OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES AND PLACES FOR FREE IN AMSTERDAM

Amstel River Promenade

  • Overview: The Amstel River promenade offers a picturesque waterfront view of historic buildings and picturesque bridges.
  • Highlights: Strolling along the river, admiring the architecture, and people-watching.
  • Address: Amstel River, Amsterdam, Netherlands (Various locations along the river).
  • Website: N/A (A public outdoor area.)
  • Public Transport: Trams 4, 7, and 10, as well as various bus lines, serve the Amstel area.
  • Days/Hours for Free: Open every day, all year round.

Tropical Museum Garden

  • Overview: The Tropical Museum features a lush garden with exotic plants and sculptures that are accessible without museum admission.
  • Highlights: Tropical flora, art installations, and a serene oasis in the city.
  • Address: Linnaeusstraat 2, 1092 CK Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Website: Tropical Museum
  • Public Transport: Trams 3 and 19 to Alexanderplein tram stop.
  • Days/Hours for Free: The garden is open during museum hours (usually Tuesday to Sunday).

Oosterdokseiland

  • Overview: Oosterdokseiland is a modern waterfront area with scenic views, an open-air library, and cultural venues.
  • Highlights: Central Library’s rooftop terrace, waterside relaxation, and urban exploration.
  • Address: Oosterdokseiland, 1011 DL Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Website: Oosterdokseiland
  • Public Transport: Trains to Amsterdam Centraal Station, or trams 26, 9, 16, and 24 to Amsterdam Centraal or Kadijksplein tram stops.
  • Days/Hours for Free: Open every day, with varying hours for specific venues.

City Beaches: Blijburg and Pllek

  • Overview: Blijburg and Pllek are man-made city beaches along the IJ river, offering a relaxed, beachy atmosphere.
  • Highlights: Sandy shores, beach bars, and stunning waterfront views.
  • Address: Blijburg: Muiderlaan 1001, 1087 VA Amsterdam, Netherlands. Pllek: Tt. Neveritaweg 59, 1033 WB Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Websites: Blijburg and Pllek
  • Public Transport: Blijburg: Tram 26 to Zuiderzeeweg tram stop and a short walk. Pllek: Take the free ferry from Amsterdam Central Station to NDSM Wharf.
  • Days/Hours for Free: Open during the beach season, usually from spring to early autumn.

Amsterdam Noord

  • Overview: Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Amsterdam Noord, known for its street art, cultural hotspots, and scenic bike routes.
  • Highlights: Street art tours, free festivals, and outdoor art installations.
  • Address: Various locations in Amsterdam Noord.
  • Website: I Amsterdam – Amsterdam Noord
  • Public Transport: Take the free ferry from Amsterdam Central Station to various destinations in Amsterdam Noord.
  • Days/Hours for Free: Open every day, with varying hours for different attractions.

Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest)

  • Overview: Amsterdamse Bos is a vast forested park with numerous recreational opportunities, including walking, cycling, and water activities.
  • Highlights: Nature trails, open fields, boating, and a goat farm.
  • Address: Amsterdamse Bos, 1182 DB Amstelveen, Netherlands.
  • Website: Amsterdamse Bos
  • Public Transport: Various bus lines to Amsterdamse Bos, or take metro 51 to Kralingse Zoom station and transfer to a bus.
  • Days/Hours for Free: Open every day, all year round.

Willet-Holthuysen Museum Garden

  • Overview: This hidden gem is the garden of the Willet-Holthuysen Museum, featuring a beautifully landscaped courtyard with sculptures and greenery.
  • Highlights: Peaceful garden, 18th-century ambiance, and a serene escape from the city.
  • Address: Herengracht 605, 1017 CE Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Website: Willet-Holthuysen Museum
  • Public Transport: Trams 2, 11, and 12 to Keizersgracht tram stop.
  • Days/Hours for Free: The garden is open during museum hours (usually Tuesday to Sunday).

Bike the Canals

  • Overview: Amsterdam is a bike-friendly city, and one of the best ways to explore is by cycling along the picturesque canals.
  • Highlights: Iconic canals, charming bridges, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
  • Address: Various canals and routes throughout Amsterdam.
  • Website: N/A (Biking in the city is a free and popular activity.)
  • Public Transport: Rent a bike from one of the many bike rental shops in Amsterdam.
  • Days/Hours for Free: Open every day; explore when you like.

Rijksmuseum Gardens

  • Overview: While the Rijksmuseum itself has an entrance fee, the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum are free to access. The gardens feature sculptures, fountains, and a serene atmosphere.
  • Highlights: Sculptures by famous Dutch artists, lush greenery, and a great place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
  • Address: Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Website: Rijksmuseum Gardens
  • Public Transport: Trams 2 and 5 to Rijksmuseum tram stop.
  • Days/Hours for Free: The gardens are open year-round and are always free to enter.


Vondelpark

  • Overview: Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s most famous park, offering a lush, green escape in the heart of the city. It’s perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, and people-watching.
  • Highlights: Open lawns, ponds, sculptures, and outdoor performances.
  • Address: Vondelpark, 1071 AA Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Website: Vondelpark
  • Public Transport: Trams 1, 2, and 5 to various stops near Vondelpark.
  • Days/Hours for Free: Open every day, all year round.