in VISIT | 06 Jul 2017

Amsterdam's summer of fun



Fun is definitely prescribed as part of the recipe for a happier more zen you. Make the most of the balmy days dotted over the summer & check out our Amsterdam fun guide.


SWIM AWAY WITH ME

Not surprising for a city surrounded with waterways, Amsterdam boasts some great summer swimming spots.

Take a train to Bloemendaal or Zandvoort. These beachside resorts make the perfect summer day trip from Amsterdam complete with sand, beach bars and water sports.

If you go for a leisurely ride up the Amstel you’ll find some quiet little bays with locals swimming. Look for the splashes, and jump on in.

The Amsterdamse Bos has some lovely little swimming spots surrounded by forest. Also check out the nearby Nieuw Meer - a lake with several coves perfect for swimming.

Sloterplas is another great lake, in the middle of Sloterpark. Locals line this urban posse picnicking and dipping in the refreshing waters. 

URBAN BEACHING

Like any great urban city, Amsterdam nails urban beaches. Sprinkle sand over your toes, and let the city life melt away.

The industrially cool Pllek boasts sand and bean bags, making it the perfect weekend chill spot. Often they have live music wafting out from inside. Film fanatics can make the most of the open air cinema in the summer.

The all new StrandZuid is an upmarket trendy spot, dip your feet into the lake side. Close to the business district this is a great place to relax after a hard days work.

Family friendly Dok beach is another great summer hangout. Drop the kids off to a yoga class, and have some R&R in the sun.

TERRACE LOUNGING

One thing Amsterdam does exceptionally well is outdoor spaces. The sun comes out and every terrace is jammed with people enjoying the outdoor vibes. Here’s a few of our favourite spots.

Bask on the grassy banks of Noorderlicht and soak up the festival like ambience. This is the perfect place to chill and people watch in Amsterdam’s cool north.

The colourful and quaint Hannekes Boom is a locals’ favourite well off the tourist track. Educate yourself at Nemo first, before treating yourself to a drink with your toes dangling in the cool waters.

Wander through the green Westerpark, before setting up camp at Pacific Parc’s outdoor terrace. You can watch the sun dim over the park in a bustling atmosphere.

Edel in De Baarsjes is one of our favourite hideaways. Located right on the waterways, and hidden off street this charming spot is the perfect place for a bite to eat anytime of the day.

On a sunny day not much beats Waterkant. Bustling with people lining the canal this place really makes the most of the afternoon sun. We're big fans of the Gado Gado salad also.

FESTIVALS

In summer Amsterdam has festivals every single weekend. Whatever your taste there’s something to entertain everyone.

FOR FOODIES

14-16 July
Trek Food Truck Festival
We love sampling all the cuisines on offer when the food trucks come to town. They have something to tantalise all taste buds, and even a few healthier options.

29-30 July
Happy Sushi Festival
Seaweed is one of our favourites! No surprises we’re big fans of sushi, sashimi and poké bowls. The Japanese master healthy meets tasty oh so well.

3rd Sunday of every month
Neighbourhood Market
This market boasts artisan produce, tasty food and some good quality second hand threads. 

FOR CULTURE FIENDS

30 July

Guilty Pleasure

Dance away to bangers from the 80s, 90s and 00s. Let that nostalgia loose.

13-15 July

Amsterdam Fashion Week

Grab a ticket for a catwalk show and be inspired by the cream to la cream of the fashion world.

14,15 & 19 July

Comedytrain International Summer Festival

Laugh those autumn socks off with world class stand up comedy.

29-30 July

Mikshake Festival

Soak up the message of tolerance, love and respect at this annual dance festival in Westerpark.

Did we miss any of your favourites? Be sure to let us know, you might just see us there…