Plantage

Plantage, just east of the centre, is Amsterdam's leafy cultural garden: broad tree-lined boulevards and elegant squares packed with heavyweight attractions. Here sit ARTIS, the country's oldest zoo (1838), the 1638 Hortus Botanicus botanical garden, and moving WWII-history museums. It's spacious, walkable, and a calm contrast to the crowded canal ring.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

How much time should I spend in Plantage?

A half day covers a garden or a museum plus a walk; a full day lets you combine ARTIS with Hortus and a history museum. The attractions are close together, so travel time between them is minimal. Let your interests, not distance, set the pace.

Is Plantage good for families?

Very. ARTIS zoo alone makes it a top family district, and the open, green boulevards give kids room to move away from the canal crowds. Hortus Botanicus and nearby playgrounds round it out. It's one of the most stroller-friendly parts of central Amsterdam.

How old is Hortus Botanicus and what's inside?

Hortus Botanicus was founded in 1638 as a medicinal herb garden during plague outbreaks, making it one of the world's oldest botanical gardens. Today it holds more than 6,000 plant species across themed sections and several distinctive glasshouses. Confirm current opening hours and ticket prices online before visiting, as they vary seasonally.

Is Plantage worth visiting beyond the zoo?

Yes. Even setting ARTIS aside, the neighbourhood offers the historic Hortus Botanicus, significant WWII museums, and simply one of the calmest, greenest walks in central Amsterdam. The elegant boulevards are a pleasure in their own right. It rewards a slower, culture-minded visit.

What are the main attractions in Plantage?

Plantage packs in ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo, the historic Hortus Botanicus botanical garden, and sobering WWII-history sites including the National Holocaust Museum and the Dutch Theatre (Hollandsche Schouwburg). The Verzetsmuseum (Dutch Resistance Museum) is also here. It's one of the densest concentrations of culture in the city, all in a walkable green setting.

Is ARTIS zoo worth visiting?

Yes. Founded in 1838, ARTIS is the Netherlands' oldest zoo and the fifth-oldest still operating, blending animals with botanical gardens and 19th-century heritage architecture. Plan roughly half a day. Buy timed tickets online in advance, especially in summer and on weekends, as it's a major draw.

Can I visit Plantage's WWII history sites?

Yes. The National Holocaust Museum and the Hollandsche Schouwburg memorial sit together in Plantage, telling the story of the persecution of Dutch Jews, and the Verzetsmuseum covers the wartime resistance. They're moving and highly recommended. Check current opening days and admission before you go, as hours differ by site.

How do I get to Plantage?

Tram 14 runs directly from Amsterdam Centraal through the district, with stops at Artis, Plantage Lepellaan, and Alexanderplein. The Waterlooplein and Weesperplein metro stations are also within walking distance. From the centre it's a short ride or a pleasant 20-minute walk east.

Nearby in Ask Amsterdam

• Verzetsmuseum (Dutch Resistance Museum)Museum0.23 km · 3 min walk
• Artis Royal ZooAttraction0.38 km · 5 min walk
• Hermitage aan de Amstel (now Amstelkring / Our Lord in the Attic)Museum0.61 km · 8 min walk
• Het Scheepvaartmuseum (National Maritime Museum)Museum0.66 km · 8 min walk
• Hiding in Plain SightBar0.67 km · 8 min walk