Best Things to Do in Amsterdam With Kids: Our Favorite Tips and Family-Friendly Hotspots

Amsterdam with kids might not be the first destination that comes to mind for a family city break. The busy streets, endless stream of cyclists and parking fees can feel a little overwhelming at first. Still, it’s a city we love coming back to. Guus even lived here for a while and nowadays we regularly visit Amsterdam with our daughters.

What surprised us most is just how many family-friendly activities Amsterdam has to offer. One moment you’re experimenting and learning at NEMO Science Museum, a few hours later the kids are climbing around a playground in Vondelpark or you’re cruising through the city’s famous canals. Along the way, you can grab a fresh stroopwafel or a portion of Dutch fries and before you know it, the day is over.

That variety is exactly what makes Amsterdam such a great destination for families. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, a longer family vacation or simply looking for the best things to do in Amsterdam with kids, you’ll find plenty of activities that both children and parents will enjoy.

Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting With Kids?

Absolutely. Amsterdam may be busier than many other Dutch cities, but that variety is exactly what makes it such a fun destination for families. In a single day, you can combine interactive museums, playgrounds, canal cruises and family-friendly restaurants without ever running out of things to do.

The city is easy to explore by public transport and you’ll find plenty of parks and green spaces where kids can take a break and burn off some energy. Just keep in mind that the city center can be crowded, and cyclists seem to appear from every direction.

Interactive Museums and Activities in Amsterdam With Kids

Amsterdam is packed with interactive museums and family-friendly attractions. From hands-on experiments at NEMO Science Museum to spotting animals at ARTIS and playing your way through WONDR Experience, there’s plenty to keep curious kids entertained.

NEMO Science Museum

We loved NEMO as kids ourselves and we’re happy to report that it’s still just as much fun today. This interactive science museum remains one of the best things to do in Amsterdam with kids.

Children can experiment, play and discover how the world works through hundreds of hands-on exhibits. From creating giant soap bubbles and exploring water experiments to getting involved in science labs and challenges, there is always something happening. And trust us, kids won’t run out of energy here.

NEMO is especially great for preschoolers and elementary school-aged children, although older kids and teenagers will enjoy it too. Parents will likely have just as much fun. It reminded us a little of Experimentarium in Copenhagen and Universeum in Gothenburg, two other interactive science museums we really enjoyed visiting as a family.

We visited during the Dutch spring holiday and it was quite busy. That’s something you’ll likely encounter during school holidays and weekends. Our advice is simple: arrive as early as possible. Also, don’t plan to spend just an hour here. NEMO is easily a half-day activity, if not longer.

➜ Curious about our experience, favorite exhibits and practical tips? Read our full guide to NEMO Amsterdam with kids.

Good to Know

• Best for preschoolers and elementary school children
• Easy to spend half a day here
• Can get busy during weekends and school holidays
• Stroller-friendly throughout the museum

➜ Check the latest NEMO ticket prices here.

ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo

Visiting ARTIS had been on our family bucket list for a long time. There’s something special about a zoo right in the middle of a major city. As soon as you walk through the gates, you can tell that ARTIS is more than just a zoo. That’s hardly surprising, as it is one of the oldest zoos in Europe.

Of course, it’s fair to wonder whether zoos still fit with modern views on animal welfare. We had those thoughts as well. At ARTIS, however, we felt there is a strong focus on conservation, education and animal care. It was interesting to see how much has changed over the years. Throughout the park, you’ll find historic photos and displays showing what the zoo looked like in the past. Some even show visitors riding elephants, something that feels almost unbelievable today.

What we liked most is that ARTIS offers much more than animal exhibits. There are several playgrounds, plenty of places to grab a snack or drink and lots of benches where families can take a break. You can also bring your own food, which is always a bonus when visiting with kids.

The zoo is easy to explore and you can comfortably walk from one themed area to the next. That’s especially nice with younger children, as you never feel like you’re covering huge distances.

During our visit, we combined ARTIS with Micropia using a combination ticket. We spent roughly half a day in ARTIS and another hour exploring Micropia afterwards. For us, that was the perfect balance, although you could easily spend a full day here if you take your time.

