Amstelland Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to stay, and food and drink scene of Amstelland. Learn about the local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations and excursions.


Introduction to Amstelland

Located in North Holland, in Western Netherlands, Amstelland is a beautiful region known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and exceptional food and drink scene.

List of Places to Visit in Amstelland

Here is a list of top attractions to visit in Amstelland:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot
  • Museum Jan Van Der Togt
  • Amsterdamse Bos
  • Cobra Museum of Modern Art
  • Rembrandt House Museum

Natural Attractions of Amstelland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Keukenhof Gardens
  • De Groene Weelde
  • Gaasperplas Park
  • Ronde Hoep Polder

Hiking/Biking Routes of Amstelland

Amstelland is a paradise for hikers and bikers. The region is home to a variety of exciting trails that take you through scenic landscapes, picturesque villages, and hidden treasures. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes:

  • Amstel River Loop
  • The Waterland Loop
  • The Breukelen Loop
  • The Ronde Hoep Loop

Best Things to Do in Amstelland: Activities and Tours

There are endless things to see and do in Amstelland. Here are some of the best activities and tours:

  • Windmill Tour of Amstelland
  • Wine Tasting in the Vineyards of Amstelland
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding on the Amstel River
  • Canoeing in the Nature Reserve De Oeverlanden
  • Cycling Tour of Amstelland

Week-Long Itinerary for Amstelland

Here’s an itinerary for a week-long trip to Amstelland:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot
Day 2 Explore the De Groene Weelde
Day 3 Discover the charming village of Breukelen
Day 4 Bike through the Ronde Hoep Polder
Day 5 Relax at the Gaasperplas or the Amsterdamse Bos
Day 6 Take a wine tour of Amstelland
Day 7 Cycle through the stunning Keukenhof Gardens

Food and Drink Scene of Amstelland

Amstelland has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of cafes, pubs, and restaurants featuring local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poffertjes (mini Dutch pancakes)
  • Stroopwafels (caramel waffle cookies)
  • Haring (salted raw herring)

Local Beverages

  • Dutch beer
  • Jenever (Dutch gin)
  • Coffee from a specialty coffee roaster

Where to Stay in Amstelland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Amstelland offers several options for accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of our top picks:

  • NH Amsterdam Zuid
  • CitizenM Amsterdam South
  • Hotel Abina
  • Amsterdam Forest Hotel
  • Boerderij Hazenveld

What to Buy in Amstelland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Amstelland is known for its local products, including cheese, stroopwafels, beer, and traditional Dutch ceramics. Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Dutch ceramics from Royal Delft
  • Gouda cheese
  • Homemade stroopwafels
  • Dutch gin (jenever)

Local Culture and Customs of Amstelland

Amstelland has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Dutch and other international influences. Some local customs and traditions are:

  • Dutch wooden shoes (klompen)
  • Bicycling as the main mode of transportation
  • King’s Day celebrations

Best Time to Visit Amstelland

The best time to visit Amstelland is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Amstelland

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Amstelland:

Do:

  • Be respectful of the local customs and traditions
  • Explore the scenic landscapes by foot or bike
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages

Don’t:

  • Walk on the bicycle lanes
  • Litter in public spaces
  • Be loud and disruptive at night

Safety and Health

Safety in Amstelland

Amstelland is generally a safe place to visit. However, it’s essential to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist areas and at night.

Health in Amstelland

Amstelland has an excellent healthcare system. If you need medical assistance, contact your embassy or consulate, and they will direct you to a doctor or hospital.

Getting to Amstelland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Amstelland

The closest airport to Amstelland is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), which is about 20 minutes away by car or train.

Bus Stations Near Amstelland

There are several bus stations in the region, including the Amstel Bus Station, the Bijlmer Arena Bus Station, and the Schiphol Bus Station.

Other Options

Other transportation options include trains, trams, and metro services, which are efficient and affordable.

How to Get Around in Amstelland

The best way to explore Amstelland is by foot or bike. The region is bike-friendly, with a network of bike lanes and scenic routes. You can rent a bike from one of the many bike rental shops in the region.

Where to Go Next from Amstelland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of exciting places to visit near Amstelland, including:

  • Amsterdam city center
  • Haarlem
  • Utrecht
  • Rotterdam
  • The Hague

Conclusion

Amstelland is a unique travel destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, food, and nature. With this guide in hand, you’re now ready to plan your trip and experience the best of Amstelland.