Wildlife Walk walking route

Route

Perfect for animal lovers, plant enthusiasts, and curious young wanderers, this route takes you past botanical gardens, zoo enclosures and even a lakeside distillery. Enjoy a blend of natural beauty with the lively characters of De Plantage and Amsterdam-Oost.

• Time: 50 minutes – 1.5 hours (with stops)
• Distance: approx. 4 km
• Good to know: How to walk in Amsterdam (because bikes are everywhere).

• Hortus Botanicus
• ARTIS

1. Hortus Botanicus

• Begin your walk in the tranquil Hortus Botanicus (included in the I amsterdam City Card), one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. Wander through greenhouses filled with exotic plants, a butterfly house, and a 300-year-old Eastern Cape giant cycad. Whether you're a plant nerd or just need a moment of calm, this leafy haven is a magical place to start your nature-inspired route.

2. ARTIS & Planetarium

• Next, follow the footpath toward ARTIS (included in the I amsterdam City Card), Amsterdam’s beloved city zoo. You can glimpse enclosures from the outside paths or purchase a ticket to explore the full grounds, home to elephants, jaguars, lemurs, and more.
• Don't miss the Planetarium – a dome theatre offering immersive shows about the cosmos, stars and planets.

3. De Groene Olifant

• Just around the corner, you'll find De Groene Olifant, a cosy local pub nestled between the zoo and leafy Plantage streets. With its eclectic décor, board games, and laid-back crowd, it’s a favourite neighbourhood hangout where you can stop for a coffee, a craft beer, or a homemade snack. On sunny days, the terrace is a hidden gem – perfect for watching the world go by before continuing your walk.

4. Oosterpark

• Next, enter Oosterpark, a large and lively green space with a beautifully diverse atmosphere. Its winding paths lead you past playgrounds, bird-filled ponds, and peaceful lawns. Look for the striking sculptures throughout the park - or just enjoy the scenery alongside dog walkers, joggers, and musicians.

5. Dappermarkt

• Craving a snack? Stroll through Dappermarkt, one of Amsterdam’s most colourful and down-to-earth street markets. Open Monday to Saturday, it offers a bustling mix of fresh produce, street food, flowers and everyday goods. Try a hot kibbeling or freshly baked Turkish bread as you soak in the sounds, smells and energy of this lively part of Oost.

6. Javastraat

• From the market, wander over to nearby Javastraat, a multicultural avenue packed with independent eateries, quirky boutiques and buzzing terraces. You’ll find cuisines from Suriname to Syria, as well as stylish coffee spots and natural wine bars. This is the perfect place for a longer break, whether you're after a meal or just some serious people-watching.

7. Flevopark

• After your urban explorations, slip into the calm of Flevopark, one of Amsterdam’s largest and most tranquil green spaces. With open lawns, hidden woodland trails, and a pond where birds often gather, it’s ideal for quiet reflection. Nature lovers will appreciate the subtle biodiversity here, including rare plants and butterflies during the warmer months.

8. Option 1 (with children): Jeugdland

• For any little ones still needing to burn off some steam, Jeugdland in Flevopark is a fun and safe outdoor playground. Surrounded by nature, it offers climbing frames, swings, and space to run and play. Kids can explore freely while parents relax nearby. It's an ideal and active end to this family-friendly walking route through Oost. 

8. Option 2 (adults): Distillery 't Nieuwe Diep

• Tucked away in Flevopark is Distillery 't Nieuwe Diep, housed in a tiny former pumping station beside a peaceful pond that kingfishers and herons occasionally frequent. This cosy tasting room serves small-batch jenevers, liqueurs, and craft spirits made on-site. On sunny days, locals gather at picnic tables for a quiet drink, making it a perfect and slightly unexpected finale to a nature-filled route.

Follow the route on your phone

Keen to head out on this walk? Follow the route on Google Maps, where you'll find all the stops condensed into one tidy package. If you're curious about other routes, we've got some for every neighbourhood.