Things To Do
in Amstelveen

Amstelveen is a small town located in the province of North Holland in the Netherlands. It is known for its green spaces, modern architecture, and diverse community. The town offers a high quality of life with excellent amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and sports facilities.

Amstelveen is well-connected to Amsterdam and other nearby cities, making it a convenient location for both work and leisure.

  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Tot ziens" - See you later

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Amstelveen Nature Escape
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk in Amsterdamse Bos, a large park with beautiful landscapes. Enjoy the tranquility and the sound of nature as you explore the various trails.

afternoon
:

Visit the Cobra Museum of Modern Art to appreciate contemporary artworks and exhibitions. Grab lunch at a local café nearby, savoring some Dutch treats.

evening
:

Have dinner at a cozy restaurant in Amstelveen, delighting in traditional Dutch cuisine. Take a leisurely stroll along the Amstel River to wrap up the day.

day 2
Cultural Journey
morning
:

Begin your morning with a visit to the nearby Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. Marvel at the masterpieces and learn about Van Gogh's life.

afternoon
:

Explore the Amstelveen Shopping Center for some retail therapy and local souvenirs. Enjoy a light meal at the mall while people-watching.

evening
:

Attend a local performance at the Schouwburg Amstelveen theater. Wind down the night with drinks at a nearby bar.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Amsterdam, allowing easy access to the cultural and economic benefits of the city.
  • Green spaces and parks, providing a pleasant environment for outdoor activities.
  • High quality of life with good schools, healthcare, and public services.
  • A diverse community with a mix of cultures and nationalities.
  • Well-developed infrastructure and public transport system.
  • Higher cost of living compared to other cities in the Netherlands.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to Amsterdam.
  • Possible traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Fewer job opportunities in certain fields compared to the larger cities.
  • Some residents may find the town less vibrant than bigger urban areas.

Best Activities in Amstelveen

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Amsterdamse Bos

Explore the vast green space with walking, cycling, picnicking, and outdoor sports.

Amstelpark

Enjoy gardens, playgrounds, and seasonal events in this beautiful park.

Bovenkerkerpolder

Discover the picturesque Dutch countryside with hiking and cycling trails.

Tours

Uncover the best of Amstelveen with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Amstelveen

Visit one of these nice places.

Amsterdamse Bos

A large park with beautiful landscapes, lakes, and forests, offering great photo opportunities.

Amstelveense Poel

A scenic lake with walking paths around it, providing stunning views of the water and surrounding nature.

Cobra Museum of Modern Art

The architecture and outdoor sculptures at this museum offer unique and artistic photo opportunities.

Food in Amstelveen

Amstelveen offers a rich and diverse culinary scene influenced by traditional Dutch cuisine as well as international flavors. Visitors can indulge in delicious local dishes, explore vibrant food markets, and enjoy a variety of restaurants and cafes offering diverse menus. The city also caters to diverse dietary needs, with a range of options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten-free requirements.

Amstelveen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bitterballen

Savory Dutch meat-based snack, typically served with mustard. Must-try at Cafe Restaurant 't Jagershuis.

Must-Try!

Stroopwafel

A delightful waffle cookie filled with caramel syrup. Available at the Albert Cuyp Market or various local bakeries.

Poffertjes

Mini Dutch pancakes often dusted with powdered sugar. Best enjoyed at the Saturday's Farmers Market at Stadshart Amstelveen.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Amstelveen better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Amstelveen Farmers Market

A diverse market offering fresh local produce, cheeses, and artisanal goods. Perfect for sampling street food like stroopwafels and poffertjes.

Amsterdamse Poort

This bustling area is a haven for street food lovers, with a wide variety of international cuisines to explore, from falafel to Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches.

Weather

The climate is characterized as a temperate maritime climate, influenced by its proximity to the North Sea. This results in mild winters and moderately warm summers. Rain is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with no distinct dry season. Average temperatures in winter can drop to around 2-5°C (36-41°F), while summer temperatures typically range from 17-25°C (63-77°F). Due to the maritime influence, the weather can be quite changeable, with frequent overcast days and rain showers. Humidity levels are generally high, and the region can experience breezy conditions, particularly during the autumn and winter months. Snow can occasionally fall in winter, although it's not very common or usually significant. Overall, the climate supports lush vegetation and contributes to the green landscape that characterizes the area.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting etiquette

In Amstelveen, it's customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Use formal titles like 'Mr.' or 'Mrs.' unless invited to use first names.

