Sustainable travel tips in Amsterdam
With its tree-lined canals, famous parks and some 400km of cycle lanes, an eco-conscious attitude is deeply ingrained in Amsterdam’s way of life. Experience it for yourself by exploring these sustainable highlights that will make your stay as green as can be.
Go green with a bike rental
Amsterdam’s clean air and lush greenery is protected by the locals’ transportation of choice. Cycling is a way of life for Amsterdammers of all ages and abilities, and the well-designed cycle lanes and flat streets make joining in as easy as, well, riding a bike. Renting a bike is the best way to get around, or even to explore the countryside by following the Amstel to local farm stalls. Learn more about biking around Amsterdam or find a cycling route for your trip.
Gain new knowledge at the sustainable playground
De Ceuvel is a sustainable playground where houseboats are repurposed for workspaces and event venues and the organic café uses kitchen waste to fertilise its garden and fruit trees. You can kick back in a hammock, check out the events and taste the chef’s special using local and sustainable produce as well as learn from the people that make sustainability tangible, accessible, and fun.
Discover Amsterdam's green urban planning
Amsterdam’s urban developers were ahead of their time in realising the effect that green spaces have on a community’s wellbeing. Today the city flourishes with rows of trees, gardens, extensive parks and its own inner city forest, Amsterdamse Bos, designed in the 1920s. Follow our sustainable walking route to learn more about Amsterdam's green spaces.
Choose accommodation in eco hotels
Environmentally friendly accommodation need not mean forgoing a luxury hotel. Conscious Hotels near Vondelpark or Museumplein are excellent examples of stylish, sustainable accommodation with energy-efficient amenities, organic towels, recycled furniture and a bike rental service. The Green Key endorses this and many more sustainable hotels. If budget is a key consideration, Ecomama offers luxury hostel accommodation with sustainability and connectedness in mind.
Take to the water on your own terms
Explore the historic Canal Ring, and get a gentle workout in at the same time! Pedalos, or canal bikes, are a fun way to cruise through the waterways at your own pace. They are generally less expensive than a typical canal cruise, too. Looking to make an impact? Consider a ride in the Plastic Whale boat, a volunteer initiative combining a classic canal tour with the collection of plastic waste and litter from the waters of the Amsterdam canal. A win-win!
Shop sustainably all across the city
Whether you're in Noord, Zuid, West or East, you can shop consciously in every corner of Amsterdam. From huge monthly events such as the famous flea market at IJ Hallen, to the small neighbourhood thrift shops known as 'kringloop', there are countless ways to do so. Browse our round-up of sustainable stores in the city, the beloved haunts of vintage lovers and beautiful second-hand children's stores.
Indulge in sustainable dining
Eating out is a sustainable proposition in Amsterdam with many locally-led initiatives that take the effort to reduce the impact on the planet. One such initiative is the famed De Kas, which offers a dining experience so close to nature that you will feel positively virtuous (even after three courses and wine pairings!). This beautiful former greenhouse treats its guests to the chef’s menu based on fresh ingredients straight out of the restaurant’s own gardens. Read about other sustainable dining options out on the town, from pioneers in the business district to community dinners.
