Amsterdam, famous for its tree-lined canals, stunning architecture, and lively nightlife, is one of Europe’s most eco-friendly cities. From numerous sustainable shops and 400 km of bike lanes to eco-conscious hotels and farm-to-table restaurants, there’s no shortage of green activities and places in the Dutch capital.
Visitors can easily embrace Amsterdam’s eco-friendly lifestyle. Here’s the ultimate guide to staying green in Amsterdam.
Cycling is a staple in Amsterdam, with both locals and tourists favoring bicycles for transportation. Thanks to the city’s extensive cycle lanes, getting around on a bike is straightforward and eco-friendly. Bicycle rentals are plentiful, making it easy to explore both the city and the surrounding countryside.
For a different perspective, take a canal cruise. My favorite is with Plastic Whale, a company that pulls plastic from the canals with the help of passengers. This plastic is then repurposed into boats and office furniture. The tour allows you to see local landmarks while contributing to a cleaner environment.
For eco-conscious shoppers, Amsterdam offers a range of sustainable shopping options. There are numerous vintage shops where you can buy second-hand clothes by the kilo and stores selling eco-friendly beauty products.
Check out the Lena fashion library, which lets you borrow vintage and designer clothes and return them at the end of the month. Marie-Stella-Maris, an eco-friendly store, sells natural beauty products and donates to clean drinking water projects.
Amsterdam also has many eco-conscious dining options. In the trendy De Pijp neighborhood, De Waaghals serves a reasonably priced organic vegetarian menu. Restaurant Instock tackles food waste by using surplus ingredients from local markets to create meals.
For Mediterranean cuisine, visit Restaurant de Kas, which grows its vegetables and herbs in an on-site greenhouse and a nearby farm. They source meat and fish locally, ensuring everything is made from seasonal ingredients.
Don’t miss Amsterdam’s parks. Vondelpark, the largest and most famous, is great for unwinding with scenic views, a summer theater, cafes, and restaurants. For a quieter escape, visit Amstelpark in Amsterdam Zuid, which features a mini-golf course and snack bars. Westerpark is another lovely option with a chemical-free paddling pool.
When it comes to eco-friendly accommodations, Amsterdam offers several sustainable hotels. EcoMama Hotel, a recent addition, features seven types of rooms, natural stone heating, and cradle-to-cradle furniture. They donate €1 from each guest’s bill to charity.
Zoku Amsterdam combines co-working spaces with eco-friendly accommodations by repurposing old office buildings. Most rooms are loft-style, complete with work desks and kitchens, and the hotel hosts cooking and business classes.
Conscious Hotels, with three locations in the city, offer a 100% sustainable experience. They use wind-generated electricity and renewable energy, and their Tire Station location features rooftop solar panels.
To fully enjoy your trip to Amsterdam, visit Hello Amsterdam, the go-to city guide for neighborhood tips, shopping districts, museums, restaurants, and events.
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