Why look far away when there’s so much beauty close by? A staycation isn’t just a smart way to reduce your ecological footprint—it’s also a chance to discover your surroundings with fresh eyes. Amsterdam is bursting with sustainable gems—from hidden nature to circular hotspots. It’s time to go on an adventure in your backyard!
Out of the City—Green Style: Explore by Bike or Boat
Amsterdam and its surroundings are ideal to explore without a car:
- Cycle toward Waterland and ride past picturesque villages like Broek in Waterland or Durgerdam.
- Rent an electric sloop and cruise the Amstel or canals self-sufficiently. Quiet, clean, and magical on summer evenings.
- Discover Het Twiske: a green recreational area just outside Amsterdam North—perfect for a picnic, swim, or silent walk.
Tip: Choose a route with charging stations and organic lunch spots along the way.
Stay with Impact
A night away doesn’t have to be polluting. These sustainable accommodations combine comfort with responsibility:
- Sweets Hotel: sleep in a former bridge keeper’s house—compact, circular, and iconically Amsterdam.
- De Ceuvel in North Amsterdam: a sustainability testbed with floating hotel rooms, repurposed materials, and compost toilets.
- Eco-camping Gaasperplas: for those who love tents, canoes, and stargazing—surrounded by greenery and reachable by public transport.
Circular Hotspots & Local Treats
Get inspired (and pampered) by Amsterdam’s best sustainable spots:
- De Lokalist (East): a circular concept store with local products—perfect for a slow shopping afternoon.
- Restaurant De Kas: fine dining in a former greenhouse, with dishes sourced straight from their own land in East Amsterdam.
- Noorderlicht Café at NDSM: plant-based, cultural, and laid-back—the go-to spot for a chilled-out afternoon in the sun.
Art, Culture & Climate Awareness
Recharge mentally—sustainably:
- The Groote Museum (Artis): recently reopened with a focus on the connection between humans, animals, and nature.
- Fashion for Good Museum: learn all about circular fashion, upcycling, and the future of textiles.
- STRAAT Museum at NDSM: street art with often social and sustainable themes—both outdoors and indoors.
That Summer Feeling—Without Emissions
For the ultimate holiday vibe without flight shame:
- Host a sustainable picnic in Vondelpark or Westerpark with local products and reusable containers.
- Take a food tour at the market: the organic Noordermarkt, the ZuiderMRKT, or Landmarkt in Schellingwoude.
- Yoga on the rooftop? Book a session with Rooftop Yoga Amsterdam—panoramic city views, no CO₂ emissions.
Bonus: Sustainable Apps for Your Staycation
- Too Good To Go – save leftover meals from local restaurants.
- Wandelnet – discover surprising walking routes just outside the city.
- Good On You – check if your clothing choices are truly sustainable.
Who says a vacation has to mean flying, beaches, and faraway places? In and around Amsterdam, you’ll find everything you need for a relaxing, adventurous, and sustainable summer—right at your fingertips.
Grab your linen tote, fill your reusable bottle, and get ready to be amazed.
Your staycation starts here.