logo
ic_menu

Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam

2A Plantage Middenlaan, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland

Description

Hortus Botanicus in the Plantage district of Amsterdam was founded in 1638, making it one of the world's oldest botanical gardens. At a time when treatments were primarily relying on plant-based medicines, it started as an herb garden for doctors and apothecaries, well supplied by the traders from the Dutch East India Company. Nowadays, it contains over 6,000 trees and plants spread over outdoor gardens, a "hothouse" that replicates three different tropical environments, and a Butterfly greenhouse. Trivia: the coffee plant that started the entire coffee culture in South and Central America came from the Hortus collection.

Access & Transport

The botanical garden is located in the Plantage neighbourhood, at Plantage Middenlaan 2a, 1018 DD Amsterdam The closest tram stops are Artis (9, 14), MR Visserplein (9, 14) and Wateerlooplein metro station (51, 53, 54 and trams 9, 14) Paid parking is available at Markenhoven and Stadhuis-Muziektheater.

Instructions & Recommendations

Geographically, this activity can easily be combined with the Artis Zoo and the H'ART Museum

Meta review

Online blogs and reviews are mostly consistent: a visit to this botanical garden is a relaxing and enjoyable activity but there is nothing truly special or arresting and it is quite small. The best section, according to comments, is the Butterfly greenhouse (but there aren't many species).

Environmental & Social

Green activity - they even tied up with the Hermitage Amsterdam to use their residual heat for the Palm Greenhouse. They also work towards the conservation of biodiversity. More info here: https://www.dehortus.nl/organisatie/duurzaamheid/ Their mission includes educating and inspiring people about the beauty and diversity of plants.

Conclusion

Hortus Botanicus is an excellent option for those looking to take a break from Amsterdam city centre for a couple of hours or with an interest in botany - best in springtime and summer. However, it lacks the size and wow factor needed to be one of the city's top tourist attractions.

Key positive

Visually pleasant and relaxing environment

Interesting history and educational content

Key negative

Nothing extraordinary by international standards

A little expensive given the modest size

Suitability

Suitable for all ages. Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

June 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:0h 25m

est. visit time:1h 15m

Regulated hours

Monday10:00 - 17:00

Tuesday10:00 - 17:00

Wednesday10:00 - 17:00

Thursday10:00 - 17:00

Friday10:00 - 17:00

Saturday10:00 - 17:00

Sunday10:00 - 17:00

Pricing
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
€13.5
Adult
18 - 64
€13.5
Child
5 - 17
€7
Infant
0 - 4
€0
Student price is €7 and free for I Amsterdam card

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. For a complete overview of all cookies used, please see MORE INFORMATION.