Amstelveen

Beyond the canals and gabled houses of Amsterdam lies Amstelveen, a vibrant city brimming with its own unique charm. Amstelveen, meaning “peat bog on the Amstel,” was once a modest village. Its story intertwines with the rise of Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. Amstelveen’s transformation began in the early 20th century. The once-isolated village, reliant on livestock farming, found new life with the development of Schiphol Airport in 1916. The construction of a road connecting Amstelveen to Schiphol in 1934 further solidified their bond. This paved the way for Amstelveen’s rapid growth, attracting Schiphol employees and becoming the home of KLM’s headquarters. Amstelveen became a haven for those seeking respite from Amsterdam’s bustling urban life. The city’s landscape, dotted with heemparks like the Dr. Jac. P. Thijssepark, offers tranquil escapes. Amstelveen even hosted a Cricket World Cup match in 1999, a testament to its growing international presence. Today, Amstelveen boasts a diverse population, a blend of cultures drawn by its proximity to Schiphol and Amsterdam. The city center has been lauded as one of the best shopping centers in the Netherlands. Amstelveen’s cultural scene thrives with the Cobra Museum at its heart. The legacy of renowned artist Jan Cornelis Hofman, who was born in Amstelveen, adds to the city’s artistic allure. Amstelveen is also home to notable figures such as actress Famke Janssen, actor Michiel Huisman, and DJ Martin Garrix. The city’s connection to the Amstel River is celebrated with a statue of Rembrandt overlooking the water. A visit to the Rembrandt Hoeve cheese farm, accessible by various means, provides a taste of local life. Amstelveen’s story continues to unfold, shaped by its history, its people, and its enduring connection to the Amstel.