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Discover Dutch Culture and History: 11 Best Places To Visit In The Netherlands (Holland) With Kids

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The Netherlands is a great place to visit with kids! With its iconic windmills, lush countryside, charming cities, and delicious food scene, this small country has a big reputation for being an ideal family-friendly vacation destination. Whether you’re visiting Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or any other area of this beautiful country, you’ll find a lot to keep entertained, from one–of–a–kind museums to fairytale-esque towns. Kids will also love riding bikes throughout the country and exploring all of the canals. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that the Netherlands is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe! So if you’re planning a trip with kids or simply want some inspiration for your next family getaway, read on to discover our top picks for the best places to visit in the Netherlands (Holland) with kids!

The Netherlands vs. Holland & Why Visit With Kids?

Before getting into the best places to visit in the Netherlands with kids , let’s talk a little more about the country’s geography. Home to twelve different provinces, the Netherlands is a relatively small country in northern Europe that’s well-connected by public transport. By non-Dutch speakers, it’s often colloquially referred to as “Holland,” a generalization that most likely stems from the names of two of its most famous provinces, North Holland and South Holland . North Holland is home to Amsterdam, the Dutch capital and most famous city in the Netherlands, while South Holland boasts iconic destinations such as Delft. 

Either way, depending on how long you’re staying, it’ll be pretty simple to traverse most of the country and enjoy everything it offers, from world-famous museums to idyllic towns. Generally, the Netherlands has a pretty kid-friendly culture too, and you’ll find lots of ways to keep entertained even beyond the traditional kids’ museums or playgrounds. And, of course, let’s not forget the windmills and all the delicious Dutch food that your little ones will love! Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly city break or a more rural getaway, the Netherlands has something to offer everyone. 

Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands with Kids

As previously mentioned, the Netherlands is well connected by public transport and relatively small compared to other European countries, making it easy to explore all of the Netherlands tourist attractions it has to offer. Though many families like to make Amsterdam their home base, you could easily spend more than a day or two in the following destinations. Keep reading to discover the best places to visit in the Netherlands with kids! 

If you’re looking for an amazing European city to visit with your kids, Amsterdam is a great choice! The Dutch capital is full of kid-friendly activities, from boat rides on canals to exploring world-famous museums. And with its compact size, it’s easy to get around and see all the Amsterdam attractions for families without spending a lot of time on transportation. 

The Anne Frank House is one of the most popular things to do in Amsterdam , and for a good reason. Families can see the Hideaway Annex, where Anne and her family lived for two years, and learn about her life and her tragic death during the Holocaust. (Please note we don’t suggest this for sensitive younger kids.) For a more upbeat museum experience, families with young kids can check out The NEMO Science Museum , which features hands-on exhibits about science and technology. For tweens or teens, check out the Rijksmuseum , The Moco Museum , or The Van Gogh Museum .

Of course, don’t miss the chance to take a canal tour! Families can also visit the Artis Royal Zoo and explore the Plantage District with its various green spaces. Or, visit one of Amsterdam’s many sprawling parks, like the famous Vondelpark !

Use Getyourguide to book tours in Amsterdam!

For families who love history and culture, Rotterdam is one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands with kids! This vibrant Dutch city south of Amsterdam is less than an hour away by train and has plenty to do with kids. Plus, one of the best things about Rotterdam is that it’s easy to get around. The city is well-served by public transport, and many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Start off by exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, like the Erasmus Bridge and the Cube Houses . Rotterdam’s harbor is also one of the busiest in the world, and it’s one of the best things to do in Rotterdam with kids. You can take a water taxi ride , go on a harbor tour, or even just walk along the docks and check out the ships. The Maritime Museum is also fantastic for learning about Dutch history and culture, showcasing various vintage ships.

Or, when you want to escape the city, check out the Arboretum Trompenburg , Rotterdam’s botanical gardens. When you get hungry, visit the Rotterdam Foodhallen . This public marketplace has a ton of stalls with Dutch food, dessert, and other local delicacies, so everyone in your family can pick their favorites! 

Reserve your tickets and tours of Rotterdam here with Getyourguide!

The Hague 

Families looking for an exciting and educational place to visit in the Netherlands with kids will love The Hague ! Home to the Dutch government and the royal family, this laidback city south of Amsterdam is also home to many museums, parks, and historical landmarks. Plus, it’s easily accessible on public transport via the train and less than an hour away from Amsterdam! 

The Mauritshuis is a must-see for any art lover, and younger kids will enjoy seeing the paintings by Vermeer and Rembrandt up close. The Museon is another great option for families, with interactive exhibits on topics like history, science, and culture. For something truly unique, head to Madurodam – an interactive, miniature park where kids can learn about Dutch history and culture. There’s plenty of green space to explore, like the Peace Palace and its gorgeous manicured gardens. Other fun places for kids in The Hague include the Panorama Mesdag , with its 180-degree panoramic painting, and the nearby Scheveningen Beach for sunbathing, swimming, and building sand castles.

And finally, don’t forget to treat the kids (and yourself!) to some delicious pancakes at one of The Hague’s many pancake houses.

Click here to discover 7 Fantastic Places To Visit In Belgium For Families ! 

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in the Netherlands with kids, Maastricht is definitely one of them! This charming city in the southern Netherlands is known for its picturesque setting on the Meuse River, ​​Medieval-era architecture, and compact, pedestrian-friendly city center. Less than two hours away from Amsterdam via direct train , it’s also a vibrant college town with lots of young people, which makes it great for exploring with teens or tweens! 

The historic Old Town is a great place to start exploring Maastricht, with its narrow streets and pretty buildings. And if kids are feeling adventurous, they can even try their hand at climbing the stairs up to St. Servatius’ Church – one of Maastricht’s most iconic landmarks. Bonnefanten Museum is one of the top museums in the Netherlands, and it has an excellent collection of ancient and contemporary art, especially for kids. The museum even offers interactive activities to keep kids entertained! Then, the Centre Ceramique Visitor Centre also has an on-site archaeological museum with all kinds of ceramics.

Kids will also love exploring the city’s many parks and playgrounds, including Stadspark along the riverfront. Or, check out Fort Sint Pieter, a 17th-century fortress overlooking the city. 

The Netherlands is also one of the Best Spring Break Destinations Around the World that Families Will Love ! 

Utrecht 

Families who want to visit one of the Netherlands’ most historic and charming cities should check out Utrecht ! This charming city in north Holland is filled with fun things to do and see, making it the perfect destination for a family trip. It’s also only an hour away from Amsterdam via train. 

One of the best things to do in Utrecht with kids is to visit the Dom Tower . This ancient structure is one of the tallest towers in the country and offers stunning views of the city below. There are also several excellent museums in Utrecht, including the Centraal Museum , which houses an impressive collection of Dutch art. The Dutch Railway Museum, aka Spoorwegmuseum , is another great option for families with kids. Explore the interactive exhibits and take a ride on a real steam train!

Another must-see attraction in Utrecht is Máximapark , showcasing a kids’ playground area and a butterfly garden. Of course, no visit to Utrecht would be complete without spending some time on the canals. Hop on a canal boat tour or simply stroll along the banks for an enjoyable afternoon activity! 

The Dutch city of Delft is a great place to visit with kids! With its charming canals, quaint cobbled streets, and centuries-old architecture, there are plenty of things to see and do, and the city is very family-friendly. Plus, it’s easily accessible in under an hour via train from Amsterdam’s Sloterdijk Station, though there’s enough to do here that you could easily spend a day or two!

Start your visit to Delft at the Royal Delft , where kids can learn about the history of this iconic Dutch pottery on a guided tour. You can even browse some to take home in the gift shop! Next, head to the Oude Kerk , which is Delft’s main church. Its stunning Gothic architecture will amaze your kids, and the church is also the burial site of famous Dutch master Johannes Vermeer, who lived and worked in Delft his entire life. And, no trip to Delft would be complete without seeing the Vermeer Centrum Delft , which is dedicated to the painter’s works.

Families should also save time to see Delft’s main square, the Markt, which is home to The Delft Town Hall (Stadhuis) and the Nieuwe Kerk. Delft is also a great place to sample Dutch food like stroopwafels (syrup waffles) and poffertjes (mini pancakes)! 

Best Small Towns or Places to Visit in the Netherlands as a Day Trip from Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the Dutch capital and, as such, offers a variety of public transportation. For families looking to take a day trip or a weekend excursion, there are lots of cute towns and smaller cities within a few hours of Amsterdam that are easily accessible via trains or public buses. Keep reading to find out more about the best places to visit in the Netherlands with kids on a day trip from Amsterdam! 

Planning a beach vacation? Check out these 16 Exciting European Beach Destinations For Families ! 

There’s no place quite like Giethoorn in the Netherlands! This idyllic village looks like something straight out of a fairytale, and it’s the perfect place to take your kids for a magical day trip from Amsterdam. This car-free town is located around 2 hours away from the city, though it’s a bit tricky to reach on public transportation. You can either take a train from Amsterdam Central Station to Zwolle Central Station and then take the Number 70 bus to Giethoorn, or you can drive, which is more direct and convenient. 

Giethorn is famous for its picturesque canals and beautiful bridges, which families can explore during the summer by renting a boat . This is a super popular activity among locals and tourists alike, however, so be sure to snag your rental early to make sure you don’t miss out on the opportunity. When you want to explore on foot, the village is very quiet and peaceful, making it a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

Families can also visit one of the town’s museums to learn more about its unique history, like Museum Giethoorn ‘t Olde Maat Uus . There are also plenty of shops and cafes where you can grab a bite to eat or do some souvenir shopping. 

Zaans Schans

When it comes to finding the most beautiful villages in the Netherlands, Zaans Schans definitely ranks high on the list! Modeled after traditional 18th and 19th-century Dutch towns, this adorable destination is full of charming windmills and quaint wooden houses, and there are plenty of activities for kids of all ages. Plus, it’s only a quick, 15-minute ride on the train from Central Station to Zaans Schans. 

Zaans Museum is a living history museum where you can learn all about this traditional Dutch industry, see how windmills work, and even go inside one to see how it operates up close. Kids will love all the workers in traditional costumes and the chance to watch a chocolate-making demonstration! Or, learn all about the significance of Dutch clogs at the Wooden Shoe Workshop of Zaanse Schans , which also has a museum on-site and demonstrations. Then, remember to check out the Cheese Farm , aka “Catharina Hoeve.” Families can attend a cheese-making demonstration and sample a cheese selection from the shop! Several shops and cafes dotted around Zaans Schans also sell traditional Dutch products such as clogs, cheese, and delftware pottery.

​​One of the best places to visit in the Netherlands with kids is Zandvoort . This seaside town is located just west of Amsterdam and is home to several kid-friendly attractions. It’s also one of the best day trips to take from Amsterdam with kids, as it’s less than 40 minutes away. To reach here, take a local sprinter train from Amsterdam Sloterdijk to Haarlem , then change for another train directly to Zandvoort. 

​​Zandvoort’s wide sandy beaches are perfect for building sandcastles, flying kites, and paddling in the waves. The city’s main beach, Zandvoort Beach, is usually crowded because it’s a resort area. Further north, families can venture to the more secluded beach of Bloemendaal aan Zee. For a change of pace, you can also visit the nearby Circuit Park Zandvoort race track, go for a horseback ride along the beach, or explore one of the many hiking and cycling trails in the area.

