Quick answer: We suggest choosing one part of Amsterdamse Bos and one main activity for a first visit: a walk near the Bosbaan, the goat farm or a water activity. Forest entry is free, but rentals, food and events have separate arrangements. Check your chosen destination’s opening before travelling. The information below was checked in September 2026.
Our original image, video and PDF reflect an earlier guide. Use the updated details below rather than their old transport instructions or claims about new activities.
Choose the right entrance and destination
The official directions page places the main entrance at Amstelveenseweg and Van Nijenrodeweg and confirms free forest admission. The Boswinkel visitor centre is near that entrance. For public transport, the forest directs visitors to a current journey planner.
We suggest entering your actual destination in 9292, rather than simply selecting the whole forest. A visit to the goat farm on Nieuwe Meerlaan and a visit to the main entrance are different journeys. Check the remaining walk from the stop as well as the bus or tram journey. Old route numbers and a fixed 40-minute estimate are not reliable instructions for every destination.
A simple plan for your first visit
For a flexible outing, start near the main entrance, consult the forest map and choose a walk that returns to a convenient exit. Leave time for a rest and the journey back. Our suggestion is to keep one main stop rather than combine the farm, a boat rental, a performance and a spa booking in one short visit.
- Walking and nature: choose a route appropriate to your available time and mobility. Take water and check the weather before setting off.
- With children: make the goat farm the main destination on an opening day, and plan the journey around it.
- On the water: reserve the type of boat you want and leave time for the rental instructions and return.
We do not promise wildlife sightings or access to a guided activity without a booking. Follow local signs when a path is closed or an area is protected.
Visitor centre, toilets and accessible paths
The forest’s current FAQ lists the Boswinkel as open Wednesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:00. Its phone is 020 251 7840. This updates older directions pages that still include Tuesday.
The same FAQ gives 09:00–16:00 for public toilets, with frost and maintenance exceptions. A winter update identifies heated facilities at the Bostheater and canoe rental as exceptions to frost closures. Check the facility nearest your route rather than assume that toilets stay open whenever the forest does.
The accessibility page says most paths are asphalted or semi-paved, while sandy Oeverlanden paths are less suitable for wheelchair users. It lists accessible toilets at several attractions, with opening times varying by location. Ask the Boswinkel about a suitable route if surfaces, gradients or toilet access affect your visit.
Goat farm Ridammerhoeve
Ridammerhoeve, Nieuwe Meerlaan 4, is closed on Tuesdays and lists 10:00–17:00 opening on other days. Admission is free, but visitors may not bring their own food and drink. Budget separately for purchases or arranged activities.
The farm is a working business, so a general visit does not mean every visitor can join milking or farm chores. Check its current programme if you want an organised activity, and arrange group visits directly. If you plan to bring a picnic, choose an appropriate forest location outside the farm instead.
Canoes, pedal boats and electric boats
Kanoverhuur Amsterdamse Bos lists canoes, pedal boats and electric boats at the Grote Speelweide beside the pond, with online reservations. Check the quote for your chosen craft, party size and duration; forest entry does not include boat hire.
Before reserving, establish the departure point, last return time, weather policy and any participant requirements. We suggest allowing a gap between the hire period and your onward plans. A boat shown on a website is not confirmation that it is available at your preferred time.
A dated extra: the autumn 2026 art route
Het Onzichtbare Zichtbaar is advertised for 4 September–1 November 2026, with free outdoor installations around the Bostheater. The outdoor works can be visited between sunrise and sunset. This is a temporary exhibition, not a year-round promise.
The organisers suggest about an hour for the works and place them roughly 30 minutes on foot or 10 minutes by bike from the Boswinkel. Load the route map before leaving: they warn that reception can be weak near the installations. A free booklet is available at the Boswinkel during its opening hours. Check the event page if your visit falls outside those dates.
Plan your stay with us
We are at Warmoesstraat 87 in central Amsterdam. Our reception is open 24 hours and we provide free city maps. For hostel questions, our number is +31 (0)20 625 5974; the Boswinkel number above is for forest information.
Our booking terms confirm check-out at 10:00 and no luggage storage after check-out. Arrange another luggage option before a departure-day forest trip.
Check accommodation availability directly with us and use our confirmed code HOSTELAMSTERDAM. Review the offer for your dates. The code concerns accommodation, not forest rentals, meals or attraction tickets.
Earlier video and PDF
The existing media are retained as earlier material. Their transport details and promotional claims should not be used to confirm current services.