Discover the best way to visit the city responsibly with this Sustainable Travel Guide to Amsterdam.
Planning a trip to Amsterdam? The city has long been celebrated as the party capital of the Netherlands, but is shifting toward a more respectful and sustainable approach that benefits both residents and the environment.
This guide explores the steps Amsterdam is taking and shows you how to experience the city responsibly. Leave a lighter footprint by exploring eco-friendly accommodations, local markets, green transportation and cultural experiences, no matter how long you stay.
Bike and canals of Amsterdam
How sustainable is Amsterdam?
Amsterdam is making significant strides in sustainability, with a goal to become climate-neutral by 2050. Key initiatives include widespread use of renewable energy, extensive cycling infrastructure, and electric public transport. These efforts have earned the city the top ranking in the Arcadis 2024 Sustainable Cities Index.
To achieve sustainable city status, Amsterdam aims to be a natural gas-free city by 2040 and transition to green energy. The agenda for emission-free mobility will create zero-emission zones, incentivise scrapping fossil fuel vehicles and increase public charging infrastructure.
Amsterdam plans to cut food waste by 50% by 2030, focusing on reducing waste in businesses, restaurants, and homes while repurposing unsold food for social causes. The city will expand organic waste collection and back composting and nutrient recovery initiatives, helping to close the food loop. There are several initiatives, such as Van Amsterdamse Bodem and Gezonde Stad, which educate and support residents in making sustainable and nutritious food choices.
Amsterdam has become a victim of its own popularity, grappling with over-tourism. To address this, the city has announced a ban on cruise ships starting in 2035, restricted short term rentals and made it illegal to use soft drugs in the old city centre and the amount you can buy. The move to promote more sustainable accommodations, healthy restaurants and cultural things to do focuses on attracting visitors who stay longer and spend more, moving away from party-driven weekend tourism.
Hortus Botanicus, Amsterdam
How to visit Amsterdam sustainably
Choose Sustainable Accommodation in Amsterdam
Conscious Hotels (£££)
The Conscious Hotel chain in Amsterdam with four locations. I stayed at the Vondelpark hotel and couldn’t have been happier with my eco-friendly accommodation! They are all about sustainability with energy-efficient buildings, locally sourced food, and FSC-certified or upcycled materials. Running entirely on renewable energy, their hotels also promote bike rentals and zero-waste practices for a truly green stay. Check availability at Conscious Hotel Vondelpark.
Conscious Hotel Vondelpark
Amsterdam Homestay
Have you considered connecting with the locals in Amsterdam by opting for a homestay? It’s an easy way to learn about Dutch culture, enjoy a personal alternative to traditional hotels and avoid tourism leakage. Check out the options for Amsterdam homestays.
Camping in Amsterdam
Would you think about camping or glamping when planning a trip in Amsterdam? Popular campsites, like Camping Zeeburg, located on an island in the IJmeer, and Vliegenbos Camping in the Noord district, have modern amenities, making them ideal for eco-conscious travellers looking to connect with nature while exploring the city. Check out camping and glamping options in or near Amsterdam.
Green-certified Luxury Hotels in Amsterdam
If luxury is your preference, seek out hotels genuinely committed to sustainability rather than greenwashing. Do your research! One standout option is Hotel Jakarta Amsterdam, an energy-neutral hotel with a BREEAM-NL Excellence certificate and Gold Green-Key certified. It features an indoor tropical garden and collaborates with sustainable partners across its supply chain. Check availability at Hotel Jakarta Amsterdam.
How to reach Amsterdam sustainably
Reaching Amsterdam sustainably involves choosing eco-friendly transportation options and planning responsibly. Here are some suggestions:
By Train
Traveling by train is one of the most sustainable ways to reach Amsterdam. High-speed rail services such as Eurostar (from London), Thalys (from Paris, Brussels, and Cologne), Deutsche Bahn (from Germany) and FlixTrain (from multiple locations) provide efficient and eco-friendly routes. Check out overnight services like European Sleeper, which also saves you money in a hotel if travelling overnight.
By Bus
International bus services, including FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus are affordable and energy-efficient ways to travel to Amsterdam. These buses connect many European cities to the Dutch capital while keeping emissions relatively low.
By Ferry (from the UK)
If you’re traveling from the UK, ferries are a great option. Routes like Harwich to Hoek van Holland (with Stena Line) connect seamlessly with trains to Amsterdam. Other routes, such as Newcastle to IJmuiden or Hull to Rotterdam, allow onward travel by train or bus to reach the city. Check routes for ferries to the Netherlands.
By Car
Driving can be a sustainable option by using carpooling platforms like BlaBlaCar to share rides with others heading to Amsterdam. For independent travel, consider using an electric or hybrid vehicle. Amsterdam has extensive, and growing, charging infrastructure. If you don’t own an EV, check car hire costs with Discover Cars.
By Air (as a last resort)
If you’re coming from a location where sustainable transport isn’t an option, fly direct to Amsterdam with an airline that uses sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and buy your carbon credits to offset emissions with certified projects.
Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport is working towards becoming the world’s most sustainable airport through initiatives like carbon-neutral operations, renewable energy adoption, and innovative green technologies. Research commissioned by Royal Schiphol Group highlights the need to reduce carbon emissions by at least 30% below 2019 levels by 2030. Hopefully, these measures will enable them to achieve their ambitious target.
|| READ MY SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL GUIDES TO PRAGUE AND BERLIN
How to get around Amsterdam sustainably
Walking in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a very walkable city, with its compact neighbourhoods and attractions conveniently close to one another. Walking through areas like the Jordaan or along the picturesque canals is a pleasure, and I often found myself only needing a tram ride back to my hotel after a full day of sightseeing, with my step count off the charts.
Public Transport in Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s public transport system includes trams, buses, and metros powered increasingly by renewable energy. The iconic blue-and-white trams are a convenient way to get around the city centre, while buses and the metro serve outlying neighbourhoods. Find route and travel information on GVB.
|| TOP TIP: The I Amsterdam City Card includes unlimited travel on public transport and free entrance to museums and attractions
Cycling in Amsterdam
Cycling is synonymous with Amsterdam and is the most sustainable way to navigate the city. If you’re scared to give it a go, don’t be! Amsterdam has a vast network of bike paths, bike parking, and rental services. Renting a bike lets you experience Amsterdam like a local, by cycling along the canals and through the city centre or enjoying the peaceful paths of Vondelpark. Alternatively, check out bike tours in Amsterdam and beyond.
Car Sharing in Amsterdam
For those occasions when a car is necessary, Amsterdam has several car-sharing services, including electric options like Greenwheels and ShareNow. These services allow you to rent a car for short trips from various points around the city.
Eco-Boat Tours in Amsterdam
Exploring Amsterdam’s famous canals sustainably is possible with eco-boat tours with electric or quiet vessels, providing an emissions-free way to see the city from the water. Skippers share insights about Amsterdam’s history and sustainability efforts, such as plastic-fishing trips to clean the waterways.
|| BOOK an Eco-Boat Tour in Amsterdam
Best time to visit Amsterdam – Off-Peak and Shoulder Season
As we all know, Amsterdam is popular all year round, and each season comes with its advantages and challenges. To avoid the crowds of peak tourist season, the best time to visit Amsterdam is during the shoulder months of spring or autumn.
Not only will local businesses thank you for visiting during the off-peak season, but you’ll also enjoy better hotel rates, shorter queues at museums and an easier time reserving a table at Amsterdam’s top restaurants. Here is an overview of what to expect from Amsterdam through the seasons to help you decide;
Spring in Amsterdam (March to May)
The city will be stunning with cherry blossoms and tulips in full bloom. Festival season kicks off, so check dates if you prefer to avoid the crowds. From film and music festivals to foodie events, as well as King’s Day (April 27) and Liberation Day (May 5), there is plenty to see and do in Amsterdam. Hire a bike to avoid the chaos and explore the countryside, with the bonus of less rain.
Summer in Amsterdam (June to August)
Long days and warm weather bring plenty of visitors, all set to enjoy outdoor festivals, concerts, and events like Amsterdam Pride, open-air film screenings, and the Grachtenfestival. Enjoy boat rides along the canals, and plenty of green spaces to relax. To cool down, head to the urban beaches of Sloterpark and Diemerpark, or venture further out to Ouderkerkerplas or De Nieuwe Meer in Amsterdamse Bos for a splash around.
Autumn in Amsterdam (September to November)
Make the most of the shorter days and crisp weather for walks along canals and parks framed by golden leaves. Expect a mix of sunshine and occasional rain. There’s an event for every kind of weather, from film festivals and dance events to the Sinterklaas parade. For something sporty, catch the Grachtenrace, marathon, or city swim.
Winter in Amsterdam (December to February)
Wrap up warm and enjoy the festive season with Christmas markets and the magical Amsterdam Light Festival. Ice skating rinks pop up around the city, or, if it’s cold enough, you might even get the chance to skate on the frozen canals. Hang out in cosy cafes, sipping on hot drinks and munching on stodgy Dutch dishes.
Canals of Amsterdam in Autumn
Best Things To Do in Amsterdam
Dine in Sustainable Eateries in Amsterdam
Farm-to-fork, locally-sourced, and eco-conscious eating is not just a trend in Amsterdam—it’s becoming a way of life. The city is home to an increasing number of restaurants and cafes dedicated to reducing their environmental impact and championing ethical consumption.
Eco-travellers, vegans, and vegetarians will have no shortage of dining options in Amsterdam. Many restaurants go the extra mile by using renewable energy, upcycled furniture, and implementing waste-reducing practices like composting and zero-waste menus. Guilt-free food while traveling is more than possible in this Dutch city!
|| READ MY GUIDE TO SUSTAINABLE RESTAURANTS IN AMSTERDAM WITH A MAP
Uncommon Cafe
Enjoy Amsterdam’s green spaces
Amsterdam is full of beautiful green spaces, perfect for a break from the city buzz. Vondelpark is one of my favorites, especially since it’s so close to Museumplein and is a haven for birdwatching. You can find grey herons, Egyptian geese, and white storks. Aside from the squawking parakeets, Vondelpark is a lovely spot to unwind by the ponds and enjoy a picnic, weather permitting.
