Hortus Botanicus Accessibility Guide

Overview

The Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, founded in 1638 as a medicinal herb garden during the plague years. Today it holds over 6,000 plant species across outdoor gardens and several climate-controlled greenhouses, including a palm greenhouse and a three-climate greenhouse.

The garden is partly accessible for wheelchair users. The outdoor paths are mostly gravel, which can be challenging for some wheelchairs, and some greenhouse areas have limited access. A free wheelchair is available to borrow by reservation. Companions of disabled visitors enter free.

Getting There

• Tram: Tram 14 stops at Plantage Middenlaan, about 100 meters from the entrance. Tram 7 also serves the area via Plantage Kerklaan.
• Metro: Waterlooplein (Lines 51, 53, 54) is a 10-minute roll east along Plantage Middenlaan. The route is flat with paved sidewalks.
• Bus: Bus 22 stops near the Hortus on Plantage Middenlaan.

Wheelchair Accessibility

• The garden is partly accessible for wheelchair users. Some areas of the greenhouses are not accessible due to narrow doorways and raised thresholds.
• Garden paths are covered with gravel, which can be difficult for manual wheelchair users. Power chairs handle gravel better but may struggle on narrow sections.
• The butterfly greenhouse is not accessible. The doorway is narrow and plastic curtains at the entrance create an obstacle.
• Mobility scooters are welcome but face the same challenges with gravel paths and narrow greenhouse sections.
• A free wheelchair is available to borrow. Reserve it in advance by emailing [email protected].

Accessible Toilets

An accessible restroom is located in the Hortus Cafe. It is reached via a separate wheelchair ramp behind the cafe terrace. The restroom has grab bars and adequate space for wheelchair users.

Tips for Visitors with Disabilities

• Companions of disabled visitors enter free. Bring your disability card or other documentation.
• Reserve the free wheelchair in advance by emailing [email protected] or calling 020-625 9021.
• The garden is compact (about 1.2 hectares) and can be explored in 1-2 hours. The cafe makes a good rest stop midway through your visit.
• Card payment only. Cash is not accepted at the entrance or the cafe.
• The three-climate greenhouse is the most accessible of the greenhouses, with wider paths than the butterfly or palm houses. Prioritize this one if mobility is limited.