best places to visit in amsterdam with family

Things To Do In Amsterdam With Kids

Amsterdam is not the first European City that pops to mind when you’re looking for a family friendly break. My main motive to visit Amsterdam with kids was to see the infamous tulip fields, however the more I researched, the more I realised it was going be such a fun weekend!

Although Amsterdam is best known for its liberal coffee shops, red light district and romantic canal tours, there is another side to it for families.

All you have to do is take one look around the street at the kids in Amsterdam, riding past in the front of their parents bikes and you’ll see it’s such a fabulous city for little ones.

Are you flying into Amsterdam? Check out our flying tips with babies , toddler & kids .

Table Of Contents

• Rent A Clog Bike
• Visit Nemo Museum
• Take An Electrical Canal Boat
• Visit Westerpark
• Visit The Petting Farm In Amsterdam
• Discover The Keukenhof Tulips
• Visit Efteling Theme Park
• Where To Stay

We predominantly focused on the neighbourhood around our apartment when it came to finding the best things to do in Amsterdam with kids, there was so much right on our doorstep, and it was  just ten minutes from the centre.

We did spend one of our days cycling around the centre, exploring the usual sites visiting a really cool children’s museum and windmills.

I’m really excited to share this itinerary on what to do in Amsterdam with kids over a long weekend. We arrived on a Friday and left on a Monday.

We could have filled another couple of days visiting Amsterdam with kids but we got see and do plenty in three nights.

AMSTERDAM WITH KIDS

Table of Contents

GETTING AROUND AMSTERDAM

When we returned from our trip many people asked is Amsterdam, expensive? In fact, getting around with kids in Amsterdam is actually pretty easy and not too expensive. We took the train from the airport to Amsterdam Central Station.

It only took 20 minutes and was free for the kids. Adults cost 5.5 Euros each. I found taxis and Uber really expensive in Amsterdam, so it’s definitely worth taking a train to the centre.

If you are visiting Amsterdam as part of a larger European trip , most of the trains from other major European cities go to Amsterdam Central Station. We previously used the Eurostar to visit Paris and Bruges .

When we arrived at Amsterdam Central Station, it was a really quick and easy ten minute walk to our Yays Apartment . We rented bikes on the evening of our arrival.

Cycling is definitely the easiest way to get around Amsterdam with kids, of course there is the metro and the tram but we really loved the freedom of having a bike.

1. RENT A CLOG BIKE

No Amsterdam itinerary is complete without going on a bike ride through town. We rented our bikes from Black Bikes Amsterdam . They are just across the road from Central Station.

It’s definitely the best place to rent bikes  if you are looking for special things to do with children in Amsterdam. None of the thousands of bikes on the road were anything like ours!

Needless to say our kids absolutely loved their ride on clog at the front of the bike. It was such a novelty and made for a very cool Dutch photo, especially with windmills and beautiful cobbled streets.

It costs 25 euros for the first day and 20 euros for the second and third day.We only needed one ‘cargo’ bike as both kids could fit inside and had a harness seat belt.

We also rented a standard dutch bike for me. Hubby cycled the kids around, he said it only took a couple of minutes to get use to cycling with the kids at the front.

It was so handy to be able to get right to the door of all the attractions in Amsterdam for kids. My kids are a little lazy at the best of times, so this way we got more mileage out of them and managed to fit more into the day.

2. VISIT NEMO SCIENCE MUSEUM

Without doubt one of the best Amsterdam kids activities is visiting the NEMO Science Museum . We spent our first morning exploring the extraordinary multi floor interactive haven.

It’s a really cool architectural building with a roof that can be seen from around the city.

One of the first things we saw was a live demonstration of a ‘chain reaction’. From footballs, and water tanks, to mini trucks and bicycles, it was a really engaging and fun thing to watch for both children and adults. They were completely engrossed! Kids love science museums, don’t they?

There was so many experiments suitable to all ages, it truly was one of the best kids museums we’ve ever been to.

Our daughter loved the electricity and gravity area, whilst our toddler boy loved the water mechanics, he was soaked afterwards so it might be worth bringing a change of clothes.

If you didn’t bring a change, the museum has a drying machine and some spare clothes for these small accidents, just ask one of the staff members.

This fantastic kids museum Amsterdam had so much more. On almost every level there is a handy cafe or restaurant where parents can chill and have a coffee.

The roof top restaurant is especially worth a visit, the food is really good and not too expensive.

If you visit on a nice sunny day, you have to sit outside and soak up the views. There is a beautiful water feature, not to mention the aerial view of the canals and the beautiful windmill not too far away.

To get the best deal on entry this Children’s Museum Amsterdam, click here .

3. TAKE AN ELECTRIC CANAL BOAT WITH KIDS

If you’ve been to Amsterdam before, you’ll know the canals run right through the city. Its like a semi-circle network of waterways that give a completely different perspective of the city from the water.

Canal ring tours are very popular and one fo the highly recommended things to do with children in Amsterdam.

We chose to  be the captain of our own electric boat for a few hours. Eco Boats Amsterdam is a lovely family run business, they were right next to our apartment too.

They gave us a map, a captains hat and off we went exploring Amsterdam canals at our own pace.

It was such a relaxing and enjoyable afternoon. We brought a picnic, it took about an hour and a half to do a complete loop.

There are bigger canal cruises that are child friendly if you prefer to go with a larger company, but, we loved the personalised family aspect of this experience.

4. VISIT WESTERPARK, AMSTERDAM WITH KIDS

Amsterdam kids activities are not hard to come by. Westerpark is a very cool family friendly park in Amsterdam that was just a few minutes cycle from our Yays Apartment .

It was full of lovely cafes, restaurants, bars and ice-cream parlours. I was super happy they had vegan ice-cream!

There were also two lovely play areas and a market taking place. The market was selling vintage clothing, as well as food.

The atmosphere was pretty cool, with DJ’s people dancing, everyone was having such a good time! Westerpark is a great place to hangout on a Sunday afternoon in Amsterdam with kids!

5. VISIT THE PETTING FARM IN AMSTERDAM

Another great reason to base yourself at Yays Bickersgracht Apartments is because its right next to a little farm.

It’s not every day you get to see sheeps, goats and pigs hanging our next to a canal. Entry is totally free and the animals were incredibly friendly and not at all frightened by the kids.

Besides from it being free to enter, the farm also has a little playground, ideal for visiting Amsterdam with a toddler. It’s not such a big playground but the older ones would love the farm.

I love how there are so many local attractions in Amsterdam for kids. You don’t have to go to the tourist hot spots and can really immerse yourself in the local community.

6. DISCOVER THE KEUKENHOF TULIPS

Keukenhof is obviously one of those big tourist hot spots and probably in every guide on what to do in Amsterdam with children. I have to admit I was really undecided about visiting.

I knew it would be quite busy. Likewise I heard that climate change had meant the tulip fields were cut early. We missed out on seeing the colourful countryside.

That was super disappointing, as ideally, I would have preferred to cycle around the countryside, rather than entering Keukenhof .

Whilst Keukenhof might not be seen as one of the things for kids in Amsterdam, we bit the bullet and went anyway. I had a major fear of missing out so we had to go.

I must admit, I am really glad we went, it was so different from what I’d expected. Nothing I read compared to the experience.

I purposely decided to visit on a Monday morning. I thought it would likely have less crowds than the weekend. It really wasn’t too bad and we had such a fun morning.

Keukenhof is near the airport so we did it on the way home. Our flight wasn’t until 515pm, so it worked out perfectly and they have free luggage storage.

We bought our tickets online before arriving. It was a lot easier to buy a combo ticket so it would include our transport from the city and onto the airport afterwards.

The first thing to do on entering Keukenhof with kids is head straight to the information centre. They will give you pencils and a booklet for the kids that has some cool facts and a scavenger hunt.

They get a little present to take home at the end, its such a great thing for kids to do in Amsterdam, well it’s a little outside the centre.

You can also pick up a free map to navigate the area. I suggest heading to the left first and making your way clockwise around the site.

That way you’ll get to see all of the beautiful flower beds and landscape design before hitting the really cool kids playground.

One of my favourite thing about visiting Keukenhof with kids was the lunch time DJ set. There was hay bales for people to sit on and listen the music, whilst min-vans served up smoothies, juices, burgers and so on. We had our own picnic lunch to keep the costs down.

Our kids also really enjoyed the hedge maze, the petting zoo and the windmill, all inside the gates of Keukhenof.

On our way out, we brought the scavenger hunt booklet back to the information desk and the kids were both given a bag of tulips to bring home.

VIST EFTELING THEME PARK

If you fancy adding an extra day onto your trip, the Efteling Theme Park is just an hours drive from Amsterdam. Some families make an entire weekend out of visiting.

Efteling is not like other theme parks such as Disney. It’s very much based on fairy tales, stories and myths. With an enchanted forest, theatrical shows, rollercoaster amongst many other rides, it’s a full day out.

WHERE TO STAY IN AMSTERDAM WITH KIDS

We stayed at Yays Bickersgracht Concierge Boutique Apartments , based just ten minutes walk west from Central Station. The area is called Haarlemmerbuurt.

The apartments were ideal for our little family in terms of location, nearby amenities and all round setup of the apartment. In comparison to hotels in Amsterdam, I feel an apartment is the best option for families.

Just outside there is a little playground and as I mentioned its also right next door to a petting farm with lots of animals. The apartment is right on a quiet part of the canal, so we enjoyed sunset each evening from our balcony.

The apartment had floor to ceiling glass window so it was so nice with the view of the canal and other house boats. The area on the lower floor is quite safe as it’s all enclosed and little ones would need to get up onto a wall in order to get near the water.

The apartment had a fully kitted out kitchen, complete with all parenting essentials such as a coffee machine and a nice lounge area to chill out when the kids were asleep.

We cooked dinner at our apartment most evenings as we wanted to keep our costs down. There is a big supermarket just 5 minutes walking to stock up on all of the essentials.

We just loved the ethos of Yays ! They are really keen on guests exploring the local neighbourhood and have a very different tourist map from the usual ones.

Their neighbourhood guide was fantastic at choosing cafes and a few activities locally. It’s so nice to feel immersed in the local community, especially in a city that is such a popular tourist destination.

Being only ten minutes from the centre, it was still nice to know we could reach all the typical Amsterdam kids attractions if we wanted to. For rates and availability at Yays Concierge Boutique Apartments, click here .

MAP OF AMSTERDAM ATTRACTIONS FOR KIDS

If you’re looking for a visual guide on what to with kids in Amsterdam, this map is perfect to get an idea of distances.

3 DAY ITINERARY ON THINGS TO DO IN AMSTERDAM FOR KIDS

Day 1 – Arrive and check in. Collect bikes from the Black Bikes Amsterdam. Pick up some groceries and take them back to the apartment. Visit the petting zoo and playground next to Yays.

Day 2- Head out on the bikes via Jordan and the flower market on route to the NEMO Science Museum. Spend a few hours exploring the museum and have lunch on the roof.

When leaving cycle to the nearby windmills before heading back to the apartment. In the evening, take out an Eco Boat Amsterdam to explore the canals before dinner. Head back to the apartment for dinner and sunset.

Day 3- Visit Westerpark on the bikes in the morning, bring a picnic with you and enjoy the Dutch markets with the kids.

Day 4- Visit Keukhenof on the way home. If you book a slightly later flight you can spend the morning and early afternoon exploring.

This itinerary will ensure you get to see all the best Amsterdam children’s attractions without rushing. Amsterdam is also a great destination with teens.

FUN FACTS ABOUT AMSTERDAM FOR KIDS

• Amsterdam has more bridges than Venice!
• Thousands of families live in houseboats in Amsterdam!
• Amsterdam has over 165 canals!

TAKE KIDS AMSTERDAM PACKS FOR THE TRIP

We love using the Our Little Globe packs so our kids can learn about a destination before travelling. How cool are these packs that include a tonne of activities, include a sticker for their passport, and teach them about the culture and food, not to mention some of the language.

I highly recommend getting a pack before your trip so they can learn all about what Amsterdam is famous for.

In the Amsterdam pack, we received a tulip paper machete making kit, a map, two recipes as well as a personalised letter and flag stickers. It’s so nice for kids to learn a bit either before or just after to remind them about the trip.

VISITING AMSTERDAM WITH TODDLERS & BABIES

Most of the activities in this article are more than suitable for toddlers and babies, not just older kids.

Our little boy was not even 2 when we visited and he equally got a lot out of the experience as did his 5 year old sister. Amsterdam is a great city for all aged children.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT AMSTERDAM WITH KIDS

• What are some cool plans to do in Amsterdam with kids? NEMO Science Museum is definitely the coolest place we visited.
• Is Amsterdam safe for kids?  We found Amsterdam to be really safe, especially the area where we were staying.
• What are the top free things to do in Amsterdam with kids?  Visiting Westpark was really lovely place, and of course it’s totally free!
• What are the best activities to do with children when visiting Amsterdam?  The best activity is bike riding, especially in one of the clog cargo bikes featured above.
• How much is enough for a family with two children in Amsterdam ?  Amsterdam is a popular European city, so staying a few minutes away from the centre was a big help in terms of budget. Likewise, having a self-catering apartment was super helpful. We spend 100 euros on groceries and had one meal out for the entire weekend. Heres the rough costs:

COST OF VISITING AMSTERDAM WITH KDIS

2 bedroom apartment for the weekend would cost approximately   750 euro depending on season

2 days of bike rental for a family of 4  was 90 euro

1 meal out was 50 euro

Getting from the airport was 11 euro for two adults

Coffees, ice-creams and a couple of snacks was approximately 50 euro for the weekend

Visiting Keukhanof with transport included was 50 euro for two adults

Total = 1001 euro excluding flights

I always use Kayak for searching flights here . They always come out with some of the best prices.

Flights to Amsterdam are generally quite affordable from the UK. That said, a more ‘eco’ option is the Eurostar which now runs from St Pancreas International to Amsterdam.

I’m really conscious I’ve not included some of the top places like the Van Gogh Museum, National Maritime Museum and the Anne Frank House.

I just didn’t feel they would be a good place to visit with my little ones but certainly for school aged older children they would be fantastic educational experiences.

Top travel tip – Use a mobile Wifi network , we love our Solis Hotspot, its just a small orange devic e that we can connect all our devices to on the go. Meaning the kids can watch things online. You can pay for it daily, weekly or monthly depending on your needs. Click here form more information .

Disclaimer: Our stay at Yays Concierge Apartments was complimentary in return for an honest review.

As always, all views expressed are entirely my own. There may be affiliate links in this post. By using them it comes at no extra cost to you. We get a very small commission to contribute and continue writing family travel content. 

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, by using them, it does not cost you any extra, we will receive a small commission to keep us writing helpful itineraries and travel tips:)

A Mama's Guide to Amsterdam

Visiting Amsterdam with kids: all you need to know for a perfect family stay

All you need to know to visit Amsterdam with kids. The best things to see, kid-friendly attractions, beat family hotels and travel tips for enjoying Amsterdam as a family.

Amsterdam is a fantastic city to visit with children. Beautiful, safe, and family-friendly, Amsterdam offers a fantastic mix of activities suitable for kids, teens and grown-ups, often all wrapped up into one wonderful family experience.

Amsterdam is one of those rare cities where you don’t have to compromise too much between what the kids want to do and what you want to do: Amsterdam attractions are for everyone!

In this family guide to Amsterdam, I share my best tip to plan a fun family stay in Amsterdam with kids.

Safe travel planning!

This post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

Why visit Amsterdam with kids

There are many reasons why I love Amsterdam as a family destination.

Amsterdam is a safe city, with a beautiful family-friendly vibe that makes kids feel welcome

The city center is easy to navigate and most people speak perfect English.

Amsterdam is a beautiful European capital, with stunning architecture that seems out of a fairytale and some of the most beautiful museums in the world (most of them kid-friendly!) – the type of place you must see at least once in a lifetime!

Amsterdam city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site: a perfect place to have a culture-filled break with the kids.

The city has a plethora of kids’ attractions to suit all ages: no matter how big or small your kids are, you will find plenty of ways to keep them entertained.

Where to stay in Amsterdam with kids

The best place to stay in Amsterdam with kids is the Canal Ring.

The canal ring is Amsterdam city center: this is the area Unesco recognized as world heritage, the place with the highest number of traditional houses and architecture and the highest number of attractions.

Family hotels I recommend in Amsterdam city center are:

• Hilton DoubleTree Centraal (4* star hotel) – this is an excellent family-friendly hotel in Amsterdam city center, close to the central station and Nemo, one of Amsterdam’s premier children attractions. This is a modern, large hotel with interconnecting rooms for families.
• Monet Garden Hotel (4* star hotel) – this is a beautiful, modern family hotel in Amsterdam city center, with good family rooms with canal views. This is a cozy hotel perfect for families who love a boutique hotel experience: the hotel lounge bar is perfetc if you want an evening drink without having to negotiate Amsterdam at night with kids.
• Pulitzer (5* star hotel) – this is an elegant, five star hotel in Amsterdam in a beautiful, traditional house in a stellar location in Amsterdam city center. The hoel has excellent family rooms and a very Importan Kids Program that inlcudes the gift of a teddy on arrival, treasure hunt, travel diary and more.

How many days to see Amsterdam with kids?

Amsterdam city center is compact and you can see several of Amsterdam’s must-see attractions in a weekend.

However, I recommend you spend at least five days in Amsterdam with kids to enjoy the city truly.

With one day in Amsterdam, you will only be able to get a taste of the city center, visit a kids’ museum or, if you have small kids, see the zoo or the park.

In two days, you can see the zoo, Nemo Science Museum, and Amsterdam’s most central, historic streets.

With three days in Amsterdam with kids, you can visit the city center main attractions, take a cruise on the canals, visit the Zoo, Nemo and one of the city’s art museums.

In 4 days in Amsterdam, you can visit all of the above and relax in Amsterdam parks.

With five days, you can see all of the above, explore the adorable Amsterdam Noord and, in spring, take a day trip to see the fantastic tulip fields immediately outside the city.

The very best things to do in Amsterdam with kids

The top things to do in Amsterdam with kids are:

Discover Nemo Science Museum and its terrace

Nemo is Amsterdam’s Science Museum and one of the best Amsterdam attractions for kids of all ages.

Amsterdam science museum tops our list as one attraction specifically for kids but easy to enjoy for adults.

Hosted in a dedicated building in Amsterdam city center, Nemo develops over several floors and has hands-on exhibits, experiences and workshops for kids from toddlers up.

Top tip: The museum has a beautiful terrace with additional installations, fountains and a cafe at the very top of the building. This area is free and fantastic with toddlers!

This is one of the best museums in Amsterdam for kids if not the very best!

Spend a day in Artis Royal Zoo and Micropia

Artis Amsterdam zoo is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and its complex now comprises two attractions: the zoo itself and Micropia.

The zoo caters to kids with specialized workshops, zookeepers talks (in Dutch, but you can ask questions in English) and organized feeding times.

It also has a playground and, in summer, hosts special workshops for children and musical performances.

Top tip : you can bring your own picnic or order a pizza from their outdoor kitchen!

Artis Zoo gets pretty busy on a sunny day, so we recommend getting skip-the-line tickets if going at prime visiting time.

Take a canal cruise

A canal cruise is a fun activity for kids and adults in Amsterdam and a great way to see the city without having to walk.

You can choose several formulas, including:

Standard guided tour on a closed top boat – a great introduction to the city in summer and winter

Amsterdam light festival canal cruise – fantastic if you are in Amsterdam in November-December, when the light festival decorated the canals and the bridges of Amsterdam with spectacular installations

Amsterdam Canals Pizza Cruise – perfect if you are also looking for a different dinner idea!

Explore the Tropen Museum

The Tropenmuseum is Amsterdam’s ethnographic museum and is great for kids.

The museum has a special children route to allow them to experience as much of the space as possible and encourage them to interact as much as possible with what surrounds them to have a truly immersive experience.

You can find more info and get tickets here .

Visit The Houseboat museum

The Houseboats museum in Amsterdam is a fantastic place for kids to learn what living in a dutch barge is like!

The museum is an authentic houseboat now open to visitors and only takes a few minutes to visit.

Here, you can see the use of space, the creative use of space, the imaginative solutions for living and storage, and you have the excitement of being on the water.

Visit cats in the Cat Boat

If your children love cats, then they will love De Poezenboot, Amsterdam’s cat boat.

The cat boat is a shelter for cats and you can visit and leave a donation to help the cause. My cat-crazy kids adore it and the fact that you are on water adds to the fun.

You can find info and address here.

Play in Openbare Bibliotheek and Mouse Mansion

Openbare Bibliotheek is Amsterdam’s central library and one of the best places for toddlers in Amsterdam.

Located near the Central Station and Nemo, the library has a great kids section with books, colorful couches, a play area for smaller children and a fantastic dollhouse for mice: Mouse Mansion!

Access to the library is free.

Visit the Van Gogh Museum

The van Gogh museum is a must-see when in Amsterdam and it is child-friendly.

They have family tours, family guides, a children treasure hunt, and a corner with vincent’s traveling case’, a trunk packed with fun activities for kids and adults!

Make sure you stop at the entrance desk for all family information and materials.

You can buy fast track entry tickets to the museum here

Top tip! You can also combine a canal cruise with a visit to the Van Gogh Museum with this money-saving bundle .

Explore the Rijks Museum with kids

The Rijks Museum is one of the most important art museums in the world and it is very kid-friendly.

As well as being stroller friendly, the museum has regular activities for kids (drawing sessions, family tours) and a fun souvenir shop that always keeps my two entertained for hours.

A lovely garden outside is handy if you need to let them run a while after the visit.

You can get tickets in advance here .

Experience Anne Frank House

Due to the nature of the place, I recommend a visit to Anne Frank’s House to families with older kids and teenagers.

The house is in Jordaan, a beautiful area of Amsterdam, and operates a timed entrance system.

Make sure you book tickets in advance from the house itself here .

Visit the Maritime Museum

The Maritime museum teaches about the history of Dutch maritime endeavors and impressive empires and has something sure to pique the kids’ attention: a full-size replica of an East India Company sailing ship!

The ship is part of the museum and welcomes kids with a discounted price for kids 4 to 11 (kids under 3 go free).

You can buy skip the line tickets to the museum in advance here

Play in Vondelpark

There are many beautiful parks in Amsterdam and a family favorite is Vondelpark.

The park is large and a pleasure to visit with kids: you can stroll or cycle and several playgrounds make it a favorite for local families and visitors alike.

You can bring a picnic to the park but you also have several food options for a family-friendly meal, including hot dog stands and filly fledged restaurants.

Get your kids make dinner at Kinderkook Cafe

Kinderkook Cafe is a special cafe in Vondelpark where kids are in the kitchen!

The idea behind this kids’ cafe is to give them a taste of what’s it like you run a restaurant and, if your kids love cooking as much as mine do, will love it!

The cafe is fantastic for an afternoon of fun and a great place to meet other kids too. You can find all info here .

Take a Stadium Tour

Soccer lovers may be excited by the idea of visiting the stadium of legendary Ajax.

The stadium is open on most days and welcomes kids. Special kids tours are available in Dutch only, including playtime on the pitch. A perfect and fun opportunity for cultural immersion through play!

You can find info and tickets here.

Explore secret ‘Our Lord in the Attic’ church

Our Lord in the Attic is a church but with something special: it is hidden inside a historic home!

This hidden church is ”in the attic”, hence its name, and was built during the Reformation, a time when Catholics were forbidden to hold public services.

This is a great place to discover with kids: a fun family discovery tour leads the kids along different stations marked with Nan The Ladybug, the museum mascot and teaches them about the secrets of the church, its organ and more.

Visit Miffy Shops

Miffy (or Nijntje, as she is called in Dutch) is Amsterdam’s most famous bunny and you can find her in many shops that are a dream for kids.

In her dedicated stores, you find Miffy books, teddies, trinkets, slippers, pajamas and more! her biggest store is on Scheldestraat 61 but you will find Miffy pretty much everywhere; just tell your kids to keep their eyes peeled!

Tony’s Chocolonely Chocolate Bar

If your children love chocolate, then you can treat them to a stop in Tony’s Chocolonely Chocolate Bar, which is just what you think: a cafe for chocolate lovers!

The cafe has a super fun, colorful decor, it is open from breakfast to dinner and it also organizes workshops and events that are fun for the whole family. Find info here .

