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Parks #13 in Amstelveen

Hortus Botanicus Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

4.6 · 805 reviews
A quiet place for scientific study and reflection.
Hortus Botanicus Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 8, 1081 BT Amsterdam, Netherlands
Interesting facts
1

The garden hosts a specialized collection of endangered plants and is involved in international plant conservation programs.

2

It contains a notable collection of diverse bamboo species, some of which are used for ongoing botanical observation.

3

The garden layout is designed to support the specific research needs of the Vrije Universiteit biology department.

4

The collection includes plants specifically adapted to extreme drought, showcased in its expansive succulent greenhouse section.

Overview

Hortus Botanicus Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, also known as Botanische Tuin Zuidas, is a specialized botanical garden located on the Vrije Universiteit campus. It features a diverse collection including extensive succulent and cacti sections, a dense bamboo forest, and various fern species. The garden functions as a living laboratory for academic research and education, housing both indoor and outdoor collections. It maintains a specific collection of endangered plant species and rare specimens from various global climates. The layout transitions from landscaped ornamental areas to more dense, woodland-style garden sections. It serves as a green buffer between the university medical center and surrounding infrastructure.

Photo spot

The central greenhouse interior, which provides excellent natural lighting for the succulent and cacti displays.

Insider tips

Check the official website for scheduled guided tours, which offer deeper insight into the rare specimen collection.

Wear comfortable, flat walking shoes as some paths feature unpaved or loose garden surfaces.

What to avoid

Assuming it is a large public city park for recreation; it is a specialized scientific garden with restricted access zones.

Good to know

Closed on weekends; open only on weekdays.

Etiquette

Stay on marked paths to avoid disturbing sensitive botanical research areas; do not pick plants or flowers.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-1.5 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring or early summer, when the outdoor collections are in full bloom and the greenhouses are at their peak.
Address
Hortus Botanicus Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 8, 1081 BT Amsterdam, Netherlands
52.333, 4.860
Get directions
Details
Botanical highlightsExtensive succulent, cactus, and bamboo collections
Research roleScientific living laboratory for Vrije Universiteit

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-1.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early summer, when the outdoor collections are in full bloom and the greenhouses are at their peak..

The central greenhouse interior, which provides excellent natural lighting for the succulent and cacti displays.

Close by you'll find Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, Vondelpark.