Good to Know

• ARTIS is very stroller-friendly throughout the park
• Elevators or alternative routes are available for most stairs
• Best suited for toddlers, preschoolers and elementary school children
• Micropia is a great addition for older children

ARTIS isn’t cheap, but we thought it was absolutely worth it

➜ Check the latest ticket prices and combination tickets here.

National Maritime Museum (Het Scheepvaartmuseum)

The National Maritime Museum (Het Scheepvaartmuseum) is one of those places that has been high on our list to revisit with the kids. Guus visited the museum years ago while studying in Amsterdam, back when interactive museums were becoming increasingly popular.

That hands-on approach is still a big part of the experience today. Children can explore maritime history through interactive exhibits, learn what life at sea was really like and, of course, climb aboard the impressive replica of a Dutch East India Company ship docked outside the museum. That ship alone looks like a fantastic adventure for kids.

Another highlight is the exhibition The Whale Story, where children can get up close to a real whale and learn more about these incredible animals. Younger visitors can also join Diver Doris on an underwater adventure and discover the fascinating world beneath the waves.

The National Maritime Museum seems like a great combination of play, discovery and Dutch history, making it a fun outing for both kids and adults.

Good to Know

• Free admission for children up to and including 4 years old
• The historic VOC ship is one of the biggest highlights for kids
• Plenty of interactive exhibits for families
• Easy to combine with other attractions in Amsterdam’s city center

➜ Check the latest ticket prices for the National Maritime Museum.

ARTIS Micropia

Before visiting, we had honestly never heard of Micropia. Most people know zoos and interactive science museums, but a museum entirely dedicated to bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms? That’s actually quite unique.

At Micropia, you’ll discover a hidden world that normally remains invisible to the human eye. Throughout the museum, microscopes, interactive displays and digital exhibits help visitors understand how microbes live, grow and spread. One exhibit that really caught our attention featured burgers, fries and other food items that had been left to decompose for years. A little gross, perhaps, but also surprisingly fascinating.

Micropia is especially interesting for curious children aged 7 and up. Just don’t expect another NEMO. The experience is much calmer and focuses more on learning and discovery than hands-on play and constant interaction.

We visited ARTIS first and then continued to Micropia using a combination ticket. We spent around one to one and a half hours exploring the museum, which felt just right for our family.

Good to Know

• Best suited for children aged 7 and older
• Easy to combine with ARTIS Royal Zoo
• More educational and less play-focused than NEMO
• Plan for around 1 to 1.5 hours

➜ Check the latest ticket prices and combination tickets here.

WONDR Experience

How would we describe WONDR? An interactive Instagram hotspot? A giant indoor playground? A place built for influencers and TikTok videos? Honestly, it’s a bit of all of those things.

We had been seeing WONDR Experience pop up on social media for years and eventually decided to visit with our daughters during a trip to Amsterdam.

And to be fair, it’s a lot of fun. The experience is made up of colorful themed rooms filled with ball pits, inflatable attractions, swings, giant stuffed animals and even confetti showers. Kids absolutely love it. And if we’re being honest, most adults end up joining in as well.

There were definitely moments when we looked around and thought, have we really reached the point where entire attractions are designed for Instagram and TikTok photos? But our daughters had a fantastic time and, by the end of the visit, so did we.

WONDR is suitable for almost every age group. Toddlers, elementary school children, teenagers and even groups of friends can have fun here. Just don’t expect it to be a full-day attraction. Once you’ve explored all the rooms, you’re usually ready to move on, a bit like a visit to Madame Tussauds Amsterdam.

We spent around two hours here, which felt about right. It was relatively quiet when we arrived, but it became much busier later in the day. Also keep an eye on the time slots, as children are not allowed during every session.

Good to Know

• Fun for almost all ages
• A great option for a rainy day in Amsterdam
• Plan for around 1.5 to 2 hours
• Not cheap, but a fun and unique addition to your Amsterdam itinerary

➜ Check the latest ticket prices and available time slots here.

Visit the Moco Museum

When it comes to art museums in Amsterdam, Moco Museum is probably our favorite in the city. Then again, we’re big fans of modern art and street art ourselves. Think Banksy, Andy Warhol, Keith Haring and a wide range of colorful installations and immersive exhibits.

That’s also what makes Moco such a fun museum to visit with kids. You’ll find bright colors, quirky artworks, digital experiences and creative spaces that feel much more playful than a traditional art museum. For older children, it’s a great introduction to the world of art.

Don’t expect a huge museum where you’ll spend half a day wandering around. In our opinion, that’s actually part of its appeal. After about one to one and a half hours, you’ve seen most of the museum without kids starting to lose interest.

For our youngest daughter, it was still a little too early to fully appreciate, but Nina really enjoyed it. We think Moco is especially suitable for elementary school children, teenagers and adults who enjoy modern and contemporary art.

Moco isn’t cheap, but we thought it was well worth the admission fee. Just keep in mind that it’s a popular attraction and can get quite crowded.

Good to Know

• Best suited for older children and teenagers
• Features colorful modern and contemporary art
• Plan for around 1 to 1.5 hours
• Usually manageable, but it can get busy during peak periods

➜ Check the latest ticket prices for the Moco Museum.

Visit the Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is undoubtedly Amsterdam’s most famous museum. It’s one of those places that every Dutch person feels they should visit at least once. Somehow, we had never made it there ourselves.

The museum is enormous and you could easily spend half a day, or even longer, exploring its collections. What made it especially enjoyable for us were the iconic masterpieces. Seeing paintings you’ve heard about since childhood, such as The Night Watch by Rembrandt and The Milkmaid by Vermeer, is a special experience. We’re certainly not art experts who spend twenty minutes analyzing every brushstroke, but it was still impressive to see these world-famous works in person.

When we visited, Nina spent a large part of the time sleeping peacefully in her stroller. To be honest, the Rijksmuseum can be a challenging visit for younger children. We think it becomes much more interesting from around the age of 8 to 10, especially for kids who enjoy history, art or stories from the past.

One thing to keep in mind is the crowds. The Gallery of Honour, where many of the museum’s most famous masterpieces are displayed, was particularly busy during our visit. Our advice would be to arrive as early as possible.

Good to Know

• Best suited for older children
• The museum is very, very large
• The Gallery of Honour can get extremely busy
• Visit early in the day for a quieter experience

➜ Check the latest ticket prices for the Rijksmuseum.

Visit The Mouse Mansion of Sam & Julia

The Mouse Mansion started as a children’s book series about Sam and Julia, but has since grown into a complete children’s brand with books, toys, craft supplies, a TV series and even its own miniature museum in Amsterdam.

Before visiting, we didn’t know much about Sam and Julia ourselves, apart from the fact that our daughters had once received a few Mouse Mansion characters as a gift from their grandmother. But the moment we stepped inside, we discovered a whole new world.

Every corner is packed with tiny details and imaginative scenes. You’ll find miniature rooms, little shops, furniture and hidden corners that keep children looking around in amazement. To be honest, we enjoyed exploring it just as much as the kids. 😄

Next to the museum, there’s also a shop where you can buy miniature accessories, building kits and books to create your own Mouse Mansion at home.

The best part? Both the shop and the miniature museum are completely free to visit. We spent around 10 to 20 minutes here, which felt perfect. It’s not a major attraction, but it makes a fun and unique stop during a day in Amsterdam.

Good to Know

• Especially fun for younger children
• Small but unique attraction in Amsterdam
• Free to visit
• Plan for around 10 to 20 minutes

Classic Amsterdam Experiences With Kids

Some experiences simply belong to a visit to Amsterdam. Taking a canal cruise, strolling along the canals, riding the tram through the city or wandering through the charming streets of the Jordaan and the Nine Streets are all part of the Amsterdam experience.

