Amstelveen, Netherlands
Region: North Holland
Geographic Coordinates: 52.300000, 4.850000
Climate: Amstelveen, Netherlands experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters.
Population: 91675
Language: Dutch
Amstelveen is a charming and vibrant city located in the province of North Holland, Netherlands. Situated just south of Amsterdam, It offers a perfect blend of urban convenience and peaceful suburban living. With its rich history, Picturesque landscapes, And diverse cultural scene, Amstelveen has become an increasingly popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. One of the highlights of Amstelveen is its stunning natural beauty. The city is known for its abundance of green spaces, Parks, And waterways that provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city life.
The Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest) is a sprawling woodland area that spans over 1, 000 hectares and offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as cycling, Hiking, Picnicking or simply enjoying nature’s serenity. In addition to its natural attractions, Amstelveen boasts an impressive array of cultural offerings. The Cobra Museum showcases modern art from the avant-garde Cobra movement which originated in the 1940s-1950s. It houses an extensive collection featuring works by renowned artists such as Karel Appel and Constant Nieuwenhuys. For those interested in history and architecture, A visit to the historic Old Village (Oude Dorp) is highly recommended.
This charming district dates back centuries with beautiful traditional Dutch houses lining narrow streets filled with unique boutique shops and cozy cafes. Amstelveen also caters to shoppers with its excellent retail options. The Stadshart Amstelveen shopping center is a modern complex featuring numerous high-end stores alongside well-known international brands. Visitors can indulge in retail therapy while enjoying various dining options ranging from local delicacies to international cuisine. Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Amstelveen as well.
The city hosts several sporting events throughout the year including hockey tournaments at one of Europe’s largest hockey clubs – Hockey Club Pinoké – which has produced many national team players. The Amstelveen Cricket Club, Founded in 1914, Is one of the oldest cricket clubs in the Netherlands and offers a chance to witness this traditional English sport in action. Transportation is easily accessible in Amstelveen, Making it an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions.
With excellent connections to Amsterdam’s city center via tram or metro lines, Visitors can easily explore iconic landmarks like the Anne Frank House or take a leisurely canal cruise through Amsterdam’s historic waterways. Amstelveen is a captivating city that effortlessly combines natural beauty with cultural richness. From its lush green spaces and serene forests to its vibrant art scene and historical charm, There is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking tranquility amidst nature or craving an immersive cultural experience, Amstelveen promises to be an unforgettable destination within the Netherlands.
- Amsterdamse Bos: This large forested park is one of the highlights of Amstelveen. It offers numerous recreational activities such as walking trails, cycling paths, boating on the lake, and even an open-air theater.
- Cobra Museum: Dedicated to modern art movement Cobra (Copenhagen-Brussels-Amsterdam), this museum showcases works by artists like Karel Appel and Asger Jorn.
- Museum Jan van der Togt: Located in a former glass factory building, this museum exhibits contemporary glass art alongside rotating exhibitions featuring various mediums.
- De Poel: A picturesque lake surrounded by greenery where visitors can relax or enjoy activities like boating or picnicking.
- Bovenkerk: This historic church dates back to the 13th century and features an impressive organ built by Christian Müller.
- Stadshart Amstelveen: A modern shopping center with a wide range of shops and restaurants offering both local and international brands.
- Villa Randwijck: An architectural gem designed by renowned Dutch architect Gerrit Rietveld that now serves as a community center hosting various events and exhibitions.
- The Dutch Cheese Museum (Het Nederlandse Kaasmuseum): While technically located just outside Amstelveen in Alkmaar (a short distance away), this museum is worth mentioning for cheese enthusiasts who want to learn about Dutch cheese-making traditions through interactive displays.
Although these landmarks might not be as globally recognized as those found in Amsterdam or other major cities in the Netherlands, they still offer unique experiences and insights into Amstelveen’s rich cultural heritage.
- Financial Services: Amstelveen has a significant presence of financial services companies, including banks, insurance firms, and investment management companies.
- Information Technology: The city hosts several IT companies involved in software development, computer programming, and data management.
- Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare: Amstelveen has a thriving pharmaceutical industry with companies engaged in research, development, production, and distribution of drugs. It also has healthcare facilities like hospitals and clinics.
- Retail: The city is known for its vibrant retail sector with numerous shopping centers offering a wide variety of products ranging from fashion to electronics.
