Things to do in Zuidas
There's more to Amsterdam's business district than just work: from spots of calming greenery to sustainable community spaces, food markets and restaurants on the rise, this article will take you into the fun side of Zuidas.
Circl
Circl prides itself on its sustainable approach to dining. The menu highlights delicious dishes with consideration for minimal energy consumption and waste. But it’s more than just a restaurant: even the building itself was built with circular principles in mind, insulated by fibres from repurposed jeans. Head up to the rooftop bar for a drink and a meeting, or join lectures and networking sessions that are open for everyone.
Botanical Garden Zuidas
You will find an oasis of greenery nestled right in the business spiderweb of Zuidas, between the VU University campus and its Medical Center. Walk through the fern and rock gardens at Botanical Garden Zuidas and breathe in the tropical air inside the greenhouse. With an event schedule filled with cosy living room festivals and concerts, this place offers a respite from the organised city chaos. The garden is open seven days a week from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (and on weekends from 12:00 PM).
Yuan’s Hot Pot Valley
Satisfy your craving for a delicious hot pot at Yuan's Hot Pot Valley, where skewers of meat, fish, tofu and vegetables are dipped into a delightful secret family recipe broth. It’s the perfect meal for a catch-up with friends on a cold day. This type of hotpot is inspired by the Chengdu-style hotpot, which is straight from Sichuan province, but fear not: it caters to both spicy and non-spicy eaters alike. And if your group is mixed, you can get a half-and-half hotpot with different broths.
Zuidas Market
Every Thursday on the George Gershwinplein, fresh cheese and the wafting aroma of coffee cannolis straight from the bakery await at Zuidas Market. Foodies are well-catered with empanadas and spring rolls, fresh nuts, and a whole stall of the liquorice of your dreams (we hope). Open from 9:00 to 16:00, this one is definitely worth marking in your calendars.
Nela
If live cooking over the fire sounds like your idea of fun, enjoy watching your meal come together on the open flame at Amsterdam Zuid’s newest addition: Nela. Here, seasonal produce is forged into balanced and texturally enticing combinations. The restaurant’s menu is geared towards shared dining, and an extensive wine and cocktail list will only add to the experience.
Seasonal events at Zuidas
Aside from the hustle and bustle of the RAI Amsterdam convention centre, where there’s always something on the agenda, Zuidas has some highlights worth your attention:
- During the winter season, discover the Amsterdam Winter Paradise, which is open from around mid-December. An ice skating rink, Ferris wheels, carnival games and the must-have après-ski will get you into the festive spirit.
- The Zuidas Run, with its unique 5 km and 10 km courses, has been taking place yearly since 2007. The event turns into a festival on Gustav Mahler Square, where food trucks, bars, and a dance floor lie in wait for the ultimate highlight: the afterparty. If you’d like to test your limits and make new friends in the process, make sure to check out the event schedule.
- If you love art, don’t miss ARTZUID, a biennial sculpture exhibition on Apollolaan and Minervalaan. Walk past the statues yourself (for free), or book a tour online for deeper insight into the artworks. Check the agenda for special talks featuring the artists themselves. The next one will be in 2025. Something to keep an eye on!
