Amsterdam is a city that has something for everyone, including families with kids. From beautiful waterways to world-class museums, Amsterdam is a great place to explore and learn with your little ones. Whether you’re interested in art, science, or just having fun, there are plenty of activities and attractions that will keep your kids entertained. In this essential guide, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Amsterdam with kids, so you can plan a memorable trip for the whole family.
The best things to do with kids in Amsterdam
Here’s an essential guide for your family trip to Amsterdam:
- Visit the Anne Frank House: This is a must-see attraction in Amsterdam, and it’s a great way to introduce your kids to the history of World War II. The Anne Frank House is a museum that tells the story of Anne Frank, a young girl who hid from the Nazis during the war. It’s a powerful and moving experience that is suitable for older children. You can also try a guided tour (The house itself is not included).
- Explore the Vondelpark: This is Amsterdam’s largest park, and it’s a great place for kids to run around and burn off some energy. There are plenty of playgrounds, a petting zoo, and even an open-air theater. It’s also a great place for a picnic, so pack a lunch and enjoy the sunshine.
- Take a canal cruise: Amsterdam is famous for its canals, and taking a canal cruise is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. There are many tour companies that offer kid-friendly cruises, complete with commentary and even a treasure hunt.
- Visit the NEMO Science Museum: This interactive museum is perfect for kids of all ages. There are plenty of hands-on exhibits and experiments that explore the world of science and technology. It’s a great way to make learning fun.
- Take a bike tour: Amsterdam is a very bike-friendly city, and taking a bike tour is a great way to see the sights. There are many tour companies that offer kid-friendly tours, complete with child-sized bikes and helmets. It’s a great way to explore the city and get some exercise at the same time.
- Visit the Artis Zoo: This is Amsterdam’s oldest zoo, and it’s a great place to see a variety of animals from around the world. There are plenty of kid-friendly exhibits, including a butterfly pavilion, a planetarium, and even a playground.
- Explore the Rijksmuseum: This museum is home to many famous works of art, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. While it may not seem like the most kid-friendly attraction, the museum offers many family programs and activities, including a family tour and a special scavenger hunt for kids.
- Visit the Amsterdam Dungeon: If your kids are brave enough, a visit to the Amsterdam Dungeon is a fun and interactive way to learn about the darker side of Amsterdam’s history. It’s a bit scary, but it’s also a lot of fun.
- Sample the local treats: Amsterdam is famous for its stroopwafels (thin waffles with syrup in the middle), poffertjes (small, fluffy pancakes), and Dutch fries (served with mayo). Be sure to try some of these local treats while you’re in town.
- Take a day trip: If you have time, consider taking a day trip from Amsterdam. There are many nearby attractions that are great for kids, including the Zaanse Schans (a historic village with windmills), the Keukenhof Gardens (a stunning display of tulips and other flowers), and the Muiderslot Castle (a medieval castle that is perfect for young knights and princesses).
- Visit the Van Gogh Museum: This museum has the world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings, and it’s a great way to introduce your kids to this famous artist. The museum offers a free family guide with fun activities for kids.
- See the city from above at A’DAM Lookout: This observation deck offers panoramic views of Amsterdam, and it’s a great way to see the city from above. Kids will love the interactive displays and the giant swing that swings over the edge of the building.
- Go to the Tropenmuseum: This museum explores the cultures of the world, and it’s a great way to teach your kids about different cultures and traditions. The museum offers a special program for families with young children.
- Take a tour of the Amsterdam Arena: If your kids are soccer fans, a tour of the Amsterdam Arena is a must-do. You’ll get to see the locker rooms, the pitch, and even walk through the player’s tunnel.
- Visit the Efteling Theme Park: This theme park is located just outside Amsterdam, and it’s a great day trip for families. It’s the largest theme park in the Netherlands, with rides and attractions for all ages.
- Take a horse-drawn carriage ride: A horse-drawn carriage ride is a fun and unique way to see the city. You can take a guided tour or hire a carriage for a private ride.
- Explore the Amsterdamse Bos: This large park is located just outside the city center, and it’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails, a petting zoo, and even a goat farm.
- See the Heineken Experience: This brewery tour is a fun way to learn about the history of Heineken beer. Kids can join in the tour, and there are even special family tours available.
Where to stay with kids in Amsterdam
Amsterdam has several neighborhoods that are great for families with kids. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Amsterdam with your little ones:
- De Pijp: This neighborhood is located south of the city center and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. De Pijp has plenty of parks, playgrounds, and family-friendly restaurants, making it a great place to stay with kids.
- Oud-West: Oud-West is a trendy neighborhood located west of the city center. It has plenty of parks, cafes, and shops, and it’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to the action while still having a family-friendly environment.