For a peaceful escape, head to Amsterdamse Bos, a vast park with forests, lakes, and plenty of trails to explore by foot or bike. If you’re after something a bit different, check out Westerpark, a combination of green space and cultural happenings. It’s home to the Westergasfabriek, an industrial event venue, along with independent shops, trendy cafes and pop-up markets.
Grey Heron in Vondelpark
Discover the history and culture of Amsterdam
To discover the history of Amsterdam, start with the iconic Rijksmuseum, where you can explore Dutch art and history, including masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer. Visit the Van Gogh Museum to world’s largest collection of works by Dutch painter. Explore the city’s Golden Age with a stroll through the Canal Ring, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the city’s 17th-century architectural beauty.
A visit to the Anne Frank House offers a poignant look into the life of Anne Frank during World War II. For another hidden museum, don’t miss the Lord in the Attic, Catholic church in canal house. The Jewish Quarter (Jodenbuurt) is spread over four locations and reflects the Jewish community’s heritage, the city’s wartime history, including the tragic Nazi persecution during World War II.
|| TOP TIP: Grab the I Amsterdam City Card for museum discounts and inclusive public transport
Lord In The Attic, Amsterdam
Shop Sustainably in Amsterdam
Farmers Markets & Local Produce
Amsterdam is renowned for its markets, some of which have been operating for over a century! Noordermarkt in Jordaan has antiques, vintage clothing and artisan stalls on Mondays and Saturdays, with the added Boerenmarkt (farmers market) on Saturdays. It’s a great opportunity to support local farmers who are selling organic fruits, natural cheeses, farm-fresh eggs, and more.
The Albert Cuyp Market (Monday-Saturday) in the De Pijp district is considered the biggest market in Europe, so be prepared. It sells a mix of fresh food, textiles and jewellery across 260 stalls.
While the iconic floating Bloemenmarkt on Singel is part of history, founded in 1862, it has become a bit of a tourist trap to take photos, with some stalls now selling tacky souvenirs. However, you can still support the stall owners by opting for tulip bulbs to plant at home. Alternatively, if it’s Instagram-worthy photos you’re after, ease the crowds for those buying and join a dedicated tour to the tulip gardens.
Eco-friendly and Thrift Shops
Vintage shops are scattered all over Amsterdam, and I quickly lost track of them as I explored the city. Some of my favorites were Episode, Bij Ons Vintage, and Vindit Vintage. For a one-stop vintage shopping experience, head to IJ-Hallen in the Noord district, the largest flea market in Europe. Just make sure to come with extra room in your suitcase!
For refills, plant-based foods, and toiletries, the Little Plant Pantry is a perfect zero-waste shop. Championing the circular economy, THE UPCYCLE creates recycled gifts from waste, while Condomerie is a 100% carbon-neutral business offering Fair Deal Trading latex condoms, CO2-neutral condoms, and vegan options.
|| DISCOVER MORE ON A SELF-GUIDED GREEN LIGHT WALK
Condomerie: carbon-neutral shop in Amsterdam
Sign up for sustainable Workshops and Eco-Tours
Be Respectful to locals in Amsterdam
It comes as no surprise that Amsterdam’s residents have had enough of party tourism, particularly the kind fuelled by alcohol and drugs. The city’s “Stay Away” campaign was launched in 2023 to encourage responsible tourism and discourage disruptive stag weekenders. Locals are, quite rightly, frustrated with tourists who disrespect their environment, and sadly, the worst offenders are young Brits.
It’s important to remember that Amsterdam is a city full of culture, history, and beauty, not just a party destination. By being respectful, staying mindful of local customs and businesses, and keeping noise levels down, you help create a more enjoyable experience for everyone (and stop giving Brits a bad name).
Travel beyond Amsterdam
While Amsterdam is a fantastic destination, the Netherlands has plenty more to explore beyond its capital. Head to The Hague, known as the international city of peace and justice, to visit the world-class Mauritshuis museum, home to Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring. Explore the historic Binnenhof, marvel at the optical illusions at Escher in the Palace, immerse yourself in the painted seascape in Panorama Mesdag. and take a bike ride to Scheveningen on the North Sea coastline.
In Rotterdam, discover cutting-edge architecture, maritime history and a world-class art scene. Explore the striking Cube Houses, the futuristic Markthal, and the sprawling harbour, one of the largest in the world.
Other ideas to add to the list include the picturesque windmills of Kinderdijk, the less-touristy canals of Utrecht, and Haarlem’s cobblestone streets and golden age art. Venturing further than Amsterdam reveals the true diversity of the Netherlands.
Thank you to #IAmsterdam for supporting me on my mission to create sustainable city guides. This Amsterdam itinerary was researched by myself. All opinions are my own.
PIN Sustainable Travel Guide to Amsterdam
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