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Outdoor & Sport Activities in Amsterdam

Outdoor & Sport Activities in Amsterdam

With a world-famous canal system and plenty of open green spaces, Amsterdam is the perfect place to participate in a range of outdoor, and sports activities.

Whether you prefer the relaxed nature of a bike tour along the streets of the Red Light District or the exhilarating thrill that can only come from an extreme sport, Amsterdam has plenty to keep you occupied.

If your itinerary could do with a little spicing up, choose one of these outdoor activities in Amsterdam, which are bound to be a highlight of your vacation.

Boat tours

Amsterdam is a city built on a complex network of waterways, making a boat tour the obvious choice when it comes to getting around. This is the perfect outdoor activity to lap up the mild Dutch sun while admiring the historic architecture that lines the canal banks.

The waterways form a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it an ideal place for history buffs to come and learn about the rise of Amsterdam in the 16th, and 17th centuries.

Boat tours in Amsterdam enable you to see the traditional houses that are unique to the Netherlands, as well as the Old Port, where you'll learn about the city's trade history, and Skinny Bridge.

You can participate in one of these canal cruises at any time of day, but if you want to see the city at its most magical, you should consider hopping on board a boat after the sun has set. With millions of twinkling lights illuminating your way, you'll be able to reflect on your vacation and admire the distinctive charm of Amsterdam.

Bike tours

One of the best ways to explore a new city is on two wheels. Bike tours of Amsterdam take you through the side streets and alleyways to see a side of the Dutch capital usually reserved for the locals.

With a knowledgeable local at your side, you'll cycle leisurely around the city, hearing tales about its uprising and the history behind the most spectacular landmarks. You can select a bike tour that is specifically designed to show you the hidden gems of different districts, such as Jordaan.

Alternatively, those with just a few days to spare in the city, may choose a tour of Amsterdam's most iconic attractions, such as the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum.

You can even hop on a bike and make your way out of the city altogether, to explore the myriad of vibrant tulips, and historic windmills of the Dutch countryside.

Canoeing

If you want to leave the honking horns and bustling streets behind, try a spot of canoeing in Amsterdam, and experience the peaceful lulls of the water gently lapping against your boat. Whether you're a novice or a pro at this outdoor activity, you're welcome to grab an oar and join in.

With a professional on hand to teach you the basics of canoeing, you'll grasp the activity quickly and find yourself enjoying this change of pace from city life.

Explore the villages and meadows that surround the Wetlands — one of the Netherlands’ most diverse regions. Admire the abundance of birds that call this area home, including lapwings, spoonbills and godwits, as well as the windmills that are symbolic of this corner of Europe.

If you’re looking to make this experience even more special, opt for a sunset canoe tour, and enjoy a romantic picnic dinner as you watch the skies fill with color from the seat of your boat.

Flyboarding

Get your heart racing in this adrenaline activity, which is sure to keep thrillseekers thoroughly entertained. Flyboarding in Amsterdam is a relatively new extreme sport that is growing in popularity among water enthusiasts.

In order to participate, you’ll stand on a board connected to a jet ski and whip through the water at speed. The force from the jet ski sends your flyboard up into the air and it’s on you to keep it steady as you soar along the waves.

While this may seem complex, it’s easy to learn and even complete beginners can enjoy the exhilaration that comes from hopping on a board. As you’re sent soaring into the air on a flyboard, you’ll enjoy unparalleled views over the city and its main highlights.

Standup paddleboarding

One of the most gentle outdoor activities, standup paddle boarding in Amsterdam is a calming way to spend a few hours along the city’s waterways. Within just a few minutes of mounting your board, you’ll find yourself relaxing and getting into the rhythm of paddling along the water.

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to practice basic maneuvers and get comfortable with your equipment before making your way along Amsterdam’s canals at a languorous pace.

Discover the Red Light District from the water or admire the traditional houses that line the Oude Waal neighborhood. Stand-up paddle boarding is one of the few activities that is just as fun whether you’re alone or with a group, so don’t let being solo put you off of booking an excursion.

Kayaking

Differentiated from canoeing by the type of paddle used, kayaking in Amsterdam is another outdoor activity you can participate in when visiting the city. These provide an opportunity to connect with mother nature as you surround yourself with nothing but gentle bird song and the noise of your oar as it hits the water.

Take the time to immerse yourself fully in the Dutch countryside as you pass by meadows filled with inquisitive cows and windmills that have been standing since the 18th century. Alongside kayaking, these types of sports excursions enable you to stretch your legs and explore your chosen area by bike.

Get up close to the various landmarks on two wheels before jumping back in your kayak and continuing on your whirlwind tour of the Netherlands’ green spaces.