Several monuments and historic sites in the city offer interesting insights into its past. Visit the Zandvoorts Museum to learn more about Dutch culture and customs, then check out one of the many traditional Dutch restaurants in the area. 

The Netherlands is a great place to visit with kids, and Hoorn is one of the best places to see in the country. This charming town is located on the IJsselmeer, a lake just north of Amsterdam, and its canals and medieval architecture provide a perfect backdrop for a family holiday. Plus, it’s an ideal day trip since you can reach it in 30 minutes on an intercity train from Central Station! 

Hoorn has a fascinating history dating back to the Middle Ages, and it’s filled with architectural gems like The Hoofdtoren, an old guard tower with great views of the city. There are also plenty of fun things to do in Hoorn with kids. Highlights include the ​​ Museum of the 20th Century , which traces the history of Hoorn through lots of interesting and interactive items that kids can tinker with. Or, for a truly historical experience, families can ride a steam train from Hoorn to the nearby town of Medemblik and back!

On-site at the railway station in Hoorn, there’s a small museum where you can learn a little more about its history. There are also boat tours available in Hoorn, which are a great way to see the city from the water with your kids! 

Use Plum Guide to look for exceptional homestays around Hoorn now!

Abcoude is definitely one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands with kids! It’s a small town located just outside of Amsterdam (around 40 minutes east of the city via train), and it’s full of history and culture. 

Around Brugstraat in the town center, families can visit the village’s church, the oldest building in town. Then, further onto the Kerkplein (which features a variety of 17th and 18th-century buildings), you can also visit Kerkstraat, Gein Noord, and Gein Noord 33. Abcoude is also home to the Broekzijder Molen, a traditional Dutch windmill dating back to the 17th century. Though you can’t go inside, it’s still nice to look at and maybe snap a picture!

Families can also check out the Oostzijdse Molen (Molen Delphine), an old mill made famous by the painter Piet Mondrian, who used Abcoude as a setting in his work multiple times. Other things to do in Abcoude with kids include checking out all the historical manors or visiting Hugo de Vriespark , a small city park. 

Happy Travels!

We hope you liked this list of the Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands (Holland) with Kids! From traditional Dutch towns with old windmills to bustling cities with art, history, and culture, this picturesque country has something to offer every member of your family. Enjoy your vacation to the Netherlands with your kids!

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the attractions, accommodations, or things to do on this list may be closed. Please ensure availability before making your decision. 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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What do I need to travel to the Netherlands?

• Answer a maximum of 7 questions to find out which documents you need if you are travelling to the Netherlands, or back to the Netherlands.

Travelling to the Netherlands

If you are a visitor, get the information you need to smoothly navigate the process and procedures to enter the Netherlands.

Passport control

Are you travelling from a non- Schengen  country to the Netherlands? You will need to present your identification document at border control, such as your passport or national ID card.

• have your identification document ready – take it out of a holder or wallet if you use one
• remove your face covering or sunglasses if you are wearing them
• pass through passport control together if you are in a family

If you are from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

You can use the  EU, EEA & CH  channel to have your passport or ID card checked - this is typically quicker than other channels.

If you are from outside the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

Your passport (and visa if you have one) will be checked at border control. You will usually be asked why you are coming to the Netherlands.

You may need to:

• show a return or onward ticket
• show you have enough money for your stay.

Self-service passport control

eGates use facial recognition technology to check your identity against your passport photo. You can use eGates if you are 14 or older and have an e-passport from an eligible country. For more information, see  Self-service passport control .

Travelling with a passport or ID card

To enter the Netherlands, you must possess a valid travel document. This can be an ID card (for travel within Europe) or a passport. Depending on your nationality, you might also need a visa. Are you a national from a country outside the  EU, EEA  or Switzerland? Then you must have a passport or travel document issued within the last 10 years. Your travel document should also be valid for a minimum of 3 months after leaving the Schengen area. Any children travelling with you must have their own valid travel document.

Travelling with children

If you are travelling with a child under 18, you must be able to show that the child's parent(s) have granted permission for you to do so. Check with your country of departure's local authorities for the rules regarding leaving the country with a minor. This will help avoid delays and the risk of missing your flight.

Emergency passport

Are you abroad and has your Dutch passport or ID card been lost or stolen? Overseas, you can apply for an emergency passport at a  Dutch embassy or consulate . You will receive a Dutch laissez-passer if an emergency passport cannot be issued in time. Do you not hold Dutch nationality? Then contact the embassy of your own country.

The need for a visa mainly depends on your nationality, destination, and length of stay. Even if you do not require a visa, there are rules for travelling to the Netherlands without a visa. For more information, see  Visa .

Amsterdam with Kids — Planning Guide, Things To Do & Sample Itinerary

By: Author Emily

Posted on Last updated: November 27, 2023

Let’s talk about Amsterdam with kids. This capital city in the Netherlands has tons to offer, from beautiful canals to delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re planning a future trip or have already landed with your little ones, this post is filled with info and tips to make your trip to Amsterdam with kids as easy as can be. Keep reading to learn more about what it’s like to go to Amsterdam with kids. 

In this post

Here’s what we’re covering in this post. We invite you to read the full guide or jump ahead to the section you’re most interested in.

What is Amsterdam like?

• Is Amsterdam good for kids, toddlers and babies?

Things to do in Amsterdam with kids

Eating in amsterdam with kids.

• Amsterdam planning guide & practical Info

Tips for visiting Amsterdam with kids

• Sample 3-day itinerary

Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands. It has a population of about 900,000, which makes it the most populated city in the country. That’s on the smaller side of capital cities in Europe and is similar in size to Stockholm, Sweden or Zagreb, Croatia.

The focal point of Amsterdam — for tourists at least — is the canal ring around the historic old town. The canal ring comprises a series of canals that form concentric arcs leading out and away from the river IJ. These canals were manmade in 1600s for the purpose of transportation, defense and water relocation (irrigation/drainage).

Today, the canals are primarily used by tour boats and give the city its iconic charm. The canals and the bridges over them, decorated with flowers and lined with bikes, really are just as lovely as they appear to be on the post cards.

The canal ring of Amsterdam is relatively small geographically. It’s only about 2 miles from the two furthest places a tourist is likely to venture (Amsterdam Central train station to Vondelpark). Most destinations and attractions are separated by a mile or less and are easily accessible by walking or biking. That said, the city has a great little public transportation system if you’re looking to get around a bit faster.

Beyond its canals, the city itself is known for its world-class art museums, tulips and of course its vices, but more on that later. Amsterdam is also famed for its bike culture. In fact, the Netherlands as a whole has the highest concentration of bikes per capita in the world.

Then let’s talk about the food. There’s tons of delicious local foods and they’re all super kid friendly. Some of Amsterdam’s food highlights include pannenkoeken (large pancakes with a variety of fillings), Poffertjes (mini pancakes with a variety of toppings) and stroopwafels (made fresh). And don’t forget the Dutch apple pie and famous dutch cheeses like gouda and edam.

Is Amsterdam kid friendly? What about toddler and baby friendly?

Yes, yes and yes. But don’t just take my word for it. Amsterdam is consistently rated one of the best cities in Europe for children — topping lists here , here and here . There’s plenty of good reasons to bring young travelers to Amsterdam, but here are a few of the major selling points that stood out to me during a recent visit with an almost-two-year-old.

1. Amsterdam is easy to get around with kids

Whether you arrive by plane or train, it’s easy to get to Amsterdam’s city center via public transportation in less than 30 minutes. Once you’re in the canal ring, everything is walkable or is well connected by bus, streetcar or subway. Bikes are also a popular way to get around the canal ring.

Not only can you walk through the canal ring, but you’ll want to. From the traditional Dutch Baroque buildings to canal bridges lined with bikes and flowers, it feels like walking through an Instagram backdrop at each turn.

If you’re visiting Amsterdam with kids, the small area and convenient public transportation means you won’t need to rent a car or bring any car seats. Walking and public transit will get you everywhere you need to go.

Theres very few underground subway stations in the canal ring, so a stroller won’t be too frustrating. However, the cobblestones are a bit bumpy in places so we’d recommend baby wearing if it makes sense for your family

We go into more details on getting around Amsterdam with kids down here.

2. Most people speak English

If you’re fluent in English, you’ll get along just fine in Amsterdam. Nearly everyone you engage with at restaurants, accommodations and attractions speaks English. There’s also almost always English signage and menus posted or available everywhere a tourist is likely to go.

Your kids might have a bit of a harder time making friends on the playground, though. Most school children don’t start to learn English in school until about 10. However, they’ll likely still know a handful of words. Plus, we all know that all kids play in the same language, so they’ll be just fine.

3. Kids will enjoy (most) of the things adults want to do

In many cases, travel with children focuses on “can children do X?” In Amsterdam, not only can children participate in the city’s top attractions, but they will actually enjoy them.

Some of the best things to do in Amsterdam involve going to parks, riding bikes, wandering street markets and enjoying delicious sweet treats. These are all things that children will love!

So much of Amsterdam involves being outside. What children lack in appreciation for old buildings, they more than make up for with their interest in chasing pigeons and eating stroopwafel. They’re likely to have a good time doing just about everything you want to do.

Nightlife and drugs aside, you don’t have to miss much or alter your plans substantially if you’re visiting Amsterdam with little ones.

4. It’s educational

I won’t tell your kids, but they’ll learn a ton on a trip to Amsterdam! Some of the most interesting and fun things to do in Amsterdam are also the most educational.

Kids of all ages will have a blast at the NEMO Science Museum. It has five stories of interactive exhibits where kids can learn about space, the human body, the elements and so much more.

Older kids (recommended 10+) can go inside the Anne Frank House. To learn about Anne Frank in school and then see the annex for themselves can be a really transformative (and emotional) experience for a child. While difficult, it is such a prime example of the power of travel and why it’s important to travel with kids.

On a lighter note, they’ll pick up bits of history at every turn. Maybe it’s Amsterdam history on a canal boat tour, a fun fact about tulips from traipsing through the Tulip Museum or maybe they’ll be blown away by seeing a Van Gogh painting in real life! They’ll have all sorts of facts to share with their teacher and friends when they get home.

5. The food is amazing and kids will (probably) love it

Every city (or at least every country) has its local cuisine that visitors want to try. In Amsterdam, it’s things like apple pie, giant pancakes and cheese. Aka, the kids meal of their dreams.

6. Amsterdam is incredibly safe

Amsterdam ranks as one of the safest cities in the world. Most recently, it ranked the #4 safest city in the world in an analysis by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection . (Topping this list by the way is Reykjavik , which is also a great destination for kids.)

What isn’t great about Amsterdam for kids

No place is perfect, and there are a few things you should be careful about if you’re visiting Amsterdam with kids.

• Bike traffic. There are more bikes than people in Amsterdam, and they ride all year round, often very fast. Bikers in Amsterdam are good at following proper riding etiquette, but they expect that pedestrians do too. Be sure to look both ways and hold children’s hands when you cross a bike path, just as you would a street.
• Narrow sidewalks (cars) . The sidewalks are narrow and often bump right up against the also narrow streets. Be sure to hold children’s hands and stay alert for vehicles is high traffic areas.
• Streetcars. If you don’t come from a city with streetcars, it can be a bit alarming to see a train barreling down a street at you. Always look before crossing major intersections and follow street lights.
• Red Light District and weed culture . Amsterdam definitely has some “adults-only” experiences, most notably legal prostitution and marijuana. Prostitution is easy enough to avoid by simply not walking through the Red Light District. Weed is tougher to avoid and is sold/smoked in most places around the city.
• “Coffeeshops.” On a similar note, the term “coffeeshop” in Amsterdam refers to a shop where you can buy and consume legal soft drugs, specifically weed. If you’re looking for actual coffee, use the terms “espresso” or “cafe” in your search.
• Price . Amsterdam is expensive. The food, the ticket prices, and the hotels can all be pretty expensive in the canal ring.

So should you visit Amsterdam with a baby, toddler or kid?

For nearly everyone reading this post, my answer is a resounding, “Yes!” All things considered, Amsterdam is a great place to travel with children of all ages.

It’s popular enough to have plenty of fun things to do and feels lively, but not so crowded that it’s unpleasant or that it forces you to plan too far ahead. Families can keep busy, but not be stressed. It’s easy to get around, there’s plenty of English, and it’s really safe.

Amsterdam is honestly good for children of all ages.

• Babies (under 2): Parents will love popping young ones in a baby carrier and walking around the beautiful streets and canals while their little one naps. When they’re awake, they’ll love the brightly colored flowers and watching/chasing pigeons in the square.
• Toddlers (2-5): At this energetic age, little ones will love the city’s abundance of parks and playgrounds. They’ll enjoy exploring the science museum and watching all the bikes and boats.
• Kids (5-12): At this age, bigger kids will be excited to explore right along side you. It’s a great age to rent them their own bike or give them their own bit of spending money to pick out treats at a street market. This age group will also appreciate the museums a bit more (or not).

The only time I would warn parents against taking children is Amsterdam is if you’re particularly averse to the presence of marijuana. Children can’t buy or use it of course, but it’s legal to sell small amounts of weed in most places (including souvenir shops) and it can be legally smoked on most public streets and parks.

Here are some of the best things to do in Amsterdam with kids. We’ve personally done almost all of these.

Get outside

• Vondelpark : This large park is located southwest of the canal ring. It has a handful of playgrounds, a few cafes and a ton of green space to run around, bike or enjoy a picnic.
• Nine Streets: All of Amsterdam’s canal ring is pretty, but The Nine Streets are the most pretty. Full of beautiful buildings, unique shops and tasty cafes, this area is what people picture when they think of Amsterdam.
• Rent Bikes: Unless you’ve been to Copenhagen, you’ve probably never experienced bike culture quite like Amsterdam. Wherever you see people, you see bikes and bike lanes in Amsterdam. Rent a bike and take to the streets or relax on the safe sidewalks of Vondelpark.
• Canal Boat Tour: One of the best ways to see and experience Amsterdam is by taking a boat along the canals. While many boats providers have tickets available on the spot, we like to plan ahead and get tickets in advance with Get Your Guide .

• NEMO Science Museum: Kids of all ages will love to play their way through this multi-level museum , secretly learning as they go. Be sure to visit the rooftop (accessible via the 5th floor cafe) for a great view of Amsterdam and even more fun. (Closed on Mondays.)
• Amsterdam Tulip Museum: This small museum is located in house below a flower shop. It’s perfect for little ones because it won’t take much time, the rooms are all very colorful and it’s a very light topic for little minds.
• Anne Frank house*: A much heavier but important museum for older children is the Anne Frank House . It’s also a pretty short visit, but very emotional. The recommended minimum age is 10 years old, but parents should use discretion.
• Van Gough Museum* : Here you’ll find the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh’s works . There are a lot of great art museums in Amsterdam and the world, but this one is good for kids because the’ll likely recognize the artist. Kids have likely learned about him in school and might be excited to see his works in real life.

*Advance tickets required. Time slots do sell out.

Markets & Shopping

• Albert Cuyp Markt: Located outside of the canal ring in the mostly residential area of De Pijp, this street market is the largest in Europe. There’s a wide variety of stalls, but kids will love seeking out toys and sugary sweets. (Open Monday – Saturday 9 AM to 5 PM. Closed Sunday.)
• Bloemenmarkt : You might not be able to tell from the looks of it, but this flower market is floating. They sell tulip bulbs and other flowers, plus tulip and Amsterdam related souvenirs. The windmill pencil my toddler picked out here is still a favorite to this day. (Open Monday – Saturday 9 AM to 5:30 PM and Sunday 11 AM to 5:30 PM.)
• Noordermarkt : This 400-year-old market is located in a historic square on the north end of the canal ring. It offers an eclectic collection of market stalls including unique art & crafts, second-hand goods, books and even toys. Visit nearby Winkel 43 for Dutch apple pie when you’re done shopping. (Open Saturdays 9 AM to 4 PM and Mondays 9 AM to 1 PM.)
• The LEGO Store : There’s LEGO stores all over the world, and I’ve seen lines at plenty of them. Relative to other city’s, this LEGO Store is a bit small, but still worth a visit. Inside they have an interactive windmill that kids can go inside, canal bridges and Dutch buildings all made of LEGOs.

Other fun things for kids in Amsterdam

• Dam Square: We went here without kids and stayed for five minutes. We visited this square with a toddler and stayed for an hour. Our little one loved chasing pigeons, watching other kids and just running around without holding our hand for a change.
• soundLAB: Muziekgebouw is a concert hall located across from Amsterdam Central train station over by NEMO. They offer a workshop called SoundLAB , where children can learn about and play on a variety of interesting instruments. Workshops are limited to children ages 7 and up, and there are workshops with or without adults.
• Amsterdam Library & cafe : We love going to libraries in cities around the world (shoutout to State Victoria Library in Melbourne who I still receive emails from years later), and it’s even more fun with kids. It’s a great spot to have in your pocket on a rainy day. Or they have a cafe on the top floor, OBA Café Oosterdok, which has incredible views of the city.
• Free Walking Tour: Another thing we used to do in every new city was a free walking tour. We took one in Iceland with our baby who slept in the carrier for two hours, but it can be tough for older kids until they start to be able to walk more, pay attention, and care. That’s up to you, your kids, and your travel style.
• Stock up on sweets: Children and people smoking weed have a similar palate, which works out well for your tiny resident sweet tooth. There is tons of candy shops, elaborate ice cream shops and stores selling American delicacies like Pop-Tarts, Twinkles and Lucky Charms.

Day trips from Amsterdam

• Haarlem : Leave the Amsterdam crowds behind and spend a day exploring the nearby Dutch village of Haarlem . It has all the charm — including canals, bridges, and Dutch architecture — but feels a bit more authentic and less touristy. The train from Central Station in Amsterdam to Haarlem is only only 18 minutes.
• Keukenhof Botanical Gardens: If you’re visiting Amsterdam in the spring, Keukenhof is where you want to go to see the most beautiful display of tulips in bloom. It’s about 25 miles from central Amsterdam and takes about 90 minutes on public transit or 30 minutes by car. (In 2023, Keukenhof is open daily March 23 March through May 14.)
• Efteling : This is more of a weekend trip, but you could technically do it in a day. Efteling is a fairytale-themed amusement park with rides, shows and a little bit of magic. It typically ranks among the top three visited theme parks in Europe (after Disneyland Paris and Europa-Park in Germany). It’s about 65 miles from central Amsterdam and takes about 2 hours by train or 1.25 hours by car.

Planning guide for visiting Amsterdam with kids

In this section, we’ll cover some of the things you’ll need to know if you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam with kids. Most of the information in this section would apply to kids of all ages, and honestly to adult travelers, too. We’ll highlight how having children might impact these decisions when it comes to the planning piece.

Amsterdam Visa Requirements

The Netherlands (the country where Amsterdam is located) is part of the Schengen Area . The Schengen Area is a group of 27 European countries that allow visa-free movement across country borders. In other words, once you enter the Schengen Area you are free to move around between any of the 27 countries without going through passport control or customs.

If you are a resident of any of those countries or traveling from any of those countries, you can enter the Netherlands without a visa.

If you’re traveling from select countries outside of the Schengen Area — including most of the rest of Europe, most of South America, Australia and a few Asian countries including Japan — you can enter the Netherlands (any any country within the Schengen Area) without a visa for a total of 90 days within a 180 day period.

Travelers from other countries ( complete list here ) will need to apply for (and pay for) a Schengen Tourist Visa in advance.

When to go to Amsterdam with kids

If you’re considering a trip to Amsterdam, you definitely want to pick the right season. The weather and crowds change quite a bit throughout the year, and some attractions are only open during certain seasons.

Here’s what Amsterdam looks like throughout the year.

• Amsterdam in the Spring (March to May): Spring is tulip season in Amsterdam and one of the most beautiful times to visit. The weather can be unpredictable though — sometimes warm and sunny but sometimes cool and often wet — which can be extra inconvenient with little ones.
• Amsterdam in the Summer (June to August): Summer is peak travel season in Amsterdam, with July being the most popular month to visit. Crowds are high, lines are long, and some ticketed attractions sell out, so you’ll need to do some diligent planning. The weather is great though!
• Amsterdam in the Fall (September to November) : The heavy tourist crowds leave Amsterdam in the fall as the weather gets cooler and wetter. Weekends typically pick up with regional visitors, but the weekdays are often pretty quiet.
• Amsterdam in the Winter (December to February) : Winter weather in Amsterdam is no fun for anyone. While it doesn’t get that cold (coming from a former Chicagoan), its very windy and wet. The city isn’t known for their Christmas markets, but there are a couple that attract an uptick in crowds.

If you’re traveling to Amsterdam with kids, we suggest June or September. In both cases, you’ll just miss summer crowds but still get to enjoy pretty good weather. However, if you want to see the tulips, plan for early May.

How many days do you need in Amsterdam with kids?

Amsterdam is a really relaxing city. There is plenty to do, but a lot of it allows you to move at your own pace. Amsterdam is about relaxing in the park, wandering around the canals, and tasting your way through markets. That really gives you the opportunity to tailor your stay to your family’s travel style.

When we visited Amsterdam on our own, we took one quick lap around Vondelpark on our last day. Going back with a toddler, we went to that same park almost every day! We canvased the entire Nine Streets in under an hour on our own, but it filled up a full afternoon at toddler pace.

Here’s some things to consider when deciding how long to stay in Amsterdam with kids.

• Stay in Amsterdam for 1 day if … you happen to have a connecting flight or train that gives you a short day here. In one day, you can walk around the city and enjoy its beauty.
• Stay in Amsterdam for 3 days if … you have a long weekend or are pairing Amsterdam with another nearby city like Brussels, Paris or London . It’s the perfect amount of time to visit a few attractions and eat all of the tasty foods.
• Stay in Amsterdam for 5 days if … you want to take a day trip or have a weather-dependent activity. If you really want to go Keukenhof on a sunny day, give yourself plenty of time to maximize the odds of one good weather day. You’ll be able to see and do most things in Amsterdam in 5 days.

