Things To Do
in Diemen
Diemen is a small municipality in North Holland just east of Amsterdam. The town blends residential neighborhoods with parks and waterways in a flat polder landscape. Its excellent rail and bus links make it easy to access Amsterdam's culture, museums, and markets while keeping a quieter, family-friendly pace.
Visitors can enjoy local cafés and green spaces, with the city’s attractions just a short ride away.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the scenic parks of Diemen, where you'll encounter lush greenery and beautiful landscapes. Enjoy a fresh pastry and a cup of coffee at a local café while soaking in the tranquil morning atmosphere. Don't forget to capture some photos of the charming surroundings to remember your visit.
In the afternoon, visit the historical town center and explore its quaint shops and vibrant market. Take a break for lunch at one of the traditional Dutch restaurants, sampling local cuisine like stroopwafels or haring. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about the town's rich history as you wander through its streets.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a scenic restaurant overlooking the water. Enjoy a leisurely meal while listening to the soft sounds of the nearby canals. Conclude your day with a cozy walk along the waterfront, where you can admire the shimmering reflections of the city lights.
Visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art in Amsterdam, just a short trip away from Diemen, to kickstart your cultural journey. Spend your morning soaking in the fascinating art pieces and installations that represent the modern Dutch art scene. Engage in interactive exhibits that spark your creativity and inspire future artistic endeavors.
After lunch, head to the Amsterdam Science Center, NEMO, where you can explore hands-on exhibits and enjoy engaging demonstrations. Spend the afternoon discovering the wonders of science and technology in a fun and immersive way. Don't forget to check out the rooftop for stunning views of the Amsterdam skyline.
End your day with an atmospheric evening in the heart of Amsterdam, sharing small dishes at a popular tapas bar. Experience the vibrant nightlife as you hop between different bars and cafes, enjoying live music and local brews. Allow the lively atmosphere to sweep you into the rhythm of the city.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥖Groceries (weekly shop) | $40-90 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $3-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-180 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Amsterdam’s cultural attractions
- Quiet residential charm with green spaces
- Excellent bike-friendly infrastructure
- Strong public transport connections to major airports
- Limited nightlife within Diemen
- Can be touristy and crowded in Amsterdam city center
- Higher costs of living and housing nearby
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please/Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het treinstation?" - Where is the train station?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ik begrijp het niet" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Diemen
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic 17th-century wooden bridge over the Amstel, especially photogenic at sunrise or sunset with reflections on the water.
Canal houses and historic bridges along Herengracht and Keizersgracht offer classic Dutch canal photography.
A mix of forests, ponds, and open skies perfect for landscape photography and quiet nature shots.
Industrial-chic backdrop with ships and street art; a short ferry ride from Amsterdam Central provides edgy city photos.
Reed beds and wetlands ideal for wildlife and expansive landscape photography.
Classic Dutch windmills and cottages; a short trip away for iconic rural photography.
Food in Diemen
Diemen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty mashed-potato dish often served with sausage; widely available in Dutch brasseries around Diemen.
Must-Try!
Raw herring typically eaten with onions; try it at a market stall or seafood counter for a classic Dutch experience.
Thin waffles with sweet caramel syrup; best enjoyed fresh at markets or cafes.
Breadcrumb-coated ragout croquettes, a popular snack or quick lunch.
Large Dutch pancakes served with sweet or savory toppings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Iconic canal-side market offering fresh produce, snacks, and street foods to sample.
Weekly market where you can taste local cheeses, breads, and ready-to-eat bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments and reservations; plan for small delays in travel.
Yield to pedestrians, ring bell when passing, and keep to the right on shared paths.
Use polite phrases (alstublieft, dank u wel); many locals speak English; greet with a smile.
Dutch communication can be straightforward; be respectful and honest.
Safety
Tipping in Diemen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for good service, typically 5-10% in restaurants if no service charge is included; rounding up at bars is common.
Cards (contactless), mobile payments, and cash are accepted; chips and PIN are standard; most places are cashless-friendly.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours with pleasant temperatures; occasional rain; ideal for outdoor cycling, boat tours, and exploring parks.
Mild to cool weather with colorful foliage and more frequent showers; layer up and enjoy city walks and museums.
Cool to cold temperatures, possible frost or light snow; shorter days but cozy cafés and festive city lights are inviting.
Blooming flowers and comfortable temperatures; great for walking, cycling, and photography around tulip regions and parks.
Diemen at Night
Hiking in Diemen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and lakes with networked walking paths.
Reed-bed wetlands suitable for birdwatching and nature photography.
Polder landscapes with easy hiking paths and canal views.
Airports
How to reach Diemen by plane.
Major international hub located about 15-25 km from Diemen; direct train connections to Amsterdam and Diemen make transfers quick.
Small regional airport about 40-60 miles away with limited flights; accessible by road.
Smaller international airport about a 1-1.5 hour train/drive from Diemen; alternative for some flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population in Diemen and nearby communities.
Significant minority groups contributing to multicultural character.
Growing expat and student presence due to proximity to Amsterdam.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Netherlands’ favorite sport with local clubs and youth teams across the region.
A national pastime; extensive bike routes and bike-friendly cities make it a constant activity.
Popular in clubs and schools; many facilities nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Diemen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options; look for meat-free dishes or ask for ‘zonder vlees’ and dairy-free alternatives.