Adventure and Nature Activities in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is not only a city of architecture and culture; it also offers a host of activities for those seeking adventure and contact with nature, such as surfing, canoeing, kayaking and zip-lining. If you're wondering what to see and do in Amsterdam, explore the extensive cycle paths and parks.

You can also embark on a canal cruise or cycle through the city. For thrill-seekers, the A'Dam Lookout offers a swing that will make you feel like you're flying over the city, and This is Holland will take you on a thrilling virtual flight through the Netherlands. In this article I take you to explore the greener, more adventurous side of the Venice of the North, where fun is guaranteed.

An exciting way to explore Amsterdam's canals is on board a kayak. This activity allows you to enjoy a closer-to-nature experience, paddling through the canals and discovering hidden corners of the city. It is also ideal for small groups, as each kayak usually holds two people. Guided tours last approximately 3-4 hours, giving you plenty of time to admire the historic architecture and enjoy the tranquility of the water.

Alternatively, if you're looking for an option that combines adventure on the canals and on dry land, you can book a bike and kayak tour of the countryside in Amsterdam. This tour will take you paddling along the canals and then exploring the picturesque Dutch countryside by bike.

Interesting details

• Time: from 10:00 onwards. Operators often offer this type of tour only in the evenings.
• Price: from €69 per person. This activity is also included in the Amsterdam All Inclusive Pass.

By booking a bike tour of Amsterdam you'll be choosing to explore the city the way the locals do, in a fun and active way. The reason? The city has an extensive network of cycle paths that allows you to cycle through the streets at your own pace, while discovering the canals, parks and iconic landmarks.

The 10 best bike tours in Amsterdam pass through different historical and cultural points such as Dam Square, Spui Square, the National Museum Rijksmuseum and of course, the Bloemenmarkt flower market, an unmissable spot to stay connected with nature. Now, if you're in the mood for something more thematic, you can opt to book a historical bike tour of Amsterdam. This tour takes you through the most iconic places, while learning about the city's past and its evolution.

Finally, if you prefer to go off the beaten tourist track, I recommend booking a bike tour of hidden Amsterdam. This tour will take you to lesser-known but equally fascinating places, such as artistic neighbourhoods, quiet parks and historic corners away from the tourist hustle and bustle. Discover the city's secrets as you cycle through charming streets, visit local markets and enjoy the unique architecture.

Interesting details

• Best time of year: Ideally, this is one of Amsterdam's summer things to do during the months of June, July and August, when the average temperature is 20°C and there is usually no rainfall.
• Duration: This type of tour often takes between 2-3 hours, depending on the route you choose.

For an experience closer to nature and the city's environment, I recommend booking an open boat cruise on Amsterdam's canals. Unlike traditional boats, an open boat allows you to get a closer feel of the city's atmosphere, with canal breezes and unobstructed views. In addition, many of these cruises include drinks or small snacks, which makes the experience even more enjoyable.

This option is ideal for sunny days, as you can enjoy the cityscape while relaxing in the open air for at least an hour.

Details of interest

• Schedule: You can usually join the activity between 18:00 and 22:00. I recommend that you sign up for the activity at 20:00, when the best night cruises take to the canals of Northern Venice to show you the illuminated city.
• Price: from €27 per person. It is important to note that the price of Amsterdam canal cruises will depend on the routes chosen and even the combination of activities on the day.

The incredible Xtracold Icebar, the city's famous ice bar, invites you to enjoy one of the best experiences in Amsterdam, following in the footsteps of Willem Barents, the renowned Dutch explorer. With a constant temperature of -10 degrees Celsius, this place immerses you in a unique experience, where everything from the glasses to the walls is made of ice, creating an immersive adventure not to be missed.

When you buy your ticket for the ice bar you can enjoy 3 drinks in a themed environment with two atmospheres. You can also combine this experience with a canal cruise by opting for a saver package: cruise and tickets to the Amsterdam Ice Bar, a perfect way to end a day full of adventures.

Interesting details

• Opening hours: 11:45am - midnight
• Price: from €28 per person.
• What to wear: Don't worry, your ticket includes special clothing to withstand the freezing temperatures.

In the film A Matter of Time, the characters played by Rachel McAdams and Domhnall Gleeson experience their first meeting in a completely dark restaurant, where they get to know each other in a unique and more intimate way. This experience, far from being just a movie scene, can become a reality in Amsterdam in restaurants such as Dining in the Dark or Ctaste. Here, as in the film, you will be guided by visually impaired people, who will accompany you on a sensory journey as you enjoy a three-course dinner without seeing anything at all.

The lack of light will allow you to concentrate on other senses, such as smell and taste, intensifying the dining experience. Also, as in the film, this dinner encourages a different kind of connection between diners, where conversations take centre stage by eliminating visual distractions. If you're looking for an unforgettable experience that transports you to that magical scene from A Matter of Time, this culinary adventure in Amsterdam is not to be missed.

Interesting details

• Opening hours: these types of experiences are offered for lunch and dinner, so you can make your reservation from 2pm onwards.
• Type of food: They usually offer menus for vegans, vegetarians, and regular, meat or seafood based meals, however, adjustments can be made upon booking.