In fact, these simple moments are often what make Amsterdam so special. Our daughters regularly enjoyed them just as much as the bigger attractions and museums. It also makes a visit to the city feel less like rushing from one highlight to the next and more like actually experiencing Amsterdam as a family.

Take a Canal Cruise Through Amsterdam

Sailing through Amsterdam by boat is one of the city’s classic experiences. The last time we did a canal cruise ourselves was as teenagers, but we felt it was something our daughters should experience too. While it’s probably not our favorite thing to do in Amsterdam with kids, it is one of those activities that simply belongs on your Amsterdam itinerary.

One thing we quickly noticed is just how many canal cruise companies there are. People hand out flyers on the streets, staff try to attract customers and it feels like you can book a cruise on almost every corner. Trust us, there are definitely a few tourist traps among them.

That’s why we spent some time researching the options beforehand and booked online in advance, so we knew exactly what to expect.

We chose a cruise with Lovers Canal Cruises, a traditional one-hour tour through Amsterdam’s famous canals. Along the route, you’ll pass landmarks such as the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum and many of the city’s iconic canal houses. Our daughters especially enjoyed spotting houseboats, bridges and all the different boats along the way.

For families, we found that one hour was the perfect length. After a busy day exploring Amsterdam, it was nice to sit back, relax and still experience another side of the city.

Looking for something even more child-focused? Then the Pancake Boat Amsterdam is a fun alternative. Instead of cruising through the canals, you’ll sail across the IJ River while enjoying unlimited pancakes. For many kids, that concept alone is enough to make it a highlight of the trip.

Good to Know

• A one-hour canal cruise felt ideal with children
• We recommend booking tickets online in advance
• A great way to see Amsterdam from the water
• The Pancake Boat is especially popular with younger children

➜ Check the latest prices for canal cruises in Amsterdam.

Explore The Nine Streets (9 Straatjes)

The The Nine Streets are arguably one of the most charming parts of Amsterdam. Located in the heart of the canal district, this collection of picturesque streets is packed with independent boutiques, cozy cafés and unique shops that feel far more local than the larger chain stores around Kalverstraat or Leidsestraat.

That’s exactly why we find ourselves returning here during almost every visit to Amsterdam. Not necessarily to spend hours shopping, but simply because it feels like such a pleasant part of the city. It’s more intimate, more authentic and less crowded than many of Amsterdam’s main shopping streets.

Some of our favorite spots in The Nine Streets include:

• Mint Mini Mall for children’s clothing and accessories
• Het Koekemannetje for freshly baked Dutch cookies
• Beadies, where you can create your own jewelry
• StoryTiles for unique Amsterdam-inspired ceramic tiles
• The Gamekeeper for board games and toys

The Nine Streets can become quite busy during the afternoon, especially on weekends. That’s why we prefer visiting in the morning or around lunchtime, when it’s a little easier to browse the shops and explore at a relaxed pace.

Walk Along Amsterdam’s Canals

Okay, this might sound obvious. Of course you’ll end up walking along Amsterdam’s canals when visiting the city. But instead of spending all your time on busy shopping streets like Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat, try taking a stroll through the Jordaan or along the Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht.

For us, that’s where Amsterdam feels at its best. You’ll pass cozy cafés, canal-side terraces, houseboats and those iconic Amsterdam bridges covered in bicycles. Meanwhile, canal boats glide past, street musicians perform on nearby corners and there always seems to be something happening around you.

We also enjoyed exploring neighborhoods like the Jordaan and De Pijp, both of which have a completely different atmosphere from the city center. And yes, even the Red Light District is surprisingly family-friendly during the daytime. It’s very different from what many people expect.

One of our favorite things to do was actually the simplest: finding a bench somewhere along the canal and just watching the city go by. In Amsterdam, you don’t always need an activity. The city itself provides plenty of entertainment.

Take a Tram Ride Through Amsterdam

You’ll almost certainly end up using Amsterdam’s tram network during your visit. And honestly, our daughters loved it. Because Amsterdam is quite spread out, we regularly hopped on a tram to get from one part of the city to another. After walking thousands of steps through museums, parks and neighborhoods, it’s also a welcome break for little legs.

