Amsterdam’s Green Advantage: A Guide to Eco-Friendly Travel

By Alette, Context Expert in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is often praised as one of the world’s most sustainable cities. With its bike-friendly streets, extensive public transport, and commitment to green living, it offers plenty of opportunities for travelers to visit responsibly. Here’s how you can make the most of your trip while keeping your impact light.

Refill, Don’t Waste

"Despite the abundance of public water fountains, many travelers still buy bottled water. A small but meaningful change? Bring a reusable bottle and refill at the many clean and free water points throughout the city."

Go by Train, Not Plane

"If you’re traveling within Europe, consider skipping the short-haul flights. Amsterdam is well-connected by high-speed trains to cities like Paris, London, Frankfurt, and Brussels. Traveling by train significantly reduces carbon emissions and offers a more scenic, relaxed journey."

Choose Local & Sustainable Experiences

"Amsterdam’s markets and independent shops are the best places to find unique, sustainable souvenirs. From handcrafted ceramics to locally sourced cheeses, choosing small businesses over big chains supports the community and reduces environmental impact."

Biking and Public Transport Over Cars

"The Netherlands is famous for its cycling culture, and renting a bike is one of the best ways to explore Amsterdam. For longer distances, the tram and metro are efficient and eco-friendly alternatives to taxis or rental cars."

Explore Amsterdam with Context

Sustainability isn’t just a trend in Amsterdam—it’s a way of life. From cycling the canals to refilling your water bottle at public fountains, small, mindful choices can make a significant difference in reducing your environmental footprint. As a B Corp, Context Travel champions responsible tourism by offering intimate expert-led experiences that prioritize local businesses, sustainability, and cultural preservation. Travel with us to explore Amsterdam the way it was meant to be experienced—thoughtfully and consciously.

About Alette: Alette has an MA in Art History (Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam) and holds a Ph.D. in the History of Science and Technology (University of Twente, Enschede). For both her thesis and her dissertation, she researched the intricate relationship between nature, art and science in the 20th century (thesis) and the 17th century (dissertation). Sculpture parks, ornamental gardens, and botanical gardens form the sites of study.

As an independent scholar, she presents papers and writes articles on this subject. Alette also teaches art history and lectures on topics such as 17th-century Dutch art and architecture, 18th century Empire design, garden architecture, and landscape engineering. She has curated several exhibitions and stood at the basis of the exhibition Black is Beautiful on the image of black people in Dutch art history. She lives in the city where she was born: Amsterdam.