Although scuba diving is not the first activity that comes to mind when you think of Amsterdam, several nearby lakes offer opportunities for snorkelling and scuba diving, including the Global Underwater Explorer certification.

At sites such as Vinkeveense Plassen, just 30 minutes from the centre, you can explore the underwater world in fresh water. This lake is known for its excellent visibility and rich aquatic life, making it an attractive destination for divers of all levels. In addition, among the things to do in Amsterdam in spring and summer, the lake is a popular place for swimming and water sports.

These adventure and nature activities offer you a whole new perspective on the city of canals, proving that this city is not only rich in history and culture, but also in thrilling outdoor experiences.

Details of interest

• Opening hours: these types of experiences are often offered between 10:00 and 15:00.
• What you need: A minimum knowledge of swimming and a willingness to participate in the activity. The companies providing the service supply the necessary equipment.

For adrenaline junkies looking for something different, a skydive over Amsterdam is one of those activities so thrilling that even the country's monarchs can't resist.

Imagine jumping from an altitude of 3,000 metres, feeling the adrenaline rush as you freefall for about 30 seconds before the parachute deploys. The rest of the descent, which lasts between 5 and 7 minutes, offers you spectacular views of the Dutch landscape. The total duration, including preparation, is around 2 hours. It is a perfect experience for adventure lovers looking to experience something different in Amsterdam.

Interesting details

• Opening hours: The activity is available between 9:00 and 17:00 from companies such as Paracentrum Texel, so you will have flexibility in planning your day.
• Important: to participate in this activity your weight must not exceed 115 kg.

If you love thrills in the middle of nature, the Fun Forest Amsterdam is the place to be. Located in the Amsterdamse Bos forest, it offers a unique aerial adventure experience. The zipline is the jewel of the park, where you glide at high speed through the trees, enjoying breathtaking views of the dense foliage.

This experience lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on the circuit you choose. Plus, if you buy your I Amsterdam City Card, one of Amsterdam's best tourist passes, this activity is included.

Interesting details

• Opening hours: Fun Forest is open from 10am to 6pm, giving you plenty of time to plan your day's adventures.
• Eligibility: Anyone with a minimum height of 110 cm.

If you are looking for an innovative way to explore the Netherlands, This is Holland, the 5D flight experience, is ideal for you. For 1 hour, you will virtually fly over iconic Dutch landscapes, feeling the wind, the fog and even the scents. This activity is suitable for all ages, although children must be at least 102 cm tall to participate.

The experience will allow you to see cities such as Amsterdam and Rotterdam without leaving your seat, while your feet dangle from the 5D simulator. The special effects are amazing, and you will feel as if you are actually flying over the famous canals. Don't miss your chance to get the best tickets in Amsterdam for this unique sensory spectacle.

Interesting details

• Opening hours: open from 10:00 to 19:00.
• Important: You can buy your tickets for This is Holland independently or, if you are visiting Amsterdam in 2 days or more, you can also make the most of your visit by purchasing the Amsterdam All Inclusive Pass, one of the tourist passes that includes this activity.

Although Amsterdam' s canal cruises are most popular in the 'Venice of the North', you can also explore the city standing up on a paddle surf board.

This approximately 2-hour activity combines adventure and balance as you cruise along the historic canals, passing landmarks such as the Anne Frank House, the Red Light District tour route and the Museum Quarter. With local guides and small groups, it's a safe and fun option for all levels of experience.

Details of interest

• Timetable: Departures are usually available at flexible times, generally between 10:00 and 18:00, allowing you to enjoy a sunny afternoon or even a sunset over the water.
• Please note: We welcome people over 12 years old with minimal swimming experience.

If you are looking for a modern and exciting adventure, touring Amsterdam by Segway is a perfect option. Yes, certainly when it comes to getting around Amsterdam, bicycles usually come first, these electric vehicles allow you to get around effortlessly, enjoying the fresh air while covering great distances.

Guided Segway tours last approximately 2 hours, with small groups of up to 8 people, ensuring a more intimate and personalised experience. During the tour, you'll pass some of the city's most iconic sights, such as the southern part of the Grachtengordel district, the famous canals, and parks like Vondelpark, discovering Amsterdam beyond its coffee shops and Red Light District. You will also receive a brief introduction on how to operate the Segway before you start, ensuring that you feel comfortable and safe at all times.

Interesting details

• Opening times: vary between operators, however, they range from 10:00-14:00 hours.
• What you need to know: this is one of the most convenient tours because the routes are usually personalised, however, for the same reason, bookings must be made with a minimum of 2 adult participants.

For those looking for a high-altitude experience, flying over Amsterdam in a helicopter is an adventure not to be missed. During a 30-90 minute flight, you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, including the iconic canals, the Vondelpark, and the Dutch countryside. This flight offers the opportunity to capture the beauty of Amsterdam from a completely new and exciting perspective.

In addition, some flight options allow you to extend the experience and fly over iconic locations outside the city, such as the famous windmills of the Zaanse Schans or the vibrant tulip fields at Keukenhof, especially spectacular in spring.

Details of interest

• Opening times: often early, around 9.00 am and late afternoon, after 5.00 pm.
• What you need to know: reservations must be made for 1-3 people.