We usually rely on Google Maps to navigate public transportation and it works perfectly. One route we especially enjoyed runs from Amsterdam Central Station towards Leidseplein or Museumplein. Along the way, you’ll pass canals, busy streets, cyclists and many of the scenes that make Amsterdam feel uniquely Dutch. In the end, the tram ride itself becomes part of the city break experience.

Parks and Playgrounds in Amsterdam

Amsterdam can be busy, hectic and sometimes a little overwhelming with kids. Fortunately, there are plenty of places where children can run around, play and burn off some energy. From large city parks and playgrounds to quieter green spaces outside the busiest areas, these spots are perfect for taking a break from sightseeing, shopping and museum visits.

Visit Vondelpark and Groot Melkhuis

Vondelpark is probably the most famous city park in the Netherlands and one of our favorite places in Amsterdam. As soon as the sun comes out, it feels like half the city heads here. You’ll see families having picnics, friends relaxing on the grass and children running around in every direction. For families, it’s a great escape from Amsterdam’s busy streets. Instead of traffic, crowds and bicycles, you’ll find wide green spaces, playgrounds and plenty of room for kids to play.

Our favorite spot in the park is Groot Melkhuis. This family-friendly café sits right in the middle of Vondelpark and is a great place for lunch, a coffee break or an ice cream. The best part? The playground is right next to the terrace, so parents can relax while the kids play.

And if you hear an unusual tropical bird while walking through the park, don’t be surprised. There’s a good chance it’s a ring-necked parakeet. Thousands of these bright green birds now live in Amsterdam and they’re hard to miss once you know what to listen for.

Play at Sarphatipark

Sarphatipark may not be as famous as Vondelpark, but it’s well worth a visit if you have a little extra time in Amsterdam. The park is located in De Pijp, one of our favorite neighborhoods in the city and home to the famous Albert Cuyp Market.

Sarphatipark is much smaller than Vondelpark, but that’s part of its charm. It feels more like a neighborhood park where locals come to relax. The atmosphere is quieter, more intimate and less touristy. Families will find two playgrounds here, one aimed at younger children and another for older kids. There are also plenty of grassy areas for picnics, relaxing or simply letting children run around for a while.

And yes, you’ll likely hear those noisy green ring-necked parakeets here too, calling from the trees above.

Explore Amsterdamse Bos

If you’re looking to escape the crowds for a few hours, Amsterdamse Bos is a fantastic place to visit with kids. It’s located outside the city center and isn’t quite as easy to reach by public transport, but if you have some extra time in Amsterdam, it’s well worth the effort. Amsterdamse Bos is enormous and offers plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling, picnicking and simply enjoying nature. It’s hard to believe you’re still so close to one of Europe’s busiest cities.

We were especially curious about the famous Cherry Blossom Park. Every spring, usually in early April, dozens of cherry blossom trees burst into bloom and transform the area into a sea of pink flowers. It’s one of the most beautiful spring locations near Amsterdam and attracts plenty of visitors during blossom season. Even though it can get quite busy, we completely understand why. The blossoms create a stunning backdrop and the atmosphere is unlike anywhere else in the city.

If you’re visiting Amsterdam in spring, we would definitely consider adding Amsterdamse Bos and the Cherry Blossom Park to your itinerary.

Family-Friendly Restaurants and Food in Amsterdam

Finding good food in Amsterdam is usually pretty easy, as long as you avoid the first tourist-focused restaurant you come across on Damrak. Some of our favorite places are tucked away in side streets and local neighborhoods. From freshly made stroopwafels and Dutch fries to excellent pizza, Amsterdam has plenty of family-friendly food options.

Try a Fresh Stroopwafel in Amsterdam

A warm stroopwafel is almost a mandatory stop during a trip to Amsterdam. Around Kalverstraat alone, you’ll find countless shops selling them.

Our daughters especially loved Van Wonderen Stroopwafels. Not just because of the smell when you walk in, but because you can customize your stroopwafel with chocolate, marshmallows, sprinkles and all kinds of colorful toppings. Yes, it’s touristy, but kids absolutely love it.