Explore Amstedam Bos

If you fancy a little bit of a break from the city, you and the kids can immerse yourself in nature in the wonderful Amsterdam Bos (Forest).

This large park has family trails with different child-friendly themes depending on the season, lots of water activities, an adventure course, a goat farm, a vintage tram and of course a cafe with pancakes!

Visit the Eye Film Museum with kids

The Eye Film Museum is in Amsterdam Noord, a lovely area of Amsterdam to discover with kids, and it has some cool family activities for little ones.

Kids age 7 and up can explore the museum following the fun ‘puzzle tour’, while kids age 4 and up can enjoy ‘shorts for kids’, short movies for children with related assignments to experience in real life what you see on the screen. Find all info here .

What and where to eat in Amsterdam with kids

Amsterdam city center has many excellent restaurants and food establishments for all your needs.

Thanks to its international vocation, you can find in Amsterdam local specialties such as pancakes, cheese and herrings, delicious Indonesian cuisine and anything from Italian specialties to burgers and ramen.

Amsterdam is very family-friendly, and kids are welcome in almost all establishments, even if not specified.

Some places we enjoy mainly are:

• Nemo’s Restaurant terrace, pefect for a snack or lunch, with or without the museum visit
• The Hoxton hotel bar – perfect for a family-friendly brunch
• Burgermaaster – a gourmet burger chain with a casual atmosphere, excellent meat and ‘mini burgers’ for smaller appetites
• Il Pecorino, a fantastic family-friendly restaurant Amsterdam Noord

You can find here >>> my favorite family-friendly restaurants in Amsterdam

How to get around Amsterdam with kids in tow

The best way to get around Amsterdam with children is on foot and by tram.

Amsterdam has an excellent network of trams that allow safe and efficient movement around the city.

You can find here >>> my complete guide to use Amsterdam public transport with kids in tow

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15+ Fun Things to Do in Amsterdam with Kids + 2024 City Break Guide

Planning a trip to Amsterdam with kids? This guide will take you through how to plan and make the most out of a city break in Amsterdam with children, from helping you discover the best things to do to recommending the top places to stay in Amsterdam for families and even the best day trips from Amsterdam so that you can have the trip of a lifetime!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. Please see the  full disclosure   for further information.

Table of Contents

Is Amsterdam Good for Kids?

Amsterdam is a great city for kids.

The Dutch capital is full of fun things to do and see, whether visiting many museums or exploring its historic canal ring by boat. There are also lots of places to eat and drink, so you can make the most of your trip with your family by planning ahead. If you’re looking for things to do in Amsterdam with kids.

Is Amsterdam Good for a City Break?

Amsterdam is a great city for a family break. It’s one of the most popular destinations in The Netherlands . There are many attractions to visit, plus plenty of shopping opportunities and activities for kids. You can easily spend a day sightseeing or take your time and see more of Amsterdam. The city is compact, so there’s no need to go far to find something interesting.

When is the Best Time to Visit Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a great city to visit at any time of the year. The Dutch have a saying that goes, “Sunny days are rare, but so are rainy ones.” And with that in mind, there is no bad time to visit Amsterdam.

However, if you’re looking for a more lively city break experience, then I would suggest going during spring or summer . This is the time when most of Europe is on holiday an city during May.

The Amsterdam Tulip Festival takes place each year in May and draws thousands of visitors worldwide. During this event, you can participate in flower shows, watch parades and enjoy live music performances.

and there are lots of things to do in Amsterdam with kids. And if you want some peace and quiet then autumn or winter is also good.

Amsterdam in December

December is a special month in Amsterdam. It’s the month of Sinterklaas, the Dutch Santa Claus. The city is filled with activities for children, like parades and parties.

The weather during December is usually mild, but there can be some cold days.

Amsterdam in May

Perfect weather for cycling around town with your kids or visiting Amsterdam zoo. May is a great time to visit Amsterdam. The weather is generally very pleasant, with temperatures in the high teens or low 20s. Many events and festivals also occur across the

How to Get to Amsterdam

Getting to Amsterdam is easy, whether you’re travelling with your family or as a solo traveller. The city has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains.

Travelling by train is the most convenient way to get to Amsterdam from Schiphol Airport (AMS) . From the airport, take the free shuttle bus to the station in front of Terminal 2. Trains frequently run between 6 a.m. and midnight every day of the week, taking about 20 minutes to reach Amsterdam Central Station (CS). Book your train here >>

Compare flights for your dates here.

You can also travel by bus if you don’t want to pay for parking at the airport or if you’re arriving late at night when all other modes of transport have stopped running. Schiphol Airport has a 24-hour service called “Schiphol Night Bus.”

Order an individual transfer A car of the class of your choice will be assigned to you. The driver will wait for you even if the flight is delayed and will take you to the address indicated in advance. Book your transfer here.

How to Get Around Amsterdam City

The best way to get around Amsterdam is by tram or bus . Trams run frequently and go everywhere, while buses cover some places trams don’t go — like the suburbs. Trams come in two varieties: regular trams and light rail trams (LRT). Regular trams are usually blue, while LRTs have a red stripe down the side; both types cost €2 per ride (one way).

There are also ferries across the IJ River to the mainland and cruise ships that dock at Central Station at Prins Hendrikkade next to Centraal Station. Ferries depart from behind Centraal Station or from the NDSM Shipyard on NDSM-terrein Island, which is just south of Centraal Station on Oostelijke Handelskade.

There’s no better way to get around Amsterdam than on two wheels. The city is flat, well-connected by cycle paths , and the weather is usually good. If you’re visiting with children aged under 12, you can rent a children’s bakfiets (bicycle trailer) from many places in Amsterdam or bring your own. Bakfietsen (literally “box bikes”) are the traditional cargo bikes used by many Dutch families to transport kids, groceries, or other cargo around town. They’re great fun but not practical for everyday use.

Top 10 things to do in Amsterdam with Kids

Amsterdam is a city that never sleeps, but it also has a lot to offer families with children. From visiting the zoo and riding bikes to taking in the city’s spectacular architecture, Amsterdam has plenty for kids to do.

1. Nemo Science Museum

Located in an iconic building overlooking the eastern docklands, NEMO Science Museum is a must-see place to visit with kids of all ages. There are five floors of fascinating science and technology activities to enjoy, including exhibitions, experiments, demonstrations, and workshops. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for the water feature in the summer months, great food, and an amazing view.

2. Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Take a canal boat tour with your family. One of the best ways to see Amsterdam is by canal cruises along one of its famous canals! Amsterdam has canals running across the entire city, so a canal cruise is a perfect activity for the kids to see the city from a totally different viewpoint. You can hire your own electric boat or take one of the organized tours if you prefer.

3. Maritime Museum

Located next to the NEMO museum, the maritime museum takes you back to the 18th century to learn about Amsterdam’s rich history with the sea. There are many interactive exhibitions, a great VR tour, and a cafe under the stunning atrium. The museum is also home to an amazing replica of a huge cargo ship that sank off the coast of England, complete with cannons and living quarters for 200 sailors.

4. Vondelpark

A popular park in Amsterdam, covering 120 acres and with lots of great play areas, a splash pool, fountains, and a film museum. The park is perfect for cycling around, and in the summer months, the Vondelpark Open Air Theatre has free shows for children. Kinderkookkafe is a must-visit with the kids for lunch – where they can become chefs and create their own meals!

5. Artis Royal Zoo

Amazing city-center zoo with diverse animals, a fabulous playground, an aquarium, and a planetarium. Don’t miss the Butterfly House and sea lions! Check out the website for daily feeding/training times and guided tours. The Artis Summer Nights event (July to August/late opening on Saturdays) has loads of great family activities and live music and is great for a picnic.

6. Rijksmuseum

Close to Vondelpark is the world-famous Rijksmuseum , with over 8K works of art on display which you can enjoy with the kids via guided tours, digital games, workshops, and scavenger hunts. The museum also has stunning gardens, fountains, and play areas for the kids to enjoy. Highlights for the kids include model ships, The Dolls House (a miniature replica of a 1st-century house) by Petronella Oortman, and Rembrandt’s famous painting, The Night Watch.

7. Van Gogh Museum

In Amsterdam, the Netherlands, there is a museum devoted to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries. It is situated in the Amsterdam South neighborhood’s Museum Square, close to the Concertgebouw, Rijksmuseum, and Stedelijk Museum.

The museum opened on June 19, 1973. It is located in buildings designed by Gerrit Rietveld and Kisho Kurokawa. The museum’s collection is the largest collection of Van Gogh’s paintings and drawings worldwide.

8. Dam Square

Kids love to explore the city, so let them. Dam Square in Amsterdam is one of the most popular places for families with children.

Dam Square is a beautiful public square in the center of Amsterdam, and it is surrounded by some of the most important buildings in the city. It’s also a great place for kids to explore for a few hours.

9. Amsterdamse Bos

Get back to nature at Amsterdamse Bos : a 1000-hectare forest and nature park in the southern part of the city with working farms, playgrounds, a lake, a wading pool, and the Fun Forest Climbing Park (kids 6 and over). The goat farm allows the kids to feed, milk, and play with the animals. Bike hire is available so you can properly explore the nature park.

10. Anne Frank House

A museum with a compelling story and not to be missed if you are visiting with older kids. Located on Prinsengracht, the building looks like any other until you enter and learn about wartime diarist Anne and her amazing story. The museum has an audio tour, photos, videos, and original items to engage the kids. Booking tickets online in advance is a must.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam with Kids

Amsterdam is a very kid-friendly city. You can stay in the center, or if you prefer, there are plenty of options just outside the city that offer a quieter, more family-focused experience.

The best areas for families are:

Centrum – This area is right in the middle of the city and has everything you need; shops, restaurants, and bars. It is also very close to most of the major tourist attractions, such as Vondelpark and Amsterdam Museum (Oude Kerk).

De Pijp – This area is slightly further away from the town center but still within walking distance (10-15 minutes). It is quieter than Centrum but still has many attractions, including Albert Cuyp Market and De Hallen shopping center.

Budget: Rembrandt Square Hotel

The Hotel Rembrandt is situated in the heart of Amsterdam, close to the historic city centre. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites with free Wi-Fi.

This hotel provides children’s cots free of charge and includes babysitting services at an additional charge. There is also free Wi-Fi throughout the property for families travelling with children.

Mid-Range: The Lancaster Hotel Amsterdam

The Lancaster Hotel Amsterdam is close to the zoo, making it perfect for families with children. It also has a terrace on the roof where you can enjoy drinks or food in the evening.

Splashing Out: Ambassade Hotel

Located in the centre of Amsterdam in 17th Century canal-side building, The Ambassade Hotel offers elegant rooms, modern facilities, an excellent restaurant, and family-friendly amenities (cots and babysitting services available on request)

Where to Eat with Kids in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has loads of great family-friendly restaurants. The kids will love Stamppot (mashed potatoes, sausage, bacon, and vegetables), Poffertjes (small pancakes in powdered sugar), and Stroopwafel (waffles and syrup).

• Restaurant Moeders, Rosengracht – Moeders is actually Dutch for mother. This traditional and cozy restaurant serves tasty Dutch cuisine (including Stamppot). View on TripAdvisor Here >>>
• Pancake Bakery, Prinsengracht – Amazing pancakes, a great historic venue, and the opportunity to have savory, sweet, or your own unique pancake creations. View on TripAdvisor Here >>>
• The Butcher – Great family-friendly place to stop for lunch with four branches across the city center, serving mouth-watering burgers, popcorn chicken, hotdogs, and milkshakes. View on TripAdvisor Here >>>

2 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary

A 2-day Amsterdam itinerary is great for a quick visit to Amsterdam. It’s enough time to see the highlights while still having time to relax and explore at your own pace.

Day 1: How to Spend a Day in Amsterdam

Morning: Take a bike tour to see the city and hear about its history. Biking is one of the best ways to see Amsterdam, and you can rent a bike for as little as €1 per hour at several places around town. Book your bike tour tickets here >>>

Afternoon: Enjoy one of Amsterdam’s many museums or art galleries. Check out the Rijksmuseum , where you can see masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer; the Van Gogh Museum, which has Vincent’s paintings; or the Anne Frank House, where you can learn about her life during the Holocaust.

Day 2: 48 Hours in Amsterdam with Kids

If you have 2 days in Amsterdam , here is what you can do on day 2:

Morning: Explore Jordaan, a neighbourhood with a beautiful canal view, and take a stroll through the city’s Vondelpark.

Afternoon: Take the train to Amsterdam Central Station. Once you arrive, head to Dam Square and explore the Royal Palace, National Monument, and Royal Palace.

Day Trips from Amsterdam with Kids

Amsterdam is a beautiful city, bursting with things to see and do. However, if you’re visiting with kids and want to get out of the city, there are plenty of day trips. You can visit a windmill, go on a canal cruise or explore nature reserves in the area. Here are some of our favourite day trips from Amsterdam:

The Keukenhof Gardens are one of the most popular tourist destinations, especially during spring when they open their doors to visitors worldwide. These gardens are located in Lisse, which is a small town about 20 minutes outside Amsterdam by train.

The gardens are open from March 21st until May 13th every year and feature over 7 million tulips in bloom! There are other flowers on display and fun activities like pony rides and mini-golf courses.

The gardens also host music concerts throughout the season, so keep an eye out for these events if you want something extra special to do while you’re there!

2. Efteling Theme Park

Train and bus travel to Efteling Theme Park from Amsterdam takes two hours. Families with both young children and older youngsters should visit The Efteling, one of the best Netherlands theme parks .

The Pandadroom and the Fairy Tale Forest are two of the park’s kid-friendly rides. However, older kids will adore Villa Volta, Fata Morgana, and Flight of Dreams. The park is a great day excursion for the whole family because it is filled with both indoor and outdoor roller coasters.

View more of the best theme parks in Europe here>>>

3. Zaanse Schans

This is an open-air museum in Zaandam, which is about 20 minutes by train from Amsterdam Centraal station. It offers many authentic Dutch experiences, such as seeing how bread was baked in the old days, visiting an old windmill, and taking a canal boat ride through the Zaan River area. Our kids loved this place!

Amsterdam is famous for its iconic canals, vibrant Dutch tulips, Baroque townhouses and amazing museums. Known as the ‘Venice of the North, this beautiful city is home to floating flower markets, beautiful townhouses, Van Gogh’s art, and the house of Anne Frank.

The top tourist attraction in Amsterdam is a visit to the canals. Built in the 17th Century, a boat ride across the 100 canals, crossed by thousands of bridges, is a great way to enjoy the city and lots of fun for the kids as many child-friendly tours are available.

Amsterdam can be extremely affordable if you plan ahead and book in advance. You will save a lot if you book accommodation on the city’s fringe. Get the I Amsterdam City Card too, which offers free entry/great discounts on museums, transport, restaurants, and shops.

Don’t miss a trip to Zaanse Schans. This traditional Dutch town is only 35 minutes via train and is like being in a Disney movie! Quaint houses, unique shops, and a truly stunning setting. Muiden Castle, Keukenhof Gardens, and The Hague are all about 1 hour via train from Amsterdam and well worth visiting too.

If you are traveling with a 1-year-old, they will love riding around the city in a bakfiet and sampling the amazing pancakes (poffertjes). Add to that a family-friendly canal cruise, numerous playgrounds, a zoo, a nature park, and many toddler-friendly museums.

Amsterdam is often thought of as the ‘Sin City of Europe,’ but it is actually super family-friendly and great for toddlers. There are numerous activities for babies and toddlers to enjoy, both indoors and outdoors, so don’t miss out on this vibrant and fun European city.

Plan Your Trip to Amsterdam with Kids

Find Family friendly Accommodation >>>

Find the best flights for your dates >>>

Book your bus and train tickets >>>

Reserve Your Private Transfer >>>

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Destination Daydreamer

22 Things to do with kids in Amsterdam + Where to Stay

We recently took a short Amsterdam family holiday which led to me doing sooo much research on things to do with kids in Amsterdam. We had one full day to explore Amsterdam with our kids, but we definitely could have spent more days enjoying the fun things the city has for kids to enjoy and the amazing parks surrounding the city.

This list of things to do in Amsterdam includes things to do in Amsterdam with toddlers, top Amsterdam kids attractions, delicious places to eat, plus where to stay in Amsterdam with kids!

I’ve compiled 23 great things to do on an Amsterdam family vacation no matter the age of your kids. Whether you have toddlers or teenagers you are bound to love some of these things to do in Amsterdam as a family.

*There may be affiliate links in this post. Read my  privacy/disclosure policy  to learn more. This article is in collaboration with ‘Van der Valk Hotel Amsterdam Amstel ‘ all opinions are my own .

Where to Stay as a Family in Amsterdam

By far one of the highlights of our Amsterdam family itinerary was the hotel we stayed in. We stayed at the Van der Valk Amsterdam Amstel Hotel and seriously could not have loved the accommodations more.

Not only does Van der Valk Amstel have rooms catered specifically to families with their family suite and comfort triple room, but they also provide beautiful boutique-style accommodations (which can be hard to come by when traveling as a family).

Plus, the price of the hotel feels on par with other hotels in the city, even though it has so many awesome extra amenities. Our room had a large, king-size bed, a beautiful bathroom with a HUGE tub perfect for a fun bath time, an amazing rain shower head, a separate room with a bunk bed, and even a crib for our little one.

The absolute highlight of our stay at the Van der Valk was the outdoor heated pool. We arrived in Amsterdam the evening before our day of exploring and it was the perfect activity to enjoy before heading to bed. Plus, after a long day of exploring the next day, we were all so excited to head back to the hotel and swim.

Along with the outdoor pool, Van der Valk Amstel has amazing wellness facilities that are included in the price of your stay (think sauna, steam room, foot baths, and more!). It’s so dreamy and we pretty much had it to ourselves anytime we walked through.

Since the gorgeous wellness facilities are included with your stay it makes it super easy for parents to take turns watching their kiddos and sneak down to relax. Definitely a unique experience when traveling with kids!

My husband and I still talk about wanting to go back to the Van der Valk Amstel Hotel just to take more advantage of the sauna and relaxation areas.

Van der Valk Amsterdam Amstel also has a really great breakfast buffet which can be added to the price of your room. We loved the fresh squeezed orange juice and smoothie options, plus they had made-to-order omelets and provided any other sweet or savory breakfast item you could think of.

To top it off, it’s only a short 8-minute metro ride into the city with the metro stop about a 5-minute walk from the hotel. The Van der Valk has beautiful, family-friendly rooms and amazing facilities that can’t be missed in Amsterdam!

If you are looking for a great place to stay as a family in Amsterdam, I definitely recommend the Van der Valk Amsterdam Amstel Hotel. Read more about our stay in my post about Van der Valk Hotel !

Map of Where to Visit in Amsterdam with Kids

*Use this interactive map to see where all the top family-friendly Amsterdam sights spots are located*

23 Things to do in Amsterdam for kids

1. eat amsterdam’s iconic treat at van wonderen stroopwafels.

Can there really be a better way to start your day in Amsterdam than by picking up delicious stroopwafels? A stroopwafel is a yummy & sweet Dutch treat with two thin waffle cookies with a caramel filling.

Van Wonderen Stroopwafels is such a cute place with whimsical decorations and the prettiest stroopwafels I’ve ever seen (okay I haven’t seen many stroopwafels, but still these are by far the prettiest). Our little girl loved picking out which toppings she wanted and of course, loved snacking on them throughout the day.

You can order a box of small stroopwafels or order large, made-to-order warm ones. We ordered a box to share throughout the day but next time would try a warm one for sure!

We visited in the morning before lunch and were the only ones in the shop. However, we did notice a couple of small ropes that help control a queue that I’m guessing forms later in the day.

2. Take a child-friendly Canal Tour with Blue Boat Company

My favorite thing we did during our one day in Amsterdam with kids was taking the Blue Boat Company Canal Tour . We weren’t sure if we were going to take this canal tour , however, our little kiddo was so intrigued by all of the boats she saw in the canals and really wanted to take a ride herself.

After lots of research, I had learned about the (only?) child-centered boat tour in Amsterdam and I was very happy with our experience! We were given a small activity packet for our two kiddos to help them stay entertained during the 75-minute canal tour .

The packet had a coloring book with colored pencils, small cardboard binoculars, and an eye patch. Plus, they even had a special pre-recorded story they can listen to instead of the tour commentary that the kiddos may not be as interested in.

We brought her own headphones that were easier for her to use rather than the small earbuds the boat provides. All the activities kept her entertained for about 3/4 of the canal tour which I would say was a success!

Plus, the boat even has a toilet which is a must when traveling with a toddler! I recommend booking a canal tour in advance in case they sell out. And when you arrive, be sure to ask them for the activity packet for your kids!

3. Hunt for the tiny, hidden Amsterdam Houses

A great way to enjoy walking along the beautiful canals in the city, but also a way to keep your kids engaged is to hunt for the tiny, hidden art installation of the tiny Amsterdam houses. These cute houses are located in a crack between two buildings at Westertraat 54 in’ The 9 Streets (De 9 Straatjes) ‘ district.

A great thing about their location is they are located just down the road from the cafe, Winkel 43 where you can get delicious Dutch apple pie (more on that below)!

4. Snack on Dutch Apple Pie at Winkel 43

Another iconic treat in Amsterdam is Dutch Apple Pie. The difference between Dutch apple pie and American apple pie is the top layer. The top layer of a Dutch apple pie is more of a crumbly, streusel topping vs a pie crust topping of an American pie.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Café Winkel 43 | Amsterdam (@cafewinkel43amsterdam)

One of the most popular places to pick up Dutch Apple Pie is from the corner cafe, Winkel 43 . Plus, Winkel 43 also has a breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu if you are in need of something a little more substantial than dessert 😅.

You can eat your pie inside or enjoy it outside on their terrace just a short hop and jump to a nearby canal.

5. Walk by or Tour the Anne Frank House

Touring the Anne Frank House may not be suitable for young kids. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t walk by and see the outside! The museum’s website says the recommended minimum age for children is 10 years old, however, it is up to the parents to decide if their kids are ready for the subject matter even at that age.

The Anne Frank House was a secret annex where for two years during WWII, Anne Frank, her family, and others hid. Today, you can see the preserved hiding place plus photos, film clips, and original items from the time.

If you want to visit the Anne Frank House, purchase tickets on their website . It’s important to note that every first Tuesday of the month, all tickets for the following month become available. They do go fast, so put it in your calendar and hop on to secure your time slot.

Another good thing to note is that there are many steep stairs in the Anne Frank House without an elevator. The website states that if you have difficulty walking, you may have trouble climbing these stairs.

If you are looking for some great books to read to prep for your time at the Anne Frank House you can of course read ‘The Diary of Anne Frank’ which is probably the most popular book. But another favorite (and one I really enjoyed) is ‘Anne Frank Remembered: The Story of the Woman Who Helped to Hide the Frank Family’.

6. Pick up lunch to-go at The Lebanese Sajeria

This lunch spot may feel random, but it came highly recommended from the popular foodie vloggers TOPJAW . We picked up lunch to-go at The Lebanese Sajeria at their Nine Streets location and it was perfect for what we wanted.

First of all their wraps (as I’ll call them) can be suited to many different dietary needs like gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian. Secondly, it was healthy and delicious. And lastly, we took our wraps on the go and ate them at a small, nearby park while the kiddos played (it’s a 7-minute walk from The Lebanese Sajeria).

And at least for our kiddo, this was a great kid-friendly lunch. We were able to get a wrap with only hummus and she munched on it for the rest of the day. Or you could get a wrap with just meat or cheese or whatever you can get your little one to eat.

I ordered the vegetarian Aubergine & Labneh wrap and my husband ordered the Chicken & Labneh and both were super delicious and hit the spot.

7. Step onto a houseboat at the Houseboat Museum

One of my favorite things in Amsterdam (plus one of our 3-year-olds favorite things) was seeing all the different houseboats along the canals. And there are a lot to see because there are around 2,500 houseboats in the canals of Amsterdam with many of them moored in the city center.

Our kiddo asked multiple times if we could get on one of the houseboats and I so wish we had realized what the Houseboat Museum was when we visited! At first, it didn’t sound like something she’d be interested in (I was thinking a traditional museum that wouldn’t be catered to kids).

But basically what the museum is, is it’s a houseboat in the canal you can actually get on and see what life on a houseboat is like I think we all would have loved this and it’s definitely on the top of our list for the next time we visit Amsterdam with kids.

The houseboat museum is open every day from 10:00 am- 5:00 pm, it’s super inexpensive and it only takes about 10-15 minutes to see (how does that sound for kid-friendly 😄?) Tickets are only available onboard but check out their website for more info.

8. See the flowers at Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam

Located near the ARTIS Zoo is the Amsterdam Botanical Gardens (Hortus Botanicus). You can wander the gardens outdoors or visit their three greenhouses.

In the greenhouses, you’ll find desert and tropical plants, palms, and even a butterfly greenhouse! We love visiting butterfly houses and trying to let a butterfly land on us. The botanical gardens are open every day from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm but check out their website for more info.

9. Get great views of the city at the A’dam lookout

If you’re a lover of great views like I am, then you will love the A’dam Lookout Observation Deck . No matter the age of kids, there is likely something there they will love. With young kids, you can enjoy the 360° views of Amsterdam and the surrounding cities while you enjoy ice cream.

Or if you have older kids (taller than 1.2 meters or 47.2 inches) they can swing over the edge of the building 100 meters up on Europe’s highest swing or experience a unique virtual reality ‘rollercoaster’ ride through the city. You can get a small discount if you purchase tickets online ahead of time. Check out the A’dam Lookout website .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by A'DAM LOOKOUT (@adamlookout)

10. Pick up a famous cookie from Van Stapele Koekmakerij

At Van Stapele Koekmakerij they sell one kind of cookie and only one kind. It’s a delicious dark chocolate cookie with a gooey white chocolate filling. We wondered if it was going to be worth it since we had to wait in a queue out the door to get our box of six cookies… but it was worth it.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Van Stapele Koekmakerij (@vanstapele)

They roll out the cookie dough fresh in front of you throughout most of the day and are continually taking them out of the oven so you are likely to get super fresh, warm cookies ( like we did)! I think any sweet stop is a good motivator to help your littles make it to their next destination in the city.

11. Participate in the family-friendly activities at the Rijksmuseum

The Amsterdam Rijksmuseum (art museum) is free for kids up to the age of 19 and there are lots of awesome, daily family activities at the museum . For example, you can participate in a guided family tour, a family game through the museum, drawing or even a sensory-friendly evening for families (just to name a few).

If you think your kids aren’t up to exploring the museum (and it’s a hot day), they may love playing in the Rijksmuseum fountain just outside. You could even have the adults take turns watching the kiddos outside while the other goes in to explore the museum on their own.

12. Pick out souvenirs at Stins Flower Market (floating flower market)

I’m sure in your research you’ve heard of the bloemenmarkt (floating flower market) in Amsterdam. Truth be told, it sounds much cooler than it is in real life. Basically, it is a row of very touristy shops that happen to be built out over the canal making it a floating flower market.

That being said, there was one shop at the end of the bloemenmarkt called Stins Flower Market that was a little cuter than the others and turned out to be a great place to pick up a few trinkets to take home as souvenirs. You can purchase bulbs, seeds, and flowers, among other fun Amsterdam favorites like Dutch wooden shoes.

I wouldn’t choose this place as a destination on its own, but if you happen to be in the area and want to do some touristy shopping, this is a good stop.

13. Experience the NEMO Science Museum

The NEMO Science Museum consists of five floors full of fun experiments to learn about shapes, light, sound, water, humankind, and more! The NEMO Science Museum also has a public rooftop with fun play areas for kids and super cool water features in the summer months to cool down!

So even if you aren’t into science experiments or don’t want to pay for entrance, the rooftop can still be a super fun place to visit as a family (plus it’s free!).

14. Snap quirky pics at The Upside Down Amsterdam

The Upside Down Amsterdam is perfect for anyone who loves taking pictures and all things quirky! It is the biggest Instagram experience in Europe with over 25 fun rooms and installations for taking pictures.

You can jump in the large swimming pool full of balls, pretend to be hanging upside down from the ceiling, or pose with your own pink airplane! They even have museum cameras set up in each room that you can download for free after your visit. Check out tickets here !

15. Explore Vondelpark

Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s largest park with many walking and bike paths, cafes, outdoor amphitheaters, and playgrounds. Check out this page to learn more about specific play areas within Vondelpark.

Vondelpark is 120 acres large with one end conveniently located near the Rijksmuseum and the dock for Amsterdam’s child-friendly canal tour . The park is very popular among both Amsterdam residents and tourists.

16. See the city on bike (with a kids seat!)

Amsterdam is known for its extensive bike paths and lanes that make cycling an efficient and safe mode of transportation maybe only rivaled by Copenhagen (which I am partial to as a resident of Denmark). But if you think renting bikes in Amsterdam is only for adults, think again!

These Amsterdam bike rentals come with the option to add an infant/child seat to the back of your bike plus helmets. We didn’t have the time to rent bikes in Amsterdam, however, we have in Copenhagen and it was such a great time and we really felt like the locals.

I’d recommend renting bikes in Amsterdam if you will be staying in the city for a few days and will have time to explore both on foot and on bike.

17. Cross the water on a rope-drawn ferry at Play Island in Amsterdam Bos

Another awesome park in Amsterdam is located in Amsterdam Bos just a little bit out of the city center. Amsterdam Bos is a huge park (one of the largest city parks in Europe) with lots of different things to do. One of the most interesting and unique play areas in Amsterdam Bos is called Play Island (Speeleilanden) .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amsterdamse Bos (@amsterdamsebos)

It’s an awesome water play area (with no lifeguards fyi) where kids can get to island across the water with fun walkways and rope-drawn ferries! Play Island is definitely something that’d be hard to come by in the US- so check it out if you can!

Check out this video to see more of what there is to do at Play Island!

18. Feed the goats at the Goat Farm Ridammerhoeve in Amsterdam Bos

Another fun and unique thing to do within Amsterdam Bos is to visit the Goat Farm Ridammerhoeve . It’s basically a farm where you can visit goats, sheep, chickens, pigs, cows and horses! You may even be able to feed the baby goats a bottle or the grown goats their own food.

Plus, while you’re there, you can play in the small play areas and snack on goat cheese or even goat ice cream!

19. Have an adventure at the Nature Playground Het Woeste Westen

If you haven’t realized by now, Amsterdam is full of fun playgrounds. Another great playground to check out is the nature playground, Het Woeste Westen . You can play with water, and sand, catch little water critters, ride on a raft or even play in a little stream.

There are playground managers available every day and kids up to the age of 13 can play for free! It’s located just a 20-minute metro ride from the central station and is a great place to hang out with kids who want to play.

20. See the animals at ARTIS zoo

If your kiddos love visiting zoos whenever they have a chance, be sure to swing by ARTIS Zoo in Amsterdam. You can listen to the zookeepers tell stories about different animals, visit the planetarium or just explore the different exhibits.

The great news is that ARTIS Zoo is open every single day of the year (even holidays) so you’ll for sure be able to fit it into your Amsterdam schedule! Get your tickets in advance here.

21. Run through the tulips at Keukenhof Gardens

If you plan your trip just right, you can visit Amsterdam in spring to see millions (yes millions) of tulips blossoming! One of the most popular places to see the tulips in Amsterdam is at Keukenhof Gardens just outside of the city. In the gardens, 100 flower growers exhibit their gorgeous bulbs with designs specifically geared toward blooming times, color, height, and more!

For the easiest (and comfiest) transport to Keukenhof Gardens be sure to purchase the Keukenhof entrance ticket with coach transport from near central station in Amsterdam. We know with kids it’s best to have the easiest and most comfortable accommodations when traveling around cities.

The coach transport to Keukenhof (with entrance tickets) even has a bathroom on board! Plus it’s much quicker than taking the metro from central station (a major win in my opinion) and you’re guaranteed a spot back.

22. Take a ride on the Amstelpark Train

Yet again, another awesome park in Amsterdam is Amstelpark. Be sure to take the Amsteltrein for a lovely 15-minute ride around the huge park for only about 3 euros. After the train ride, you can check out the playground, hedge maze, children’s farm and more!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amsteltrein (@amsteltrein)

Check out these other posts, I know you’ll love them :

The Best Family Hotel in Amsterdam: Van der Valk Amsterdam Amstel

• How to Find the Amsterdam Airport Playground: Things You Need to Know
• The Best Double Stroller for Travel to Europe From Personal Experience
• 15 Essential Tips for Disneyland Paris Planning
• 10 Top Hacks: How to Enjoy Wintery Bruges Belgium with a baby
• 10 Fun Playgrounds in Paris Near Top Paris Attractions

And those are the top activities in Amsterdam with kids that I recommend! Please  let me know  if you have any questions in the comments below. I love to talk all things travel.

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10 Family Friendly Things To Do In Amsterdam

Amsterdam may have its renown for sex and drugs, but we were there for other reasons. Other than the Netherlands being my mother’s country of origin, we were excited to discover Amsterdam as a family destination, not just one for the single backpackers.

And we did it.

Here are 10 things we found for your next family holiday in Amsterdam.

1. Houseboat

When visiting Amsterdam one of the best places you can stay is on a houseboat . We provided more details of our experience in a separate post. It’s a fun way to step into the Dutch relaxed pace of life and get connected with the waterways this city is so well-known for. Alternatively if being on the water isn’t for you try cozycozy Amsterdam vacation rentals .

NEMO is the largest science centre in the Netherlands. We arrived by canal boat which dropped us at the entrance, but alternatively it’s only a 10 minute walk east from Centraal Station. It’s five jam-packed floors of exciting things to do and discover, for any age visitor.

Exhibitions, theatre, films, workshops, demonstrations, and more give kids the opportunity to learn by touch, sight and sound.

There are interactive displays like producing purified water or hoisting your own body weight with pulleys. Our kids enjoyed the science lab where we were provided with lab coats and clipboards and undertook science experiments. We watched how one colour separated into two using only water – fascinating!

Curiously there was a 12 to 18-year-old section, which was filled with dolls in sexual positions and puppet tongues to demonstrate French kissing. Not entirely appropriate in my opinion for any 12-year-old, and was certainly causing many of the adults to blush.

Near the exit on the top floor there was a café along with a kids water playground. The top of the building provided a glorious view of the surrounding canals, harbour and city.

In addition to shaded seating, various games were scattered around the rooftop which could be utilized without even needing to visit inside (or buying an entry ticket).

Despite the sexually provocative exhibit, NEMO was a fun place to take the kids for an exciting few hours of discovery. 

3. Kinderkookkafe

This café is a wonderful addition for families in Amsterdam. It’s a unique concept that we haven’t witnessed anywhere else in our travels. Not only was there an outdoor playground and an indoor play area, but kids could cook their own meal.

There was a series of photos along the front counter area showing varies items that could be made and what ingredients were needed.

Our kids chose to make a pizza. They were given a tray and instructions to select all the ingredients shown on the picture – dough, flour, tomato sauce, vegetables and cheese.

With their cute little aprons and chef hats, they sat down to create their culinary masterpiece. They then passed it to the staff to carefully place in the oven and went off to play. Once the pizza was ready, they ran back inside to gobble it all down.

The place was a little worse for wear, it had rained heavily the night before and the building was still slightly flooded. The grass in the garden needed to be cut and some of the play equipment was worn, but making your own food is the stuff of dreams for my kids and they had a thoroughly wonderful time. I highly recommend it.

4. Ontdekhoek

Slightly outside of town, but very easy to get to by metro or tram, is this discovery centre. It was like a smaller, simpler version of KidZania .

The kids were provided with a clipboard with quite a number of different jobs on it. They could choose what they wanted to do, and the staff member would then cross it off the list and hand them any tools or items they needed to complete the mission.

Our first job was making potato chips. The kids were both given a potato and piece of paper. We walked over to a station, which instructed the kids how to make a cone out of the paper.

After that we went to the next station, which had a peeler. The kids peeled the potato and then carefully cut the potatoes with a small knife. After that they put the chips in a deep fryer.

Yes, it was hot oil and relatively unsupervised so make sure you are with the kids every inch of the way. Once the chips were ready we helped them take the fryer out and empty their chips into their paper cone.

Despite (and possibly because of) the knife and hot oil, the kids absolutely loved it and the chips were pretty tasty. 

We tried lots of activities from building a dam (can’t visit Amsterdam without building a dam) to making music (stamping a music sheet with holes) and to writing with ink and a quill, making sailboats, roasting coffee beans and plenty more. 

The kids were saying “one more” the entire time and we finally really had to say “one more” as we were getting hungry.

We saw a school group there (there was a very unique, groovy system for holding bags) and it is an incredible place to spend more then a few hours. Bring lunch and stay longer. 

5. Anne Frank’s Huis (The Anne Frank House)

At Prinsengracht 263 in Amsterdam there was a young Jewish girl, Anne Frank, who lived in hiding with her family for more than 2 years during World War II. She was eventually ratted out, deported and died in a concentration camp. Her father was the only surviving member of the family and went on to discover her journey during the period by reading her diary. He had it published into an international best selling book and her story has lived on ever since.

The house is a sobering experience detailing the confines the family and friends shared and snippets from her diary.

While not overly kid-friendly, it was an important lesson to share with our kids. It’s a significant journey that is simply a must when visiting Amsterdam. Make sure you purchase tickets online in advance as the entry queues are phenomenally long.

6. Pannenkoekenboot (Pancake Boat)

We never made it to the pancake boat in Amsterdam. Unfortunately we thought the boat had a 5:45pm boarding time for a 6pm departure. When we arrived at 5:50pm they had already departed. So don’t be late.

We did, however, do a similar experience with the same company in Rotterdam and it was loads of fun. Cruising around the harbour for 75 minutes while having all you can eat pancakes is fabulous, but mix into that a kids ball pit in the bottom of the boat and this activity has the family fed, the adults touring and the kids playing. Triple win!

7.  Madame Tussauds

To be honest, this was not high on our list of things to do in Amsterdam, but we were so glad we did it. It was so much more then just wax statues. Famous for it’s wax museum celebrities you will be tempted to photograph yourself with every single one.

But it’s a lot more than wax models; there is an interactive experience to test your soccer skills, dress like royalty, pose with ET on a bike, take a “smooth criminal” photo with Michael Jackson on a green screen, and so much more.

Plus when you get to the top of the building the views over Dam Square are pretty special. 

Oh, and on the way out there’s a cheeky surprise.

8.  Canal Tour

Most of Amsterdam can be best seen from its canal system. The Canal Bus provides 4 routes and 19 stops using a hop-on-hop-off arrangement. You know how much we love those. Stops include the main museums in the area, shopping areas and attractions. It’s a great way to get around and explore Amsterdam for the day.

9. Eating Amsterdam

What’s a family holiday without holiday food? The streets of Amsterdam are filled with delicious Dutch food that will enrich your Amsterdam experience. Check out our full post on 10 Dutch foods you have to try. 

10.  Zaanse Schans

Not quite in Amsterdam but not too far out, is this delightful village on the banks of the river Zaan. From Centraal Station you can take the regional bus and be here in less than 40 minutes.

This is where you go for your windmill experience or to try on clogs and to eat lots of delicious cheese. 

Zaanse Schans features green wooden houses, cute gardens, small hump-backed bridges, tradesmen workshops, historical windmills and even a goat or two. The whole village is aimed at pleasing the tourist from its kid-friendly game area where children can try stilts or hula hoping to the little stores offering samples of cheeses and chocolates. 

We climbed a windmill for an unbeatable, stunning vista of the Dutch countryside, then hitting a clog shop to watch how they were made and perhaps buy some for your best friends (because heaven knows you’re not going to wear such uncomfortable shoes). 

In the tourist centre you can also visit the Verkade museum, which demonstrates the long history of a biscuit and chocolate making factory… and you get to try some, yum!

We haven’t even covered bicycling around Amsterdam, visiting Rembrandt Square, meeting locals, floating flower stores and so much more. But this at least gives you a small taste of just how family friendly Amsterdam really is. 

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Reader Comments...

What a fantastic wrap up! We loved our three days in Amsterdam with kids too.

Erin, thanks for bringing one of my home towns back to life through your wonderful photos and descriptions! I am proud to be Dutch Canadian and have some great memories and especially love all those foods you mention though I wasn't familiar with one (the pancake puffs) nor like herring. But olliebollen, hagelslag, croquettes, dropjes (double salted)..yum, yum, yum! Did you visit Madurodam (miniature world) in Holland or the beautiful I think Rijksmuseum...those are also favourites of mine! ;)

Thank you for this! We've only ever been to Amsterdam as adults (ahem....!) but have decided to take our 7 and 1 year old there in the summer for 48 hours (to get them used to flying before we go to Egypt a week later!), so this has been massively useful for finding those slightly more kid friendly things to do!

Another great write-up. It's good to see other families that have enjoyed Amsterdam with children. Before I moved here to Amsterdam I was told that Amsterdam isn't very kid friendly. And yet I've found quite the opposite to be true. Amsterdam is one of the most child friendly places. I even wrote a travel book about it. Hopefully we can all spread the word and more families can learn just how friendly Amsterdam is for families!

hi thanks for sharing your wonderful experiences with us i loved every single line in your article and what i love the most witch is you always try to make connection with your readers and m also making a plan for dubai trip

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How to Spend 3 Days in Amsterdam with Kids

Posted on Last updated: March 18, 2024

Home » Destinations » Netherlands » Amsterdam » How to Spend 3 Days in Amsterdam with Kids

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Planning a trip to Amsterdam with kids and want a totally do-able itinerary? Keep scrolling to check out my kid-friendly 3 days in Amsterdam itinerary from my last trip to the Netherlands!

This kid-friendly 3 days in amsterdam itinerary was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

We just got back from our first trip to Amsterdam with kids and we had a blast!

One of my friends went the week before and gave us lots of advice that helped us finalize our Amsterdam itinerary.

We did a mix of kid-friendly tours, museum visits, shopping, day trips, and eating. Keep scrolling to see exactly how our family spent 3 days in Amsterdam.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Amsterdam blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Amsterdam with kids.

Popular Amsterdam Tours/Activities

• Day Trip to Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn (easy way to day trip without any stress)
• Van Gogh Museum Kid-Friendly Private Tour (includes skip-the-line tickets)
• Family-Friendly Amsterdam Private Tour (it’s customizable and a great way to get kids interested in history)
• The Upside Down Amsterdam (fun, Instagram museum for families)
• Flytographer photo shoot (they are easy to book are really affordable)

Kid-Friendly Amsterdam Hotels

• Radisson Blu (great location with lots of family room options)
• Pulitzer Amsterdam (lots of kid-friendly amenities plus family room options)
• Volkshotel (unique hotel near Oosterpark and the Deppermarkt)
• Amsterdam Marriott Hotel (offers family rooms near the Van Gogh Museum)
• Conservatorium Hotel (spacious rooms in the Museum District)

Want to Rent a Bike in Amsterdam? One of the best places to rent a bike in Amsterdam is MacBike Bike Rental because they usually have the cheapest rates and fantastic customer service. Check rates here .

How to Get to Amsterdam from Schiphol Airport

The train is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Amsterdam from Schiphol Airport. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes and trains depart every 10 minutes from platforms 1 and 2 in the main arrival plaza.

Tickets can be purchased from the ticket machines or the service desk.

We opted to take a taxi because it had been a long travel day and the kids were tired of walking.

Taxis and Uber services are readily available at Schiphol Airport. The journey by taxi or Uber to Amsterdam city center typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Taxis have their own designated area just outside the arrival hall, and Uber users can order their ride through the app as usual. Please be aware that while this option offers door-to-door service, it’s more expensive than the train.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam with Kids

We stayed at the Radisson Blu in the central district of Amsterdam. My husband suggested it after he stayed at a similar one in India.

We LOVED this hotel! So, there may have been a slight issue where someone in my family accidentally booked the hotel for NEXT year instead of this year. The hotel staff were really amazing and found us a room that worked and got us all set up.

The kids loved our room because they each had their own bed (one was a roll-away). It was a great size for what we needed.

The location was also really convenient as most things were less than a 15-minute walk. We highly recommend this Amsterdam hotel for families. Check the latest rates and availability .

3 Days in Amsterdam with Kids

Before I really get into the Amsterdam in 3 days itinerary, I wanted to note that we spent the week prior visiting Italy so we had recovered from jet lag by the time we got to Amsterdam.

We took a plane, which is a great way to get from Rome to Amsterdam. It was much less time than taking a train.

We arrived in Amsterdam in the evening, had dinner at the hotel, and then went right to bed. This Amsterdam travel itinerary starts the very next day.

DAY 1: Photo Shoot, Van Gogh Museum, & Anne Frank House

Breakfast at stach.

We had a hard time finding a cafe for breakfast on our first morning. “Coffee shops” in Amsterdam primarily sell wacky tabacky, which threw my husband off as he searched for stuff on his phone.

We ended up at Stach , which had some pastries and coffee. It was a mini version of their grocery store and they had like 5 seats upstairs.

The kids had croissants and my husband and I enjoyed our coffee. But, they didn’t even sell bottled water or juice or something for the kids.

Flytographer Photo Shoot in Amsterdam

I’m pretty obsessed with doing family photo shoots when we travel, and Amsterdam is such a gorgeous backdrop!

We met up with Steven and walked along the city’s famous canals and iconic buildings to capture some amazing photos. He was amazing to work with and was so entertaining and engaging!

Our Amsterdam photography session was at 10:30 a.m. on a fairly overcast day, which meant the lighting was perfect. We also lucked out that there weren’t many crowds, even on this summer day.

Tony’s Chocolonely

I didn’t realize that Tony’s chocolate was from Amsterdam! But, I came across Tony’s Chocolonely in my research and figured it was worth a stop.

It’s a cute little shop where you can pick out your favorite chocolate bars in all sizes. Plus, there’s a big picture window where you can see the factory and assembly line.

There are lots of cute photo ops and the staff here are super friendly! We highly recommend a quick stop here to stock up on yummy chocolate! It’s one of our favorite things to do in Amsterdam for kids!

French Fries for Lunch

The Dutch are known for their French fries, so we figured we’d try them for lunch! Across from Tony’s Chocolonely is Manneken Pis , an award-winning fry spot.

We ordered two small ones so that my kids could get ketchup and I could get truffle mayonnaise.

The fries here are SO good! They have spots where you can stand and eat them or you can take them as you stroll Amsterdam. We ended up walking and eating.

Having fries for lunch is one of the many awesome things for kids to do in Amsterdam.

My kids are HUGE Pokemon fans and they were determined to find Dutch Pokemon cards. Apparently, they are super rare.

We didn’t find them, but we did pick up some Japanese and Korean versions at a local shop (The Gamekeeper) that had all kinds of games, toys, books, and other cool stuff.

We also ended up buying a few things at Lululemon because they had a summer sale and my husband needed some new shirts for the rest of our trip.

Dam Square is one of the most famous and busiest squares in Amsterdam, known as the city’s heart and soul.

This historic site is home to notable buildings such as the Royal Palace, the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk), and the National Monument, a pillar erected in memory of Dutch victims of World War II.

There are lots of buskers and street performers in Dam Square. My kids insisted on taking photos with the grim reaper.

You can also visit a lot of shops and restaurants nearby.

Private Family Tour of the Van Gogh Museum

We met up with Remo for a private family tour of the Van Gogh Museum around 3 p.m.

We had previously visited the Musee d’Orsay to marvel at Van Gogh’s work and had done two different immersive Van Gogh experiences back in Seattle.

We were all pretty excited for our 2-hour tour and Remo was really knowledgeable and passionate about helping us understand Vincent Van Gogh’s life .

This is one of the top world-class museums in Amsterdam and I highly recommend booking this tour .

The Van Gogh Museum has an activity booklet for kids to fill out. Remo helped our kids fill it out after each room and they ended up earning a postcard and a sticker, which they proudly wore the rest of the day.

We got to see a painting of a skeleton smoking, which he did as a joke as he left an art school. This was something our kids were really fascinated by and it’s probably their new favorite Van Gogh piece.

I personally was obsessed with learning about how Van Gogh’s sister-in-law is actually the reason why he is so famous today.

She spent her life marketing his work and strategically selling his paintings to museums to get more eyes on his art.

Honestly, I can’t believe how that isn’t highlighted more. She might be my new favorite hero!

Stroopwafels

After our Van Gogh Museum tour, we decided to walk and find stroopwafels. My husband had done some research and took us to Van Wonderen Stroopwafels .

It’s a tiny shop that usually has a line out the door (that’s how you know it’s good)!

You can get the original stroopwafels or you can get it with toppings like Smarties, marshmallows, salted caramel, nuts, and so much more. I think doing a Stroopwafel crawl is one of the coolest things to do with kids in Amsterdam.

They also have pre-packaged ones that would make great souvenirs.

Dinner at Rancho

At this point, we were all ready for some “real” food, so my husband found a steakhouse. He always seems to know where he can get steak no matter where we are!

I had a grilled salmon salad that hit the spot. It’s hard to get veggies while traveling sometimes. My husband and our kids devoured the steak and it refueled us enough to walk to the Anne Frank House.

Anne Frank House

One of the top Amsterdam attractions is the Anne Frank House, where the young Jewish girl hid during World War II.

So, it’s really tricky to get Anne Frank House tickets, especially if you want the ones with the presentation. Tickets are released about 4 weeks in advance.

I happened to be on a red-eye flight when tickets were released and then I was so sleep-deprived that I accidentally booked the wrong date. Luckily, they were able to schedule me for the right date, but at 8:30 p.m.

We ended up getting there around 8:00 p.m. and they were kind enough to let us in early because our 6-year-old really needed to pee.

The entire experience was really moving and both our kids did a great job of using library voices and having calm bodies.

My 9-year-old read the graphic novel version of Anne Frank’s Diary earlier in the week and he was really interested in seeing her room and where all the family members lived.

He did need to skip the last couple of exhibit areas because he was having a lot of big feelings and needed to be done.

I think it was about 9:00 p.m. at this point and we all needed something “fun” before going to sleep. So we popped into a few stores on our walk back to our hotel.

One of our favorite stops was a rubber duck shop that had literally every type of rubber duck you could think of.

DAY 2: Day Trip to Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans

Breakfast at omelegg.

We had to meet for our Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn tour at 7:45 a.m. so we figured we’d hit a cafe on the walk to the meeting point. We couldn’t believe that we couldn’t find any cafes that were open.

After asking around, we found one restaurants that was open: Omelegg . But, they didn’t have any milk alternatives so I didn’t get my morning coffee. Boo.

But, the kids and my husband got a hearty breakfast and we got some croissants and Nutella to eat on the bus. The service was super friendly and fast.

Zaanse Schans

Our bus tour left just after 8:00 a.m. and our first stop was Zaanse Schans . This is an open air museum dedicated to highlighting Dutch history and culture.

We had a guided tour through the village with demonstrations at the wooden clog museum and the cheese factory. Then, we had free time to wander around and explore at our own pace.

My favorite part was taking photos with the oversized clogs. There were SO many photo ops and that’s something I enjoy doing with my family.

I think my husband and kids enjoyed tasting all the different types of cheeses. The truffle cheese, beer cheese, and pesto cheese were quite lovely.

And the main attraction was getting to see working windmills. We didn’t go inside any, but that was an option that other people on our tour did. See all the best things to do in Zaanse Schans .

At about 11:00 a.m., we started the 90-minute drive to Giethoorn . Our tour guide talked a lot about reclaimed land and the differences between dikes and dams along the way.

Giethoorn itself is a really adorable canal town. I guess it was made famous when it was featured in an old movie called Fanfare. Since then, the town switch from being a farm town to a top tourist attraction.

Our tour included a group boat ride down the canals and through the lake. It was a highlight of our trip to Giethoorn. The captain even let my boys steer the boat for awhile!

After the boat ride, we had a late lunch at an Italian restaurant. Then, we strolled along the canals to check out the shops and take photos on the cute bridges.

We met up with the group at 4:45 p.m. and arrived back in Amsterdam right around 6:15 p.m. Check out my full guide to Giethoorn .

Room Service Dinner

After a 10-hour Amsterdam day trip, the kids begged us for room service. It really did seem like the easiest option.

So, we ordered an assortment of items and everyone zone out in bed while eating dinner. It was a great way to end the day!

DAY 3: Amsterdam Sightseeing Tour

Breakfast at de laatste kruimel.

By now, we realized that a lot of cafes don’t open very early. We tried going to a place we found on Yelp only to discover that it hadn’t actually opened for the day.

So, we ended up at a cool, quirky cafe nearby. They highlighted the fact that they are allergy-friendly, have vegan options, etc. This is great because I’m lactose intolerant and it was sometimes tricky to find places with milk alternatives for coffee.

My kids ordered apple pie, banana bread, and a French Toast croissant thing. My husband had a fancy quiche. And I got a delicious soy latte.

Private Amsterdam Sightseeing Tour

We were so excited that Remo was our guide for the Amsterdam sightseeing tour for kids ! He was our tour guide at the Van Gogh Museum so it was awesome that we already knew each other.

My kids were pretty tired so I wasn’t sure how long they would last on a walking tour . My 6-year-old ended up falling asleep partway through and my husband just carried him.

The tour itself was pretty cool! There wasn’t any scavenger hunt or treasure maps or anything, but it still kept everyone’s interest.

Remo is really great with kids and you can feel his passion for sharing Amsterdam’s history with tourists.

Since this was a private tour, we were also able to customize it a bit to work for our family. At one point, we sat at a cafe for half an hour so our kids could refuel and regroup a bit.

A few highlights were learning about the trading companies, seeing a women’s prison, walking through the Red Light district, and seeing the oldest church in Amsterdam. Check the latest rates and availability .

Lunch at ‘T Nieuwe Kafe

I’m almost embarrassed to admit that we hadn’t had Dutch pancakes yet, so that was the priority for lunch. I figured if we ordered some eggs and bacon, it would be a more balanced meal.

My apple pancakes were so tasty and I was only able to eat about half before I was stuffed. It came with powdered sugar as well as syrup that didn’t taste like maple.

My kids devoured their Nutella Dutch pancakes and even begged to have them for dinner!

Milkmaid Project Photo Shoot

My friend Vanessa from Wanderlust Crew told me about the Milkmaid Project a week before we arrived in Amsterdam and I knew I needed to book a session.

The photographer studied 17th-century paintings, including ones by the famous Dutch painter Vermeer. I actually got to re-create The Milkmaid and it was an incredible and unique experience in Amsterdam.

But, I think it was just as cool to hear about how he studied the painting so much that he discovered a few things about how Vermeer actually painted it. We learned a lot about famous artists and it was fascinating.

We also did a family portrait there in the style of a 17th-century family. Our photographer had a huge array of costumes for all sizes. He even had shoes that fit our kids!

I think my boys were mostly interested in which weapons they got to hold, however they did have fun trying on the hats!

The hardest part about the whole thing was NOT smiling and keeping serious. For our family, that is a struggle!

Doing unique photo shoots like these is just one of the many crazy things to do in Amsterdam for families.

The Upside Down Amsterdam

Since we knew we’d have some time after the Milkmaid Project photography session, we really wanted to do something “fun” for the kids.

We love immersive museum experiences like The Color Factory and Museum of Ice Cream, so I knew my kids would totally dig the Upside Down Amsterdam . It’s definitely one of the coolest Amsterdam museums for kids.

It’s one of the newest Amsterdam attractions. It is sort of like an Instagram spot where they have tons of rooms with interactive elements.

Some rooms have self-timer cameras so you can get photos of your whole group. Others will require someone to take your photo.

My kids had a BLAST just running around and playing on the different exhibits. A few favorites included the trampoline, giant gumball machine, and of course the giant ball pit! Check the latest rates and availability .

It’s a bit of a hike from town so we took a taxi to get there as well as one back to our hotel.

Uber Eats Dinner at Hotel

After such an action-packed day, our family really just wanted to head back to the hotel to relax. We all had been craving Chinese food, which is one of our comfort foods from back home. So, we ordered delivery to our hotel!

BONUS: Morning Canal Tour

Since we had an afternoon flight, it was just enough time for us to do an Amsterdam canal tour before grabbing our bags and heading to the airport.

This might have been my personal favorite thing we did in Amsterdam. The sun was warm and our electric boat was so quiet and smooth.

Doing an Amsterdam canal boat ride was a great way to see the city from a unique perspective. Plus, our tour guide gave us lots of insider information about the city and what it’s like to live there.

We opted for the morning tour because that’s what worked in our schedule. But they also have a wine and cheese one for adults and one that includes Dutch apple pie!

Tips for Visiting Amsterdam with Kids

Stay near amsterdam attractions you want to visit.

Amsterdam is really a pedestrian city. Ubers and taxis are not only expensive, but they usually take a lot longer than if you walk.

I suggest mapping out the places you want to go first, and then figure out what area makes the most sense to stay.

We loved the location of the Radisson Blu for our 3 days in Amsterdam because we could walk to about 75% of the places we wanted to go. But I have a whole list of kid-friendly Amsterdam hotels worth checking out.

Ask Your Kids What THEY Want to Do

I was actually really surprised that my 9-year-old wanted to visit the Anne Frank House. I’m glad I checked with him in time to score the hard-to-get tickets.

They also wanted to look for Pokemon cards, which led us on a fun wild goose chase and we saw lots of cute shops we might not have explored otherwise.

Get Stroopwafels

My kids are pretty food-focused, so they definitely wanted to get stroopwafels. We actually bought a pack of them right when we landed at the airport.

However, it’s always good to get them fresh. There are TONS of places to get fresh stroopwafels in Amsterdam.

Bring Layers

Even though we visited Amsterdam during the summer, it was actually quite chilly most of the time. We even had a few rain showers each day.

I suggest packing a few lightweight sweaters and even a rain jacket for everyone in your family.

Book Entrance Tickets in Advance

A lot of the Amsterdam museums and attractions sell out quickly and it’s super important to book your entrance tickets ahead of time.

Tickets to the Anne Frank House are only sold online about 6 weeks in advance. I also recommend getting skip-the-line tickets to the most famous museums like the Van Gogh Museum or Rijksmuseum .

With a 3-day trip to Amsterdam, you’ll have lots of room to add in at least one museum.

Talk to Your Kids About Bike Safety

One thing that really caught us off-guard was how aggressive the cyclists are! They are almost silent and they will zip through red lights, so it’s important to always be aware.

Make sure your kids understand where pedestrians can walk and what is the bike lane. And have them triple check before crossing any streets.

Be Prepared to Smell Pot

We’re from Seattle, where cannabis has been legal for a few years. But we were still not expecting such a strong smell in a lot of the city.

It’s apparently illegal to be outside and smoke, but we definitely saw people doing it (and smelled it).

It’s pretty easy to just cross the street or walk quickly through it if it’s too strong of a smell.

It’s Easy to Avoid the Red Light District (or go during the morning)

It’s a personal family decision whether or not you’d like to walk through the famous Red Light District.

We walked through during the morning on a tour and my kids didn’t even notice the handful of ladies in the windows.

If you do go, just make sure that everyone in your group knows NOT to take any photos or videos of the ladies, as that is illegal.

Amsterdam Itinerary FAQs

Is 3 days enough to visit amsterdam.

Yes, three days in Amsterdam is usually enough to see many of the city’s key highlights including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and take a canal cruise.

However, the more time you have, the more you can explore, especially if you’re interested in less touristy neighborhoods or want to take day trips. With 4 days in Amsterdam, you could also head to Delft.

Is 2 days enough for Amsterdam?

While you can cover some of the major attractions in Amsterdam in two days, a longer stay would allow you a more leisurely exploration of the city, its museums, parks, and neighborhoods. I highly recommend our Amsterdam 3-day itinerary.

How far is Schiphol Airport from Amsterdam?

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is located about 17 kilometers southwest of Amsterdam city center. It takes approximately 20 minutes to travel between the airport and the city center by train.

Is Amsterdam good for families?

Absolutely! Not only are there lots of things to do in Amsterdam with children, but the city itself is pretty easy to navigate and is pedestrian-friendly. Our 3 days itinerary in Amsterdam covers a ton of family activities and attractions.

Is Albert Cuyp market worth visiting?

Yes, Albert Cuyp Market is worth visiting. It’s the largest and most popular outdoor market in the Netherlands, with over 260 stalls selling everything from fresh produce to clothes, and it’s a great place to try local Dutch snacks.

How can I save money in Amsterdam?

You can save money in Amsterdam by utilizing public transportation or renting a bike instead of taxis, eating at local markets or smaller eateries, visiting free or donation-based attractions, and considering an Amsterdam City Card if you plan to visit many museums.

Is the Amsterdam City Card worth it for families?

The Amsterdam City Card can be a good value for families planning to visit multiple attractions, as it includes free entry to many museums, a canal cruise, and unlimited use of public transportation.

However, it’s best to check whether the attractions you want to visit are included and compare the cost of individual tickets.

Is the Heineken Experience kid-friendly?

The Heineken Experience is primarily geared towards adults as it’s a brewery tour, and alcohol is served.

However, children are allowed to enter under the supervision of an adult, and a complimentary soft drink is offered to children and those who do not drink alcohol.

The interactive elements of the tour may be enjoyable for older kids, but it might not be as engaging for younger children.

3 Days in Amsterdam Travel Tips Wrap Up

Spending 3 nights in Amsterdam presents ample time to get a taste of the city’s charming blend of history, culture, and kid-friendly activities.

This carefully curated 3-day Amsterdam itinerary offers a great balance of exploration and relaxation for the whole family.

Begin in the city center, where a world of exploration awaits within walking distance. You can also delve into significant World War II history sites that serve as poignant, educative experiences.

Make sure to spend time simply exploring Amsterdam; walk along the canals, taste local foods, and embrace the city’s unique atmosphere.

No matter how you choose to spend your 3 days in Amsterdam, the city is bound to leave a lasting impression that your family will treasure.

Looking for more Amsterdam travel content? Check out my top Amsterdam travel tips , best day trips from Amsterdam , is Giethoorn worth visiting , how to book affordable Amsterdam photographers , things to do in Amsterdam with kids , things to do in Zaanse Schans , and where to stay in Amsterdam with kids !

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THE 10 BEST Family & Kid Activities in Amsterdam

Things to do in amsterdam with kids.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Canal Ring (Grachtengordel)
• Burgwallen-Nieuwe Zijde
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Vondelpark

2. The Jordaan

3. ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo

4. A'dam Lookout

5. Dam Square

6. NEMO Science Museum

7. Madame Tussauds Amsterdam

8. Begijnhof

9. Museum Quarter

10. Het Scheepvaartmuseum| The National Maritime Museum

11. Molen Van Sloten

12. Rembrandts Amsterdam Experience

13. Artis Micropia

14. Herengracht

15. Albert Cuyp Market

16. OBA Library of Amsterdam

17. The Amstel

18. De Duif

19. Amsterdam Canal Ring

20. Emperor's Canal (Keizersgracht)

21. Johan Cruyff Arena

22. Amsterdamse Bos

23. Hortus Botanicus

24. Museum of the Canals

26. Rembrandtplein

27. Ripley's Believe It or Not! Amsterdam

28. De Hallen Amsterdam

29. WONDR Experience

30. EYE Film Institute Netherlands

What travellers are saying

Amsterdam   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Greg Gibb Photography | Getty Images

28 Best Things To Do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a lot more than vice. There's the world-class Van Gogh Museum , the eye opening  Rijksmuseum and shopping on Nine Little Streets for culture hounds. Lesser known cultural must-dos abound. At IJ Hallen flea market, you'll find

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Vondelpark Vondelpark free

Located southwest of the city center, Vondelpark is the favorite leafy retreat of just about everyone. Not only is it the largest city park in Amsterdam, it's also one of the most revered in all of the Netherlands. Most recent travelers said they enjoyed people-watching and picnicking at the park; other reviewers recommend avoiding a late-night visit as the park can be a little frightening once the sun sets. During the day, though, the park is filled with couples, families and friends, and is definitely worth a visit.

Ponds, greenspaces and playgrounds are connected by winding paths, which also run by an open-air theater, a restaurant and a range of statues and sculptures. Open 24/7, you can take trams 1, 2 or 5 to the Leidseplein station, and you'll have just a quick walk (less than 5 minutes) to reach the park's entrance. The park is free to visit.

Canal Ring Canal Ring free

Architecture and history buffs will delight in Amsterdam's Canal Ring area. This half-moon of canals dates to the 17th century. Today, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The elaborate gables notable in Dutch architecture are on full display across hundreds of brick houses. Places of particular interest include Rembrandtplein (a prominent public square, named for Rembrandt, who owned a home nearby), historic warehouses, Protestant churches and formerly clandestine Catholic and Mennonite churches. Look up sites of interest online to determine opening hours.

The built environment is the big draw here, although recent visitors found plenty to enjoy within the historic buildings too – there are plenty of shopping, dining, and drinking spots. Visitors come for the views as much as the fare, so consider planning to eat at one of the scenic restaurants here (Incanto and Brasserie Ambassade are particularly well-reviewed). Many noted that this is a good area from which to embark on a bike or boat adventure.

Oud-West Oud-West free

Bordered by must-see attractions like Vondelpark and the Rijksmuseum , Oud-West is a refined Amsterdam neighborhood bursting with shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. Come to Oud-West during the day to visit stylish boutiques and design stores after visiting Vondelpark. Or, plan a trip into the neighborhood for dinner – there's De Hallen (a food hall and cinema), street food and endless restaurants and cafes. Upscale Restaurant Adam is exceptionally well reviewed, as is the more affordable option, Staring at Jacob. After a meal, you can dance the night away at one of Amsterdam's alternative music venues.

Recent visitors to Oud-West particularly enjoyed the less touristy feel, abundance of beautiful architecture, and kid-friendly spots.

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Jordaan Jordaan free

If you love history, culture and food, then you'll want to save time for a stroll or a guided tour through Amsterdam's Jordaan area. Located a few blocks west of the city's main train station and bordered by the Brouwersgracht, Prinsengracht, Leidsegracht and Lijnbaansgracht canals, this scenic neighborhood is packed with eateries, specialty shops, bars and art galleries. Plus, you'll find the Anne Frank House and the Nine Little Streets just east of the neighborhood.

Travelers highly recommend walking around the Jordaan, adding that its cool vibe, beautiful setting and top-notch cafes and restaurants more than justify a visit. Don't forget to bring your camera, since visitors say the area offers ample photo opportunities. For a more in-depth look at the neighborhood's food scene, consider signing up for Eating Europe Food Tours ' Jordaan Food Tour. Or, visit on a Saturday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to enjoy the Jordaan's Biologische Noordermarkt (a market with vendors selling baked goods, produce, local cheeses, crepes and more).

Anne Frank House (Anne Frank Huis) Anne Frank House (Anne Frank Huis)

Inside the Anne Frank House, travelers will see the location where not so long ago the 15-year-old Anne Frank penned a journal that would become a best-seller. Frank was a Jewish girl who went into hiding after German Nazis invaded the Netherlands and began forcibly transporting Dutch Jews to concentration camps. Today, the home is a museum and travelers can imagine what it'd be like to stay hidden away from the Nazis for more than two years, only to be betrayed and taken to a concentration camp.

Artifacts inside the museum include historical documents, photographs, film images and belongings from people in hiding and those who assisted them. Frank's original diary and other notebooks are also on display, though original objects from the annex are not on display, as it was stripped of its contents during World War II. A free audio guide – available in nine languages – is included with admission.

Dam Square Dam Square free

Europe is known for its grand public squares, and Amsterdam boasts plenty. Those arriving at Amsterdam's Central Station can walk just five minutes to arrive at bustling Dam Square. The historic 13th century buildings are filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes. Food stalls are available too. Those looking for more sightseeing opportunities should note the Royal Palace , New Church and consider a visit to Madame Tussauds.

Recent visitors praised the square for its beauty and central location. While several note that it is touristy – with prices to match – they still recommend a visit. It is beautiful at night when filled with lights. Be aware of your surroundings, as the area can attract pickpockets.

Verzetsmuseum (Dutch Resistance Museum) Verzetsmuseum (Dutch Resistance Museum)

The  Verzetsmuseum  (the Dutch Resistance Museum), located by the  Artis Royal Zoo , has been called the city's best-kept secret by some. The informative – even inspiring – museum tells the stories of those who lived in the Netherlands during the Nazi occupation and explains how the atrocities of World War II transpired. Through authentic objects, photos and documents, film and sound fragments, visitors will learn how the resistance manifested in the Netherlands.

Recent travelers said the thought-provoking museum leads you to ask yourself what you would've done if the Nazis had occupied your country. They were also pleased with the audio guides that are given with the ticket price, as well as with the exhibits which are displayed in both Dutch and English.

Van Gogh Museum Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum holds the world's largest collection of Van Gogh's paintings and drawings, including "Sunflowers" and "Almond Blossom." The museum itself is one of the most-visited museums in not only Amsterdam but in all of the Netherlands. Travelers come from near and far to see the artworks created by the tortured artist, who cut off his own ear and died by suicide due to his worries about his financial future and recurring mental illness.

Because of Van Gogh's popularity, some travelers highly recommend purchasing online tickets ahead of time to avoid lengthy museum lines. Though some were disappointed that the museum does not house some of the artist's more famous paintings (many of them are exhibited in other museums across the globe), reviewers did praise the museum's layout and its display of his earliest works.

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Leidseplein Leidseplein free

If you're looking for a tamer alternative to Amsterdam's Red Light District, Leidseplein or Leiden Square, may be for you. The center of Amsterdam's entertainment scene, Leidseplein sits southwest of the city center and is filled with nightclubs, movie theaters, concert venues, casinos and, of course, some coffee shops. For the performing arts, the Melkweg (Milky Way) concert hall and the International City Theater are of particular note.

Leidseplein is the place to be if you enjoy mixing with the masses. If crowds aren't your thing, you should steer clear of this area – definitely don't book a hotel or hostel here – or maybe head to the nearby Vondelpark instead. Travelers were also pleasantly surprised by the quantity and variety of restaurants huddled in the neighborhood, though they do warn of high prices at the bars.

Explore Amsterdam from the water on a boat tour Explore Amsterdam from the water on a boat tour

Few things are as representative of Amsterdam as its picturesque canals. Home to 165 waterways (including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed 17th-Century Canal Ring Area ), the city prides itself on its impressive canal system.

It's easy to see the canals during a bike tour or while walking around the city center, but for a closer look at the water network, sign up for a canal cruise. Many tour operators offer different kinds of boat tours around downtown Amsterdam. The following are some of the city's most popular options:

Keukenhof Keukenhof

U.S. News Insider Tip: It can be tricky to plan your visit during peak bloom. However, there are many other flower displays, like a stunning array of orchids, which make a visit worthwhile. – Jacqueline Drayer, Contributor

Originally used by Dutch royalty to grow fruits and vegetables, Keukenhof now welcomes travelers in search of Holland's famous tulips. Every year between late March and mid-May, the park – which sits about 25 miles southwest of Amsterdam in Lisse – turns vivid shades of pink, red, purple, yellow, white and orange as more than 7 million tulip bulbs bloom across 80 acres. The park also offers kid-friendly amenities like a playground, a maze and a petting zoo.

De Negen Straatjes (Nine Little Streets) De Negen Straatjes (Nine Little Streets) free

De Negen Straatjes,  or the Nine Little Streets, are exactly that – nine streets that run between the Prinsengracht and Singel canals and are lined with shops and boutiques. (For your orientation, the Singel is the first main canal that wraps around the city center.) Vintage clothing shops nestle alongside accessories stores and interior design boutiques, and hours vary by store.

Recent travelers called the area a lovely place to stroll and said it was less touristy than other parts of the city. Though you'll likely rub elbows with plenty of other travelers, you'll also encounter your fair share of locals.

De Pijp De Pijp free

De Pijp, which is also called the Latin Quarter, is known for its 19th-century architecture and its collision of different cultures. Here, you'll find ethnic restaurants, eclectic shops and the tranquil Sarphatipark. The Heineken Experience sits on the northern edge of the neighborhood. 

Travelers say that De Pijp feels less touristy and more like authentic Amsterdam. They also call it the heart of the city for young people thanks to its beatnik vibe and trendy eateries.

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Learn about Amsterdam atop a bike Learn about Amsterdam atop a bike

Biking is one of the most popular ways to get around Amsterdam. In fact, cycling is such a quintessential Amsterdam activity that the city's tourism website offers pages with free route maps and cycling safety tips .

But if you don't feel like renting a bike and exploring on your own, you'll find an array of bike tours catering to every kind of visitor. Below are several traveler-approved cycling tour companies:

I amsterdam Letters I amsterdam Letters free

Measuring more than 6 feet tall and 77-plus feet wide, the red-and-white "I amsterdam" sign is a prime place for a photo op. You'll find the main set of massive letters situated inside Amsterdam Airport Schiphol; however, multiple versions are typically on display throughout the city.

Although some previous visitors were disappointed that the main sign no longer sits in front of the Rijksmuseum , many enjoyed snapping pics of the smaller version at the airport. An additional set of letters appears at various events throughout the year, so if you plan on attending a large festival while in town, look around to see if the sign is on-site. You can also spot the letters while jogging the track by Sloterplas Lake, but some characters in this set lie flat, so it's not ideal for photographing.

Rijksmuseum (State Museum) Rijksmuseum (State Museum)

Considered one of Amsterdam's top museums (along with the  Van Gogh  and  Anne Frank  museums), the  Rijksmuseum  (or State Museum) features an impressive collection of artists, including Rembrandt and Vermeer. As befits a state museum, the ornate building contains mostly Dutch works from the 15th to 17th centuries – though its entire collection stretches across 800 years.

Visitors recommend getting to the Rijksmuseum as early as possible in the day to avoid standing in a line to enjoy both the breathtaking building, grounds and art. The busiest times are Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. And once you've finished touring the interior, step outside and enjoy the gardens – a recommendation from past visitors. Though some reviewers griped about the museum's confusing layout, they still said it was among their top to-dos in Amsterdam.

Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder

For a glimpse at how locals lived and worshipped during the 17th century, visit the Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Soldier. Part-home, part-church, this historic site is the second-oldest museum in Amsterdam (behind the Telyers Museum). On the lower levels, you'll find period furnishings spread throughout living areas, kitchens and bedrooms, as well as a set of stairs that lead to the attic, where the church is located. Religious services no longer take place at the church, but the property offers various exhibits about religious tolerance in the Netherlands, as the Catholic Church had to operate in secret in its early years in the country.

History buffs and religious travelers will likely enjoy wandering around this museum. Visitors praise the property's beautiful interior and interesting exhibits, adding that the complimentary audio tour offers many informative tidbits. Keep in mind, the building's small size and multiple staircases may make some parts of the property difficult to access for those with mobility issues.

Artis Royal Zoo (Natura Artis Magistra) Artis Royal Zoo (Natura Artis Magistra)

Visitors traveling with children in tow might want to make some space in their itinerary for the Artis Royal Zoo. Lions, monkeys and penguins are housed here, along with about another 900 species, and there's also an aquarium, an insectarium, a butterfly garden and a planetarium.

Although most recent visitors described the zoo as lovely, well maintained and a great family day, some of them concede that enclosures for the animals seemed a bit small.

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Stedelijk Museum Stedelijk Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: This museum is often far less crowded than the Rijksmuseum! Go to the Rijksmuseum at opening time and the Stedelijk later in the day. – Jacqueline Drayer, Contributor

Situated next to the world-renowned Van Gogh Museum in the Museumplein area, the Stedelijk Museum houses an impressive collection of contemporary art: It has 100,000 works. Inside its permanent exhibit, travelers will find pieces by artists like Piet Mondrian and Jackson Pollock. Additionally, the property features temporary collections that may include items like modern sculptures and documentaries.

Eating Europe Food Tours Amsterdam Eating Europe Food Tours Amsterdam

Amsterdam visitors who love learning about a destination through its food scene will likely enjoy participating in a food tour . Traveler-approved Eating Europe Food Tours offers multiple food outings, including the Amsterdam Food & Canals Tour which tacks on an hourlong boat tour to tastings throughout the city. The company's most popular experience is its Jordaan Food Tour, a 3.5-hour tour through the culturally and historically rich Jordaan neighborhood. During the excursion, foodies can try local staples which may include apple pie, raw herring, Gouda cheese and stroopwafel (a thin waffle with a caramel filling).

Previous participants raved about the Jordaan Food Tour, citing its small group size (no more than 12 people can join an outing), knowledgeable guides and large tasting portions as highlights. Several also appreciated the inclusion of a beer from a local brewery during the tour. To make the most of the excursion, past travelers suggest saving room for every dish by eating a light breakfast (or skipping it altogether).

Heineken Experience Heineken Experience

The Heineken Experience, which takes place in the old  Heineken Brouwerij  (Heineken Brewery), is a must-do for fans of the fermented beverage. Among the attractions housed in the century-old factory are a history of the Heineken brewing process and company. Plus, you'll get two Heinekens to enjoy at the end of the Experience. A downloadable app takes visitors on a historical journey through the factory (available for iPhones and Androids). You should note that only those 18 and older are allowed inside.

Although some recent travelers highly recommend taking the tour at the Heineken Experience, others described it as a marketing ploy rather than a tutorial in the beer-brewing process (the real brewery used for production sits on the outskirts of Amsterdam; this location is simply a museum).

A'DAM Lookout A'DAM Lookout

Opened in 2016, A'DAM Lookout provides some of the best views of downtown Amsterdam from its location in the southern corner of the Overhoeks neighborhood. The property's main draw is its observation deck on the 20th floor, which provides 360-degree panoramas of the city's port and canals. Before admiring the view, visitors can peruse the property's interactive exhibit. Adrenaline junkies won't want to miss Over the Edge (Europe's highest swing) on the outdoor rooftop deck, while foodies should save time for a bite to eat at Madam (an internationally-inspired eatery on the 20th floor) or Moon (the 19th floor's upscale revolving restaurant).

Visitors cannot get enough of A'DAM Lookout's breathtaking vistas. However, a few lament the extra charge required for the swing. Nevertheless, many recommend paying the additional 5 euros (about $5.50) for the fun experience. Because the swing is a popular activity, travelers suggest purchasing tickets in advance on the attraction's tickets page .

Concertgebouw Concertgebouw

Constructed in 1888, the  Concertgebouw (literally "Concert Building") hosts 900-plus shows and about 700,000 visitors per year, which makes it one of the world's busiest concert venues. Check the Concertgebouw's  website  for a list of orchestral and other performances, as well as for ticket prices, which vary by show. From time to time, the venue also offers free lunchtime performances.

Recent visitors called this one of the world's best concert halls, which offers fairly reasonable ticket prices. If you're hoping to attend one of the venue's free concerts, plan to arrive early – past visitors said the staff at Concertgebouw hands out tickets on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Royal Palace Amsterdam Royal Palace Amsterdam

Built in the 17th century by architect Jacob van Campen, the Royal Palace Amsterdam once served as Amsterdam's town hall. The grand structure held the distinction of being the largest secular building in Europe for many years. Throughout the years, it's been used by Dutch royalty for official events, such as visits by foreign leaders. Members of the public are welcome to tour the property when the building isn't in use for state visits.

Although visitors offer mixed feelings about the property's exterior, many say the palace's period furnishings and works of art are well worth checking out. Complimentary English audio guides (which travelers recommend for historical context) are available; however, a few caution that the devices are not very comfortable on their own, so consider bringing a pair of headphones to use with them.

NEMO Science Museum NEMO Science Museum

Anyone that says Amsterdam isn't for kids hasn't visited the NEMO Science Museum, housed inside the ship-like green building on the harbor. Filled with hands-on activities, kids can spend hours concocting chemistry experiences and constructing buildings while also learning how science has evolved throughout time.

Recent visitors say this is a do-not-miss attraction not only for kids but also for those young at heart, since there are interactive exhibits for all curious minds. Even if you don't have time to take a spin through the museum, past visitors said you should still go to access the free rooftop terrace, which offers panoramic views of the city and a cafe and does not charge an entrance fee.

Zandvoort Zandvoort free

U.S. News Insider Tip: To make a day out of your visit, take a quick train ride to Haarlem, a charming town located a few miles east of the beach. – Jacqueline Drayer, Contributor

You probably knew about Amsterdam's canals, but what about its beach? About 25 miles west of the city center is a place called Zandvoort, a strip of sand that borders the North Sea. Experts say Zandvoort is at its best in the summertime, though recent visitors say a trip here in the offseason is also worthwhile since it lacks the summertime crowds.

Het Scheepvaartmuseum (The National Maritime Museum) Het Scheepvaartmuseum (The National Maritime Museum)

Whether you're a boat enthusiast or want to learn more about Dutch maritime history, Amsterdam's National Maritime Museum is worth a visit. Located about halfway between the Verzetsmuseum and the NEMO Science Museum , The National Maritime Museum houses one of the world's largest maritime collections, with roughly 400,000 different items. Artifacts you'll find here include navigation instruments like compasses, the Royal Barge (an intricate royal vessel commissioned for King William I in the early 19th century) and a life-size replica of the Amsterdam (a ship that wrecked during its maiden voyage to Asia in 1749).

Several visitors raved about the exhibits, especially the one focusing on navigation. Although, a few past travelers warned the museum offers a gimmicky atmosphere, could use additional information and interactive displays, and charges high entrance fees. Many previous museumgoers recommended the virtual reality experience on the Amsterdam ship, which shows you how the city's historic harbor grew to become a bustling port.

Museum Het Rembrandthuis (Rembrandt House) Museum Het Rembrandthuis (Rembrandt House)

Rembrandt van Rijn (yep, Rembrandt is his first, not last name) once lived and worked in this restored home. So not only will you see the most complete collection of his etchings here, you'll also view his own interesting accumulation of  objets d'art , from musical instruments to Roman busts. An audio guide is included in the admission, and many travelers recommend using it. The museum reopened in March 2023 following a renovation to introduce five new museums spaces, including more etching and exhibit areas and a multimedia tour dedicated to the artist's life.

Several travelers also highly recommend watching one of the etching demonstrations, which they say gives a more comprehensive understanding of the art and takes place three times a day. However, if you're traveling with kids, you may want to skip this attraction as past visitors said there is little to interest youngsters.

Rotterdam, Delft and The Hague Small Group Tour from Amsterdam

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Home » Europe » Netherlands » Amsterdam

35 BEST Places to Visit in Amsterdam (2024)

Travelling to Amsterdam is the stuff of dreams for a lot of people. It’s foreign enough to be exciting and familiar enough to feel safe and comforting. It conjures up images of tulips and cafés with wafting smoke and charming buildings from a time gone by. Whether you enjoy world class museums, architecture, history or the nightlife, there’s definitely always something to do in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam also comes with a reputation of being a bit of a party town and a place where vices can be indulged in without fear of prosecution. Whatever you believe in with regards the stance of the Dutch government on such activities, it’s certainly an eye opening experience to explore this side of the city in which ever way you feel comfortable. As long as you stick to the rules and have your wits about you, you should have an amazing time in this city however you decide to experience it!

To help you create the trip of your dreams, we’ve created this guide to the best places to visit in this amazing city and there’s so much more to see than just the Red Light District!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Amsterdam:

These are the best places to visit in amsterdam, faq on the best places to visit in amsterdam.

It’s our pick for the best neighbourhood for a first-time trip to Amsterdam because it is conveniently located for hitting the sightseeing hotspots, you’re close enough to the nightlife without being put off by the red light district, and there’s a good choice of accommodation, shops, restaurants, and attractions right at your fingertips. From here you can walk to places like the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh museum, the Royal Palace, Red Light District and the Rembrandt house museum or take a canal cruise to the rest of the city.

• Admire the artistic works at Museum Het Schip.
• Go window shopping along some of the best shopping streets in the country: the Haarlemmerstraat and Haarlemmerdijk.
• Relax at Het Stenen Hoofd, an urban beach that’s popular with locals.

Not only do we have the low down on the absolute best attractions, but also which neighbourhoods boast the best hostels in Amsterdam . If hostels aren’t your cup of tea, there’s more where that came from. From quaint Airbnb’s to boutique hotels, be sure to check out the best places to stay in Amsterdam before you take a deep dive into the fun that awaits you below.

Looking forward to exploring Amsterdam, well there’s more to the city than the infamous Red Light District. There are world-class tourist attractions such as the Rembrandt House Museum and the Royal Palace or maybe you want to reflect at the Anne Frank House or catch an exhibition in Museum square after an unforgettable canal cruise! There’s something for everyone, even backpackers on a budget in Amsterdam .

With Amsterdam City Pass , you can experience the best of Amsterdam at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Amsterdam is also a perfect starting point for your travels around The Netherlands and there are plenty of other amazing cities, towns and villages to explore once you’ve finished in Amsterdam.

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#1 – The Rijksmuseum

• Make sure you check out the Night Watch by Rembrandt.
• Great for art lovers and people who enjoy looking at notable Dutch painters.
• This National Museum is a must-see while you’re in Amsterdam!

Why it’s awesome : If you’re an art lover, or just want to see some of the most amazing pieces of artwork in the world, then you need to spend some time in the National Museum. Not only will you be astounded at how different the art looks in real life versus in the pages of a book, but you might just discover a new interest in Dutch painters!

What to do there : The Rijksmuseum is contained inside of an awesome, artistic building and the works of art within are a match for it. You can literally spend hours here wandering between the displays and discover artists you’ve never heard of as well as old favourites. Just make sure you take a long look at Rembrandt’ Night Watch, it’s truly one of the most incredible paintings in the world. Some people visit Amsterdam just for the art museums (others, just for the drugs and hookers).

#2 – The Van Gogh Museum – One of the most amazing places in Amsterdam!

• The Van Gogh museum is great for art lovers.
• A place where you can take some amazing photographs!
• The Van Gogh museum is a absolutely vital part of Dutch history.

Why it’s awesome : It’s Vincent Van Gogh. The man hated and reviled in his own time and yet now almost universally loved. The pictures he painted showed life at its most beautiful and vibrant, full of light and colour in a way that ordinary people can’t see. Through the Van Gogh museum, you’ll be able to glimpse a work you will rarely get to see, and that’s definitely worth savouring. A visit to Van Gogh’s legacy is an essential thing to do in Amsterdam .

What to do there : Try to see through this artist’s eyes while you’re in the Van Gogh museum. He had a rare way of seeing the world, a way that was full of life and colour, and yet his own life was filled with so much darkness and confusion. That’s why the beauty of his artwork deserves to be honoured. So make sure you take your time when you visit the largest collection of his work in the world.

#3 – The Red Light District

• The most famous or infamous part of the city.
• A whole new world, and an important part of the culture.
• Can be a little dangerous at night, so limit the amount you drink, stay with friends, and watch your belongings.

Why it’s so awesome : Well, you know why. This is the area that makes Amsterdam famous and it’s also the area that causes the most controversy. If you have any qualms about whether Amsterdam is safe or object to some of the more permissive sides of the culture in Amsterdam, then it’s best that you avoid this area. This is also definitely not an area where you would bring children. But, if you’re curious and careful, you’ll see a whole other side of the city when you spend time in this district.

What to do there : This area is bright, colourful, and there’s always something going on. That makes it an interesting place to visit and people watch, whether you agree with Amsterdam’s pragmatic approach to the sex trade or not. Just be careful about taking photos, as you could get yourself into trouble, and use your common sense to avoid any serious issues while in the area.

#4 – The Anne Frank Museum – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Amsterdam

• Home to one of the most famous stories from the Second World War.
• An important historical monument.
• A sad and touching place to visit.

Why it’s so important : The Anne Frank House isn’t awesome in the sense that it’s fun. Far from it. Instead, it’s a sad reminder of a dark time in the world’s history. It’s also a site that’s familiar to a lot of people. In most schools, the Diary of Anne Frank is required reading, so a lot of people know at least the basics about this girl’s sad but profound story. It’s another thing to see the house in real life, to imagine her everyday life, her fear and even her tragic ending. The Anne Frank House is something that everyone should see at least once in their lives.

What to do there : Anne Frank’s house is now a museum and educational centre. It’s not a fun place to go. It’s actually quite chilling to wander the halls of the house and to visit the secret annexe where she lived for such a short time. The Anne Frank House is an incredibly important place to visit if only to honour the memory of that brave girl and her family.

#5 – The Westertoren – One of Amsterdam’s coolest historical sites!

• Great for photographers.
• The stairs will give you a nice little bit of exercise to work off all the rich food.
• Only open in the summer, so consider what time of year you visit Amsterdam .

Why it’s awesome : There’s nothing like seeing a new city from high up and in Amsterdam, this is the best place to do that. You’ll be able to see the city in a whole new way and in a small group as well, so there won’t be any pushing or jostling for the best photography spots. It’s also one of the best historical spots in Amsterdam, which is really saying something in this city!

What to do there : This is the tallest and the prettiest tower in Amsterdam, so the views are amazing from the top. You’ll need to book a guided tour to the top, and they only take a few tourists at a time, so make sure you get there early to reserve your place. Once you’re up there, take plenty of photos of Amsterdam from this amazing bird’s eye view, so make sure that you bring your camera with you.

#6 – The Bloemenmarkt – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Amsterdam

• A free and colorful display.
• Great for photographs.
• A chance to sit back and observe real life in Amsterdam.

Why it’s awesome : Two words: floating flowers. This is a floating flower market set along the southern bank of the Singel. It actually a very practical market, which supplies fresh flowers to Amsterdam. But its popularity with tourists and locals alike have caused it to expand so there are now stalls selling other souvenirs unique to this part of the world.

What to do there : Where else can you see beautiful blooms of almost every colour you can imagine set against the river? This is a floating flower market a sight to savour and you can people-watch at the same time. You can also do some shopping while in the area and you’ll find clogs as well as other uniquely Dutch souvenirs. But if you are a traveller on a budget and don’t want to spend any money, you can just wander around the area, enjoy the sights and stay in one of Amsterdams best cheap hostels .

Wonder what to do in Amsterdam for 3 days? Head over to our  insider’s Weekend in Amsterdam guide!

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#7 – Vondelpark – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Amsterdam

• A chance to get out in nature.
• A relaxed vibe where you can barbeque and explore wooded trails.
• Has an amazing open theater where you can catch a show.

Why it’s so awesome : Amsterdam’s permissive nature also extends to their wooded areas. This is one of the few parks in the world where you can indulge in behaviour not usually allowed in public, with a few exceptions. This park is also popular with the locals as a place to exercise or just hang out in nature. And there are trails all over the park as well as a rose garden and an outdoor theatre if you want to get even more from the experience!

What to do there : Run, cycle, explore the trails or just take some friends along and have your lunch in the park. Find out what shows are playing at the theatre if you’re interested in catching one or just soak up the beauty of nature in the middle of the city!

#8 – Albert Cuyp Markt – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Amsterdam

• A chance to mingle with the locals.
• Buy some fresh food or just wander the stalls.
• You can also find clothes and souvenirs here, just  remember to bargain!

Why it’s so awesome : Sometimes when you travel, you just want to get away from the tourist traps and experience real life. And this market is a chance to do just that. Here you’ll see the locals bargaining for their groceries and generally going about their lives. And it’s a great way to get to see another side of this famous city.

What to do there : You’ll find a vast array of foods, clothes, and souvenirs here if you’re interested in shopping. Make sure you watch the locals beforehand, so you know how much to pay for what you want and a bargain! Bargaining is considered an integral part of the experience, so don’t be embarrassed and just enjoy the process.

#9 – De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets)

• An amazing historical spot.
• Perfect for photographers and people who want that iconic Amsterdam shot.
• An area that’s full of personality and quirky charm.

Why it’s so awesome : The Nine Streets is a historical area that has a lot of quirky charm packed into a relatively small area. The shops here are all unique, unusual, and have a flair that isn’t often seen in these days of department stores, which makes them a joy to explore and experience. This is the kind of area that gave Amsterdam its reputation as one of the most laidback cities in the world, so it’s an absolute pleasure to spend some time exploring it in detail.

What to do there: Make sure you put aside an entire afternoon, or a day, to wander the Nine Streets. This area is filled with historical detail, quirky cafes, and boutiques with some of the most unique and interesting goods you’ll ever see. So do some shopping or just set up shop in a café and watch the world go by. After all, this relaxed and laidback vibe is what Amsterdam is really about.

#10 – The Concertgebouw

• A chance to listen to some free music!
• A beautiful building that’s been recently refurbished and looks great in photos.
• Great for culture lovers.

Why it’s so awesome : This is an incredible arts venue that’s the home of the famous and much-lauded Koninklijk Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. The acoustics here are amazing, which turns an already impressive musical performance into something that has to be heard to be believed.

What to do there : If you visit this venue at lunchtime you may be able to catch a free concert and enjoy the music without breaking the bank. Otherwise, it’s also worth going at night when you can get the full experience of listening to the remarkable orchestra the way it was meant to be heard.

#11 – NSDM Wharf – Cool place to see in Amsterdam with friends!

• A great place to go bar hopping.
• The whole area is beach front so you can eat and look out over the water.
• There is always something going on here, from festivals to exhibitions and other events.

Why it’s so awesome : The NDSM Wharf is a former shipyard that’s been turned into one of Amsterdam’s cultural hot spots. It’s come a long way from its slightly grimy roots and now is the place to see and be seen, with some amazing restaurants, bars and shops around the area. There’s an artistic vibe to this area that elevates it above the usual tourist spots and makes it well worth checking out.

What to do there : There’s always something going on in this area from the weekend flea market to festivals and exhibitions. So while you’re in Amsterdam, make sure you find a schedule of what’s on and pick out what you want to see. And even if there isn’t anything in particular happening, it’s still a great spot to eat a meal in a beachfront restaurant or to check out some bars.

#12 – Flevopark

• A giant natural area.
• There are lots of amenities here, including an outdoor pool.
• If you get tired of all the nature, head over to the brewery for a snack and a drink!

Why it’s so awesome : Flevopark is an enormous open area in the middle of Oost and it’s the perfect place to get some exercise or just lounge about in the fresh air. There’s something for everyone in this park, from running trails to a tennis club and even a brewery where you can undo all the good work you’ve just done.

What to do there : This is the type of park that has something for everyone so you can literally do whatever you want to do here. If you’re feeling energetic, go for a swim in the outdoor pool, wander the trails or play a game of tennis. And if you’re feeling lazy, just lounge about on the grass or grab a drink and some snacks at the Distillery ‘t Nieuwe Diep microbrewery.

#13 – Brouwerij ‘t IJ – A must visit place to visit in Amsterdam on the weekend!

• An iconic brewery.
• One of the first breweries in Amsterdam and still very popular.
• A must visit for beer lovers and anyone who enjoys trying a variety of brews.

Why it’s so awesome : Everyone should drink beer in a windmill at some stage in their lives and this is the perfect place to do it. This microbrewery is the original in Amsterdam and is located in a working windmill. It has a wide variety of brews as well as some traditional Dutch snacks such as boiled eggs.

What to do there : Try to visit the brewery on a sunny day so you can sit out on the terrace and enjoy the sunshine while you snack and drink. Just make sure to follow the rules of safe travel and stay aware of how much you’re drinking, the brews tend to be higher in alcohol content than you would think!

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#14 – Blijberg aan Zee

• A chance to soak up the beach vibe.
• Perfect if you want a relaxing day.
• Clean water and a relaxing atmosphere.
• Great for sunbathing and swimming.

Why it’s so awesome : Amsterdam itself doesn’t have many places to swim, which is why this location is the perfect addition to any trip. The beach is located off a man-made island called IJburg and it’s just a short tram ride from the centre of the city. The water is clean and calm and basically, it’s the perfect place to have a lazy day sunbathing and enjoying the water.

What to do there : This is a family-friendly location with clean water, bright sun, and lots of restaurants and cafes in the area that sell great food. When you visit this beach, make sure you spend your time relaxing. The beach’s laidback atmosphere encourages sunbathing, swimming, and spending time with friends, so give in to it and just have a wonderful break from the busy heart of the city.

#15 – EYE Film Institute – Cool place to see in Amsterdam with friends!

• See a movie in style.
• An amazing, architectural building.
• The shop has a lot of quirky, cinematic memorabilia and souvenirs.

Why it’s so awesome : Unlike many of the other great sites in Amsterdam, this building is a modern marvel. Quirky and eye-catching on its own, it houses a cinema, film museum, shop, restaurant and café, all of them well worth spending some time in. There are also some fun and educational displays and experiences targeted at kids, so it’s a great place to take the family.

What to do there : This is no ordinary cinema. If you love quirky, independent films, cult classics and documentaries, then this is the place for you. The cinema is open 7 days a week and specialises in these genres. And if you really enjoy these kinds of movies, then the shop is a great place to pick up some unusual memorabilia of your visit.

#16 – Foodhallen – A must-see for foodies!

• One of the best places to enjoy Amsterdam’s food scene!
• A great place to go in a group or on your own.
• A super trendy area with a quirky vibe.

Why it’s so awesome : If you love food, and who doesn’t, then this is the best place in Amsterdam. In this neighbourhood, you’ll find everything you’ve ever wanted to eat from dim sum to pizza and doughnuts. This area was once an old tram depot, so it has plenty of history behind it. But it’s now filled with food stores that offer some of the best snacks in the city.

