Things To Do
in Amstelveen

Amstelveen is a picturesque city located in the Netherlands, known for its beautiful parks and gardens, making it an ideal suburb of Amsterdam. The city is rich in cultural heritage, featuring several museums, art galleries, and historical sites. Amstelveen is also home to a diverse culinary scene and a vibrant community, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

With excellent public transport connections, it serves as a convenient base for exploring the surrounding areas.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Cobra Museum of Modern Art, where you can explore contemporary artworks and exhibitions.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll in the Amsterdamse Bos, a large park with walking trails, a lake, and beautiful scenery.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to a nearby café for a taste of Dutch dessert and coffee.

day 2
Day 2: History and Shopping
morning
:

Begin your day by exploring the historic village of Old Amstelveen, where you can see traditional Dutch architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Stadshart shopping center for a mix of local shops and international brands.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a meal at a traditional Dutch eatery and enjoy the local nightlife at a bar or pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$10
🍽️Restaurant Meal$20
Coffee$3
🍺Local Beer$5
🌍Public Transport Ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Rich cultural offerings and museums.
  • Proximity to Amsterdam for easy day trips.
  • Limited nightlife compared to Amsterdam.
  • Can be expensive for dining out.
  • Public transport may be crowded during peak hours.
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ik begrijp het niet" - I don't understand
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Amstelveen

Visit one of these nice places.

Amsterdamse Bos

A vast park with beautiful landscapes, perfect for nature photography.

Cobra Museum

The modern architecture of the museum and its art installations provide great backdrops.

Old Amstelveen

The charming streets and historic buildings are ideal for capturing the essence of Dutch culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Amstelveen

Amstelveen offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Dutch cuisine and international flavors, making it a food lover's paradise.

Amstelveen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stroopwafels

Thin waffle cookies filled with caramel syrup, a must-try sweet treat.

Must-Try!

Haring

Raw herring fish, often served with onions and pickles, popular as a street food.

Bitterballen

Dutch meatballs served with mustard, a favorite snack in bars.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Amstelveen Market

A weekly market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Amstelveen is characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with moderate temperatures. Rain is common throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella. Summer temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F), while winter temperatures may drop to around 0°C (32°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Dutch culture, so plan accordingly.

Direct Communication

Dutch people value honesty and straightforwardness; don't be afraid to express your thoughts.

Safety Guide

Safety

Amstelveen is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as in any urban area, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables in crowded places.

Tipping in Amstelveen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is also useful for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures and long days make this the perfect season for picnics and festivals.

Autumn

Enjoy the beautiful fall colors in parks, with a cooler climate and occasional rain.

Winter

Cold weather with potential snowfall; great for cozy indoor activities and Christmas markets.

Nightlife Guide

Amstelveen at Night

Amstelveen has a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, pubs, and clubs. Most venues are relaxed and cater to a diverse crowd, offering everything from live music to DJ sets. Popular areas include the Stadshart and the local bars near the train station, where you can enjoy a late-night drink and socialize with locals.

Hiking in Amstelveen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Amsterdamse Bos Trails

A network of trails within the Amsterdamse Bos park, offering various lengths and difficulty levels amidst beautiful natural scenery.

Vondelpark Loop

A popular loop trail in nearby Vondelpark, perfect for a leisurely hike or jog, surrounded by lush greenery.

Airports

How to reach Amstelveen by plane.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

Located just 10 km from Amstelveen, Schiphol is one of the busiest airports in Europe, offering numerous international and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Amstelveen is a very walkable city with a well-planned layout. Sidewalks are abundant, and pedestrian zones are common, especially in shopping areas. The city also encourages cycling, which complements walking as a primary mode of transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Dutch Locals

The majority of residents are Dutch, contributing to a strong sense of community and cultural identity.

Expats

Amstelveen is home to a significant number of expatriates, particularly due to its proximity to international businesses and organizations.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a widely followed sport in the Netherlands, with local clubs and community teams actively participating.

Field Hockey

Field hockey is also popular in Amstelveen, with many clubs and schools promoting the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Amstelveen is generally manageable, but peak hours can lead to congestion, especially on main roads. Public transportation, including buses and trams, is efficient, making it easy to navigate the city and surrounding areas. Cycling is a popular alternative, offering a quick and eco-friendly way to get around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Amstelveen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to ask for specific options.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are increasingly available; inquire at restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Amstelveen is of high quality, with several local hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. Most medical professionals speak English, and international health insurance is recommended for travelers.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide