INSIDER TIPS

Oost Amsterdam may seem distant from the centre, but trains from Muiderpoort station, which is between Oosterpark and Indische Buurt, reach Amsterdam Centraal in six minutes. Or hire a bike (see getting around, overleaf).

The Amstel River is the place to head if you fancy an outdoor swim. In the warmer months you can slip in at the makeshift dock outside Café Hesp. Alternatively, follow the river further south to the big ‘beach club’ at Park Somerlust.

For your own private party on the Amstel, hire an electric-powered boat from Sloepdelen for €70 (£60) per hour (seating up to 12). The dock is at Mauritskade 3, a short walk from Oosterpark. sloepdelen.nl