- Jordaan: Jordaan is a charming neighborhood located west of the city center. It has plenty of narrow streets, canals, and beautiful architecture, making it a great place to explore with kids. Jordaan also has plenty of family-friendly restaurants and cafes.
- Plantagebuurt: This neighborhood is located east of the city center and is home to many of Amsterdam’s family-friendly attractions, including the Artis Zoo and the Tropenmuseum. Plantagebuurt also has plenty of green spaces, making it a great place to stay with kids.
- Museum Quarter: The Museum Quarter is located south of the city center and is home to some of Amsterdam’s most famous museums, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. It’s a great place to stay if you’re interested in exploring Amsterdam’s cultural attractions with your kids.
Recommended hotels for families with kids in Amsterdam
- De Pijp:
- Hotel Okura Amsterdam: This luxury hotel has spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and a kids’ club.
- The Arcade Hotel Amsterdam: This budget-friendly hotel offers family rooms and is located close to Sarphatipark, a great park for kids.
- Oud-West:
- Hotel De Hallen: This trendy hotel offers family rooms and is located close to Vondelpark, a great park for kids.
- Hotel Not Hotel: This unique hotel offers family rooms and is located close to Foodhallen, a great indoor food hall with plenty of options for families.
- Jordaan:
- Hotel Mercier: This modern hotel offers family rooms and is located close to Westerstraat, a street with plenty of shops and restaurants.
- Plantagebuurt:
- Hotel Arena: This historic hotel offers family rooms and is located close to Oosterpark, a great park for kids.
- Museum Quarter:
- Conservatorium Hotel: This luxury hotel offers family rooms and is located close to the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.
- Hotel JL No76: This boutique hotel offers family rooms and is located close to the Museumplein, a great park with plenty of space for kids to run around.
These are just a few examples of the many family-friendly hotels available in Amsterdam. When choosing a hotel, be sure to consider factors like location, room size, and amenities to find the best fit for your family.
Family-friendly restaurants in Amsterdam
Amsterdam has plenty of family-friendly restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines. Here are some of the best places for family lunch and dinner in Amsterdam:
- Pancakes Amsterdam: This pancake restaurant has several locations throughout the city and offers a wide variety of sweet and savory pancakes that kids will love.
- Foodhallen: This indoor food hall in Oud-West offers a variety of cuisines and has plenty of seating, making it a great place for families to grab lunch or dinner.
- Vondelpark3: This restaurant is located in Vondelpark and has a large terrace with plenty of space for kids to run around. They offer a children’s menu and have a playground nearby.
- Café de Jaren: This café is located along the Amstel River and has a large terrace with beautiful views. They offer a children’s menu and have plenty of high chairs available.
- De Pizzabakkers: This pizza restaurant has several locations throughout the city and offers delicious wood-fired pizzas that are sure to please both kids and adults.
- The Seafood Bar: This seafood restaurant has several locations throughout the city and offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes. They have a children’s menu and high chairs available.
- De Biertuin: This beer garden in East Amsterdam offers a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of food options, including burgers and fries. They have a children’s menu and plenty of space for kids to play.
Tips for traveling with kids to Amsterdam
Traveling with kids can be an adventure, but it can also be stressful. Here are some tips to make your family trip to Amsterdam as smooth and enjoyable as possible:
- Plan ahead: Before your trip, research family-friendly activities, attractions, and restaurants in Amsterdam. Make a list of the things you want to do and see, and plan your itinerary accordingly. This will help you maximize your time in Amsterdam and ensure that you don’t miss out on any must-see sights.
- Pack wisely: Be sure to pack everything your kids will need, including comfortable clothing and shoes, snacks, water bottles, sunscreen, and any medications they may need. It’s also a good idea to bring a small backpack for each child to carry their own things.
- Consider transportation: Amsterdam is a very walkable city, but it’s also worth considering other transportation options like bikes or trams. Renting a bike is a fun way to explore the city and many rental shops offer child seats or trailers. Trams are also a convenient way to get around, especially if you have a stroller or young children who may get tired of walking.
- Take breaks: It’s important to take breaks throughout the day to give your kids a chance to rest and recharge. Plan to spend some time in parks or playgrounds, and take breaks at cafes or restaurants when you need a break from walking.
- Be flexible: Remember that traveling with kids can be unpredictable, so be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary. Be open to changing your itinerary or taking things at a slower pace if your kids need a break.
- Have fun: Above all, remember that you’re on vacation and try to have fun! Encourage your kids to try new things and enjoy the sights and sounds of Amsterdam. Taking a relaxed and positive attitude can go a long way in making your family trip a success.
