Amstel via Rokin, Weesperzijde and Korte Ouderkerkerdijk

Starting from the heart of Amsterdam, this 25 km (about 15.5 miles) loop hike begins near the bustling Rokin, a central street easily accessed by tram, metro, or bus from Amsterdam Centraal Station. For those arriving by car, parking is available at several nearby garages, such as the Q-Park De Bijenkorf or Parkeergarage Rokin, though public transport is highly recommended due to city center traffic and parking costs.

Urban Canals and Historic Streets

The route follows the Amstel River, a waterway that has shaped Amsterdam’s history and landscape for centuries. Heading south from Rokin, you’ll pass through the city’s iconic canal belt, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where 17th-century merchant houses line the water. The first few kilometers are flat and paved, making for an easy stroll as you leave the city’s historic core behind.

Weesperzijde: Riverside Ambiance

Continuing along Weesperzijde, the path hugs the eastern bank of the Amstel. This leafy boulevard is popular with locals for jogging and cycling, and you’ll find several classic Amsterdam cafés with terraces overlooking the river. The area is known for its elegant 19th-century townhouses and the occasional sighting of herons and cormorants along the water’s edge. At around 5 km (3 miles), you’ll pass the Amstel Hotel, a grand 19th-century landmark.

Korte Ouderkerkerdijk and Open Countryside

As you leave the city behind, the route transitions to Korte Ouderkerkerdijk, where the urban landscape gives way to open fields and traditional Dutch polder scenery. Here, the Amstel widens and the horizon stretches out, dotted with windmills and grazing cattle. The terrain remains flat, with virtually no elevation gain (0 meters/0 feet), making it accessible for all fitness levels. In spring and summer, look for wildflowers along the dikes and listen for the calls of lapwings and skylarks.

Points of Interest and Navigation

At approximately 12 km (7.5 miles), you’ll reach the village of Ouderkerk aan de Amstel, a charming riverside settlement with a history dating back to the Middle Ages. The village is home to the Beth Haim Jewish cemetery, the oldest in Western Europe, and several historic churches. This is a good spot to rest, enjoy a riverside café, or explore the narrow streets before looping back toward Amsterdam.

For navigation, HiiKER provides detailed maps and route guidance, ensuring you stay on track through both urban and rural sections.

Return to the City

The return leg follows the opposite bank of the Amstel, offering new perspectives on the river and city skyline. You’ll pass rowing clubs, boathouses, and parks frequented by locals. The final stretch brings you back into Amsterdam’s vibrant center, where you can easily connect to public transport or enjoy a post-hike meal at one of the many restaurants near Rembrandtplein or Waterlooplein.

This hike is ideal for those seeking a blend of urban exploration, riverside tranquility, and Dutch countryside, all within a day’s walk from central Amsterdam.