Personally, we’d suggest spending three days (3 or 4 nights) in Amsterdam. That’ll give you enough time to see a lot at a relaxed pace. We detail a 3-day itinerary below.

Where should families stay in Amsterdam

As a tourist, you’ll likely spend a majority of your time in Amsterdam around the canal ring. In order to take advantage of the walkable center of the city, you ideally want to stay somewhere walkable (or trainable) to that area.

Now to be clear, when I refer to the canal ring, I’m typically referring to the entire area inside of Singelgracht. This is the canal ring that passes in front of the Rijksmuseum . This is a large area that is broken down into more specific neighborhoods. I really like this map for a breakdown of the detailed neighborhoods.

Here are some areas and accommodations that we’d recommend for families.

• Leidseplein & Oud-West : These two neighborhoods are actually quite different, but are close enough geographically (just north of Vondelpark) to group together. This area is great for families who want to be able to walk to the canal ring, but also close enough to Vondelpark for frequent play stops. We absolutely loved our stay at Hard Rock Hotel Amsterdam American , but there’s a Marriott just across the waterway or Hotel De Hallen for a more boutique experience.
• Binnenstad or City Center : This area comprises the center of the canal rings. There are lots of hotels in this area, particularly the closer you get to the train station. We haven’t personally stayed here, but it’s an obvious pick. For families, we’d suggest keeping north of Dam Square and west of The Oude Church. This will distance you from the more “adult” nightlife. Consider W Amsterdam , The Highland House or INK Hotel Amsterdam .
• De Pijp : This trendy, mostly residential area is a great pick for families who want to stay outside of the hustle and bustle of city center. Here you’ll be close to Albert Cuyp Markt and also a lovely park by the name of Sarphatipark. Look to stay at ibis Styles Amsterdam City , Hotel Asterisk or Sir Albert Hotel .
• Oud-Oost : This neighborhood is located southeast of the canal ring, near Oosterpark. If you are the type who prefers to stay in an Airbnb over a hotel, we suggest targeting this area. It’s a bit further from city center, but you’ll be close to the zoo, botanical gardens and NEMO. In addition to Airbnbs, the Hyatt Regency , Hotel Arena and citizenM Amstel Amsterdam are good options over here.
• Nine Streets : For the most charming and beautiful stay in Amsterdam, indulge with a stay in the Nine Streets. This area is going to be one of the more expensive options, but it’s a tough location to beat. Consider The Toren , Ambassade Hotel or Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht (Hyatt).

How to get around Amsterdam with kids

One of the reasons Amsterdam is a great destination for families is that it’s so easy to get around. You can get from the airport or train station to city station on public transit in less than 30 minutes.

Once you’re there, you can then walk or use public transit to get everywhere you need to go. That means you don’t need to bring a car seat, stress about renting a car or finding a car service with car seats. (Something that got really expensive for us in Santo Domingo !)

Here’s a look at the different ways to get around Amsterdam with kids.

• Walk — Best way to cover short distances . There are sidewalks everywhere in Amsterdam. They are often narrow and the cobblestones can make them bumpy. Most of the canal ring is flat, but many bridges have hills. (Check here for detailed accessibility notes .) Major intersections have pedestrian crossing lights and pedestrians have the right of way at all other intersections (but stay alert).
• Bus & Tram * — Best way to move around within the canal ring . With routes traversing most of the city, this is the best way to quickly move around within the canal ring or to nearby areas. If you have a stroller, enter from the rear doors and stand in the designated area. If it’s crowded or that space is not available, you’ll need to collapse your stroller.
• Metro Train * — Best way to get to and from the canal ring. The Amsterdam Metro has 5 lines. Most of these routes connect other parts of the city to the canal ring, but don’t cover much ground within the canal ring itself. Trains run from 6 AM to midnight.
• Taxi & rideshare — Best for day trips & airport transfers. Taxis and Uber are both available in Amsterdam. Children are not legally required to be in a car seat in the back seat of these vehicles, which parents may or may not be comfortable with. You can also instal your own car seat in a back seat if you have one. Uber is often cheaper than taxis.
• Bike — Best way to feel like a local. You can rent bikes for children or adult bikes with special seats or carriages for children. Be sure all riders are aware of the general biking rules in Amsterdam . To avoid crowds or intimidating local bikers, don’t ride during rush hour or stick to biking in the park. Don’t forget to lock your bike!
• Ferry — Best for sightseeing. There are no public transit boats within the canal ring. However, if you’re looking for a fun thing to do, you can take a ferry from Amsterdam Central Station to a few different points in Amsterdam Noord.

*The Metro trains, buses and trams all share the same ticket type. A 1-hour ticket costs €3.40 and children under 4 ride free. Children 4-11 can purchase a day pass for a reduced fare of €4.50 (versus €9.00 for adults). Tickets can be purchased with a credit card from machines at all Metro stations and most tram stops, or onboard buses and trams. Learn about other ticket options and details here .

After three days in Paris with a toddler — where we really struggled to find kid-friendly restaurants — we were thrilled to discover that Amsterdam was great for eating with kids. Here’s a few things that stood out to us about dining in Amsterdam with a toddler.

• High chairs were available at many restaurants. Most restaurants had ample space for high chairs, and children in general. Some outdoor tables could not accomodate high chairs though, because there are rules about blocking sidewalks.
• There was an abundance of quick-service restaurants open at all hours. It’s a relief to know you can eat in a pinch without thinking too hard or waiting too long for food.
• Local grocery stores (specifically Albert Heijn) offered a great selection of healthy prepared foods . This option was great for an easy dinner in the hotel or picnic in the park.
• The local dishes that we wanted to try were kid friendly (and vegetarian). This included things like Pannenkoek (sweet or savory Dutch pancakes), Appeltaart (Dutch Apple Pie), Poffertjes (mini pancakes), and of course cheese.
• Amsterdam has a lot of street markets , which was a great place to find food and snacks that children will eat.

Here are some restaurants that are great for kids in Amsterdam

• De Carrousel Pannenkoeken Amsterdam : Dutch pancakes inside a refurbished carousel.
• Winkel 43 : Popular cafe for the best Appeltaart in town. Arrive early or be prepared to wait a bit as it does get crowded and they don’t take reservations.
• Pancakes Amsterdam: Another pancake house, but this one is located in the Nine Streets. Cozy indoor cafe, but we enjoyed their outdoor seating (even though we couldn’t have a highchair there.)
• Groot Melkhuis : This restaurant makes the list not because their food is amazing (I mean, it’s fine), but because of it’s location in the middle of Vondelpark. They have spacious outdoor dining and it’s adjacent to a playground. It was perfect, low-key family dining for an evening in the park.
• Box Sociaal: This casual Aussie cafe serves up some pretty legit brunch in a casual, breezy setting. They have a kids menu for little ones and space to keep your little one in their stroller if need be.
• Albert Cuyp Markt : This street market has several different food vendors. It’s great for families who all might want to try something different.
• Kinderkookkafe: This children’s cooking cafe has a help-your-self bar from 10 AM to 5 PM. It’s a really cool, casual concept where kids can cook their own pizza, cookies or other items while the parents help or sit back and enjoy a coffee or light meal of their own.

And for the parents …

• Bocca Coffee: Great coffee shop for actual coffee.
• Brouwerij ‘t IJ : This is a family-friendly brewery beside the tallest wooden windmill in the Netherlands.

What to pack for Amsterdam with kids

Here are a few things to add to your packing list if you’re traveling to Amsterdam with kids. In fact, a lot of these items are things I bring anywhere I travel with a toddler. But don’t stress too much about forgetting something. Amsterdam is a modern city where you can easily find and buy just about anything you left at home.

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• Portable charger. We find our phones dying even faster on vacation because we’re always looking up directions, reading restaurant menus or buying tickets to things. Any charger brand works, but we really like this Anker one .
• Hand sanitizer on a clip. This is just something that’s a part of my everyday life that I find incredibly handy. We always have hand sanitizer clipped to us.
• Bento box. We started traveling with a little bento box like this when our baby was born and never looked back. We will put dinner leftovers in there for lunch the next day or pick up fresh fruit and veggies and bring it with us for snacks. It’s always useful on trips.
• Power converters. The Netherlands uses Type C and Type F plugs. This is standard for Europe, but if you’re coming from the US (or elsewhere) you’ll need an adapter like this one .
• Portable highchair harness. We used this harness from the time our child could sit until about 18 months. It allows you to enjoy a meal together even if the restaurant doesn’t have a highchair.
• Soap sheets. If you’ll be traveling for a week or longer, consider making some laundry detergent soap sheets (or bringing a Fels Naptha laundry bar ). You can rinse your little one’s clothes in the sink to get some extra wear out of them instead of packing a bunch of extra clothes.
• Small bottle of dish soap. If you have a baby drinking milk, formula, or anything other than water from their cup/bottle, this is a handy trick. Fill up a small travel bottle with dish soap and throw it in your liquids bag. You can then wash their cup nightly to keep it from getting totally gross over the course of your trip. Of course you can buy soap in Amsterdam, but you won’t need to waste a large bottle.
• Sneakers for all . You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so be sure everyone has comfortable shoes. You don’t want to be stuck carrying your kid the whole trip because they got a blister on day one.
• Packable tote bag. Whether it’s my toddlers coat or the latest souvenir they have to have, I feel like we always acquire stuff anytime we’re out. I like to keep these tiny tote bags in all my pockets so I have a bag when I need one.

Here are a few tips if you’re bringing kids to Amsterdam. Some of these are more generic than others.

• Plan half days. The canal ring of Amsterdam is pretty small, so it’s easy to come back to your hotel for naps. Plan to do one or two activities in the morning and in the afternoon.
• Consider baby wearing instead of a stroller. We are always partial to baby wearing for travel , but it’s particularly useful in Amsterdam where the sidewalks are often narrow and the cobblestones can be very bumpy.
• Restock snacks at Albert Heijn . Albert Heijn is a supermarket chain that has locations all over Amsterdam. They sell fresh and packaged snacks and meals, and it has a ton of great, healthy options for kids.
• Pick the right coffee shop. The term “coffeeshop” in Amsterdam refers to a place where you can legally buy and consume legal drugs (like marijuana). This is maybe common knowledge, but I get tripped up a lot when I’m looking for actual coffee. Use the term “espresso” or “cafe” to find a shop with your favorite caffeinated beverage.
• Avoid the Red Light District. The other vice Amsterdam is known for is its Red Light District. They start operating pretty early in the morning (and even the ads can be graphic), so it’s best to generally avoid this area with young children. The Red Light District is located in the center of the canal ring. You can find a detailed map of the area here .
• Book your canal cruise in advance . There are plenty of canal cruises where you can book tickets on the spot. Kids are allowed on almost all cruise lines, but some are more kid-friendly than others. We recommend looking up some of the best canal cruises for kids and booking in advance .
• Wait to reserve bikes . Contrarily, we’d suggest waiting to rent your bicycle(s). There are a ton of bike rentals and it’s easy to find one when and where you’re ready. You might change your plans (timing or location) after seeing the biking intensity. That’s what happened to us!
• Give kids some spending money. Our kid loved shopping in Amsterdam! They were always finding trinkets and snacks and toys that they wanted. Setting a limit with a dollar amount or toy count in advance is a good plan to avoid meltdowns later.

