Sustainable travel in Amsterdam means discovering the city’s canals, culture, and neighborhoods responsibly – by bike, tram, or electric boat – while supporting local green initiatives.
With world-leading cycling infrastructure and a city-wide commitment to circular living, Amsterdam makes it easy to travel responsibly without missing a thing.
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Why Amsterdam Leads Europe in Sustainable Travel?
Amsterdam aims to be climate-neutral by 2050. Cars account for roughly one in five trips within the city, meaning the majority of journeys are made by bicycle, walking, or public transport – an impressive achievement for an urban capital.
The municipality invests heavily in renewable energy, low-emission transport, and circular-economy projects, making it one of Europe’s most forward-thinking destinations.
Amsterdam’s historic Canal Belt (Grachtengordel) is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site – a living example of how the city preserves cultural heritage while embracing sustainability.
Fun fact: The city’s public transport operator GVB powers its trams, metro lines, and electric buses entirely with renewable electricity.
Get Around the Green Way
1. Cycle Like a Local
Cycling is Amsterdam’s heartbeat – and the ultimate eco-friendly experience.
- Rent from certified green operators offering recycled-frame bikes or e-bikes.
- Ride scenic routes along the UNESCO Canal Belt, Jordaan, and Vondelpark.
- Join guided cycling tours focusing on sustainability and local culture.
2. Use Electric & Hybrid Transport
When you’re not biking, Amsterdam’s GVB network of trams, buses, and ferries runs on 100 % renewable electricity.
- Cross the IJ River on electric ferries connecting Central Station and Amsterdam Noord.
- Book electric canal cruises – a quiet, zero-emission way to enjoy the canals.
- Travel between cities with NS International trains powered by renewable energy.
For shared electric mobility, Amsterdam offers EV car-share and ride-hail services such as Bolt Drive and local Car2Go fleets – perfect for short trips when biking isn’t practical.
Stay in Eco-Friendly Hotels & Green Neighbourhoods
Amsterdam offers a growing range of eco-certified accommodations. Look for Green Key NL, EarthCheck, or BREEAM labels when booking.
- De Pijp – artistic, walkable, and home to solar-powered hotels and farm-to-table cafés.
- Amsterdam Noord – a hub for creative, sustainable living with upcycled architecture (see De Ceuvel).
- Oud-West – boutique eco-stays near Vondelpark.
Pro tip: Choose hotels that lend bikes or offer public-transport discounts instead of car parking.
Eat, Drink & Shop Sustainably
Conscious Dining
- De Kas – greenhouse restaurant serving hyper-local produce.
- Beter & Leuk – plant-based brunch spot in Oost.
- The Dutch Weed Burger Joint – creative vegan dining made from seaweed.
Sustainable Shopping
Support Amsterdam’s circular-economy movement by exploring vintage and upcycled fashion:
- Episode, Zipper, Marbles Vintage for pre-loved treasures.
- Independent ateliers using recycled textiles and zero-waste design.
Explore Amsterdam’s Green Spaces
- Vondelpark – for cycling, jogging, or people-watching.
- Westerpark – hosts sustainable cafés and cultural events.
- Oosterpark – ideal for mindful walks and outdoor art.
- Amsterdamse Bos – three times larger than Central Park, with organic farms and nature trails.
- De Ceuvel – a reclaimed shipyard turned sustainable community hub.
Day Trips Beyond the City — The Eco Way
Discover the Dutch countryside without harming the planet:
- Take the train or e-bike to Zaanse Schans or Kinderdijk to see iconic windmills.
- Visit Amstelveen for organic farms and local markets.
- Explore Brouwersgracht and heritage canals by solar-powered boats.
Sustainable Business & Event Travel
Amsterdam is a global convention city – and one of the most sustainable. Major venues such as RAI Amsterdam run on renewable energy and offer green meeting packages.
- Use electric taxis or bike-share networks for short business trips.
- Encourage delegates to use public transport passes.
- Stay in eco-certified hotels with waste-reduction programs.
Responsible Traveller Checklist
- Carry a refillable water bottle – Amsterdam tap water is safe and delicious.
- Use digital tickets to minimise paper waste.
- Respect bike lanes and pedestrian zones.
- Support local artisans and family-run cafés.
- Avoid single-use plastics and unnecessary packaging.
- Choose experiences that benefit community initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amsterdam truly a sustainable city?
Yes. The city aims to be climate-neutral by 2050 and circular by 2050, with most transport already powered by renewable electricity.
What’s the most eco-friendly way to get around?
Cycling or using Amsterdam’s renewable-powered public transport (trams, ferries, and electric canal cruises).
Are there sustainable places to stay?
Plenty – look for Green Key or BREEAM hotels in De Pijp, Oud-West, and Noord.
Can I travel zero-waste in Amsterdam?
Yes, by using refillable bottles, digital tickets, and shopping at markets and refill stores.
How can I support local communities?
Shop at local markets, dine in independent restaurants, and book tours run by social enterprises like De Ceuvel.
Conclusion: Travel Well, Leave Light
Sustainability in Amsterdam isn’t about restriction, it’s about smarter choices. Every pedal, every tram ride, and every reusable bottle help keep this historic city vibrant for generations to come.
Travel consciously, enjoy fully, and be part of Amsterdam’s green future.
Discover Vintage & Sustainable Fashion Stores in Amsterdam
Sustainable travel in Amsterdam isn’t just about transport and hotels; it’s a mindset that shapes how locals live and shop.
Experience the city’s commitment to the circular economy and slow fashion movement through its thriving vintage boutiques and eco-friendly designers.
Explore ethical shopping destinations and upcycled treasures in our guide to Vintage & Sustainable Fashion Stores in Amsterdam, where style meets sustainability in the heart of the city.