Respecting personal space

Dutch culture values personal space, so it's important to maintain an appropriate distance while conversing and to avoid physical contact unless initiated by the other person.

Punctuality

Punctuality is highly valued in the Netherlands, so it's important to be on time for appointments and social gatherings.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Amstelveen with these exclusive activities.

Safety

The city is generally considered safe, with low crime rates compared to larger urban areas. Residents and visitors often report feeling secure while walking the streets, especially in residential neighborhoods and parks. The local authorities maintain a visible police presence, which contributes to the sense of safety. Community engagement plays a significant role in maintaining safety, with various neighborhood watch programs and initiatives aimed at promoting vigilance and cooperation among residents. The city benefits from well-lit public areas and well-maintained infrastructure, which further enhances safety, particularly at night. In addition to low levels of property crime, violent crime is also relatively rare, making it a suitable place for families and individuals. Emergency services are readily accessible, and public transportation systems are safe and reliable. Overall, people in the area tend to feel comfortable and secure in their daily activities.

Tipping in Amstelveen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Amstelveen, it is common to tip 5-10% at restaurants, cafes, and bars if the service was good. Tipping in other service industries such as hotels, taxis, and hairdressers is also appreciated but not mandatory.

Payment

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Amstelveen, and contactless payment methods are popular. Cash is also commonly used, especially for small transactions and at street markets.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Amstelveen.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Amstelveen, Netherlands. The beautiful tulip season begins, and the city bursts with colorful flowers. The weather starts to warm up, and outdoor activities become more popular.

Summer

In summer, Amstelveen experiences long daylight hours and pleasant weather. Outdoor festivals, markets, and events are common during this time. It's a great season for outdoor exploration and enjoying the city's green spaces.

Autumn

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage to Amstelveen. The city's parks and gardens transform with vibrant autumn colors, and it's a great time for leisurely walks and enjoying the cozy atmosphere of the city.

Winter

Winter in Amstelveen can be cold, but the city takes on a charming atmosphere with festive lights and decorations. Ice skating, Christmas markets, and indoor cultural events are popular during this season.

Amstelveen at Night

Nightlife in Amstelveen offers a more laid-back and intimate experience compared to the bustling scene of neighboring Amsterdam. The town boasts a selection of cozy pubs, stylish wine bars, and lively music venues where locals and visitors can enjoy a relaxed evening out. One of the highlights includes the P60 music venue, which hosts a variety of live performances ranging from rock and pop to electronic and jazz, catering to diverse musical tastes. For those who enjoy a good craft beer, Café Thijs is a popular spot, known for its wide selection of local and international brews. There's also a thriving dining scene for those who prefer to pair their night out with excellent food. Restaurants like De Oude Smidse and Brasserie Paardenburg offer a charming mix of traditional Dutch cuisine and contemporary dishes, often accompanied by candlelight and a welcoming ambiance. While Amstelveen may not have the extensive nightclub options of a major city, its nightlife is characterized by quality over quantity, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more refined and enjoyable evening.

Hiking in Amstelveen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Amsterdamse Bos

A large park featuring hiking trails, biking paths, and a beautiful lake, located just a short distance from Amstelveen.

Het Amsterdamse Waterleidingduin

A nature reserve offering various hiking routes through dunes and forests, known for its wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Natuurgebied De Poel

A natural area with walking paths around lakes and wetlands, perfect for hiking and birdwatching.

Schoonhoven and Zwanenburg

These nearby areas feature serene walking routes through woodlands and along waterways, suitable for peaceful hikes.

Wester-Heide

A heather reserve offering beautiful views and a network of trails for a varied hiking experience.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Amstelveen through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Amstelveen by plane.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

The main international airport serving Amstelveen and the Netherlands, located approximately 10 kilometers southwest of Amsterdam city center.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM)

An international airport located about 57 kilometers from Amstelveen, serving mainly domestic and a few European destinations.

Eindhoven Airport (EIN)

An international airport located around 125 kilometers from Amstelveen, primarily serving low-cost carriers and offering flights to various European destinations.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Located approximately 173 kilometers from Amstelveen, it is the main international airport in Belgium, with numerous global connections.

