A vast forest park on the city's southern edge, bigger than New York's Central Park, with woods, lakes, a rowing course, goat farm, and open-air theatre. Free, open all day, every day. A proper local escape for cycling, running, and picnics, less touristy, more Amsterdam.
Key facts
| Hours | Open 24/7 (individual facilities like the goat farm and pancake house have their own hours) |
|---|---|
| Price | free |
| Phone | — |
| Website | — |
| Nearest transit | Tram 25 to Amstelveen area, or bus 62; easiest by bike from the city (~25 min). Free parking at several entrances |
| Time needed | Half a day; longer if cycling or with kids |
| Best time to go | Spring and summer weekdays; weekend mornings for calm |
| Last verified | July 15, 2026 |
Friend Score
7.5/10- Value8.5
- iconic7.0
- Freshness9.3
- excellence7.5
- Crowd level8.5
- Authenticity7.5
- Accessibility6.0
Frequently asked questions
- How do I get there?
- The nicest way is by bike, about a 25-minute ride south from the city centre. By transit, take tram 25 or bus 62 toward Amstelveen and get off near a park entrance. There's also free car parking at several gates.
- How big is it and can I get lost?
- It's around 1,000 hectares, bigger than Central Park, so yes, it's easy to wander far. Grab a map at an entrance or use your phone; trails are signposted. Give yourself time and don't try to see all of it in one visit.
- Is it safe?
- Generally very safe and family-friendly by day. Like any large park, the remote, wooded areas are best avoided alone after dark. Stick to the main paths in the evening and you'll be fine.
- Is it free?
- Yes, the park itself is completely free and open around the clock. You only pay for extras like boat rental, food at the pancake house or cafes, or the odd event and theatre ticket. Parking is free.
- Is the Amsterdamse Bos worth visiting for tourists?
- If you want to see how Amsterdammers actually spend their weekends, yes, it's a huge, beautiful, uncommercial forest park. It's not a must-see 'sight,' but it's a wonderful break from crowded museums and canals, especially in good weather.
- Is it good for families?
- Excellent, the goat farm, playgrounds, wide-open space, boat rentals, and safe cycling paths make it a top family day out for locals. Bring bikes or rent them, kids love the freedom of the trails.
- Can I swim there?
- Yes, there are designated swimming areas (like the Grote Vijver / Nieuwe Meer edges) popular in summer, some with small beaches. Swim only in marked zones, and be aware facilities are basic. Water quality is monitored in season.
- What is there to do?
- Plenty, cycling and walking trails, the Bosbaan rowing lake, boat and canoe rental, a goat farm, an open-air theatre in summer, a pancake house, swimming spots, and huge lawns for picnics. It's more activity-park than manicured garden.
Nearby in Ask Amsterdam
- Amsterdamse Bos StrandjeBeach0.58 km · 7 min walk
- BeatrixparkPark4.29 km · 54 min walk
- Vis aan de ScheldeRestaurant4.93 km · 62 min walk
- VondelparkPark4.97 km · 62 min walk
- RembrandtparkPark5.09 km · 64 min walk
Where to stay near Amsterdamse Bos
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