The entrance gate to Vondelpark in Amsterdam provides a perfect first impression. Distinguished doors frame the park in green and regal gold, and the swirl embellished bars of the gate suggest that art antiquity lies just beyond.

Although works of Van Gough and Rembrandt are found outside of Vondelpark, the ornately sculptured park is actually the art form implied upon. There is, however, a sculpture by Picasso (The Fish), and an abundance of places for repose and tranquility. By far the best way to explore the lush grounds is to use the beloved local means of transport in Amsterdam: the bicycle.

A bicycle ride through the 47 hectares of Vondelpark is reminiscent of travelling back in time through art history, as many artists absorbed inspirations for their work here. Although Vondelpark is an artist’s dream, you can also enjoy the many other aspects the park has to offer—largely the many soft, cool, shady knolls traced by quiet ponds and streams. Biking along the crushed white stone paths, you'll be lead to countless willow trees inviting you to stop and enjoy the view. Looking out over well-manicured ponds dotted with ducks, the air of relaxation is hard to resist. And if you wish to inject yourself into more traditional tourist activities afterwards, you can always visit the Bull Dog Cafe.

During the summer, Amsterdam's largest city park is also host to many musical performances in its open-air theater. Since the early 70s, Vondelpark's theatre has welcomed a regular schedule of performances ranging from cabaret and dance, to Orchestra and pop groups. On any old random day, you might also cross an impromptu drum jam session, lined by bohemian dancers and rhythm keepers.

Vondelpark, Amsterdam is one of the top parks in the world to chill out in. Here you can enjoy music, food, art, nature (and also marijuana, should your tastes be so inclined). It is one of a few places where cannabis lovers can enjoy their guilty pleasure before heading out for an afternoon of sweet relaxation. For a livelier event, you can even enjoy bike ride through Vondelpark on a 19-person beer bike! Whether with life-long buddies or new best friends, a beer bike through Vondelpark is one satisfying ride.

The best time to enjoy a bike ride through Vondelpark, Amsterdam is during the summer season. The summer months welcome warm weather, musical performances, and an abundance of natural beauty.

Entry to Vondelpark is free, as are most concerts in the open-air theatre. Bicycle rental fees range from €10–20, depending on the duration and type of bike you wish to rent. The beer bike costs approximately €450 euros—a shocking figure at face value, but once split among 19 people, the average cost works out at under €25 each, including, of course, enough beer to last the whole afternoon.