If you’re dreaming of a trip to the Netherlands, there’s one thing I have to let you in on: Amsterdam isn’t just about canals and charming historic homes. It’s also one of Europe’s most park-filled, nature-loving cities. Seriously, once you step into the green heart of the Dutch capital, you’ll understand why exploring Amsterdam parks is one of the best ways to experience local life.
Whether you're visiting during the warm sunshine or bundled up in winter layers, every season brings its own magic. From cherry blossoms in spring to open-air theaters in summer, colorful leaves in autumn, and misty quiet mornings in winter, there’s always something waiting for you.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best green spaces to visit from spring to winter, share fun things to do in each one, and help you navigate your way through the city’s lush escapes!
The Best Amsterdam Parks by Season (Spring-Winter)
1. Vondelpark
People relaxing by the pond and fountain on a sunny day in Vondelpark, Amsterdam
Best season: Summer (but great all year!)
If Amsterdam had a crown jewel, it would absolutely be Vondelpark Amsterdam. This massive, lively green space sits in the heart of the city and transforms with every season. In summer, the park turns into Amsterdam’s favorite outdoor living room; people picnic under the trees, jog the central loop, sip iced coffees, and enjoy outdoor performances at the open-air theater. In spring, flowers begin to bloom, and everything smells fresh and earthy. Even in winter, you’ll spot locals on peaceful morning walks surrounded by misty ponds and bare trees.
Why it’s a must-visit:
- Endless biking and jogging paths
- Free outdoor performances in summer
- Scenic ponds, bridges, and shady picnic spots
- The quirky Picasso sculpture (“The Fish”)
- Great restaurants like the Blue Tea House
Level up your park adventure by joining the Vondelpark, Jordaan & Anne Frank Walking Tour to learn local history and explore iconic neighborhoods too!
How to go: Take tram lines 1, 2, or 5 to the Leidseplein or Overtoom entrances. The park is huge, so any stop around Museumplein works as well.
2. Amstelpark
Vibrant Dutch tulip fields with a traditional windmill near Amsterdam
Best season: Spring
When spring arrives and the city warms up again, Amstelpark becomes a real-life fairytale garden. Built for the 1972 Floriade exhibition, this park is filled with themed gardens, winding paths, and rare plant species. Cherry blossoms explode in pink clouds, tulips bloom in perfect rows, and young families picnic on the grass while kids chase tiny trains.
Why it’s a must-visit:
- Stunning garden layouts originally designed for a world expo
- A charming mini-train that circles the park
- A petting zoo for kids
- Mini-golf, a maze, and a massive playground
- One of Amsterdam’s prettiest windmills right outside the park
You can also pair up your visit with a day trip to Keukenhof, the world’s biggest flower garden!
How to go: Take metro line 51 or tram 25 to Amstelpark/Europaboulevard and walk 3 minutes.
3. Erasmuspark
Autumn colors along a peaceful Amsterdam canal with boats and historic homes
Best season: Autumn
Looking for something quieter and more local? Erasmuspark Amsterdam is a cozy neighborhood escape that really shines in fall. As the leaves turn golden and orange, the park becomes a peaceful place for a slow stroll, warm drink, or relaxing bike ride. Unlike the bigger parks, this one feels intimate and low-key—like a secret spot locals don’t mind sharing.
Why it’s a must-visit:
- Perfect for autumn walks and photography
- A calm alternative to the tourist hotspots
- Lots of sunny benches for reading
- Family-friendly open grassy areas
- Scenic water bridges ideal for quick snapshots
How to go: Take tram 7 or 19 to Jan van Galenstraat, then walk 5 minutes.
4. Westerpark
Locals relaxing along the water on a sunny day at Westerpark | Photo from Davi van der Mark on Wikimedia Commons
Best season: Any season
If you love parks with personality, Westerpark is one of Amsterdam’s most exciting green spaces. It blends nature with modern culture; think ponds, gardens, art installations, cafés, and the creative Westergas complex. In spring and summer, the lawns fill with picnickers and weekend markets. In autumn and winter, it becomes a quieter space for long walks, photography, and cozy café stops.
Why it’s a must-visit:
- Wide walking paths and plenty of green lawns
- Westergas cultural area with eateries, breweries, and galleries
- Great for families, couples, and solo travelers
- Seasonal markets and outdoor festivals
- Beautiful ponds and bridges for relaxed strolls
How to go: Take bus 18 to “Van Hallstraat/Westerpark” or tram 3 to “Zoutkeetsgracht,” then walk a few minutes.
5. Beatrixpark
Peaceful autumn scenery with trees and pond at Beatrixpark Amsterdam | Photo from Arthena on Wikimedia Commons
Best seasons: Winter and Autumn (but lovely year-round)
If you’re searching for a truly calm escape, Beatrixpark is one of Amsterdam’s best-kept secrets—especially in winter. This elegant park offers quiet footpaths, serene ponds, and wide-open lawns that feel worlds away from the city’s busy streets. Even in colder months, the minimal crowds make it ideal for slow walks, reading outdoors, or simply enjoying peaceful greenery.
