Vondelpark has always been my little slice of Amsterdam—a place where the city slows down, and life happens in a swirl of cyclists, skaters, dogs chasing frisbees, and friends gathered under the trees. I wanted to capture that energy in this illustration, blending the iconic tea houses and restaurants with the hidden gems that make the park feel like home.

The heart of Vondelpark, for me, is its five tea houses and restaurants, each with its own charm. Groot Melkhuis (2) is perfect for a lazy afternoon by the water, while Proeflokaal 't Blauwe Theehuis (3), with its modernist design and buzzing terrace, is where I go for a coffee and people-watching. De Roos (4) offers a peaceful retreat for those who want a moment of calm, and De Vondeltuin (5), tucked away near the edge of the park, is the ideal spot for a casual beer with friends. Then there's Parkzuid (1), a place that feels like an extension of the city, blending elegance with the laid-back park vibe.

Beyond the food and drinks, the park is full of little wonders. The Rosarium (B) bursts into color every summer, while the Waterspeeltuin (C) is a childhood paradise, filled with laughter and splashes. I always stop by the Picasso sculpture (D)—a quirky little landmark that feels right at home in Amsterdam’s artistic spirit. The Openlucht Theater (F) brings the park to life with live performances, and the Joost van den Vondel statue (G) stands as a quiet tribute to the poet who gave this park its name. And of course, there's the Vondelfontein (H), a simple but soothing reminder that water flows through every corner of this green oasis.

This illustration is my love letter to Vondelpark—a place of movement and rest, of big gatherings and quiet moments, of nature and city life blending seamlessly together. If you know it, I hope it brings back memories. If you don’t, I hope it makes you want to visit.