What to do there : Take your appetite and go from stall to stall in this area. Try everything that peaks your fancy and take your food to one of the outside benches and watch the crowds while you eat. When you’re full, there are several shops and boutiques selling clothes, ornaments and other goods that you can browse in. And as is the norm with Amsterdam, the shops are all quirky and unique, so make sure you enjoy the atmosphere while you’re there.

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#17 – Begijnhof – One of the most religious places to see in Amsterdam

• Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
• Explore Amsterdam’s religious past.
• Take in the tranquility and contemplate your life, the world and everything.

Why it’s so awesome : Amsterdam is incredibly laidback but it’s still a city and that means that it’s busy and crowded. If you need a little break, then this garden is the perfect place to take it. The garden and courtyard are in the middle of houses that once belonged to the Beguines, a religious group that admitted only unmarried women under a vow of chastity. This has given the area a quiet, contemplative vibe.

What to do there : This is a quint, medieval corner of Amsterdam that feels worlds away from the crowded city. There’s just something about it that encourages contemplation and thought and it’s a wonderful introduction to Amsterdam’s religious past. While you’re there, make sure you take a look at the city’s oldest wooden house, which was added to the area in 1425.

#18 – Cuypers Library – A nice quiet place to see in Amsterdam

• For book lovers and art lovers.
• An incredibly gorgeous place to sit and enjoy a book.
• Almost magical surroundings.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’re a reader then you’ll love this place. The building is stunning and brings to mind books of magic where the main character is thrust into an incredible adventure after opening an unusual book. The library is attached to a museum, but few tourists venture beyond the museum into this part of the building. And that’s a shame because this is one of the largest art history libraries in the country and it’s a lovely place to sit and read for a while.

What to do there: If you love books then you’ll love this place. It will give you a chance to sit and read about all the amazing works of art you’ve experienced since landing in Amsterdam. It’s also a quiet and beautiful haven away from the busy streets and tourists. The only people you’ll see here are scholars quietly toiling away at their chosen disciplines. So if you need a quiet afternoon in a beautiful place, this is where to go.

#19 – Theatre Tuschinski

• Interesting art deco decorations.
• Includes a cinema as well as a stage for live productions.
• The building has a tragic history because the architect was Polish, and his entire family was killed at a German concentration camp.

Why it’s so awesome : This theatre is a confusing mix of styles that’s oddly beautiful and well worth seeing on their own. The imposing exterior hides bright, colourful walls and rooms on the inside, and the building has been recently refurbished so it’s looking its best. This might seem like a strange place to catch a movie, but it’s well worth going out of your way just to see and take pictures of the building’s unusual features.

What to do there : This is a functioning movie theatre so if you’re in Amsterdam for a while it’s worth seeing what movies they’re showing. And if you’re not a movie buff, you should still visit and take in the architecture. The architect combined lots of different styles when he made this building, and it’s truly an amazing mix to see and take pictures in front of.

#20 – OT301

• For anyone who’s interested in alternative cultural events.
• A truly unique venue.
• A chance to see some alternative bands and listen to some weird and wonderful music.

Why it’s so awesome : Chances are that you’ve never seen anything like the alternative music scene in Amsterdam. This is a city that prides itself on being different from everyone else, and that’s definitely reflected in the music at this venue. Run by volunteers, this is the best place to hear some of Amsterdam’s up-and-coming musical talent. And the location is actually a legal squat, which makes it all the more interesting and unusual.

What to do there : If you visit the OT301 at night then you will experience new bands, music, and up-and-coming talent. But even if you go during the day then there’s plenty to do. During the day, the venue is host to artistic workshops and classes and the whole place is built on the ideas of diversity and inclusion. This combination makes the OT301 one of the friendliest and coolest places to spend time and soak up the atmosphere in. And if you’re really lucky, you might discover a new talent of your own too!

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#21 – Electric Ladyland – Quite the quirky place in Amsterdam!

• A quirky educational experience.
• Literally one of a kind.
• A fascinating and interactive glimpse of another world.

Why it’s so awesome : In a city full of quirky places, this is probably one of the strangest. It’s a tiny museum in Jordaan and is dedicated to fluorescent art. Well, it’s actually dedicated to a mix of art, science, and geology. This might sound a little strange, but the displays explore minerals, art and stones that glow under ultraviolet light in a way that’s both beautiful and fascinating. It’s so fascinating that you won’t even notice that you’re learning at the same time!

What to do there : You need to book ahead to get into this museum but it’s worth taking the time. Not only are the displays beautiful, but they’re also interactive. So while you’re there, make sure you take in all the lights and colours and also go the extra step and become a part of the artwork!

#22 – The Royal Palace

• Stunning architecture.
• Great for taking pictures.
• An interesting historical site.

Why it’s awesome : Everyone loves hearing about royalty and now you can see where they lived and died and everything in between! The Royal Palace in Amsterdam is the official residence of the King of Holland and was built in 1648 as a Town Hall. The rulers at the time had an unusual taste, so the architecture is modelled after the buildings in ancient Rome, which makes a fascinating statement in the modern city.

What to do there: The Royal Palace is incredibly beautiful and richly appointed, which is why it makes the perfect location for photographs. You can also tour the inside, as long as it isn’t occupied, so make sure you spend some time in the opulent staterooms. You’ll get a much better idea of just how wealthy royalty can be when you stroll around the impressive Royal Palace!

#23 – Westergasfabriek

• One of Amsterdam’s cultural centres.
• A great place to eat, watch a movie or shop!
• There’s something for everyone here.

Why it’s so awesome : This was once a slightly grimy industrial hub, but it’s been turned into the cultural center of the city. It has quirky stores and businesses, comfortable cafes and there are always events and festivals going on. So if you’re ever looking for something to do while you’re in Amsterdam, this is the place to come. Because there’s always something going on here.

What to do there : This area is so crowded with things to do that it’s easier to say what you can’t do. There are great restaurants and bars, cafes, an arthouse cinema, a microbrewery and coffee roasters. And as if that wasn’t enough, the area also plays host to events, markets and festivals on a regular basis. So, whatever you want to do, you can probably find a way to do it here.

#24 – De Pijp Neighborhood

• A window into everyday life in Amsterdam.
• A great place to shop, eat, or just relax.
• The interesting mix of cultures in the area makes for some great food.

Why it’s so awesome : This neighbourhood is a melting pot of different cultures and foods and is one of the most vibrant areas in the city. It’s also known as the Latin Quarter of Amsterdam and there are lots of pubs, cafes and restaurants in the area for you to try. It’s a great way to get a better idea of the different cultures that live in Amsterdam and how they seem to coexist in relative harmony.

What to do there : While you’re in the area, visit the shops and look for souvenirs or gifts for people back home. Make sure you visit one of the very traditional pubs in the area or have a meal in one of the many, very good restaurants. There is also a park nearby where you can have a break from the busyness and enjoy some nature before you go back to your explorations.

#25 – The Resistance Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Amsterdam

• An often-forgotten part of world history.
• Educational and interesting at the same time.
• Has special displays for younger visitors, so bring the kids along too!

Why it’s awesome: Most people outside of Holland don’t know about the role of the Dutch Resistance in the Second World War and this is a shame. The heroic men and women who fought against the Nazi’s regime deserve to be remembered and recognized, and this museum records their efforts with sensitivity and honesty. In 1945, there were more than 300,000 people hiding in the Netherlands, most of them Jews and anti-Nazi Dutch people. In this museum, you’ll see how they were hidden, how the Resistance protected them, and examine photographs, movie clips and documents from the time.

What to do there : There’s always something eerie about learning about the atrocities committed during the Second World War, but it’s life-affirming to learn about the people who fought against the horrors. If you want to feel sad but hopeful for humanity all at once, spend some time looking at the photos, documents and movie clips in this museum. It’s a good way to add to what you learn and feel at the House of Anne Frank.

#26 – Leidseplein – A great place to visit in Amsterdam at night

• Amsterdam’s nightlife center.
• The most popular square in the city.
• There are lots of great cafes and restaurants in the area.

Why it’s so awesome : This square is the centre of everything and a trip to Amsterdam wouldn’t be the same if you don’t explore this area. It’s great during the day or at night and is the perfect starting point for your adventures in the city. There are also a lot of great bars, restaurants and cafes in the area, so you’ll find somewhere to go that suits every taste.

What to do there : This square is a great place to start out a fun night with some friends. The most popular bars and restaurants in the city area are close by, and you can fan out from the centre until you find out what you’re looking for. It’s also a great place to visit during the day if you enjoy cosy cafes and delicious food.

#27 – Nieuwe Spiegelstraat – One of the most underrated places to see in Amsterdam!

• A glimpse of Amsterdam’s past.
• Great for people who want unusual souvenirs.
• Antique shoppers will love this area!

Why it’s so awesome : Souvenir shopping is fun, but sometimes you want to bring home something a little different and this is the perfect place to find that. This street is lined with antique shops, each of them showcasing a different, obscure part of the city’s history. Be prepared for weirdness when you shop here, and to see things you’ve never even heard of!

What to do there: If you like quirky, unusual things, then this street is a treasure trove. The shop dedicated to past medical instruments and oddities is particularly interesting as is the one that sells scientific instruments from the past. While you’re in this street, the best thing to do is just wander. Explore the different shops and what they have to offer. And be prepared to go home with an amazing story and souvenir or two!

#28 – Museum Vrolik

• One of the most bizarre collections you’ll ever see.
• A truly unique museum of past oddities.
• Definitely not for the squeamish!

Why it’s so awesome : This museum is located at the University of Amsterdam and it’s dedicated to human and animal anatomical mutations. Once held in a private collection, there are now more than 150 examples of mutations ranging from dental mutations to bone pathologies in both animals and humans held here.

What to do there : This is definitely not a collection for the kids or for anyone with a weak stomach. And if you don’t enjoy seeing strange things floating in jars, then you might want to give this a miss. But if your interests sometimes run to the macabre, then exploring this museum is a great way to spend a couple of hours. You’ll definitely leave the museum feeling grateful for how well your own body is put together!

#29 – De Poezenboot (The Cat Boat)

• For cat lovers!
• A chance to contribute to a worthwhile charity and pat some kitties at the same time!

Why it’s so awesome : This floating cat home is probably the only one of its kind. The cats who live here seem perfectly happy surrounded by water, and your visit could make their lives a little easier too. This unusual boat was set up as an animal sanctuary in 1966 and is a charity run entirely on donations. There are up to 50 cats on the boat at any one time and human visitors are welcome.

What to do there: This is a chance to combine animal cuddles with doing some good. Visitors are welcome to come aboard the boat for some cuddle time and to adopt. If you’re travelling, adopting probably isn’t practical, but the shelter welcomes donations, which all go towards feeding and taking care of the boat’s residents and the rest of Amsterdam’s cat population.

#30 – A’Dam Lookout and Over the Edge Swing

• Panoramic views over Amsterdam.
• A great place to take photographs.
• Something for adrenalin junkies too!

Why it’s so awesome : This tower is a landmark in Amsterdam and boasts an observation deck where you can sit and look out across the city. The views are absolutely stunning, especially on clear days, but if this isn’t enough excitement for you then consider trying the Over the Edge Swing. This is the highest swing in Europe and there’s nothing like swinging back and forward nearly 100 meters above the ground! It’s one of the most unique tourist attractions in Amsterdam.

What to do there : For most people, it’s enough to simply visit the observation deck and take in the views of the city And the historic buildings below. This is a great chance to take some photographs of the varied and atmospheric city below. If you’re looking for something more exciting, then pay a little extra and take a turn on the swing. It’s definitely worth the small extra fee and will really get your blood pumping!

#31 – Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica (the Ritman Library)

• If you enjoy Dan Brown, then make sure you visit one of the places that inspired him!
• For book lovers and especially rare book lovers.
• An interesting glimpse into different ways of thinking and living.

Why it’s so awesome : This library holds a large collection of rare books on ancient religions, mysticism and philosophy. You can find a lot of gems here from the first illustrated version of Dante’s The Divine Comedy to Cicero’s De Officiis . The collection is so varied and unusual that it inspired Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code and overall is a fascinating window into ancient and more recent schools of thought.

What to do there : This is a display for book lovers and people who are interested in learning more about the past. If you’re a reader or a student of the past, you’ll probably find some old favourites here. And who knows, maybe you’ll get inspired just as Dan Brown was!

#32 – The Homomonument

Why it’s so awesome : During the Second World War, gay men in Nazi concentration camps were forced to wear a pink triangle on their clothes. This type of marking meant only horrific things in the camps and this monument acknowledges that and remembers the men and women who lost their lives to bigotry throughout the ages. The monument was designed in 1980 after gay activists were arrested in 1970 for putting a lavender wreath on Amsterdam’s National War Memorial in Dam Square.

What to do there : This is a place to reflect and remember the horrors of World War II. To remember all the people, men and women, who lost their lives because of their sexual orientation, and to remember to do better in the future. There are three triangles in the monument. One points to Dam Square, the other to the headquarters of the oldest gay rights organisation in the world, the COC Nederland, and the third pointing to Anne Frank’s house. It’s a moving place, and people often bring flower wreaths to place on the triangle by the water in remembrance.

• A sobering but important monument to diversity.
• A reminder of how far humanity has come and how far we have to go.

#33 – Dam Square

• The centre of life in Amsterdam.
• Surrounded by amazing architecture, restaurants and cafés and the National Monument
• A great place for photos and to start out when you arrive in the city.

Why it’s so awesome : Dam Square is the centre of the city and one of the most important and well-known areas as well. It’s also the historical centre and is surrounded by examples of incredible architecture as well as important monuments to Amsterdam’s history. You can get everywhere from this spot, and it’s a great place to start out on your journey around the city. It’s home to some incredible historic buildings and many well-known tourist attractions.

What to do there : While you’re in Dam Square, you’re within walking distance of a lot of important buildings and monuments. At one end is the Royal Palace, and the other is the National Monument, which memorialises the lives lost during the Second World War. This combination of monuments and attractions has made Dam Square the centre of tourist activity in the city. It’s that mixture of cultures, from walking in the footsteps of the Dutch royal family to retelling the stories of World War II, visiting Amsterdam has so much to offer.

#34 – Science Center NEMO – Awesome place to visit in Amsterdam with kids!

• The fifth most popular museum in Amsterdam.
• Five floors of exhibits.
• Interactive, interesting displays.
• For the young and the young at heart!

Why it’s so awesome : There’s nothing like learning about science in an interactive and interesting way and this museum gives you the chance to do just that. It’s the perfect place to bring the kids if you want them to enjoy themselves and learn at the same time. And adults will enjoy it as well.

What to do there : There are five floors of exhibits in this museum so there’s no shortage of things to see and do. You can explore the universe, perform a chemistry experiment, or learn about mathematics in a way that will make you wonder why you ever hated it in school. Basically, no matter what you’re interested in, you’ll find something fun to do in this hidden gem in Amsterdam !

#35 – Our Lord in the Attic Museum

• Some awesome historical displays.
• An unusual, quirky and slightly creepy place to explore.
• Give this place a miss if you have trouble with stairs!

Why it’s so awesome : If you’re interested in the unusual, then this is the place for you. Located in the Red Light District, this four-hundred-year-old house near the canal holds a secret. The upper floors hide a richly appointed and decorated Catholic Church! The church was created in 1663, at a time when Catholics were persecuted in Holland. The then owner of the house built the church so he and his fellow Catholics could worship in peace and secrecy.

What to do there : The real draw of this tiny church is its mystery. You pass through a completely normal, albeit old house, up numerous stairs, and suddenly find yourself face to face with an altar. There is room enough for around 150 worshippers in this tiny church and the Dutch Classicist style decorations are incredibly beautiful. The tiny church is now a museum, but they still hold services there regularly. And why wouldn’t they when it’s such a beautiful place?

Get insured for your trip to Amsterdam!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Amsterdam

What should I not miss in Amsterdam?

A visit to the Anne Frank Museum is a poignant and important landmark of Amsterdam that shouldn’t be missed.

Is Amsterdam safe for solo female Travellers?

You bet it is! Amsterdam is a great choice for girls wanting to go it alone, it’s super safe and has some awesome and friendly hostels too!

What are the best places to visit in Amsterdam at night?

Have an awesome and safe night out around Leidseplein. Explore the areas many amazing bars and restaurants with something for everyone.

What are some great places to visit in Amsterdam for free?

Take in the colourful action at the Bloemenmarkt. This floating flower market is a beautiful way to see local life.

Don’t let stories and news reports scare you away from Amsterdam. This city is one of the safest and the most exciting in the world, and it definitely has to be seen to be believed. We’ve now gone through a list of some of the most interesting and historically important places in Amsterdam. By exploring this list, you’ll get a good understanding of the city’s culture, its history, and what makes it so special and you’ll have a fantastic time as well!

Once you’ve done exploring the city itself then why not check out the amazing day trips in Amsterdam too and be sure to stay close to Amsterdam Central Station for the best use of your time.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mathilde Magnier

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Where to stay in Amsterdam for families with kids: 5 Best areas

Hi guys, on my website, I already wrote an article about safe areas in Amsterdam for first-timers (I will put the link to it at the end of this article). In today’s article, I will help you to find the best places to stay in Amsterdam for families with kids.

I will share with you what I believe are the best areas to stay in Amsterdam for families, along with a map. I’ll also share where I stayed in Amsterdam and recommend some of the best family-friendly hotels for various budgets.

Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands, known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, cycling culture, and iconic museums. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

The city is famous for its concentric network of canals, which date back to the 17th century. These canals, lined with beautiful houses and bridges, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Popular attractions in Amsterdam include the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, Dam Square, Royal Palace, and the Red Light District.

The city is dotted with cozy cafés and coffee shops where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or indulge in the local cuisine.

Is Amsterdam a good place to visit with family?

Yes, Amsterdam is a wonderful place to visit with family. The city offers a wide range of attractions and activities suitable for various age groups. 

Your family can visit world-class museums, take canal cruises, ride bikes together, explore beautiful parks such as Vondelpark and Amsterdamse Bos, visit Amsterdam Zoo, or take day trips to the nearby Zaanse Schans to see historic windmills, traditional Dutch houses, and museums.

Table of Content

Where to stay in Amsterdam for families with kids?

• Oude Centrum (Old Centre)
• Museum Quarter

The best areas to stay in Amsterdam for families with kids include Oude Centrum, Canal Belt, Jordaan, Museum Quarter, and De Pijp. These areas offer many family-friendly accommodations and easy access to major attractions, making them great bases for exploring the city.

In general, Amsterdam Old Centrum is the best overall base for families who want to be in the heart of the action. This area offers convenient access to the Central Station, and many tourist attractions such as Dam Square, the Royal Palace, and Anne Frank House.

Jordaan and the Canal Belt are picturesque areas known for its charming canals, picturesque streets, trendy shops, and cozy cafes. It’s relatively quiet compared to the city center and offers plenty of parks and playgrounds for children to enjoy.

Museum Quarter is a great base if your family wants to stay close to major museums like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum. Vondelpark nearby offers ample space for kids to play. 

De Pijp is a vibrant neighborhood with diverse food options, the Albert Cuyp Market, and Sarphatipark for outdoor activities. This area offers a more local atmosphere.

During my trip to Amsterdam, I traveled as a couple and stayed at the Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam . It was a great mid-range hotel in the heart of the city, close to everything, including the central station and the old city center. It is also a family-friendly hotel, with well-appointed guest rooms and great views.

Below is a map of the popular areas in Amsterdam for families. You can scroll down to view the live map.

Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Amsterdam, especially for families. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget. 

All hotels in Amsterdam have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. 

If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.

5 Best areas to stay in Amsterdam with family:

1. oude centrum (old centre).

Amsterdam Oude Centrum is an exciting base for a family holiday, especially if you enjoy being in the midst of the city’s bustling atmosphere and close to many of its famous attractions. 

The Oude Centrum is right in the heart of Amsterdam, making it convenient to explore the city’s landmarks, such as Dam Square, the Royal Palace, Anne Frank House, and the Red Light District.

The area is well-connected by public transportation, including trams, buses, and boats, making it easy to get around the city with your family. The Central Station in this area makes it easily reachable if you arrive by trains.

You’ll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops catering to different tastes and budgets, ensuring that you have plenty of choices for meals and souvenirs.

The Oude Centrum is rich in history and culture, with museums, art galleries, historic churches, and architectural wonders waiting to be explored.

Day or night, the Oude Centrum exudes energy and charm, with street performers, markets, and events adding to its lively ambiance.

Consideration: Being a popular tourist area, the Oude Centrum can get crowded, noisy, and expensive in commodation, especially during peak tourist season.

Best places to stay in Amsterdam Oude Centrum with kids:

Luxury ($$$): Kimpton De Witt Amsterdam, an IHG Hotel , 5-star family-friendly hotel in the heart of Amsterdam, within easy walking distance from the Central Station and major attractions. It has a 24-hour front desk, free bicycle rental, and a fitness center. The 2 double beds premium rooms are great options for families of 4.

Mid-range ($$): art’otel amsterdam, Powered by Radisson Hotels , 4-star kid-friendly hotel in central Amsterdam, welcomes children of all ages. Children 13 and above will be charged as adults. Easy walk to the main train station and important landmarks such as the Anne Frank House, Dam Square, and Royal Palace. It has an indoor swimming pool, family suites with canal views, and a fitness center.

Budget ($): A-Train Hotel , 3-star children-friendly hotel in a prime location, close to everything, featuring comfortable family rooms and apartments for families of 4 and 5. Within walking distance from the major shopping areas, pubs, restaurants and theaters. The daily breakfast is delicious and plentiful.  

2. Canal Belt

Staying in the Canal Belt of Amsterdam can be a delightful choice for a family holiday, offering a charming and picturesque setting with easy access to many attractions. 

The Canal Belt in Amsterdam refers to the historic network of canals that form concentric rings around the city center. These canals, known as Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht, were constructed in the 17th century during the Dutch Golden Age and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Canal Belt is renowned for its iconic canals, lined with historic buildings, houseboats, and tree-lined streets, providing a picturesque backdrop for your family holiday.

The Canal Belt is within walking distance or a short tram ride away from major attractions like the Anne Frank House, Westerkerk, and the Jordaan neighborhood.

Along the canals, you’ll find opportunities for boat tours, bike rides, and leisurely strolls, as well as playgrounds and parks where children can play and families can relax.

Best places to stay in Amsterdam in Canal Belt with family:

Luxury ($$$): Pulitzer Amsterdam , 5-star family-friendly hotel conveniently located on the Prinsengracht Canal, easy access to importants attractions on foot and by trams. Lots of shops and restaurants nearby.

Mid-range ($$): NH Collection Amsterdam Flower Market , 4-star kid-friendly hotel in central location, easy stroll from Kalverstraat shopping area, Rembrandtplein and Rokin tram stop. It has views of the flower market and excellent breakfasts. The staff are friendly and helpful.

Budget ($): The Times Hotel , 3-star children-friendly hotel in Herengracht canal, 10 mins walk from the  Central Station and Jordaan. Easy access to Westermarkt and Dam tram stops for further exploration. The hotel has an Elevator, 24-hour front desk, and good breakfast. The Quadruple Room with Canal View is a great choice for families of 3 and 4. Just be mindful that the top floor isn’t accessible by elevator.

Jordaan offers a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere with its charming streets, cultural attractions, and proximity to green spaces. It’s a great option for families looking to experience the authentic side of Amsterdam while still being close to major attractions and amenities.

Jordaan is known for its picturesque canals, narrow streets, and historic buildings, offering a quintessential Amsterdam experience.

The neighborhood has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, making it suitable for families with children. You’ll find locals and visitors alike enjoying leisurely walks, bike rides, and picnics in the area.

Jordaan is home to various art galleries, boutiques, and cafes, offering plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation. It’s also close to major attractions like the Anne Frank House and Westerkerk.

While Jordaan itself may not have large parks, it’s within walking distance of green spaces like Westerpark and Vondelpark, where families can enjoy outdoor activities and picnics.

The neighborhood has a range of family-friendly restaurants, cafes, and shops, catering to different tastes and preferences.

Best places to stay in Amsterdam in Jordaan with children:

Mid-range ($$): Linden Hotel , popular 3-star kid-friendly hotel in Jordaan, easy access to public transportations, shopping areas, and famous museums. It welcomes children of all ages and Children 18 and above will be charged as adults. Rooms are clean and tidy.