Walkability

Walkability in this charming Dutch municipality is characterized by well-planned urban design that caters to pedestrians. The city features extensive sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian-friendly spaces, making it easy for residents and visitors to navigate on foot. Many neighborhoods are designed to be compact, encouraging walking as a primary mode of transport. Green spaces, parks, and recreational areas are integrated into the urban landscape, enhancing the walking experience and providing pleasant environments for leisurely strolls. The presence of a variety of amenities, such as shops, cafes, and services within walking distance, contributes to a vibrant pedestrian atmosphere. Additionally, the city's layout promotes connections between different areas, supported by a network of paths and well-maintained routes. Public transport options, including trams and buses, complement walkability, allowing for easy access to other parts of the region without relying solely on cars. Overall, the combination of accessible routes, friendly urban design, and amenities makes walking a convenient and enjoyable mode of transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Dutch

The majority demographic group in Amstelveen, consisting primarily of individuals with Dutch heritage.

Surinamese

A significant community in Amstelveen, mainly comprising descendants of immigrants from Suriname.

Turkish

A notable demographic group, consisting of Turkish immigrants and their families.

Moroccan

Includes individuals with Moroccan heritage, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Amstelveen.

Indonesian

A smaller but established community of individuals with Indonesian roots.

Expatriates

A diverse group of expatriates from various countries, particularly from Western and Asian nations.

The Soul of Amstelveen

Discover the essence of Amstelveen through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Amstelveen, with many local clubs and a strong community participation.

Hockey

Field hockey is very popular in Amstelveen, with several successful clubs and a strong tradition in the sport.

Tennis

Tennis is widely played in Amstelveen, with numerous courts and clubs available for both casual and competitive players.

Running

Running and jogging are popular activities, with various parks and trails in Amstelveen providing great environments for outdoor fitness.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime in the Netherlands, and Amstelveen has many bike paths and routes for both commuting and leisure rides.

Traffic

Traffic in this Dutch municipality is characterized by a mix of local and commuter vehicles, as it serves as a residential area for many people working in nearby Amsterdam. The road network includes various major routes that connect to larger highways, facilitating access to the wider metropolitan area. Public transportation also plays a significant role, with trams and buses being common choices for residents. Cycling is a popular mode of transportation, supported by extensive bike lanes and infrastructure, promoting a sustainable and healthy lifestyle. During peak commuting hours, congestion can occur, especially on routes leading into Amsterdam. However, the overall traffic management, including traffic lights and roundabouts, generally helps maintain a steady flow. Parking can sometimes be a challenge in busy areas, with designated zones to manage the demand for spaces. Seasonal variations and events may also impact traffic patterns, as many residents and visitors travel for leisure activities or local festivals. Overall, the traffic situation reflects a blend of urban and suburban characteristics, with a focus on mobility and accessibility.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Amstelveen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many eateries in Amstelveen offer dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus, with creative plant-based dishes to suit various tastes.

Gluten-Free Options

Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating options at numerous restaurants and cafes, with gluten-free pastries and dishes available.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Amstelveen with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Healthcare in this city is well-structured and accessible, benefiting from the broader Dutch healthcare system, which is known for its high standards and comprehensive coverage. Residents have access to a variety of medical services, including general practitioners (GPs), specialists, hospitals, and outpatient care facilities. The primary care system starts with GPs, who serve as the first point of contact for patients. They handle most common health issues and can refer patients to specialist care when necessary. The importance of having a designated GP is emphasized in the Dutch healthcare model, which promotes continuity of care. For more specialized treatments, there are hospitals and clinics in and around the city, providing a wide range of services from emergency care to elective procedures. The quality of care in these facilities is generally high, and they are equipped with advanced medical technology. Access to mental health services is also a key component of the healthcare system. Various providers offer psychological support and treatments, making mental health care an integral part of overall health. Healthcare insurance is mandatory in the Netherlands, meaning that residents must have a basic health insurance policy. This insurance covers a wide array of health services, although patients often need to pay for additional services or items out-of-pocket, depending on their specific insurance plan. Local public health initiatives focus on preventive care, promoting healthy lifestyles and regular check-ups to reduce long-term health issues. The community also benefits from programs aimed at various demographic groups, including children, the elderly, and vulnerable populations. Overall, the healthcare environment is collaborative, with a range of services designed to meet the needs of the community, and efforts to ensure that care is both high quality and accessible.

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