If you’d rather try a more traditional freshly made stroopwafel without all the extras, we’d recommend Rudi’s Original Stroopwafels at the Albert Cuyp Market. It’s simpler, more affordable and arguably even tastier.

Eat Dutch Fries at Amsterdam’s Best Fry Shops

Whether you call them fries or Dutch fries, Amsterdam has no shortage of great places to try them. And trust us, we’ve tested quite a few.

Our personal favorite remains Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx. This tiny fry shop almost always has a line, but it moves surprisingly fast. The menu is simple: fries and an enormous selection of sauces. Honestly, that’s all you need.

We also have a soft spot for Fabel Friet. Yes, it’s popular on social media and yes, many people call it a tourist hotspot. But the fries topped with Parmesan cheese and truffle mayonnaise really are delicious. Just be prepared for a wait, as the line can get quite long.

And then there’s FEBO. Not necessarily because of the fries, but because grabbing a snack from one of the famous vending machine walls is a uniquely Dutch experience that kids often find surprisingly fun.

Enjoy Pizza With Kids in Amsterdam

Let’s be honest, Italy will always be the king of pizza. But if you ask us, some of the pizzas in Amsterdam come surprisingly close.

The city is packed with excellent pizzerias and pizza is almost always a safe choice when traveling with kids. These are some of our favorites:

• LouLou Pizzabar
• L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
• Pasta e Pizza

What we love most is that many Amsterdam pizzerias serve authentic Neapolitan-style pizza. Think thin bases, airy crusts and simple, high-quality toppings. Exactly the way we like it!

Grab a Cookie at Het Koekemannetje

If you’re exploring The Nine Streets, you’ll quickly notice people walking around with the iconic red bags from Het Koekemannetje.

The cookies themselves are actually quite simple, but that’s exactly what makes them so good. No over-the-top flavors or unusual combinations, just soft, freshly baked cookies that almost everyone will enjoy.

Our tip? Pick up one of the decorative cookie tins and take home a selection of different flavors. They make a great souvenir and are just as enjoyable a few days later.

Enjoy a Sweet Treat in De Pijp at WALDO Chocolade & Patisserie

If you’re already visiting the Albert Cuyp Market, make sure to stop by WALDO Chocolade & Patisserie. This small and elegant pastry shop serves desserts that almost look too beautiful to eat.

Our personal favorite was the raspberry cheesecake, although all of the pastries looked like miniature works of art and tasted just as good as they looked.

One of the best things about WALDO is that it’s easy to combine with a stroll through the nearby Albert Cuyp Market. This lively market offers a great taste of everyday Amsterdam, with local specialties, street food and plenty of atmosphere. While you’re there, you can also stop by Rudi’s Original Stroopwafels for a freshly made warm stroopwafel. Together, they make two excellent food stops in one of Amsterdam’s most enjoyable neighborhoods.

Tip: Visit on a weekday or early in the day if possible. Both WALDO and the Albert Cuyp Market can get very busy on weekends.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam With Kids

Amsterdam has no shortage of hotels, but finding the right place for a family trip isn’t always easy. Many hotels in the city center are small, expensive or simply not designed with families in mind. We quickly noticed that family rooms are surprisingly hard to find. In many cases, you’ll need to book two separate rooms, which is not only less convenient but also significantly more expensive.

That’s why we often prefer staying just outside the busiest parts of the city center, as long as there’s a nearby metro or tram stop. This way, you’re still only a few minutes away from Amsterdam’s main attractions without having to deal with the crowds or pay premium city-center prices.

Over the years, we’ve stayed in several Amsterdam hotels with our daughters, including the trendy Volkshotel, Conscious Hotel Vondelpark near Vondelpark and MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam Amstel next to Amsterdam Amstel Station. These are all places we would happily book again for a family city break.