Mid-range ($$): Adam Suites Hotel , 4-star family-friendly hotel on Lindengracht Canal, in the beautiful Jordaan which is perfect for strolling, admiring architecture and checking quaint cafes. It has an elevator in the building which is a bonus because many hotels in Amsterdam doesnt have this facility.

Luxury ($$$): Luxury Prinsengracht Canal House Jordan Area , great family-friendly apartment located  on Prinsengracht, only a 5 mins walk from the famous Anne Frank House. Close to the nine streets area and a lot of good restaurants. It has a bedroom, a living room, and a fully equipped kitchen.

4. Museum Quarter

The Museum Quarter offers families a rich cultural experience, access to world-class museums, and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation in nearby green spaces. 

The Museum Quarter is home to various renowned museums, including the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum. Your family can easily explore these cultural institutions and enjoy enriching experiences together.

The Museum Quarter is adjacent to Vondelpark, one of Amsterdam’s largest and most popular parks. Families can spend leisurely afternoons picnicking, cycling, or playing in the park’s expansive green areas.

Best places to stay in Museum Quarter with family:

Luxury ($$$): Conservatorium Hotel , 5-star kid-friendly hotel, in the Oud Zuid, surrounded by important museums and a huge park. It features one, and Two-Bedroom Suites which is convenient for families of 4 to 6. The area is not so commercial feeling but close to everything. 

Mid-range ($$): Park Centraal Amsterdam, part of Sircle Collection , 4-star family-friend in the high-end Oud-Zuid district, close to the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh museum and vibrant Leidse Square. It has nice, beautiful rooms with comfortable beds. Location is close to everything.

Budget ($): Hotel Aalders , 3-star family-friendly in a convenient location in the green and picturesque museum district. Easy access to the iconic Stedelijk Museum, Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Vondelpark, and the lively Leidseplein. Trams are nearby to access the central station and the old town.

De Pijp is a great base for families who want a vibrant atmosphere, easy access to major sights. Located next to the Museum District, this area is known for its lively atmosphere, diverse population, and eclectic mix of shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars.  

This area is home to Albert Cuyp Market, one of the largest and most famous outdoor markets in Europe. It’s a great place to experience the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam’s street life.

De Pijp is home to Sarphatipark, a beautiful green space where families can relax, have picnics, or let children play in the playgrounds. It provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets.

De Pijp is known for its diverse culinary scene, with a wide range of international cuisines, including traditional Dutch food, Middle Eastern delicacies, or Asian fusion dishes. In the evening, the area comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. 

De Pijp is close to the Heineken Experience, a popular attraction where families can learn about the history of the famous beer brand through interactive exhibits and tours.

Best places to stay in Amsterdam in De Pijp with kids:

• Luxury ($$$): Hotel Okura Amsterdam 
• Mid-range ($$): Sir Albert Hotel, part of Sircle Collection
• Budget ($): ibis Styles Amsterdam City

In conclusion, Oude Centrum, Canal Belt, Jordaan, Museum Quarter, and De Pijp are the best places to stay in Amsterdam for families with kids . These districts offer plenty of family-friendly accommodations for all budgets. You’ll also have easy access to shops, restaurants, and public transportation. 

You can continue reading about Amsterdam and the Netherlands in these articles:

• Best places to stay in Amsterdam first time

There you have it, my recommendations for the popular areas and neighborhoods that you can stay during your family trip to Amsterdam. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.

If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.

About Author: Ocean Cameron

I'm Ocean, founder and main editor of travelhotelexpert.com. I’m a passionate traveler who specializes in uncovering the best hotels and locations in every city, especially for first-timers, all without the need for a car.

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. This means that, at absolutely no additional cost to you, I'll earn a small commission if you click through and purchase something I've recommended. I only recommend products that I use myself or firmly believe in. Thank you!

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The top 10 things to do in the Netherlands

May 1, 2024 • 6 min read

From Rotterdam's modern architecture to cycling past historic windmills, here are the best things to do in the Netherlands © Christian Beirle González / Getty Images

The Netherlands packs so much within its compact borders – from its grand cities to green spaces, picturesque waterways and miles of coastline – that it’s easy to take in numerous unique and memorable experiences throughout the country, even on a short trip.

Here are 10 of the very best things to do on your Dutch travels.

1. Captain an electric boat to explore Amsterdam’s canals

Renting a boat for a few hours lets you navigate Amsterdam ’s watery landscape at your own pace. In the city’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal ring and surrounding waterways (such as the Amstel river, which gave Amsterdam its name), you can glide past landmarks like the Westerkerk’s belltower, near the Anne Frank Huis, pretty bridges, photogenic canal houses containing charming shops, cozy restaurants and museums, and regenerating docklands. Pick a fine day, pack a picnic from Amsterdam’s street markets and set sail.

Planning tip: Electric boats are free from emissions and noise, and don’t need a boat license or experience (instruction is given at pick up). Book with companies such as Boaty or Eco Boats Amsterdam .

Save these tips on the best free things to do in Amsterdam to take your euros further. 

2. View Van Gogh masterpieces in the Hoge Veluwe National Park

A wonderland of pine forests, heath, grassland and sand drifts, roamed by red and roe deer, mouflon and wild boar, the 135-acre (55 sq km) Hoge Veluwe National Park is laced with hiking and biking trails. Amid the trees at the park’s heart, the astonishing Kröller-Müller Museum holds the greatest collection of Van Gogh’s works outside Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum, including masterpieces like The Potato Eaters,  and more by Monet, Renoir, Seurat, Picasso and Mondriaan, among others. Outside, some 160 sculptures by such luminaries as Rodin, Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth grace its gardens.

Near the lake at the park’s northern edge, the splendid 1920-completed residence of the founders, Helene Kröller-Müller and her husband Anton, Jachthuis Sint Hubertus , also welcomes visitors.

Planning tip: You’ll need to buy national park tickets in advance or at park entrances. Time-slot tickets for the Kröller-Müller Museum and guided tours of Jachthuis Sint Hubertus must be pre-booked online.

3. Mudwalk on the Wadden Sea

Slogging through gluggy mud might not immediately appeal but wadlopen (“mudwalking”) across vast mudflats, with crabs, clams and cockles underfoot and gulls cawing overhead, is an unforgettable, often mesmerizing, at-one-with-nature experience. At low tide, the Wadden Sea, the world’s largest unbroken intertidal zone, retreats to reveal the seafloor; it’s possible to reach the Frisian islands of Ameland and Schiermonnikoog (shorter, easier treks are available).

Planning tip: On the mainland, north of Groningen, Pieterburen is a prime wadlopen base. It’s vital to go with a trained guide and wear clothing appropriate for the season (many places rent footwear so you don’t damage your own).

4. Visit fairytale medieval castle Muiderslot

Looking like it’s been lifted from the pages of a storybook, with its turreted round towers and surrounding moat, Muiderslot was the 13th-century creation of Count Floris V. Its fortifications were added in the 17th century, ensconcing its flourishing gardens, with a beech alley, kitchen and herb gardens and plum orchard commissioned by its then owner, the historian, poet and playwright PC Hooft, who hosted leading writers, artists and scientists here. Following its renovation by architect Pierre Cuypers (of Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum and Centraal Station fame), it’s been a national museum since 1878. Themed audio tours bring the castle’s centuries of history to life. Beyond the ramparts, boats fill the pretty pleasure port of Muiden, lined with waterside cafes.

Planning tip: From April to October, a fun way to travel here is by ferry from Amsterdam’s reclaimed island neighborhood of IJburg. During the same months, ferries also run to the late 19th-century UNESCO-listed fortress island of Pampus .

5. Taste Trappist beer and tour the abbey where it’s made near Tilburg

Trappist brewing secrets are normally closely guarded but   a visit to La Trappe gives you a rare chance to go behind the scenes. In a beautiful and serene pastoral setting on the outskirts of Tilburg in the Netherlands’ southeast, monks have been brewing since 1884 at Koningshoeven Abbey. On a guided tour, you’ll see the brewing process and abbey buildings, and taste its divine ales.

6. Cycle through tulip fields in the Bollenstreek

All your senses come alive as you pedal past fields of vibrantly colored flowers in the Bollenstreek (Bulb Region) along the 21-mile (35km) Bloemenroute. Cycling this fragrant "Flower Route" takes around two to three hours. In spring you’ll see the Netherlands’ famous tulips and other flowers like jonquils and daffodils, while dahlias and sunflowers are among the floral spectacle in summer.

Bollenstreek highlights include Lisse’s intriguing Museum De Zwarte Tulp (Museum of the Black Tulip) and magnificent Keukenhof Gardens , and nearby flower farm De Tulperij in Voorhout.

Planning tip: Leiden makes an ideal base for forays through the tulips, with plenty of places to rent wheels in the city (and region-wide). Downloadable route maps highlight which flowers are in bloom in season.

Lonely Planet's Brian Healy shares his top tulip-viewing tips from a recent trip.

7. Step inside a museum storage facility in Rotterdam

Rotterdam ’s foremost art institution the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen might be closed for renovations until 2029 but it’s still possible to see its exceptional collections. The Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen , in a giant bowl-shaped building covered by 1,664 reflective glass panels, is the storage facility of the entire, 154,000-piece collection. And, in a world first, the public can view its cache of paintings, sculptures and photography in climate-controlled compartments. The building’s tree-topped roof terrace has panoramic views over the striking contemporary skyline of Netherlands’ second-largest city.

Detour: Other venues to see art in the city include the Kunsthal, with changing exhibitions, and TENT and Kunstinstituut Melly, showcasing contemporary works. Serious art lovers should also check out the royal collection at Den Haag’s Mauritshuis, an easy 15 miles north of Rotterdam.

8. Wander past windmills at Kinderdijk

Windmills are a classic fixture of the Dutch landscape, with some 1200 traditional spinners dotted across the countryside. At UNESCO World Heritage site Kinderdijk , 15 miles southeast of Rotterdam, 19 historic brick and timber mills still in operating condition rise above the peaceful waterways and polders (areas of drained land). You can meander (on foot or by bicycle) along the canals’ towpaths, visit museums and take a boat ride beneath the mills’ creaking sails.

Detour: Around 20 miles north of Amsterdam, windmill-filled Zaanse Schans is a working, inhabited village with quaint shops, traditional crafts and millers on hand to explain how windmills work.

Who needs to road trip when you can cycle? Here and the top 11 cycling routes in the Netherlands.  

9. Delve into underground caves and passages in Maastricht

To understand the multilayered backstory of spirited southeastern city Maastricht , start by surveying the landscape from lofty Fort Sint Pieter. This hulking 1701-built defensive fortress sits within a deep-cut dry moat. Stroll the surrounding paths, then take a subterranean tour of the city’s honeycomb of caves and passages with Maastricht Underground to uncover the city’s Roman, Napoleonic and WWII history.

10. Eat cheese in Edam

Edam is synonymous with its round, red-rind, mild cows-milk cheese and the town has plenty of opportunities to indulge at restaurants, aromatic shops (Henri Willig occupies a 16th-century building) and, most atmospherically, its cheese market – held on Wednesday mornings in summer – when costumed locals enthusiastically recreate the trading of a bygone era and you can buy cheeses produced on local farms.

Cheese aside, Edam is a charming place to stroll the narrow streets lined with historic recalling its prosperous ship-building heritage and cruise its picturesque waterways.

Planning tip: Edam makes an easy and enjoyable 14-mile (22km) bike ride north of Amsterdam.  

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14 Family-Friendly European Destinations for a Vacation to Remember

From copenhagen to crete.

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Summer is approaching and if you want a big family vacation abroad, now’s the time to start planning. When traveling with kids in tow, though, it’s important to pick a destination that caters to the interests and needs of every family member. Not to mention, you'll want someplace that is easily accessible and easy to navigate. Without further ado, here’s a list of family-friendly Europe destinations that check all the boxes, including public parks, playgrounds, kid-friendly museums, beaches and a whole host of sophisticated cultural and historic attractions.

The 51 Best Vacations for Kids in the U.S. for 2024

1. Mallorca, Spain

• Why We Recommend It: natural beauty, pristine beaches, outdoor activities, historic attractions
• Main Attractions: Cuevas del Drach, Palma Aquarium, Katmandu Park, Jungle Parc
• Where to Stay: Zafiro Palace Andratx , Son Terrola , Fantastic Villa in Alaro

Also spelled ‘Majorca,’ this gorgeous Mediterranean oasis is one of Spain’s Balearic islands. You can expect scenery that includes lush limestone mountains, sheltered coves and the pristine shorelines of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. The island is also home to many ancient ruins and historic architecture, so there’s plenty to see. As for family-friendly activities, we recommend a visit to the island’s highly interactive and budget-friendly aquarium, as well as a ziplining adventure the whole family will enjoy in Jungle Parc and perhaps a visit to Katmandu Park for thrill seekers who crave an adrenaline-fueled theme park experience.

2. London, U.K.

• Why We Recommend It: big city escape, cultural attractions, historic attractions, shopping
• Main Attractions: Buckingham Palace, Hamleys toy store, Natural History Museum, London Eye
• Where to Stay: Royal Lancaster London , The Resident Covent Garden , Montcalm Royal London House

England’s capital city is huge so it goes without saying that there’s an abundance of things to do. Tour the city with a double decker bus ride, stroll the many public parks and be sure not to miss Buckingham Palace , which is an obvious sightseeing must. The Natural History Museum is also quite impressive and a great educational activity that will engage all members of the brood, and we’d be remiss not to mention Hamleys , the world’s oldest toy store and the largest one in the U.K.

3. Prague, Czech Republic

• Why We Recommend It: walkable city, fairytale vibes, cultural attractions, historic architecture, rich cultural life
• Main Attractions: Prague Zoo, Charles Bridge, Slavonic Island, Prague castle, Dancing House, Museum of Senses
• Where to Stay: Art Deco Imperial Hotel , Hotel Residence Agnes , Prague Family’s Paradise

A visit to Prague truly feels like stepping into a fairytale—namely because, in addition to the world famous Prague Castle , the city is replete with Gothic cathedrals, Romanesque chapels, Baroque palaces and beautiful gardens. The architectural attractions alone make Prague a truly breathtaking and memorable European destination, but the relatively small and highly walkable city has more going for it than just its striking looks. The Museum of Senses provides a quirky interactive experience that will captivate visitors of all ages and the Prague Zoo , which you can access by way of a charming river cruise, is one of the best in the world and features many interactive exhibits that will delight children. Before you head back stateside, be sure to spend a day at the Slavonic Island , which sits on the Vltava river and boasts beautiful scenery, ample park space, paddle boat tours and a very impressive playground.

4. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

• Why We Recommend It: bike-friendly, cultural attractions, historic architecture, scenic, food scene
• Main Attractions: Van Gogh Museum, Bloemenmarkt, Amsterdamse Bos, Vondelpark, Zandvoort Beach
• Where to Stay: Hotel Jakarta Amsterdam , Ambassade Hotel , The Lake House

Amsterdam has a reputation for having a few somewhat unsavory attributes, but forget what you’ve heard because this gem in the Netherlands is perfectly family-friendly and brimming with things to do and see. The city has romantic vibes and unmistakable European charm thanks to its extensive canal system and picturesque brick-laid streets lined with historic Dutch buildings. Amsterdam is designed for bike-riding but families can easily get around on foot as well. Plan your visit for when the famous tulip garden is in bloom (usually from late March to mid-May), browse the botanicals at the Bloemenmarkt and be sure to avail yourself of some of the excellent street food before you head to beautiful Vondelpark for a picnic. Families looking for water recreation won’t be disappointed by Zandvoort Beach , a scenic destination where hiking, water sport opportunities and sunbathing are all on the menu.

5. Paris, France

• Why We Recommend It: big city escape, cultural attractions, historic attractions, shopping, food scene
• Main Attractions: Luxembourg Gardens, parc Monceau, Louvre, Eiffel Tower
• Where to Stay: Hotel Maison Mere , Hotel Augustin-Astotel , Il Patio

The romantic charm of Paris is well-documented, but it isn’t just for love birds. The whole family will have a memorable experience climbing the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre serves up a once-in-a-lifetime museum visit complete with kid-friendly tours. The Luxembourg Gardens will delight the whole family, there are public parks aplenty and you can’t stroll the cobblestone streets of the city without stumbling upon something to see or do. If you’re looking for a family-friendly vacation that provides a ton of cultural enrichment and a uniquely European je ne sais quoi , the City of Light is the place for you.

6. Dubrovnik, Croatia

• Why We Recommend It: natural beauty, historic attractions, beach
• Main Attractions: Walls of Dubrovnik, Cadmos Village Adventure Park, Elaphiti Islands Cruise, Lapad Beach, Buggy Safari
• Where to Stay: One Suite Hotel , Hotel Dubrovnik Palace , Residence Lantoni Dubrovnik

Cable car rides, scenic ziplining opportunities, thrilling “safari” rides—there are so many ways to explore the enchanting beauty of Dubrovnik. Walk the famous ancient walls for breathtaking views, explore Old Town for an experience that feels like stepping into a history book and a stroll that features postcard-ready photo ops galore. When you’re ready to kick back and relax, hop on an island cruise or pay a visit to Lapad , one of the city’s only sandy and very family-friendly beaches that boasts a boardwalk lined with activities for kids, from arcades to trampolines and playgrounds.

7. Rome, Italy

• Why We Recommend It: big city escape, historic attractions, cultural attractions, food scene
• Main Attractions: Colosseum, Borghese Gallery and Gardens, Campo de’ Fiori Market, Vatican
• Where to Stay: Hotel Artemide , Hotel Barocco , TreasureRome Quattro Fontane

Needless to say, there are historical and cultural attractions galore in Rome (like the Colosseum and the Vatican , to name a few). That said, if you’re traveling with younger kids who have a lower tolerance for all the sightseeing, you’ll be pleased to know that Rome has plenty of kid-oriented activities on offer as well. The city has an abundance of parks and playgrounds, interactive museums geared towards the younger crowd and a food scene that will undoubtedly appeal to palates both young and old. (I mean, who doesn’t like gelato and pizza, right?) There’s also plenty of shopping to be done, so if you have a teen in tow, you might want to agree on an allowance before you arrive.

8. Barcelona, Spain

• Why We Recommend It: vibrant street performances, food scene, beach, historic attractions, cultural attractions
• Main Attractions: Park Güell, Cosmocaixa, Montjuic Magic Fountain, Casa Batilo, Labyrinth Park
• Where to Stay: Hotel 1898 , The One Barcelona , The White House

Although Barcelona is known to be a destination where nightlife reigns supreme, there are so many things to do in the city by day. You can aimlessly walk the streets and count on being treated to some free, family-friendly entertainment from the many street performers, and much of the sightseeing has all-ages appeal as well. Younger ones will enjoy the spectacular light show provided by the Montjuic Magic fountain , Park Güell is an oh-so beautiful tribute to architect Antoni Gaudi’s work that has ample green space and whimsical architecture that invites imagination and play. Finally, Labyrinth Park , one of Barcelona’s best-kept secrets is as it sounds an expansive maze; it’s also a beautiful historic garden the whole family will be happy to get lost in for hours.

9. Lisbon, Portugal

• Why We Recommend It: walkable, historic attractions, cultural attractions, beach
• Main Attractions: Sao Jorge’s Castle, Oceanarium, Comercio Plaza, Belem Tower
• Where to Stay: Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel , Hotel Avenida Palace , Villa das Palmieras

Lisbon’s magical architectural landmarks like Sao Jorge’s Castle and the nearby town of Sintra provide a fairytale experience to visitors of all ages, and there’s no shortage of other sightseeing opportunities that will fill the whole family with a sense of wonder (like Jamor Adventure Park and the Oceanarium aquarium). The walkability of Portugal’s capital also makes it particularly appealing to those traveling with kids and the gorgeous beach is a major bonus that promises some much-needed chill time once you’ve checked off the other memorable attractions on your itinerary.

10. Provence-Côte d’Azur, France

• Why We Recommend It: beaches, natural beauty, historic attractions, laidback vibes
• Main Attractions: Provencal villages, Palais des Papes, Cafe Van Gogh, Camargue National Park, Pont du Gard
• Where to Stay: Hotel de Provence , Hotel Apollinaire Nice , La Bastide Blanche

Provence, a region located in the sunny, southeastern part of France that borders Italy and the Mediterranean Sea, is quite large and every village is worth visiting. In fact the hardest part about taking your family to Provence is narrowing your itinerary. If you want a glamorous beach vacation, Monaco, Nice and St. Tropez fit the bill. Avignon, on the other hand, sits on the Rhone River and boasts many historic attractions and sightseeing opportunities, including Palais des Papes and Pont du Gard; while the smaller provencal villages promise a laid back vacation that still offers plenty to do, plus sunny weather and small town charm. In other words, when planning an itinerary in Provence, you’ll have to do some picking and choosing (and should consider renting a car so you can explore a few different places), but this list of kid-friendly attractions in the region is a good place to start.

11. Crete, Greece

• Why We Recommend It: beaches, historic attractions, natural attractions, outdoor activities, wildlife viewing
• Main Attractions: Elafonissi Beach, Balos Lagoon, Cretan Caves, Amazonas Park, Samaria Gorge
• Where to Stay: Lyttos Beach , Nana Golden Beach , Vraskos Villa

The breathtaking coastline of Greece’s biggest island is home to some of Europe’s most beautiful (and family-friendly) beaches, as well as some stunning natural attractions like the Cretan Caves, including one where Zeus was supposedly born, and gorgeous hikes at places like Samaria Gorge . For more specifically kid-oriented activities, Amazonas Park is a charming little zoo in a scenic hillside location that offers young visitors the opportunity to pet and feed the animal, as well as other wildlife attractions like the CRETaquarium and Reptisland , which allows for a hands-on experiences with the various reptilian species at the preserve.

12. Berlin, Germany

• Why We Recommend It: historic attractions, cool vibes, walkable
• Main Attractions: Berlin Zoo, Museum of Natural History, Tierpark Berlin, Berlin Wall
• Where to Stay: Grand Hyatt Berlin , The Circus Hotel , Large House with Garden

Berlin, known to be a cultural hub in Germany, has a vibrant art scene and an effortlessly cool character. It’s also a big city with a ton of things to do for families, including the impressive Berlin Zoo , enriching and interactive Museum of Natural History and, of course, some pretty significant historic landmarks. Tierpark , another Berlin zoo, serves up a particularly unique and fascinating experience where visitors can see animals in their lush natural habitats. Boat tours and kinder museums can almost be included on the itinerary for a full family-friendly experience, but the gist of it is that you’ll have plenty of options when visiting Berlin.

13. Copenhagen, Denmark

• Why We Recommend It: kid-friendly attractions, parks, food scene, walkable
• Main Attractions: Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen Zoo, Harbour Baths, Amager Strand
• Where to Stay: Nimb Hotel , 71 Nyhavn Hotel , Lovely Flat in Copenhagen

Perhaps one of the most kid-friendly destinations on the list, Copenhagen is full of European charm and positively brimming with playgrounds and parks to keep younger ones occupied in between more structured activities. There’s also a pretty awesome science center, Experimentarium , where kids can engage in activities that encourage learning through play and Tivoli Gardens —an amusement park like none other, providing all the thrills of a theme park you might find stateside, with the added benefit of a far more scenic experience featuring gorgeous, manicured gardens. Oh, and did we mention the street fare in Copenhagen is a foodie’s dream?

14. Vienna, Austria

• Why We Recommend It: historic attractions, cultural attractions, museums, parks
• Main Attractions: The WurstelPrater, Max Winter Park, Schonbrunn Palace, MuseumsQuartier, Butterfly House
• Where to Stay: Boutique Hotel am Stephansplatz, Hotel Kaiserhof Wien , Luxury Villa

Kid-friendly museums ( Museum of Illusions , Children’s Museum and Butterfly House , to name a few) abound in the Austrian capital of Vienna, which is renowned for its rich culture and history. Best of all, these attractions are all located within close proximity to each other in the MuseumsQuartier, so you won’t have to run your kids ragged while trying to pack in as much fun as possible. There are also waterparks all over the city and a whole host of cultural attractions and historic attractions, including the truly magical and awe-inspiring Schoenbrunn Palace .

24 Kid-Friendly Airbnbs to Rent for Your Next Family Vacation

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Where to stay in amsterdam with family: best areas, hotels, apartments.

