Located on the edge of the city, the Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest) is Amsterdam’s largest park and recreational area. The lush forests and grassy meadows offer plenty of space for a relaxing picnic with family or friends, and the park is crossed by many kilometres of well-marked walking and cycling paths. Inside the forest you’ll find a goat farm with a petting zoo that makes delicious homemade ice cream and cheese on site. There is an outdoor theatre, a botanical garden and a long canal known as the “bosbaan” where rowing competitions often take place.

The Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam is one of the oldest botanic gardens in the world. Located in the city centre of the Dutch capital, the garden is a beautiful and intimate place with an unique collection of plants. In the midst of busy city the Hortus offers an oasis of tranquillity, a flowery relief in the urban busyness.

Over 40 species of birds call Oeverlanden Nature Reserve home, which is great for ornithologists, but the reserve also borders a big lake that’s perfect for swimming. Three small beaches are also available for sunbathing and relaxing, but you can forget about tanning your nether regions as De Oeverlanden is very popular with families and local teenagers. If you get hungry, decent food is available at Pavilion Aquarius and cheaper meals can be had at a snack stand. Take tram No.2 to the Slotervaart hospital and walk south for roughly 10 minutes