in Amsterdam to give you the true Anantara experience!