Sample 3-Day itinerary for Amsterdam with kids

Amsterdam is a place where you can easily arrive without a set itinerary, and spend your days wondering along the canals and stumbling into lovely markets. However, my Type A self can’t possibly travel that way. So if you, like me, are looking for some guidance on how to specifically fill your days in Amsterdam, I’ve got you covered.

This is what we’d recommend for a three day visit to Amsterdam with kids. This assumes travel days on either side, but if you arrive/depart midday on either day, that’ll work out fine here, too. Also, be sure to check the hours on different days and adjust this schedule as needed

Day 1: Bloemenmarkt, Nine Streets & Vondelpark

• Coffee & Breakfast at Boca Coffee : There’s plenty of good (actual) coffee shops in Amsterdam, so you may prioritize one near your hotel. Boca is one of our favorites, though the food is limited to small (delicious!) baked goods. For a heartier breakfast, head to nearby Eggs Benaddicted.
• Bloemenmarkt: Head toward Munttoren (a beautiful carillon from the 1600s) and then explore Bloemenmarkt. It’s a floating market that sells all sorts of tulip items from bulbs to cut flowers to souvenirs. (The market doesn’t open till 11 on Sundays so you may ned to do this after lunch in that case.)
• Nine Streets: Start strong with a walk through the most beautiful canals and streets in Amsterdam. This guide has a great suggested walking route with things to see/buy/eat along the way.
• Lunch at pancakes Amsterdam: Dutch pancakes are required eating in Amsterdam. The pancakes are large, but a bit too small to share between two adults. They’re perfect for sharing with a child, though. The classic cheese & apple was our favorite.
• Break & nap: If you have nappers, now is a great time to go back to the hotel for a break.
• Vondelpark: Make up for any bored littles with an afternoon at Vondelpark. You can rent bikes nearby, explore the different playgrounds, soak up the splash pad in the summer, or just run around.
• Dinner (& beers) at Groot Melkhuis : Again, we’re not foodies. At the moment, we are people who prioritize easy, comfortable restaurants with food our child will eat. Bonus points if they also have local beers and something for our kid to do while we wait. This one checks all those boxes. Our kid loved playing at the playground while we enjoyed our single beer of the day and waited for our pasta to arrive.

Day 2: Albert Cuyp Markt , Shopping Streets, Jordaan

• Coffee & Breakfast at Back to Black : On your way to today’s first activity, stop at nearby Back to Black for a flat white. Maybe fill up on quiche, smoothie bowls or baked goodies or save your appetite for …
• Albert Cuyp Markt (Closed Sundays) : This open-air street market is the largest in Europe. It’s very eclectic, with a mix of food, clothing and souvenir vendors. It gets way more crowded in the afternoon, but our little loved having the place to themselves on a weekday morning.
• Lunch at De Carrousel Pannenkoeken Amsterdam: If you got through the market without eating lunch, good for you! If pancakes were at hit yesterday, don’t miss them again at this adorable cafe inside a restored carousel .
• Shopping streets in the central canal ring : Take some time walking through the winding — mostly pedestrian — shopping streets between Bloemenmarkt and Dam square. The LEGO Store is always a big hit, but our kid also found all the toy shops and candy stores.
• North of the Nine Streets : Cut west from Dam Square and you’ll find the Anne Frank House. We suggest walking past it, even if your children are too young to go inside. You’ll also find the neighborhood of Jordaan, where you can get Dutch apple pie from Winkel 43 and/or pop into the Tulip Museum before 6 PM.
• Dinner: There’s a lot of moving parts on a day like today. I’d recommend bookmarking a few places in the area that you’d like to try, and then stop at whichever one is closest when you’re hungry. This is a tactic we do often. We personally got fast food at Mister Wings because it’s not often we find veggie “chicky nugs” at fast food restaurants for our vegetarian toddler.

Hot Tip: If you’re planning this itinerary for a Saturday, flip your morning and afternoon so you’ll be in Jordaan for the Noordermarkt before it closes at 4 PM. Then do Albert Cuyp Markt in the afternoon.

Day 3: NEMO Science Museum & anything you missed

• Coffee & Breakfast at Box Sociaal : After two coffee-shop forward stops, fuel your day with a hearty brunch. This cafe opens at 9 and is a 15 minute (adult pace) to NEMO, which opens at 10.
• NEMO Science Museum : This was the one thing we did in Amsterdam for our toddler. We let them lead the way, exploring and playing at their own pace. They LOVED IT. Our adult take is that it’s not as good as science museums in bigger cities (like MSI in Chicago), but our kid had fun which was what we wanted.
• Lunch at NEMO : The cafe at the top of NEMO was a good lunch option with high chairs, a kid-friendly menu and a great view. It also was cafeteria style, so it was also great for eating food you brought with you. (We personally fed our child a bento box packed with quinoa salad, fruit and veggies from Albert Heijn while we snacked on fries.)
• Anything you missed : I like to leave my last afternoon at a destination open if possible. That gives you the chance to visit somewhere you discovered along the way or revisit anywhere you loved. We personally spent our last night at Vondelpark. Other great options would include a twilight walk through the Nine Streets, drinks and apps at the windmill brewery (Brouwerij ‘t IJ) or a fun make-your-own-pizza night at Kinderkookkafe .

Closing thoughts on visiting Amsterdam with kids

What I’ve loved about traveling with a kid during their first two years of life is discovering the little things that they love along the way. In London, it was running down a small hill in a park by our hotel. In Paris, it was eating crepes on the ground in a square. And in Amsterdam, it was the tiny fountain in front of our hotel.

This are moments that you can’t plan for. I loved visiting Amsterdam with my kid because it allowed them to lead the way a bit more than other they could at other destinations. We were never really in a hurry. They got to stop at shops, look at bikes, and watch the boats go by. There were very few moments when we had to rush them along to the next place.

I thought that writing a post about how Amsterdam is very kid friendly was going to be a hot take. The truth is, it absolutely was not. It turns out that most parents out there realize that Amsterdam is about so much more than drug culture and Red Light Districts. Amsterdam is a beautiful, unique, pretty small city where kids actually what to be.

Are you heading to Amsterdam with kids? Let me know in the comments if there’s any more questions I can answer. Or better yet, if you’ve been, what tips do you have for other parents?

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The Netherlands with kids

Welcome to our ultimate guide to the Netherlands with Kids (Holland with kids). The Netherlands is a wonderful country to visit. It has all the sophistication and quirkiness of Scandinavia but with its own unique flair. Whether you’re heading to the cities of Amsterdam , Rotterdam , The Hague or Utrecht where history and fine dining sit side by side with great attractions for kids and the best frites and pancakes in the world, or you’ve got your sights set on the countryside for windmills, cobbled streets in tiny villages and beautiful scenery, you will soon become entranced by the Netherlands. We love our visits to this beautiful country. It’s perfect for family holidays as it’s packed with great places to visit, perfect food for kids and is really easy to travel around. After a number of trips to the Netherlands with kids (which includes Holland for kids – Holland is a small area of the Netherlands but not the whole country), we have built up a great list of places to visit and things to do. So here is our ultimate guide to the Netherlands for kids. Where to go, what to do and where to stay and eat. You can use the guide below to jump to different sections or read through the whole thing for a big, Dutch blast of inspiration.

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Table of Contents

About visiting the Netherlands with children

The Netherlands is one of those countries that effortlessly mixes so many different elements. With wild coastlines, cosmopolitan cities and historic villages, a trip to the Netherlands is a feast for all the senses.

It’s wonderfully family friendly too. Children are welcomed, encouraged in the museums, art galleries and restaurants. And it’s the perfect place to get kids out on their bikes and joining the locals in one of the world’s most bike friendly countries.

Feel Inspired

Amazing trips.

We have had some fantastic trips to the Netherlands with kids.

Perhaps one of our favourite ever was when we took a summer trip to the Netherlands . We stayed in beautiful Landal parks across the country, the children learnt to ride their bikes, the sun shone and we properly fell in love with the Netherlands.

We also took a  spring trip to the Netherlands which was full of tulips and windmills creaking wildly in the swift breeze.

As well as exploring the countryside we love the cities in the Netherlands, including a fantastic  summer weekend in Utrecht .

Top Holland Attractions to visit

The Netherlands is absolutely filled with gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage sites and some quirky, interesting places to visit.

Some of our favourites are the beautiful, historic windmills of Kinderdijk, the 16th Century witches weigh house in Oudewater , the Netherlands’ National Prison Museum and the beautiful flowers of Keukenhof. Children will adore wonderful world of Efteling, one of the country’s oldest theme parks which is quirky and endearing.

Interesting places to stay

We have stayed in so many places up and down the Netherlands, some of our favourite places that cater to families are staying in a wharf cellar in Utrecht , staying in the Hague’s tallest tower , staying in the old customs house in Rotterdam and The Albus Hotel in Amsterdam .

The best family holidays in Holland & the Netherlands (on our sister site Family Hotel Expert)

Holiday parks in the Netherlands

We love staying in Landal Greenparks which are fantastic places for families.

They are very eco-friendly and blend perfectly into their local environment. Whether that’s set around a beautiful lake, a forest hideaway or built like a mini Amsterdam alongside the canals.

Some of our favourite Landal Greenparks are Landal Esonstad near Anjum, Landal Landgoed ‘t Loo and Landal Coldenhove near Apeldoorn.

Ultimate guide to the Netherlands with kids: Itineraries

We have a wonderful two week itinerary around the Netherlands which takes in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht & more.

The Netherlands for kids: Where to visit

The Netherlands is jam-packed with activities for families. And whether you’re simply going for a city break to Amsterdam or looking to explore more of Holland and the Netherlands we have all the best things across the country to keep everyone happy.

Amsterdam and North Holland – Netherlands with kids

Amsterdam is one of our favourite European cities with kids and it so family friendly that it surprises me that sometimes people think it wouldn’t be.

It’s easy to get around using public transport and there’s just so much to do in the city itself that kids won’t want to leave.

There are a number of little towns around Amsterdam and north Holland that are worth a trip out. These include Haarlem which is a beautiful town with plenty of stories of its own.

Read more on Amsterdam and North Holland:

• Our guide to Amsterdam with kids
• Top 10 things to do in Amsterdam with kids
• 10 of the best day trips from Amsterdam
• A history packed day in Amsterdam with kids
• Finding out about the amazing Corrie ten Boom in Haarlem

Rotterdam, The Hague, and South Holland

The Hague is a beautiful town in South Holland. Packed full of character with beautiful squares and a great place for a wander.

There’s plenty to do both here in the city and on the outskirts to make it a great place to visit with kids.

To the north of The Hague, Scheveningen is a beautiful stretch of sandy beaches with plenty of hotels, restaurants and attractions. It makes a lovely day trip from Amsterdam or The Hague but also a great short break on its own.

Rotterdam itself brings something very different to the usual Dutch look. Having been largely destroyed in the Second World War it has come in to its own now with cool style and so many great attractions.

The windmills of Kinderdijk are the jewel in South Holland’s crown. A breathtaking collection of old mills, still turning in the wind and just wonderful to visit.

