Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s beating green heart, is more than just a park; it’s an experience. The park was founded in 1865. Initially named “Nieuwe Park” (New Park), it was designed by renowned landscape architect Jan David Zocher in the English landscape style. The park was later renamed in honor of the 17th-century Dutch poet and playwright Joost van den Vondel.
Since its inception, Vondelpark has expanded significantly. Today, it boasts several beautiful gardens, serene ponds, playgrounds for children, and winding pathways perfect for leisurely strolls. The park also offers a wide range of family-friendly amenities, including bicycle and skateboard rentals, restaurants, an open-air theater, and public events throughout the year.
What makes Vondelpark special?
With over 4,500 trees from 150 species, including centuries-old monuments, the park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for songbirds, herons, hedgehogs, and squirrels that call this green space home.
For a floral feast, visit the Rosarium Vondelpark, where over 60 rosebushes bloom in stunning splendor, especially during the spring.
The park is also dotted with notable sculptures, including a bronze monument of the playwright Joost van den Vondel and abstract works by Nelson Carillho and Pablo Picasso.
Activities in Vondelpark
Active visitors can enjoy tennis, cycling, and skateboarding, while families can take advantage of playgrounds, a children’s pool, and a summer fairground.
Sunny days are perfect for leisurely strolls, dog-walking, jogging, roller-skating, or simply relaxing on the grass. The park’s open-air theater and bandstand host free concerts during the summer. Other attractions include the iconic Vondel statue, the historic Groot Melkhuis, and the stunning Pavilion with its popular summer terrace, Vertigo.
For a unique perspective, consider a guided bike tour. Our Amsterdam bicycle tour webpage offers the opportunity to explore the park’s rich history and hidden gems.
A brief history of Vondelpark
In 1864, a group of Amsterdam citizens established a committee to create a public park. They purchased 8 hectares of land and commissioned landscape architect Jan David Zocher to design the park in the popular English landscape style. The park opened to the public in 1865 as the Nieuwe Park, primarily for horseback riding and strolling.
In 1867, the park was renamed Vondelpark after the placement of a statue dedicated to the Dutch poet Joost van den Vondel. The park was expanded to its current 45 hectares by 1877, transforming from a suburban oasis to a central urban green space.
The iconic Pavilion, designed by W.H. Hamer Jr. and built in 1878, once housed the Film Museum.
How to get to Vondelpark
Vondelpark is a short walk south of Leidseplein and west of Museumplein. It’s easy to reach by public transport.
By tram:
- Take trams 1, 2, or 5 from Central Station to Leidseplein.
- Walk for about 15 minutes to the park.
By bus:
- Take bus lines N47, N57, N97, 347, or 357 to Emmastraat.
- This is the closest stop to Vondelpark.
By bike:
- A 15-minute bike ride from Amsterdam-Centrum is a popular option.
Interesting facts of Vondelpark
- Vondelpark is the most popular park in Amsterdam, attracting over 10 million visitors annually.
- Vondelpark is the largest and most famous park in Amsterdam. 1 It covers an area of 47 hectares (120 acres)
- The park was originally named Nieuwe Park (New Park) when it opened in 1865.
- Vondelpark is more than just a park. It hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and open-air theater performances.
- The park is home to a variety of plant and animal life, making it a great place for nature lovers. You can spot squirrels, birds, and even the occasional deer.
- In recognition of its cultural and historical significance, Vondelpark was designated a national monument in 1996.
- Vondelpark is a great place to meet friends and family for picnics, barbecues, or simply a leisurely stroll.