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Parks in Amsterdam: nearby green spaces from an IJburg base

From a quick stroll in Theo van Goghpark to a longer visit to Diemerpark, IJburg puts two distinct green spaces within reach. Here’s what to know about each park and its facilities.

Published 2 min read

By Eero Laaksonen

For parks in Amsterdam near IJburg, Theo van Goghpark suits a quick neighbourhood stroll, while Diemerpark offers a larger landscape with paths, sports facilities and a beach. Both are in Amsterdam-Oost, giving you a choice between a local green space and a longer outing.

  • Location: Diemerpark is in Amsterdam-Oost, near IJburg.
  • Scale: Diemerpark covers approximately 875,000 m².
  • Swimming: It is permitted only at the Diemerpark beach.
  • Sports season: Diemerpark sports activities take place from September through May.
How to choose a park from IJburg

How to choose a park from IJburg

Theo van Goghpark is the closer choice from a hotel on IJburg: it’s about a 7-minute walk from there. Diemerpark is about a 33-minute walk from the same hotel, so you can plan more time for reaching and exploring it.

For a quick walk, head to Theo van Goghpark. Choose Diemerpark if you want a longer outing with options for running, cycling or skating, sports, or a swim at its beach.

Theo van Goghpark for a nearby stroll

Theo van Goghpark for a nearby stroll

Theo van Goghpark is a neighbourhood park in IJburg, with a tram stop bearing its name. Tram 26 runs between IJburg and Amsterdam Centraal and serves the stop; check the GVB journey planner or app for current departure times.

If you’re planning a walk around IJburg, Theo van Goghpark’s neighbourhood setting makes it a natural place to start.

Diemerpark for a longer nature walk

Diemerpark for a longer nature walk

Diemerpark lies between Diemen, the Amsterdam–Rhine Canal and the Rieteilanden on IJburg. Built over a former waste-disposal site, it has a structure enclosing the landfill, with the park above it—much like a large rooftop garden.

Running routes cross the park, and paved paths are suitable for cycling and skating. You’ll also find sports fields, an open-air theatre and a beach. The city describes Diemerpark as habitat for many plant and animal species and part of Amsterdam’s Main Green Structure.

Swimming is restricted to the beach. Barbecuing and kite-flying are prohibited, and dogs may run off leash only in designated areas shown on the park map. Public toilets are available; use the city’s public-toilet map to locate them.

For more detail on the park’s landscape and facilities, this guide to Diemerpark covers the green space near IJburg.

Check access and facilities before you go

Check access and facilities before you go

Park rules and access details matter most if you’re planning to swim, bring a dog or use the paths for cycling. Check the official site before you go: use the City of Amsterdam’s park information for local rules and facilities, and GVB’s journey planner or app for tram departures.

FAQs

Can you swim in Diemerpark?

Yes, but only at the beach. Swimming elsewhere in the park is not permitted.

Are dogs allowed off leash in Diemerpark?

Dogs may run off leash only in designated parts of the park, shown on the park map.

Are there public toilets in Diemerpark?

Yes. The City of Amsterdam’s public-toilet map shows their locations.

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