Why it’s great in winter:
- Serene lakes and small bridges perfect for photography
- Fewer crowds than the major parks
- Beautiful tree-lined pathways for reflective strolls
- Close to cafés around the Zuidas for cozy warm-ups
- Spacious lawns that feel calming even in cold weather
How to go: Take tram 5 or metro 52 to “Beatrixpark/Zuid” and walk 5 minutes into the park.
6. Amsterdamse Bos
Visitors enjoying spring cherry blossoms at Amsterdamse Bos | Photo from Ceescamel on Wikimedia Commons
Best season: Summer
If you're craving a full-day nature escape, Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest) is your summer paradise. It’s three times the size of Central Park and packed with swimming spots, paddle boats, forest trails, goat farms, and even an open-air theater. With long daylight hours and warm temperatures, summer is the perfect time to explore this massive green playground.
Where to go in summer:
- De Bosbaan lake for rowing views
- Goat Farm Ridammerhoeve for family fun
- Forest trails for biking and hiking
- Shaded picnic lawns for lazy afternoons
- Canoe and boat rentals for cooling off
Why summer here is amazing:
- Tons of trails for walking and cycling
- Water activities perfect for warm days
- Quiet corners for restful picnics
- Great for families with kids
- Endless photo opportunities in golden light
How to go: Take bus 347 or 357 toward Amstelveen and get off near “Amsterdamse Bos.” You can also bike from the city center in about 20–30 minutes.
7. Oosterpark
Peaceful lake and fountain surrounded by greenery in Oosterpark Amsterdam | Photo from Elekes Andor on Wikimedia Commons
Best seasons: Spring & Autumn
If you want a park that blends nature with culture, Oosterpark is the perfect addition to your Amsterdam itinerary. Located in the multicultural Oost district, this spacious park offers a peaceful atmosphere, scenic ponds, leafy walking paths, and beautiful monuments that tell parts of Dutch history. It’s especially lovely in spring when the greenery starts to bloom—and again in autumn when the trees turn amber and gold.
Why it’s a must-visit:
- Wide, quiet walking trails ideal for slow mornings
- Reflecting ponds lined with trees
- Local hangout feel without big crowds
- A mix of sculptures and monuments, including the National Slavery Monument
- Playground and open lawns great for families
- Food markets nearby in Oost for an after-walk snack
How to go: Take tram 9 or 14 to "Alexanderplein" or "Linneausstraat," then walk about 3 minutes.
FAQs about Amsterdam’s Parks
1. What are the best Amsterdam parks to visit throughout the year?
Amsterdam has dozens of beautiful parks, but the top picks year-round are Vondelpark, Amstelpark, Erasmuspark, Oosterpark, and Westerpark. Each brings something different depending on the season: lush gardens in spring, lively festivals in summer, colorful foliage in autumn, and peaceful walks in winter. No matter when you visit, you’ll always find a green escape close by.
2. What makes Vondelpark Amsterdam a must-visit in every season?
Vondelpark Amsterdam is the city’s largest and most iconic park, packed with history, public art, wildlife, cafés, and outdoor activities. In summer, you get concerts and picnics; in winter, you get misty, peaceful mornings. It’s central, beautiful, and filled with things to do, making it a top spot for travelers any time of the year.
3. Is Erasmuspark Amsterdam worth visiting during winter or colder months?
Yes! Erasmuspark Amsterdam stays surprisingly beautiful in cold weather. The park becomes calm, quiet, and great for slow walks or photography. If you prefer less-crowded spots, winter is actually the best time to visit.
4. Which parks in Amsterdam are best for spring picnics and cherry blossoms?
Amstelpark is the absolute winner for springtime blooms because it still features the gorgeous gardens from the 1972 Floriade exhibition. Vondelpark and Oosterpark also have large grassy areas that are perfect for spring picnics.
5. Are Amsterdam’s parks open year-round, and what activities can I expect in each season?
Yes, Amsterdam’s parks are open 365 days a year. In spring, expect blooming gardens and mild weather. Summer brings festivals, biking, picnics, and outdoor theater. Autumn is ideal for scenic walks among colorful leaves. Winter offers peaceful trails, cozy cafés, and crisp photographic scenery.
Ready to explore the green side of Amsterdam?
Amsterdam’s parks are beautiful, relaxing, and absolutely worth exploring no matter what the calendar says. Whether you're chasing cherry blossoms in spring, enjoying concerts in summer, walking among autumn leaves, or wandering through misty winter trails, there's always something magical waiting outdoors.
What is Klook?
Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler.
Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
✨ Follow us for more deals and inspiration for your upcoming travels