The outstanding tulip gardens of the Keukenhof are also well worth visiting and there’s plenty to do there to keep children happy too.

Finally a visit to Efteling, the Netherlands most beloved theme park should absolutely be on your list. Based around fairytales and mythology it is a great trip out either for the day or overnight.

Read more on Rotterdam, The Hague, and South Holland:

• A trip to Mauritshuis and a visit to the ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring” in The Hague
• Madurodam, The Hague
• Staying in The Hague’s tallest building, The Tower
• Visiting Sea Life, Sheveningen
• Patagonia Beach restaurant, Sheveningen
• 10 things to do in Rotterdam with kids
• Staying in the Old Customs House, Rotterdam
• Staying at Rotterdam Marriott with kids
• Miniworld, Rotterdam
• Visiting the tulip gardens of the Keukenhof
• The windmills of Kinderdijk

Utrecht – Netherlands with kids

Utrecht is my favourite Dutch city. Full of wonderful character, it’s like stepping back in time, in a good way.

The home of Miffy and other lovely attractions there’s lots to do here when visiting with kids.

Read more on Utrecht:

• A summer’s weekend in Utrecht
• Staying in one of Utrecht’s canal cellars
• 10 things to do in Utrecht with kids
• 10 souvenirs to buy at the Miffy Museum, Utrecht
• Museum Speelklok, Utrecht
• A visit to a 16th century witches weigh house, Oudewater

Drenthe Province

This province is one of the most rural in the Netherlands. The towns are few and it feels very agricultural.

Read more on Drenthe Province:

• Visiting Gevangenisemuseum – The National Prison Museum, Veenhuizen

Friesland Province – Netherlands with kids

In the top of the Netherlands is the beautiful Friesland Province. With an amazing stretch of untouched coastline and some sweet little towns and villages.

This is picture perfect Netherlands at its best.

Read more on Friesland Province:

• A week of family fun in North Netherlands at Landal Esonstad

Gelderland Province

Gelderland Province is the largest province in the Netherlands. It has the towns of Arnhem, Nijmegen and Apeldoorn within it.

This is a very traditional area and incredibly picturesque.

Read more on Gelderland Province:

• A stay at Landal Landgoed ‘t Loo
• A stay at Landal Coldenhove

Groningen Province – Netherlands with kids

The beautiful university town of Groningen heads up the offerings in Groningen Province which is packed full of character.

Overijssel Province

Another inland province of the Netherlands that is well worth exploring. Packed full of windmills and beautiful Dutch towns.

Read more on Overijssel Province:

• A family day out in Zwolle

Getting to Holland and getting around the Netherlands

Our favourite way to travel to the Netherlands from the UK is by boat as we then have our car with us.

We love Stena line from Harwich to the Hook of Holland, where you can travel overnight and be there for breakfast. Find all the option on taking a ferry from the UK to the Netherlands here .

We have also flown in to Amsterdam’s Schipol airport and hired a car from there. The airport is fantastic with numerous restaurants and facilities and a big European hub.

The Netherlands is great for its public transport with trams across the major cities and a fantastic train system so this is also a great way to get around.

It’s worth noting that many of the towns and cities are so pro cycling that they actively discourage cars. So you will find it necessary to park up and walk in many of them.

Read more on getting to and around the Netherlands:

• Travelling overnight on Stena Line from Harwich to Hook of Holland

What to buy – Netherland gifts – Netherlands with kids

The Netherlands have some amazing food stuffs you can bring home from inexpensive stroopwaffles to whole rounds of Dutch cheese.

After seeing Miffy around everywhere you might find yourself needing to take one of these little rabbits home with you (the Miffy Museum shop in Utrecht is the best place for Miffy souvenirs).

Read more on what to buy – Netherland gifts:

• Souvenirs to buy in the Miffy Museum

Top Tips for visiting Holland with kids

Not many places take Visa in the Netherlands including those that you think definitely would like supermarkets and department stores. We got cash out and paid that way whenever it wasn’t accepted.

Watch out for the radio in the Netherlands. There is often very explicit swearing in the songs which can be quite shocking, especially if you have young children in the car.

Wherever you visit, look out for the small bronze plaques on the floor. These are the sign that a Jewish family used to live there before being violently removed by the Nazis. We always stop when we see them and talk to the children about this terrible part of history which it’s important to never forget and wonder about the residents that would have lived there.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our guide and are ready to start your trip to the Netherlands with kids .

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globalmouse

2 thoughts on “ the netherlands with kids ”.

What a fantastic resource! I’m taking my ‘kids’ (they’re 17 and 15!) to Amsterdam on a mini cruise next month, so I’m definitely going to look at your info on Amsterdam before we go.

I’m so sorry I’ve only just seen this! I hope you had a great time, Amsterdam is such a wonderful city!

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THE 10 BEST The Netherlands Things to Do with Kids

Things to do in the netherlands 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 Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Keukenhof

2. Vondelpark

Recommended Experiences with Kids (3)

3. The Jordaan

4. Zaanse Schans

5. Efteling

6. Maastricht Underground

7. ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo

8. World Heritage Kinderdijk

9. Markthal

10. Escher in The Palace

11. A'dam Lookout

12. Dam Square

13. Madurodam

14. Louwman Museum The Hague

15. Madame Tussauds Amsterdam

16. NEMO Science Museum

17. Erasmus Bridge

18. Museum Panorama Mesdag

19. Nederlands Openluchtmuseum

20. Begijnhof

21. Het Scheepvaartmuseum| The National Maritime Museum

22. Zuiderzeemuseum

23. Museum Quarter

24. Rotterdam Zoo

25. Molen Van Sloten

26. Kunstmuseum Den Haag

27. Canals area

28. Walibi Holland

29. Burgers' Safari

30. Albert Cuyp Market

What travelers are saying

The best things to do in Amsterdam with kids

Jul 11, 2023 • 4 min read

From large parks to hands-on museums and cafes with play areas, here are the best things to do with kids © Ippei Naoi / Getty Images

Sprinkled with winding canals, pockets of green space and power-packed cultural centers,  Amsterdam is much more than its red-light district and coffeeshops – it's also surprisingly awesome for the wee ones, thanks to a deluge of kid-friendly museums and fun-filled attractions.

Here's how to make the most of a family-oriented trip to the  Netherlands ' capital. 

Rent a bike and pedal around Vondelpark

Amsterdam’s version of New York’s Central Park – a hodgepodge of picnic spots, lakes, outdoor cafes and a summer concert ground – Vondelpark  is the best place in the city for kids to run. Rent a bike to weave your way around and enjoy lunch at one of the many family cafes:  Het Groot Melkhuis is a hot favorite, with a glorious outdoor deck by the pond and a big adjoining play area, and Kinderkookkafé will satisfy any little one's dream of whipping up their own pancake or pizza.

Go on a voyage of discovery at NEMO Science Museum

Housed in a prominent green building in the eastern docklands, NEMO  is a hugely popular spot to go in Amsterdam with kids. Its five floors are filled with demonstrations, workshops and constantly updated exhibitions, and everything is interactive, so they can experiment and learn in an engaging way. Anyone can join in, regardless of age – that means you too!

The museum's biggest surprise is its sloping roof. Designed by Renzo Piano as a sort of elevated piazza, it encompasses an outdoor cafe, flowing water fountains and fantastic views of Amsterdam’s city center.

For sky-high thrills, head up to A’DAM Lookout

Poised on the top floor of  A’DAM Tower in Amsterdam Noord, this observation deck reveals the best panoramic views of Amsterdam – spot the city’s historic center, its pulsating port and the unique Dutch polder landscape.

Even if the kids aren’t too excited about the view, they'll surely be impressed by the swing on the sky deck. Called Over the Edge, it's Europe’s highest swing, giving daredevils the chance to swing 100m (328ft) above the ground, back and forth over the edge of the tower. This is not for the faint-hearted! The minimum height for the swing is 120cm (47in), and the maximum weight is 150kg (331lb).

Hop on a cruise to explore the canals

To truly explore the network of canals crisscrossing Amsterdam, you've got to get on the water. Buccaneer-wannabes will love the canal cruises run by Blue Boat Company , which include a special pirate-themed audio guide, a booklet and a pair of binoculars for young guests aged 5 to 12.

Bringing you out of the canals to the banks of the IJ River, another kid-friendly boat trip comes courtesy of  De Pannenkoekenboot , which offers an all-you-can-eat pancake buffet and a ball pit below deck.

Play with cute goats at Amsterdamse Bos

Nature-loving families cannot skip out on a trip to  Amsterdamse Bos , a 1000-hectare forest and nature park on the southern fringe of the city. It has a slew of outdoor play areas for kids, including  De Ridammerhoeve , a working farm where kids can feed, milk and play with ridiculously cute goats, and  Boerderij Meerzicht , another farm with deer to be fed, plus a restaurant and massive playground. Located just at the entrance,  Fun Forest  climbing park is a hit with kids six years and older.

Stay in the city's best neighborhoods for kids

Colorful and hip, De Pijp is a bohemian neighborhood perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in Amsterdam without being overwhelmed by the tourist crowd, yet still stay within walking distance of most of the city’s attractions. Outdoorsy kids will love the playground in Sarphatipark , and the culinarily adventurous can try quintessentially Dutch stroopwafels (classic caramel-syrup-filled wafers) and all sorts of cheese at the open-air Albert Cuypmarkt .

On the east side of town, De Plantage is an elegant, family-oriented district that houses many regal gardens and the beautiful Artis Royal Zoo . Next to the zoo is  Micropia , a fascinating museum perfect for bigger kids who are interested in biology. (Online reservations are currently mandatory, so be sure to book in advance.) The district is also home to Hortus Botanicus , a lush botanic garden, and  Dignita Hoftuin , a local-favorite brunch spot.

Getting around Amsterdam with children

The tram system in Amsterdam is fast, efficient and easy to navigate , even for families with prams or strollers – each tram has a spot designated for buggies at the back entrance. There are counters on every tram where you can buy tickets and day passes; children four and under travel for free, while those ages four to 11 travel on reduced fares.

Amsterdam has a metro system too, but accessibility for those with strollers isn't as good. You can also rent bikes, but helmet rentals are less common, so you'll need to research your options beforehand to ensure everyone's safety.

This article was first published July 2010 and updated July 2023

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Holland Explorer

Amsterdam & tulips travel guide, things to do in the netherlands with kids.

Are you visiting Amsterdam and the Netherlands from abroad? Or looking for nice family things to do during the Dutch school vacations ? We’ve selected the most exciting things to do with kids, no matter if you live here or are visiting the Netherlands.

Things to do with kids in Amsterdam

1. Artis Royal Zoo 2. NEMO Science museum 3. Treasure hunt at the Van Gogh museum 4. OBA Amsterdam public library 5. LEGO Store Amsterdam

Things to do with kids in the Netherlands

1. Madurodam 2. Efteling 3. Sprookjeswonderland 4. Blijdorp Zoo in Rotterdam 5. Walibi Holland 6. Julianatoren 7. Linnaeushof 8. Corpus Experience 9. Railway museum 10. Dutch open air museum 11. Space Expo in Noordwijk

1. Artis Royal Zoo

Artis Royal Zoo is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and one of the country’s most popular attractions. Next to the zoo itself, Artis has an aquarium, a planetarium and numerous playgrounds. Next door is Micropia , the world’s only museum of microbes (recommended age is 8+ years). Come and meet 750 animal species including zebras, giraffes and elephants in the heart of Amsterdam ! ARTIS is open 365 days a year.

