Slowly the nice weather is coming again. This means that we want to go outside again and enjoy the sun and the long days. When you are in the busy city of Amsterdam, it can sometimes be difficult to find a nice place to sit in the summer. After all, many houses do not have a garden. Fortunately, throughout Amsterdam you will find several parks and terraces where you can settle down to enjoy the nice weather. There are even places where you can cool off in the water. In this article I take you to several lovely spots.
Vondelpark
Vondelpark is arguably the most famous park in Amsterdam and a definite favorite among both locals and tourists in the summer and winter. This expansive green paradise in the heart of the city is the perfect place for picnicking, jogging, cycling, or simply lounging in the sun. With various cafes and an open-air theater that offers free performances during the summer months, there’s always something to do.
Park Somerlust
Park Somerlust might be less known to tourists. Located in the Amstelkwartier, by the River Amstel, its large green lawn is inviting in the summer to lay down a blanket and enjoy the lovely weather with friends or family. There’s also a small restaurant where you can pick up delicious pizzas. Moreover, barbecuing on the grass is allowed. Bring all kinds of tasty snacks and make the most of everything this place has to offer. Additionally, there are toilets available in the park during the summer.
Pllek
Pllek is a restaurant with a terrace located on the water in Amsterdam North. It’s a trendy destination where you can enjoy delicious dishes all day. This spot offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can fully enjoy yourself. In the summer, the terrace turns into a spacious beach area with sun loungers and blankets, ideal for a sunny day. Part of the terrace is covered, providing nice shade. A cozy setting awaits you inside as well. Besides the daily relaxation, fun events are regularly organized, including dine & dance nights, making Pllek the perfect place for both relaxation and entertainment.
Waterkant
Waterkant is a cozy and modern bar-restaurant with a terrace located by the canal, serving delicious Dutch and Surinamese dishes. The terrace is incredibly large and enjoys sunlight throughout the day in the summer. Enjoy the nice weather while savoring a bite and a drink. And not to worry if summer ends, as you can still enjoy a great time with friends and family in the winter, surrounded by much coziness.
Weesperzijde
On the Weesperzijde in Amsterdam East, you can enjoy the quayside in the summer. On warm days, it quickly gets very busy here. You’ll mainly find young people enjoying the sun together. It’s not unusual to walk around in swimwear, as nearly everyone does it. Cooling off in the water is also a common activity. The Weesperzijde is mostly paved, but if you prefer something more comfortable, take a seat at one of the cozy terraces. Among them is BamBoa. There are also some benches along the quay, but they tend to fill up quickly on a warm summer day. You’re allowed to bring your own food and drink, and extra garbage containers are placed in the summer to keep everything tidy and clean.
Binnenhaven Marineterrein
Close to the famous NEMO museum is the inner harbor of the Marineterrein. Although not yet an official swimming spot, work is being done towards this. For many summers, Amsterdam residents have been swimming here for refreshment and to swim laps. It’s a beloved spot and usually busy on summer days.
Bogortuin
On Java Island, you’ll find the green Bogortuin. This is a pleasant park with a very large grass field by the water. A walking and cycling path runs through the grass, and there are plenty of trees providing shade in the summer months. Nearby, there are various restaurants and supermarkets where you can get food and drinks. Barbecuing is allowed in part of the park—just pay attention to the signs, as it’s not allowed everywhere. The park is by the water. Swimming in the water is technically not allowed, but you can dip your feet in for a bit of cooling off.