Hortus Botanicus

This gorgeous, serene enclave is located east of central Amsterdam, near the Rembrandthuis and Hermitage. It is one of the oldest botanic gardens in the world, with more than four thousand species of tropical and indigenous trees and plants. During the summer months, locals come to this green wonderland armed with books and papers to sunbathe or spend the day tucked away in a tree-shaded corner. There’s a palm house, a small butterfly house, an herb garden and a greenhouse featuring three distinct climates. The café is in the former orangery, which also hosts traveling exhibitions. For visitors who have been to Amsterdam before or who simply want to escape the crowds, the garden offers a lovely respite.