- Hospitality and Tourism: With its close proximity to Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport and various tourist attractions such as the Amsterdam Forest (Amsterdamse Bos) and the Cobra Museum of Modern Art, Amstelveen benefits from tourism-related businesses like hotels, restaurants, cafes, and travel agencies.
- Professional Services: Many professional service providers operate in Amstelveen including law firms, accounting firms, consulting agencies offering legal advice or financial consulting services.
- Education: The city houses educational institutions such as schools (both primary/secondary) as well as universities providing higher education programs across various disciplines.
- Real Estate Development: Due to its strategic location near Amsterdam along with ample space for expansion or construction projects available within the municipality’s boundaries, real estate development is another significant industry here.
- Transportation & Logistics: Given its proximity to Schiphol Airport – one of Europe’s busiest airports – logistics companies have established their presence here due to excellent connectivity via air cargo transportation networks.
- Creative Industries: There are several creative industries present in Amstelveen including advertising agencies, design studios, media production houses, etc.
It should be noted that this list is not exhaustive, and there may be other smaller industries and businesses operating in Amstelveen as well.
- Early History: Amstelveen was originally a small rural village that developed around the Amstel River in the 13th century. It was primarily an agricultural area until the 20th century.
- Jan van der Heyden: Born in Amstelveen in 1637, Jan van der Heyden was a renowned painter and inventor. He is known for his cityscapes and landscapes, often depicting Amsterdam.
- World War II: During World War II, Amstelveen suffered significant damage due to bombings by Allied forces targeting nearby Schiphol Airport. Many buildings were destroyed or damaged during this period.
- KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: The headquarters of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is located in Amstelveen since its establishment in 1919 by Albert Plesman.
- Cobra Movement: In the mid-20th century, several prominent artists associated with the Cobra movement resided in or near Amstelveen, including Karel Appel and Corneille.
- Els Borst: Els Borst was a prominent Dutch politician who served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health from 1994 to 2002. She lived in Amstelveen until her tragic murder at her home there in 2014.
- International Population: Due to its proximity to Amsterdam and its reputation as an international community, many expatriates live in Amstelveen today, contributing to its diverse cultural atmosphere.
- Museums and Cultural Institutions: The city is home to various museums like Museum Jan van der Togt (featuring contemporary art) and Cobra Museum of Modern Art (dedicated to works from the Cobra movement).
These are just a few examples of historical events and notable people associated with Amstelveen, Netherlands. The city has a vibrant past and continues to evolve as a cultural hub in the region.
- Cobra Museum of Modern Art: This museum showcases the works of the CoBrA art movement, which was a significant post-war avant-garde movement in Europe.
- Amsterdamse Bos: Although not strictly a museum or art center, this expansive park offers various recreational activities and cultural events throughout the year.
- Jan van der Togt Museum: Located in a former glass factory, this museum exhibits contemporary glass art and modern figurative sculptures.
- Museum Jan van der Togt – Ceramic Collection: This collection is housed in an old dairy factory and features an impressive assortment of ceramics from different periods and cultures.
- Bovenkerk (St. Urbanus Church): A beautiful neo-Gothic church with stunning stained glass windows and intricate architecture that is worth visiting for its historical significance.
- Amsterdam Forest Sculpture Route: Take a walk or bike ride through this forest to discover various sculptures by renowned artists such as Henry Moore, Hans Arp, and Barbara Hepworth.
- De Nieuwe Anita: This unique venue hosts cultural events like live music performances, film screenings, exhibitions, and parties in an intimate setting.
- Het Oude Dorp (Old Village): Stroll through Amstelveen’s charming old village area with its picturesque houses, boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and galleries showcasing local artwork.
- The Dutch Costume Museum (Nederlands Kostuummuseum): Explore the history of traditional Dutch costumes through exhibits featuring clothing from different regions across the Netherlands.
- The Amsterdamseweg Shopping Street: Known for its variety of shops offering everything from fashion to specialty foods to antiques; it’s also home to several galleries showcasing contemporary art by local artists.
- Amstelveense Rugby Club (ARC): Founded in 1962, ARC is one of the most successful rugby clubs in the Netherlands. The men’s team has won multiple national championships and has represented Amstelveen at various European competitions.
- Hockey Club Amsterdam: Though not strictly based in Amstelveen, this prominent hockey club represents both Amsterdam and Amstelveen. It was founded in 1892 and has achieved great success over the years, winning numerous national titles.