Skip the line tickets:

• Buy tickets to the Artis Royal Zoo >>
• Buy tickets to Micropia >>

2. NEMO Science museum

NEMO Science Museum is a world-known interactive attraction which educates kids about the fascinating world of science. The NEMO collection contains 17.000 technology objects. You can touch, play and interact with hundreds of games. It’s fun for the whole family!

On the roof of the NEMO building you can find the open-air exhibition Energetica, sit on a large terrace and take great panoramic photos.

• Book your skip the line tickets to the NEMO science museum >>

3. Treasure hunt at the Van Gogh museum

Can an art museum be fun for kids? Yes! At the Van Gogh museum children can do the Treasure hunt with fun assignments (in Dutch or English) that help to explore Van Gogh’s paintings. It is free and available at the Information desk. Answer the questions, complete the tasks – and get a little gift back at the Information desk. An unforgettable experience!

• Book your skip the line tickets to the Van Gogh museum >>

4. OBA Amsterdam public library

OBA Amsterdam library is a popular place among the locals with children. You don’t need subcription to enter the library, it’s free for everybody (you only have to get a subscription if you want to borrow the books).

The ground floor of OBA library is perfectly designed for children. There are play corners, educational facilities and of course lots of books in different languages.

A nice bonus – you can enjoy a perfect panoramic view over Amsterdam from the top floor!

Address: Oosterdokskade 143, 1011 DL Amsterdam

5. LEGO Store Amsterdam

The LEGO flagship store in Amsterdam is a paradise for kids (and some parents too)! Here you will find LEGO sculptures inspied by the Dutch history and culture, such as an Escher staircase, the Mint tower, Van gogh portait, a Dutch windmill and many other.

There is also a kid’s play area, pick-a-brick displays, a Minifigure Factory for customizable figurines, a Mosaic Maker that creates personalized portraits from LEGO blocks. The personnel is very friendly and helpful. It feels good that they are trying to involve kids in the games and show they the fun of playing with LEGO, and not trying to sell something.

Address: Kalverstraat 57, 1012 NZ Amsterdam .

Thing to do with kids in the Netherlands

1. madurodam.

The Netherlands are too big to see the whole country in one day. But in the miniature city of Madurodam you can explore its highlight: tiny windmills, great palaces, famous Dutch landmarks and historical cities. All replicas in the theme park are made in 1:25 scale. You will feel like a fairy tale giant! Madurodam is located in the Scheveningen district of The Hague, so you can combine it with a visit to the beach.

• Book your tickets to the miniature park Madurodam >>

Madurodam address: George Maduroplein 1, 2584 RZ Den Haag.

2. Efteling

Book your overnight stay at the Efteling for the period from 5 January 2024 to 19 April 2024 by January 2024 and benefit of a discount of 15% .

Efteling, the theme amusement park, sometimes called the Dutch Disneyland, will make you feel like you stepped into a fairy tale. It has attraction for everyone, from the littlest ones to adventurous roller coaster lovers. Check a full list of attractions here >>

The Efteling themepark is located around 100 kilometers from Amsterdam. You may consider staying overnight in one of the theme park hotels . You will feel like a prince, a princess or a fairy tale character! Efteling is open 365 days a year.

• Book tickets to Efteling >>
• Book an overnight in Efteling >>

Efteling address: Europalaan 1, 5171 KW Kaatsheuvel .

3. Sprookjeswonderland

Sprookjeswonderland, a fairy tale park in Enkhuizen, is perfect for kids from 2 to 8 years old . It has everything to make you little ones believe they are in a fairy tale: from beautiful attractions, tiny trains and boats to a small animal farm and theme playgrounds.

Sprookjeswonderland address: Kooizandweg 9, 1601 LK Enkhuizen .

4. Blijdorp Zoo in Rotterdam

One of Europe’s most beautiful zoos, Blijdorp Rotterdam Zoo is a place where you can see animals and birds from around the world. Polar bears, tigers, elephants, sea lions, gorillas, and more call it their home. Here you can also find playgrounds and numerous cafes. A nice place to spend a day with the whole family! Rotterdam Zoo is open 365 days a year.

Blijdorp address: Blijdorplaan 8, 3041 JG Rotterdam .

• Explore more things to do in Rotterdam >>

5. Walibi Holland

Walibi Holland is an amusement park. It’s a nice place for a day trip for everyone from the age of 6. There is something for all ages: dozens of attractions for young and old. Check all attractions at Walibi park >>

Walibi Holland is located in Biddinghuizen, 70 km away from Amsterdam. Discover the park:

• Opening hours in 2024 >>
• Book tickets to Walibi online >>

6. Julianatoren

Julianatoren is another amusement park located in Apeldoorn, it’s an one hour drive from Amsterdam. The park offers more than 60 great attractions for children up to 10 years old.

Entrance tickets (from 2 years) cost € 27,50. You can get an early bird discount € 7,50 per person if you book tickets on the Julianatoren official website at least 7 days in advance. Book tickets online >>

7. Linnaeushof

Linnaeushof is Europe’s biggest playground located in Heemstede, between Haarlem and Keukenhof . It has 350+ play sets and attractions such as cable cars, a trampoline, pedal boats, go-karts, bump bikes, miniature golf courses, a monorail, a water playground, a super slide and many more. Fun for everyone! Linnaeushof is open 7 month a year.

Linnaeushof address: Glipperweg 4C, 2104 AK Heemstede .

8. Corpus Experience

The Corpus Museum is an interactive body museum near Leiden. It invites its visitors for a “spectacular journey through the human body” and gives a unique close-up into how a person’s body functions. There are also lots of exciting tests and fun games to play. The minimum age to visit CORPUS is 6 years.

CORPUS address: Willem Einthovenstraat 1, 2342 BH Oegstgeest .

9. Spoorwegmuseum (Railway Museum)

The Railway Museum in Utrecht is rather an educational theme park than a regular museum. It’s very interactive and designed so you can explore the trains yourself.

You can see magnificent historical machines. Walk through the interior of a train with the different types of cabins they offered in the past. See a play about the Orient Express.

Children’s who can sit independently and are higher than 90 cm, can go on a little adventure by a little Jumbo Express train.

A wonderful day for entire family!

Spoorwegmuseum address: Maliebaanstation 16, 3581 XW Utrecht

• Explore more things to do in Utrecht >>

10. Openluchtmuseum (Dutch Open Air Museum)

The Dutch Open Air Museum in Arnhem is one more attraction where you can spend a great day with entire family. Here you will see authentic buildings, farms, factories and other objects collected from different parts of the Netherlands and brought in one place. This is where the history comes to life. There are all kinds of activities organized especially for children.

Openluchtmuseum address: Hoeferlaan 4, 6816 SG Arnhem .

11. Space Expo in Noordwijk

Is you kid a fan of space ships and is he dreaming about travelling to the moon? Visit Space Expo, Museum of space history with exhibits on space, gravity & satellites and explore the wonderous world of space travel.

Kids older than 9 can also take the Space train and get a unique insight into the buildings of ESA ESTEC and the European Space Agency.  Tickes for the Space train can be booked online one week in advance. The Space Train tour is in English and Dutch.

Space Expo address: Keplerlaan 3, 2201 AZ Noordwijk

• Good to know: School holidays in the Netherlands in 2023/2024

Enjoy your visit to the Netherlands with kids!

Last updated: 13 February 2024

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Schengenvisa.info

Traveling with children to schengen countries.

Conditions and additional rules for traveling with children

If you are traveling to the Netherlands with or without a Schengen visa with a child under the age of 18, please note that additional rules apply and that an identity check may be carried out.

The Royal Netherlands Marechaussee (KMar) carries out such checks to prevent child abduction. They may ask you for your identity document. KMar employees can also carry out checks when a child has the Schengen area enter or exit with only 1 of the parents. You will need written permission from the other parent of the child for this.

Permission to travel

The non-accompanying parent who has custody of the child can complete the consent form for traveling with a minor child to give permission for the accompanying parent to travel abroad with the child. A separate form must be completed for each child.

Single parent situations

There are several possible situations in which a parent travels alone with a minor child. For example:

• Parent with joint parental authority travels alone with child. You need permission for this.
• Parent with sole parental authority (single person) travels alone with child. You do not need permission for this, but you do need additional documents.
• Parent without parental authority travels alone with child. You do need permission for this.
• 1 parent has died. 

If you need permission, you can  permission form for traveling abroad with a minor  to fill in. You sign this together with the other parent. If you have several children, you must complete a consent form for each child. 

You need the permission form to enter and leave the Netherlands. You may need other documents or forms for the country you are traveling to. Please check with the local authorities.

More detailed information about these situations can be found at  childabduction.org . Here you can also read which documents you need to bring with you.

Be on time!

The extra checks that are performed will take up a little more of your time. The Royal Netherlands Marechaussee and Border Police (KMAR) therefore advises parents traveling with children to be present at the airport on time and to give them the opportunity to carry out these checks.

There is a checklist available for a Schengen visa application for parent(s) of a minor Dutch child.

• News & Articles
• Privacy Policy

The sole purpose of this website is to provide practical information about a Schengen visa. We are not affiliated with the EU, the Dutch government or the IND. No rights can be derived from the texts on this website. Always check with the official authorities for the most recent information and regulations.

Residence permit for child under 18

To live with you in the Netherlands, your child who is a minor needs a residence permit. Find out what the requirements are and how to apply for a residence permit for your child under 18.

Requirements

These requirements apply to you and your child:

• Your minor child meets the general requirements that apply to everyone .
• Your child is under 18.
• Your child has not started a family of their own.
• Your child belongs to your family and was also part of your family abroad.
• Your child will live with you in the Netherlands. You register your child at your address.
• Do you now have residency as a family member? And does the person you stay with (sponsor) have a civic integration obligation? Then you must have lived in the Netherlands for at least 1 year with a valid residence permit.
• Do you have a residence permit for exchange (au pair, cultural exchange or Working Holiday), work experience or seasonal work? Then you cannot bring your child to the Netherlands.
• You meet the income requirements .
• You are your child's guardian. Find out more about parental responsibility and guardianship on government.nl.
• Is the other parent still in the country of origin? And does that parent also have parental responsibility for the child? That parent has to sign a declaration of consent. In this way, the other parent gives permission for your child to leave for the Netherlands.
• You declare that you are the sponsor for your child. The sponsor is the person who brings a child to the Netherlands.

Process and costs

These are the steps in the application process for the residence permit:.

A valid provisional residence permit (MVV) is needed for this application

Make sure you meet the requirements.

The written application form lists which documents you need. Collect all documents before you apply. You can upload the documents in the online application.

Have official documents from abroad legalised and translated into Dutch, English, French or  German.

Have official documents from abroad legalised and translated into Dutch, English, French or German.

You apply for the MVV and the residence permit at the same time. You submit this application online or in writing by post.

Your child may also apply on their own at the Dutch representation abroad .  

You can submit this application online or in writing by post.

