Amsterdam is a city that is associated primarily with sewers, bicycles and a crowded center, which is best visited on foot or by public transport. However, beyond the tourist heart of the city, there are many beautiful places that you can get to the fastest by car. For those who come to Amsterdam by plane and would like to visit not only the Dutch capital but also the surrounding area, the ideal solution will be to rent a car, e.g. at https://www.avis.nl/. Thanks to this, you will be able to reach many less known, but equally charming places, which are often missed by ordinary trips. And below is our list of hidden pearls in Amsterdam ;-)
Fort Pampus - island-fortress on Ijmeer
Just a 20-minute drive east of Amsterdam city center, in Muiden, there is a marina from which you can go to Fort Pampus. This 19th-century fortification on an artificial island was once part of the defensive line of Amsterdam. Today it is a unique part of the military history.
To get there, it is best to park your car in Muiden at the port (Vechtplantsoen), where there is a parking lot for visitors. The ferry to Pampus runs from April to October. On site, we can visit underground corridors, casemates and an observation tower, from which there is a panoramic view of the surroundings.
Tip for drivers: Car park in Muiden can be crowded on weekends, so it's worth arriving early in the morning or booking a place in advance through the parking app.
De Ceuvel - ecological oasis in Noord district
Another unique place, located in the northern part of Amsterdam, which we reach by car is De Ceuvel. This place was created on the premises of the former shipyard, where the recovered boats were transformed into offices and art studies. Being here we can try organic food in Café de Ceuvel, participate in ecological workshops or simply enjoy the atmosphere of this extraordinary place.
We will get here by riding through the IJ tunnel, heading for Amsterdam Noord, and the destination is at Korte Papaverweg, with an available parking lot.
Tip for drivers: Parking is free, but the number of spaces is limited, especially during events and weekends, so it's worth checking the calendar of events on the De Ceuvel website before our visit.
Amstel Park - a hidden paradise for nature lovers
Although the most popular park in Amsterdam is Vondelpark, Amstel Park is just as beautiful but less known. This vast 50-hectare park is located in the southern part of the city and offers a number of attractions for its visitors: from the Japanese garden, through the rozarium, to mini-golf or a small farm for children.
Amstel Park is ideal for a family picnic or a quiet walk away from the crowds. The most convenient way to get to the park is by car. Unlike the city center, parking here is not a problem, and the prices are affordable.
Tip for drivers: There is also RAI Amsterdam - an exhibition center near the park. On days of larger events the parking lot may be crowded, so check the calendar of events ;-)
NDSM-werf - creative zone
While in Amsterdam, you should visit a place called NDSM. It is a former shipyard in the northern part of Amsterdam, which has been transformed into a lively cultural and creative district. It is a place that has become a home for artists, festivals, restaurants in containers and numerous murals! While in here, it is worth visiting the gigantic flea market IJ-Hallen (organized periodically), having a meal in one of the container restaurants or simply admiring the huge murals on the buildings.
Tip for drivers: If you are planning a visit to a larger festival, it is better to book the parking space in advance, as we may have a problem with parking.
Tuinen van West - garden land
On the western outskirts of Amsterdam there is a little-known and extremely charming complex of gardens and recreational areas called Tuinen van West. This vast area includes allotment gardens, organic farms, walking routes and natural areas. It is an ideal place for those who want to escape the urban noise and get to know the more rural character of the Amsterdam area.
Due to the distance from the center, the car is by far the most convenient means of transport to explore this place. The car parks are located along the main points of the complex, including Tom Schreursweg.
When you are there, you should visit the De Boterbloem organic farm, where you can buy fresh local produce, participate in gardening workshops or just relax...
Tip for drivers: On Sundays in the summer season, the popular farmers' market Noordoogst takes place here, which is worth visiting, but remember that the parking lot may be more crowded then.
Practical tips for drivers in Amsterdam
When you drive to the spots we described in Amsterdam, but not only, it is worth remembering a few important issues:
- For one thing, the center of Amsterdam is in a low emission zone (LEZ) - make sure your car meets these requirements
- When on site, it is worth using parking applications, which make it easier to pay for the car park
- It is worth considering renting an electric car, thanks to which you will receive additional parking privileges in some areas.
Amsterdam and its surroundings have a lot more to offer than just a popular tourist center; -) And a rented car gives us the freedom to explore these lesser known but equally interesting places at your own pace.
Enjoy your tour!!