- AFC Ajax (Women): The women’s football team of AFC Ajax plays their home matches at Sportpark De Toekomst located in Amstelveen since 2018. They have been highly successful domestically, winning multiple Eredivisie titles.
- VV Sporting Martinus: This football club was established in 1926 and is one of the oldest clubs in Amstelveen. While they haven’t reached significant heights on a national level, they play an important role within the local community.
- MHC de Reigers: Another hockey club based in Amstelveen with a rich history dating back to its foundation in the 1930s. They have achieved success at various levels and provide opportunities for both competitive and recreational players.
These are just a few examples of sports teams with historical significance from Amstelveen, Netherlands; however, there are many more clubs covering different sports that contribute to the vibrant sporting culture of the region.
Amstelveen Events and Festivals
- Amstelveen City Blues: A music festival featuring live blues performances by local and international artists.
- Amstellanddag: An annual event where residents of Amstelveen can explore the various cultural and historical sites in the region.
- Japan Festival: Celebrating Japanese culture with traditional performances, food stalls, martial arts demonstrations, and more.
- Diwali Festival: A vibrant celebration of the Hindu festival of lights, featuring music, dance, food stalls, and fireworks.
- Kersenbloesemfestival (Cherry Blossom Festival): Inspired by Japan’s Hanami tradition, this festival celebrates the blooming cherry blossoms with cultural activities like tea ceremonies and traditional music performances.
- Bevrijdingspop (Liberation Pop): A free music festival held on Liberation Day (May 5th) to commemorate the end of World War II in the Netherlands.
- Stadspleinfestival: A summer festival held at Stadsplein square featuring live music concerts from various genres like pop, rock, jazz classical etc., street theater performances and children’s activities.
- International Storytelling Festival: This annual event brings together storytellers from around the world to share their tales through spoken word performances.
Please note that some events may be subject to change or cancellation due to circumstances such as COVID-19 restrictions or other unforeseen factors. It is always advisable to check for updated information before attending any event or festival in Amstelveen or elsewhere in the Netherlands.
- Indonesian cuisine: Amstelveen has a large Indonesian community, so you’ll find many excellent Indonesian restaurants such as Sari Citra and Restaurant Bogor.
- Surinamese cuisine: Surinamese food is also quite popular in Amstelveen. Restaurants like Warung Mini and Swieti Sranang serve delicious Surinamese dishes like roti, bami, and nasi.
- Dutch cuisine: For traditional Dutch food, you can visit De Jonge Dikkert or Het Wapen van Aalsmeer. These restaurants offer classics like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables), haring (raw herring), and bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs).
- Japanese cuisine: If you’re a fan of sushi or ramen, there are several great Japanese restaurants in Amstelveen such as Tanuki and Yamazato.
- Mediterranean cuisine: For Mediterranean flavors, try out The WineKitchen at Sea or La Gare Bistro & Grill which serve dishes inspired by French and Mediterranean cuisines.
- Chinese cuisine: There are several Chinese restaurants in Amstelveen that offer authentic Chinese dishes such as New King Garden or Golden Chopsticks.
- Thai cuisine: Thai Orchidee is a highly recommended restaurant for flavorful Thai curries, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.
- Amsterdamse Bos: A large park offering various recreational activities such as cycling, hiking, picnicking, and boating.
- De Poel: A beautiful lake where visitors can enjoy boating, fishing or simply relax by the water.
- Middelpolder: This nature reserve is perfect for walking or cycling through scenic landscapes and enjoying the local flora and fauna.
- Stadstuinen Amstelveen: A community garden where residents can grow their own vegetables and flowers while socializing with other gardeners.
- Park De Braak: A family-friendly park with playgrounds, sports fields and picnic areas.
- Broersepark: Known for its charming rose garden, this park offers a peaceful setting for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
- Zwembad De Meerkamp: An indoor swimming pool complex with various pools and water slides for all ages to enjoy.
- Cobra Museum of Modern Art: Besides housing contemporary art exhibitions, the museum also has an outdoor sculpture garden that provides a peaceful environment to appreciate art in nature.
- Golfclub Amsteldijk: For golf enthusiasts, this club offers an 18-hole course surrounded by greenery just outside of Amstelveen’s city center.
- Ouderkerkerplas Recreation Area: Located nearby in Ouderkerk aan de Amstel but easily accessible from Amstelveen; it offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing on sandy beaches as well as sailing and windsurfing on the lake.