The application costs € 76,00. For an explanation visit the web page Fees: application costs .

When you apply online, you pay the costs (fees) immediately with iDEAL internet banking. Are you applying in writing? Then you will receive a letter which explains how you can pay.  

The IND must take a decision within 90 days. This is called the decision period.

We can extend the decision period if it takes longer to decide. For example, because the application is not complete. In that case, the IND will send a message.

Follow the application in My IND .

The IND must take a decision within 90 days. This is called a decision period.

You will receive the decision in a letter. The decision will be positive or negative.

• Positive decision: The child will get an MVV and a residence permit.
• Negative decision: The child will not get an MVV or a residence permit. You can object against this decision .
• Positive decision: The child will get a residence permit.
• Negative decision: The child will not get a residence permit. You can object against this decision .

The child can travel to the Netherlands with the MVV. The child collects the MVV at the Dutch representation that you filled in on the application form.

The MVV is valid for 90 days.

Collect MVV within 3 months of decision

Make an appointment at the Dutch embassy or consulate to collect the MVV.

Valid passport required

When the embassy or consulate places the MVV in the child’s passport, the passport must be valid for at least another 6 months.

The child must have their biometric data taken when they collect the MVV. The child needs to bring 1 new passport photo with them. The child will also provide their a signature and have their fingerprints taken.  

When the residence permit is ready at an IND desk, you will receive a letter. You must make an appointment to collect it. Make an appointment to collect the residence document .

When the residence permit is ready at an IND desk, you will receive a letter. You must make an appointment to collect it. Make an appointment to collect the residence document .   

Application forms

You can submit this application online. you must have digid with sms verification and internet banking (ideal)., online application form child under 18, written application forms, the residence permit, find out what else you need to know about the residence permit..

Did you indicate at the time of the application that your child will take a TB (tuberculosis) test? Then make an appointment with the public health service (in Dutch: Gemeenschappelijke Gezondheidsdienst or GGD). Do this within 3 months after your child has received their residence permit. Take with you to the appointment: 

Working with the residence permit

It says on the back of your child's residence permit whether your child is allowed to work. This depends on your work rights:

• Are you Dutch? Then your child's residence permit says ‘Free to work. Work permit not required (in Dutch: Arbeid vrij toegestaan. TWV niet vereist). TWV stands for tewerkstellingsvergunning which means work permit in Dutch.
• Do you have a residence permit? Then your child has the same work rights as you. Do you need a TWV to work? Then your child also needs a TWV. If you are not allowed to work, then your child is also not allowed to work. 

In the following situations, your child will have different work rights to you:

• You have a residence permit as a highly skilled migrant, researcher or are the holder of a European Blue Card. Your child is free to work. Your child's residence document says Arbeid vrij toegestaan. TWV niet vereist. (Free to work. Work permit not required.)
• You have a residence permit for study. Your child is not allowed to work. Your child's residence document says Arbeid niet toegestaan. (Work not permitted.)

Not every child is allowed to work

From a certain age, children are allowed to do holiday work or to have a part-time job. Visit Rijksoverheid.nl for more information about part-time jobs, holiday work and internships for young people (only available in Dutch).

Legal obligations

A sponsor has an obligation to provide information and an administrative obligation. Read more about the legal obligations of a private sponsor .   

The IND checks whether you meet your obligations. If you do not, you may get an administrative fine . 

Validity of residence permit

The period of validity of your child's residence permit depends on your situation. Do you have a temporary residence permit? Then the end date of your child's residence permit is the same as the end date of your residence permit. 

Are you Dutch or do you have a permanent residence permit? Then your child's residence permit is valid for 5 years.

Other applications

Replacement of the residence permit.

Has your child's residence permit been damaged, lost or stolen? Then have the residence permit replaced. Visit the web page residence permit damaged or change details or residence permit lost or stolen .

Extend the residence permit 

Will your child's residence permit expire soon? Then you can extend their residence permit .

Apply for a different residence permit

Does your child have a residence permit for 1 year for residence as a family member? Then you can change their residence permit to the residence permit on independent humanitarian non-temporary grounds . 

Permanent residence permit

Does your child have a residence permit for 5 years for residence as a family member? Then you can apply for a permanent residence permit for your child .

• Living in the Netherlands
• Travelling with a residence permit and a return visa

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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Sylvie Simpson

Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.

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• Travelling to the Netherlands (Netherlandsworldwide.nl)

Travelling to the Netherlands

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Netherlands

Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Netherlands - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in the Netherlands due to  terrorism.

Country Summary : Terrorists continue plotting possible attacks in the Netherlands. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the Netherlands.  

If you decide to travel to the Netherlands:   

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by large crowds or foreign nationals.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions related to any ongoing police action.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the Netherlands.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

A passport must be valid for at least three months beyond planned date of departure from the Schengen area . The 12-page U.S. emergency passport is not accepted by Dutch authorities for visa-free entry into the Netherlands.

Two pages required for entry stamp

Not required for stays under 90 days

10,000 Euros or equivalent

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy the hague.

John Adams Park 1 2244 BZ Wassenaar Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310 2209 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +31 (0) 70 310 2209 Fax: +(31) (0) 70 310 2207

U.S. Consulate General Amsterdam Museumplein 19 1071 DJ Amsterdam Telephone: +(31) (0) 20 575-5309 (Emergencies involving U.S. citizens only ) Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310 2209 (All other calls) Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209 Fax: +(31) (0) 20 575 5330 Email:   [email protected]  

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on the Netherlands for information on U.S.-Netherlands relations.  

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

COVID-19 Requirements

There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens. 

Visit the  Embassy of the Netherlands  website for the most current visa information.

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
• If you plan on transiting a Schengen country, review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .    
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket. 
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

Dutch immigration authorities do not recognize the 12-page U.S. emergency passport, issued by U.S. embassies and consulates overseas, as a valid travel document for visa-free entry into the Netherlands.  If traveling on this emergency passport, please be aware that you will be refused entry by immigration officials and/or held at the airport until a return flight to the United States is available.  We strongly urge U.S. citizens in possession of the 12-page U.S. emergency passport to replace it with a full-validity passport before traveling to the Netherlands by air. 

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of the Netherlands.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) 

Crime: While the rate of violent crime in the Netherlands is low, tourists are often targeted by pickpockets, bag snatchers, and other petty thieves and are active in and around train, tram, and metro stations in city centers; and aboard public transportation, especially to and from Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport. Thieves often work in pairs: one distracts you, often by asking for directions, while the other moves in on your unguarded property. Use your hotel safe, and keep baggage locked or secured when you are away. Avoid leaving valuables in automobiles, especially electronic devices, such as laptops, tablets, GPS devices, and mobile telephones. Never leave your personal items or baggage unattended.

Most retailers in the Netherlands only accept a “chip and pin” card and will not accept a standard U.S. credit card containing only a magnetic strip. ATM and credit card users are advised to keep an eye on their cards at all times. If you feel uncomfortable using your card for any reason, use cash. Contact your credit card provider for further guidance.

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police at 112 or 0900-8844 for non-emergency cases.  See above for contact information for the U.S. Embassy The Hague and U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes in the Netherlands.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

The organization Slachtofferhulp Nederland (Victim Support Netherlands) provides a range of services for victims of crime, traffic accidents or disasters within the Netherlands. For more information, visit their webpage .

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is well-regulated and rules in regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide lifesaving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.  

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Despite common misperceptions, marijuana and hashish are controlled substances in the Netherlands, and although not enforced in defined tourist areas, possession is a crime that can result in a fine. “Coffee shops” are havens for petty criminals who prey on tourists and other individuals under the influence of drugs. Persons who visit “coffee shops” have become victims of pickpocketing, identity theft, sexual assault, and other crimes. Visitors are cautioned against using such substances, as they are often counterfeit and can cause illness or death. It is illegal to take any controlled substance, such as marijuana, into or out of the Netherlands.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers  
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad   

LGBTQI+ Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in the Netherlands. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities : Dutch law guarantees equality and the right to access for people with disabilities. Information about accessibility in the Netherlands for travelers with disabilities is available on the Netherlands main online portal for visitors.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers : See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

COVID-19 Testing:  For information about COVID-19 testing in the Netherlands, visit the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport webpage .

COVID-19 Vaccines: The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in the Netherlands if they are residents.  Visit the Dutch government’s COVID-19 page for more information about obtaining the COVID-19 vaccine in the Netherlands. Visit the FDA's website to  learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.  

Good medical facilities are widely available in the Netherlands. Pharmacies (“Apotheek”) are widely available and can assist with emergency prescription needs. Some common medications are not available in the Netherlands without a prescription, and some prescription drugs cannot be imported into the country.

For emergency services in the Netherlands, dial 112.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas coverage.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Carry an adequate supply of prescription drugs in their original container in your carry-on luggage. Carry a letter from your pharmacist or medical doctor with you, as some drugs are subject to confiscation by local customs agents.  Check with the government of the Netherlands to ensure the medication is legal in the Netherlands. If you are traveling with any pre-existing medical conditions, bring a letter from your physician that describes your medical condition and any prescription medications, including the generic name of any prescribed drugs.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

• Lanes in the center of many urban two-way streets are reserved for buses, trams, and taxis.
• In cities, pedestrians should be mindful of trams and buses, which often cross or share bicycle and pedestrian paths. Serious and sometimes fatal accidents involving pedestrians or bicyclists colliding with trams and buses occur each year.
• Motorists should be especially mindful of the fact that bicyclists have the right-of-way; motorists must yield to bicyclists.
• Pedestrians should not walk along bicycle paths, which are often next to the sidewalk and usually designated by red pavement.

Traffic Laws:  

• A valid driver’s license issued by a Department of Motor Vehicles in the United States is valid for use in the Netherlands while in tourist or visitor status. Please check here (Dutch only) for more information.
• You must use seat belts and child seats.
• Driving is on the right side of the road, as in the United States.
• Speed limits are strictly enforced by radar. Traffic cameras are common throughout the Netherlands, and it is possible to receive a ticket for traveling even 2-5 km/h over the limit. Different limits may apply to certain hours of the day, as posted.
• Drivers must yield the right-of-way to vehicles and bicyclists coming from the right at intersections or traffic circles unless otherwise posted.
• The maximum allowable blood-alcohol content in the Netherlands is 0.05 percent.
• The maximum allowable blood-alcohol limit for those who have had a driver’s license for less than five years is 0.02 percent.
• Use of cellular telephones for talking or texting while driving without the use of a hands-free device is prohibited and is punishable by significant fines.
• Bicyclists and pedestrians should be particularly cautious during the winter months, when paths, roads, and especially bridges can become icy and extremely slippery.

Public Transportation: 

Rail is often a convenient alternative to driving, particularly in the areas around Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam, where road congestion is frequent. Rail network information is available at http://www.ns.nl/en . It is relatively safe to travel by rail from city to city, compared to some other European countries but be aware of pickpockets. Taxi service in the Netherlands is safe but expensive. Trams and buses are both convenient and economical but are often frequented by pickpockets.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Also, we suggest that you visit the Netherlands Board of Tourism and Conventions .

Aviation Safety Oversight: 

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of the Netherlands’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the Netherland’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:

Mariners planning travel to the Netherlands should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Netherlands . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

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