Our guide to the best area to stay in Amsterdam with family. A handpicked selection of some of the best family hotels in Amsterdam city centre to help you find the best place to stay in Amsterdam with kids.

Amsterdam is one of my favourite cities to visit with kids.

I got to know Amsterdam really well thanks to a very close friend of mine who lives there and that has showed me the city like a true local more times than I can count!

Thanks to her, I have discovered that Amsterdam is a very family oriented place and there are plenty of fun and interesting things to do in Amsterdam with kids .

I have also had the change to stay in different areas and experience the different vibes and atmosphere of the central neighbourhoods of this wonderful and varied city.

One the course of the years, I have stayed in several parts within the Amsterdam canal ring, I have stayed in Amsterdam Zuid and have finally fallen in love with the area between Prinsengracht and the Amstel, now my favourite area to stay in Amsterdam with kids!

There is a good range of family friendly accommodation in Amsterdam city centre and surrounding neighborhoods too and options come in several shapes, from hotels to apartments to even boat houses!

Despite the vast choice, choosing adequately where to stay in Amsterdam is important.

Especially during the busy tourist season ( see most popular times to visit Amsterdam here ) some areas get jam packed with tourists and this can get very tiring very quickly.

My favourite bits of Amsterdam are those areas that strike a balance between proximity to the main Amsterdam’s landmarks, convenience in terms of transport and services and local atmosphere.

This is my selection and best tips on where to stay in Amsterdam with family.

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Table of Contents

Where to stay in Amsterdam with family: neighbourhoods overview

This is a quick overview on some of Amsterdam’s most popular areas.

Grachtengordel, Amsterdam’s canal ring, is undoubtedly the best place to stay in Amsterdam with family in terms of convenience and old charm.

The center of the city, Amsterdam canal ring is where you find Amsterdam’s main landmarks , the famous Amsterdam canals and the city most famous museums.

When you see photos of Amsterdam, usaully this is the area you see!

Amsterdam’s canal ring is the best area to stay in Amsterdam with family for sightseeing, especially if you pick some of its quieter corners. I am personally very fond of the area between the Amstel and Prinzengracht, as well as the area immediately to the West of the centre, near Jordaan (see below).

You can see my favourite itinerary around Amsterdam’s canal ring here

Plantage: located to the East of the centre, Plantage is a beautiful part of Amsterdam and one of the best places to stay in Amsterdam with kids thanks to something special: famous Artis Royal Zoo .

Plantage is residential and pretty.

The area has local restaurants and cafes that give it a nice yet local buzz and it is close to the city centre ‘proper’which you can reach on foot or with a short tram ride.

Museum Plein Like the name suggests, this is the area with the most famous Amsterdam museums, namely the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh museum.

This is an elegant area, immediately to the South of the canal ring and is the best area to stay in Amsterdam with family if you want easy access to the museum themselves and upscale shopping options.

While not on the canals themselves, in the museum quarter you are very much in the centre and you can easily discover the city on foot and by tram.

This area is also close to beautiful Vodelpark, a large green area and a family favourite for locals and tourists alike.

Jordaan: this is a beautiful, vast area to the West of the canal belt popular with tourists and locals alike.

Jordaan originated as a working class area but like so many others in Europe it has developed into a magnet for artists and designers and now has many quality galleries and quirky shops.

This is a great area to stay in Amsterdam with kids if you want a quiet and residential feel and don’t mind a potentially longer walk to some of the city center attractions.

Centrum : the area known as centrum is well located in terms of access to sightseeing opportunities and transport options and is a very popular base for tourists.

However, it is a very busy area, it lacks the charm of the canal belt and the residential atmosphere of Jordaan or Plantage so I place it low on my list.

If you are staying in this area, choose your accommodation extra carefully to avoid noise and excessive crowds.  

Where to stay in Amsterdam with kids: hotel or self catering?

Amsterdam offers several family friendly accommodation options both in the form of hotels and guesthouses and self catering apartments.

The decision between one and the other is vastly down to your preference and family group but there are a couple of things worth considering.

Amsterdam hotels tend to book up quickly so advance booking is necessary.

Especially if visiting at a busy time such as spring and summer, make sure you book soon to secure a good room and a reasonable price: accommodation in Amsterdam is expensive!

My go-to website for advanced accommodation bookings is booking.com since you can often book a room with free cancellation until a few days before the time of travel.

Some of the most atmospheric hotels are in old buildings refurbished to suit modern needs.

This means that sometimes the rooms are smaller than you may be used to in more recent builts and often there is no lift. If you have a buggy to lug around, double check accessibility!

This applies to hotels and apartments alike. Self catering apartments are an excellent choice for families. They usually cost significantly less than hotels and have the added advantage of allowing you to prepare your own meals, cutting down on dining out expenses.

My go-to websites for self catering apartments is again booking.com , for the same cancellation policy as above.

When renting apartments, be extra careful about accessibility: some of the most charming ones have staircases that are truly vertical and super hard to tackle with kids!

You want to look at photos with great attention!

Best family friendly hotels in Amsterdam

These are some of the best family hotels in Amsterdam. Prinsenhuis (apartments).

These apartments are in a perfect location in what I consider the very best area to stay in Amsterdam with kids and without: the area between Prinzengracht and the Amstel. 

The apartments can host up to 4 people and are very reasonably priced: they are a bit of a find and the only downside is that they are often full.

If you find them available for your dates, secure them straight away as they will go quickly! Family friendly.

Hilton DoubleTree Centraal (4* star hotel)  – this is an excellent family-friendly hotel in Amsterdam city center, close to the central station and Nemo, one of Amsterdam’s premier children attractions.

This is a modern, large hotel with interconnecting rooms for families in a convenient location for sightseeing and the train station.

Erik Vokel boutique apartments  Beautiful, design apartments located in a quiet street close to the central station. While I usually avoid this area due to the crowds, it is exceptionally convenient for transport and access to some of Amsterdam’s main attractions and therefore worth considering. Family friendly.

t Hotel  (3 star hotel)  beautiful hotel in a great location with attentively decorated rooms.

The hotel is immaculately kept and is very family friendly: their family room hosts up to 5 people and is organised over two levels. One of the best family hotels in Amsterdam.

Hotel Dwars (3 star hotel) Great little hotel with 9 well designed rooms in a fantastic location.

Their quad roomo hosts up to 4 people and is located on the top floor with no elevator, so better suited for families with older kids. Family friendly vibe.

Monet Garden (3 star hotel) : this is a boutique hotel in a great location close to central station and the family-favourite Artis Zoo. The hotel has family rooms, offers cribs and high chairs on demand and kids under 2 go free.

Hotel Sebastians (3 star hotel) : well located boutique style hotel with family rooms sleeping up to 5 people (not all of them, check exact room rules as on smaller ones there may be the option of adding a bed but there is an extra charge).

Pulitzer Amsterdam (5 star hotel) : this is a 5 star option and unless booked very early may prove out of budget for many.

However, if yo have the chance this is a fabulous hotel with family rooms on split level. One of the best family hotels in Amsterdam if you are looking for a luxury stay.

Hotel Heye 130  (3 stars) a good value option close to beautiful Vondelpark good for families for up to 4 people. The rooms are on the small side but children are welcome. There is no capacity for extra beds.  

I hope you find this overview of the best areas to stay in Amsterdam with kids and best family hotels in Amsterdam useful. Safe travels!

This post was originally published in 2018 and has now been updated based on our more recent Amsterdam trip.

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is the creator, writer and creative mind behind Learning Escapes. A travel loving mama of two from Italy, Marta currently lives in Ireland with her husband and two kids, they take frequent trips to European destination, the US and beyond. A professional travel blogger for over a decade, Marta is passionate about traveling with kids and helping others to travel more and better as a family.

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The Hidden Value of Travel in Amsterdam

By linda coffman.

To live in post-World War II Germany was both exhilarating and troubling for me as an American teenager. Around every corner were new discoveries, some joyous, others sobering.

While my father’s job there in the 1960s had a grim purpose, my parents vowed to enrich our time with as many experiences as possible. Weekends in Paris, skiing in Austria, and exploring German castles were typical family outings, but our favorite getaway was nearby Holland. During a trip to Amsterdam, Netherlands , which was planned to include nothing more serious than blooming tulips, I learned that the home of Anne Frank had recently opened to the public. My father agreed we should visit.

The story of the Frank family is widely known—as Jews, they were forced into hiding in cramped quarters until their ultimate betrayal and discovery by the Nazis. Anne’s courage never flagged in that dismal time as, like me, she covered her walls with photos of film stars and dreamed of becoming a writer. Her spirit stirred me that day and shaped my way of viewing the world as not simply places to see things, but as opportunities to embrace people.

My family was among the first visitors to Anne Frank house as it had just opened to the public the week we were there. Mr. Frank himself greeted visitors at that time and my father took a photo of my mother, brothers, and me with him. Sadly, those old family photos are long gone.

Being there over fifty years ago had a profound effect on me. It was still post-war Europe and those terrible days were still vivid in the minds of many people, especially in Holland and France. There were entire blocks of the city in Germany where we lived that remained bombed-out shells. It was quite sobering to us Americans when we passed them daily on the way to school.

As I travel the globe, I’m touched by the little things we do to comfort one another, like the teenage girl in a Stockholm café who kindly shared her throat lozenges with an aging American woman in distress. Take time to see the tulips in your travels, but don’t overlook the people who so lovingly planted them.

12 Best Places To Visit In Germany With Family In 2024!

T hinking about visiting Germany with your kids? Looking for the best places to visit in Germany with family in 2024? You’re in the right place!

Germany is a fabulous destination for families. It’s renowned for its rich history, gorgeous landscapes and interesting culture. Its fairy-tale old towns and castles add some magic and its big cities add some vibrancy. All up, Germany is a captivating blend of historical charm and modern appeal.

From landmarks such as the Berlin Wall and Neuschwanstein Castle to the beautiful landscapes of the Rhine Valley and the Black Forest to the great food and ease of getting around, there’s so much to love about traveling in Germany.

Germany isn’t just for adults though. There are many fantastic places to visit in Germany with kids. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best choices to add to your itinerary.

Why Is A Family Vacation In Germany A Great Idea?

Where to stay in berlin for families, where to stay in nuremberg for families, where to stay in rothenburg for families, where to stay in the rhine valley for families, where to stay in trier for families, where to stay in heidelberg for families, where to stay in europa park for families, where to stay in the black forest for families, where to stay near autostadt for families, where to stay in bremen for families, where to stay in lübeck for families, christmas markets.

Germany is an incredible destination for families for the reasons I mentioned above as well as many others. The fairy-tale castles are sure to capture your kids’ imagination.

A trip to the Berlin Wall can be a great accessible educational opportunity. A walk on cobblestoned streets through a colorful old town will take your kids right back to fairy-tale classics. Families are welcome almost everywhere.

There are, of course, many attractions in Germany for kids. From huge theme parks to children’s museums and fun markets, trains and more, there is a lot to love about traveling to Germany with kids.

The efficient train system and great road network also make it easy to get around and to explore as much of Germany as you like. There’s a great range of accommodation, including many hotels that specifically created for families.

The food can also be quite kid-friendly. It’s easy to enjoy a pretzel or a bratwurst (sausage) almost anywhere which is likely to appeal to even fussy eaters.

All up, it’s a very easy place for a family vacation that your kids won’t forget.

Best Places To Visit In Germany With Family

Here are my top 12 picks of the best places to visit in Germany with kids…

The capital of Germany, Berlin offers a fantastic blend of historical and family-friendly attractions. The Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall are must visits for all and a great learning opportunity for kids.

The DDR Museum is a hands-on way for your family to learn about life in the German Democratic Republic (East Germany). Berlin is a city with a super interesting past, and there’s no better way for your kids to learn and understand it than in the city itself.

For more family focused attractions in Berlin , the Berlin Zoo is a great place to head with a wide variety of animals. The interactive Legoland Discovery Center is also a favorite among children. Head to the German Spy Museum for lots of fun spy activities, like dressing up and debugging a room.

To let off some steam, make sure you head to Tiergarten. This huge park has plenty of space to roam with historical monuments, six playgrounds and row boats. It’s also home to the zoo. 

I recommend The Circus Apartments in a handy spot in Berlin. They have a variety of apartment options including two and three bedroom, fully self-contained apartments for up to six people.

Click here for more details and the latest prices.

Nuremberg is our pick of the best city to visit in Germany with family. It’s an easy city to explore with a great range of attractions that are easily accessible for families.

The Old Town is the natural place to start with super colorful houses and the Kaiserburg (Imperial Castle) keeping watch from above. You can also explore the city from underground and see how Nuremberg’s art collections were kept safe during World War II. You can find the Spielzeugmuseum (Toy Museum) in the Old Town with toys from various time periods.

Just outside the Old Town, the Deutsche Bahn Museum is a must visit. It centers on the history of the German Railways with old carriages, videos and more. What kids will really love is the model railway, the chance to take a light railway ride and the interactive play area specifically for kids.

If you have younger kids (10 and under), don’t miss a day out at the Playmobil FunPark. This amusement park with Playmobil theming was one of my 6 and 10 year olds’ favorite places in Germany. There are great playgrounds, pedal boats, water play area, castle area, go karts and more. It’s located just outside of Nuremberg.

You can read more about things to do in Nuremberg here.

We stayed at the Novotel Nuernberg Centre Ville which was perfect for our family. It’s on the edge of the Old Town by the main station and has family rooms. There’s also a great indoor pool, children’s playroom, restaurants and more.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Home to maybe the most photographed old town in Germany, Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber (or just Rothenburg) is a picturesque medieval gem, perfect for exploring with kids.

It’s only a small town, but this is part of its charm. Its colorful buildings, cobblestoned streets and well-preserved town walls will help you feel like you’ve gone back in time. 

The town walls are the perfect place to start exploring. They offer many pretty views, and there are information boards along the way to learn more. It’s a great way for kids to let off some steam while discovering Rothenburg. There are also some playgrounds around the walls.

Another place families will enjoy is the Christmas Museum. It’s located in the Käthe Wohlfahrt Weihnachtsdorf which is a popular chain of Christmas stores that open year round. It’s about the history of Christmas customs with many decorations on display.

A popular place to visit in Rothenburg is the Mittelalterliches Kriminalmuseum (Medieval Crime Museum). It’s located in a building which is 600 years old and covers over 1,000 years of the legal history of Germany and Europe. It focuses on interrogation (torture), crime and punishment.

This museum is for families with teenagers who have an interest – and it is a fascinating museum. I visited without my 6 year old, which was the right choice.

We stayed at the Pension das Lädle which is in the heart of Rothenburg’s Old Town. It has three and four person rooms with separate sleeping areas for kids.

Rhine Valley

The Rhine Valley may be best known for its wines but it’s also a fabulous place to travel to Germany with children. With gorgeous towns, stunning wineries and fairy-tale castles, the whole family will love a trip here.

Start your adventure with a relaxing cruise down the Rhine trying to spot the castles that dot it before driving around and visiting your favorites. Rheinstein Castle is a picturesque place to start or visit Schönburg Castle with its amazing views and slingshot simulator your kids will enjoy.

Of course, you can’t miss out on stopping in the beautiful towns. Bacharach may be the cutest with a town wall to explore, a pretty Old Town and wines to taste. Boppard is another town worth heading to with half-timbered houses, old wine taverns and a Roman fort.

There’s also a fun chairlift in Boppard with great views and nice walks at the top. You can take an easy stroll to Vierseenblick (Four Lakes View). This cool viewpoint is at a horseshoe bend in the Rhine River and gives the illusion that there are four lakes instead of one river.

We stayed at the Rhine Pearl Hideaways which is a building of apartments in the middle of Oberwesel, a picturesque town in the middle of the Rhine Valley. The apartments are modern and perfect for families.

Trier is not just the oldest city in Germany and home to nine UNESCO World Heritage sites but is also a great destination in Germany for children.

Located near the border of Luxembourg and not far from the Rhine Valley, Trier has had human settlement for over 6,000 years. It was an important place in Roman times and you can still see ruins from this time today. These ruins are fun to explore with kids and are great for capturing the imagination.

Start your adventure at Porta Nigra, a second century Roman city gate. It’s the best way to enter the Old Town and is massive. In the Old Town there are pretty streets, Hauptmarkt (the main square), many churches, an antique toy museum and more. Trier Cathedral still has parts from Roman times.

As you head further south, there are more Roman ruins from thermal baths to an amphitheatre. It is worth checking them all out.

For a more hands-on experience, you can also visit Freilichtmuseum Roscheiderhof, an open air museum, about eight kilometers from Trier.

We stayed at Ibis Styles Trier which is right in the center of everything. There are family room options.

Beautiful Heidelberg is definitely one of the places to visit in Germany with children. With its great setting by the Neckar River and surrounded by hills, there are plenty of places for kids to explore and roam.

Heidelberg’s famous ruined castle is a great place to start. You can either walk up here or get a fun cogwheel train up. In addition to exploring the castle area, you can visit the Deutsches Apotheken-Museum (German Pharmacy Museum) inside the castle which covers the history of medical science and pharmacies in Germany. It’s interesting even for young kids with old reconstructed pharmacies, labs and interactive games.

After the castle, consider taking the cogwheel train further up the hill to visit the Walderlebnispfad (Forest Adventure Trail). This is an easy 2 kilometer trail with many activities to do along the way aimed at children. There is also a small, older-style amusement park up there.

Our favorite thing to do in Heidelberg was to head up the opposite hill to explore Heiligenberg, where settlement first started in this area. There are great paths through the forest where you can feel like you are discovering Celtic and Roman ruins, old monasteries and Thingstätte, an amphitheater completed in 1935 by the Nazis to spread propaganda.

We stayed at the Heidelberg Apheartments in the heart of Heidelberg. They offer fully self-contained apartments for up to eight people.

Find more great hotels in Heidelberg here.

Europa-Park – Rust

When you travel to Germany with kids, this theme park is likely to be their favorite place in the country.

Considered one of the best in Europe, Europa Park is massive with 18 themed areas, over 100 attractions, 13 roller coasters, many live shows and so much more. Think Disneyland but with European theming. Most of the themed areas are based on different countries in Europe. There is also a separate water park here called Rulantica.

Even visiting in peak August, we had so much fun here. The kids absolutely loved the more family-friendly roller coasters, getting wet on the splash rides and watching horse shows. The  park’s VirtualLine feature in the app helped to ensure we never lined up for too long and had a great time.

There are many places to eat, stay and more and this is a great way to end a family vacation in Germany. It’s located near the French border between Heidelberg and the Black Forest.

One of the many great things about Europa Park is that there are six hotels adjacent to the park and in the immediate area each with their own theming. If you stay at any of the hotels, you can access the many facilities at all of them and you also get early access to the park.

We stayed at Hotel Castillo Alcazar which was a lot of fun. It has its own entrance directly into the theme park and is themed as a Medieval knight’s castle. There are many family room options, even for larger families.

Black Forest

The Black Forest is definitely a fantastic region to head to when visiting Germany with kids. It’s incredibly scenic with beautiful villages and plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.

We loved hiking round lakes, swimming outdoors, exploring the towns and visiting picturesque castles like Hohenzollern Castle. You can visit the home of cuckoo clocks in Triberg or peddle your way around Titisee lake on a boat. You can bathe in the thermal pools at Baden-Baden or explore the picturesque Old Town in Freiburg .

Kids will love Badeparadies Schwarzwald Titisee, a big indoor waterpark with an amazing sauna complex for adults. And, of course, no visit is complete without a slice of the famous black forest cake (although technically it doesn’t come from here).

There are so many awesome experiences in the Black Forest for families that you could spend your whole trip in this region alone.

We stayed at the Feldberger Hof Family Hotel in the Black Forest. It’s an all inclusive resort specifically for families and it’s amazing. There are so many family friendly facilities (including an outdoor ropes course, horse riding and indoor pool area with water slides), activities, rooms and great food.

The hotel also includes an attractions pass for the region which gives free or discounted entry to 60 attractions plus public transport.

Autostadt Wolfsburg

Autostadt Wolfsburg is an automobile museum and theme park located in Wolfsburg, Germany. It tells the story of the history and development of automobiles, but also has attractions and activities related to automotive culture. This isn’t a big, dry museum.

Spread over 28 hectares, there are multiple museums, massive car towers, playgrounds, giant slides and various car pavilions. One of the coolest parts is definitely the round, glass, 60 meter towers that store Volkswagen cars ready to be delivered to new homes. It’s fully automated with cars being placed and removed from the tower with ease. You can take a ride up the towers yourself for an up close look.

This place is a whole world with plenty of cars and history to explore. Adults can test drive real vehicles while kids can learn to drive in some very cool miniature ones. There are many interactive exhibits. It’s easy to enjoy a half day here. 

For families, there are also some playgrounds including some huge slides up to 18.5 meters high. There’s a cool shop and plenty of eating options too.

For the full Autostadt experience, it is possible to stay on-site. The Ritz-Carlton Wolfsburg Autostadt hotel is located here.

There’s a pool, sauna, two restaurants (Including a three Michelin star option) and a lounge. Rooms cater for up to four people.

If you’re heading to northern Germany, Bremen is a great place to stop for families. At the end of the Fairy Tale Route, Bremen celebrates the Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale, the Bremen Town Musicians with a statue of the donkey, dog, cat and rooster from the tale in the main square.

There are also images and statues around town of these creatures and it’s fun to have the kids look out for them. If you aren’t familiar with this story, I recommend that you watch it on YouTube before you go.

The Old Town is fun to explore for all ages with a great main square, the stunning Bremen Cathedral and the laneways of Schnoor and Böttcherstraße. It’s easy to explore by foot. 

The Universum Science Centre is a standout attraction if you visit Germany with kids. It has interactive and educational exhibits which kids will enjoy. 

For a thought-provoking historical site, visit the Bunker Valentin. It’s an absolutely massive World War II submarine factory that has been left standing to illustrate the futility of war.

We stayed at the Best Western Bremen City . It has some great apartment style rooms for families within walking distance of the main attractions.

Also in northern Germany, Lübeck is a charming city home to a picturesque, UNESCO World Heritage listed Old Town. It is a good mix of historical and kid-friendly attractions. 

The best place to start is with a wander through the well-restored Old Town. Encircled by the Trave River, there are many great views, churches, museums and more. A feature of this Old Town are the hidden courtyards. These are courtyards from the Middle Ages accessed via small walkways from the street. We made it a family game to try to spot as many as possible.

The world-class European Hansemuseum is worth visiting and an easy way to learn more about the Hanseatic League which played a big part in Lübeck’s past.

Lübeck is famous for its marzipan so a sugary treat at Cafe Niederegger is the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing. When you have finished exploring Lübeck, consider a trip to Travemünde on the Baltic Sea. Just 20 minutes from Lübeck, it’s the perfect place to have some beach time. It also has a pretty Old Town.

We stayed at Hotel Die Reederin . It’s a gorgeous boutique hotel in Lübeck’s Old Town. It offers a spacious family room option.

My final place to visit in Germany with kids is a special one if you are visiting in late November or December. I recommend you visit as many Christmas markets as you can if you visit at this time of year.

German Christmas Markets are incredibly magical and special. From the traditional food and drinks to the Christmas music and lights, they set the scene for a perfect Christmas.

Many Christmas markets and destinations in Germany have special events perfect for families at this time of year. For example, Quedlinburg has the “largest Advent calendar in Germany”. At 4:30pm every day in the lead up to Christmas, families meet up and search together for one of 24 houses with special Christmas decorations that are open to the public. Inside, there are surprises.

Nuremberg Christmas Market has a special section for kids with old-fashioned rides, crafts and activities. For novelty, head to Cologne for a floating Christmas market on a ship. Munich has a Kinderland section at one of its Christmas markets with special activities and a Christmas Post Office. In Hamburg, you can watch Santa fly overhead in his sleigh!

Christmas is a truly special time in Germany for the whole family so make sure you include plenty of Christmas markets in your itinerary at this time.

Final Thoughts

Germany is a fantastic place to visit for families. There is so much to enjoy here from the great outdoors to the interesting history that surrounds you.

There are plenty of kid-focused attractions, but it’s also easy to visit interesting historical and cultural attractions in a way that is interesting for kids too.

I hope this list helps you have one of your best family vacations in Germany.

Bio: Sharon Gourlay is a full-time blogger and mum of three who loves sharing her love of travel with kids with others, especially when it comes to sharing one of her favorite destinations, Germany! You can find more information to plan your ultimate adventure in Germany at Germany Footsteps .