Our Favorite Family-Friendly Hotels in Amsterdam

Volkshotel
⭑⭑⭑ 8,7 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (Mid-Range)
One of our favorite family-friendly hotels in Amsterdam. The spacious family rooms, rooftop terrace and hot tubs made this a memorable place to stay. The hotel is located right next to Wibautstraat Metro Station, making it easy to reach the city center in just a few minutes.
➜ Check availability

Conscious Hotel Vondelpark
⭑⭑⭑ 8,5 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (Mid-Range)
A quieter option near Vondelpark, which makes it especially appealing for families. From here, you can easily walk to the park or take the tram into the city center. The hotel has a stylish, modern atmosphere and feels much more relaxed than staying in the busiest parts of Amsterdam.
➜ Check availability

MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam Amstel
⭑⭑⭑ 8,2 on Booking.com
Price Range: € (Budget-Friendly)
A great option if you’re looking for affordable accommodation in Amsterdam with kids. The family rooms are spacious and the location next to Amsterdam Amstel Station makes it easy to travel around the city by train, metro or tram.
➜ Check availability

Botel
⭑⭑⭑ 8,3 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (Mid-Range)
It may not be Amsterdam’s most luxurious hotel, but sleeping on a boat is simply a fun experience. Located in Amsterdam Noord near the NDSM Wharf, the surrounding area has a creative and laid-back atmosphere that feels very different from the city center.
➜ Check availability

Van der Valk Hotel Amsterdam Zuidas
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 8,7 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€€ (Upper Mid-Range)
If you’re looking for a more comfortable family stay, this is an excellent choice. The rooms are spacious by Amsterdam standards, family rooms are available and the hotel features a swimming pool, wellness facilities and an extensive breakfast buffet. The city center is easily reached by metro or train.
➜ Check availability

Curious which other hotels we recommend?
➜ Read our guide to the best family-friendly hotels in Amsterdam, including budget hotels, apartments and unique places to stay with kids.

Practical Tips for Visiting Amsterdam With Kids

Amsterdam may be busier than most Dutch cities, but we actually think that makes it a great destination for families.

Our biggest tip? Don’t try to fit too much into one day. Amsterdam can look compact on a map, but you’ll end up walking far more than you expect. That’s why we enjoyed mixing museums, playgrounds, tram rides and relaxed lunch breaks throughout the day.

We also recommend booking tickets in advance for popular attractions such as NEMO Science Museum, ARTIS and WONDR Experience. During weekends and school holidays, these attractions can sell out or become very busy.

If you’re staying outside the city center, don’t worry. Amsterdam’s public transportation system makes it easy to get around quickly.

Public Transportation in Amsterdam With Kids

We always end up walking a lot in Amsterdam. Reaching 10,000 steps a day is pretty much guaranteed. Fortunately, that’s rarely a problem because there is always something interesting to see along the way.

That said, we also used the metro and trams regularly. The metro was especially useful at the start or end of the day and for reaching places like WONDR Experience in Amsterdam Noord. We often used the tram for shorter journeys around the city, such as traveling from Vondelpark to De Pijp.

Amsterdam’s city center is very walkable, but using a stroller can occasionally be challenging because of narrow sidewalks, curbs and the constant flow of cyclists. Still, after traveling through countries such as Mexico, Albania and Italy, we honestly can’t complain too much about navigating Amsterdam with a stroller.

For kids, riding the tram or metro is often an attraction in itself. During our visits, we simply checked in and out using our bank cards and bought individual tickets when needed. Looking back, an Amsterdam City Card might have been worth considering, especially if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions and use public transportation frequently.

If you’re staying outside the city center, public transport is almost essential.

Parking in Amsterdam

We usually travel to Amsterdam by car. Most of the time, we either book a hotel with parking facilities or leave the car in a secure parking garage and use public transportation for the rest of our stay.

One parking location we liked was the garage near Amsterdam Amstel Station. It certainly isn’t cheap, but affordable parking in Amsterdam is difficult to find anywhere. The garage felt safe and from Amsterdam Amstel Station you can reach the city center within minutes by metro or train.

Of course, traveling to Amsterdam by train is another option. For us, coming from the south of the Netherlands, fuel and parking often work out cheaper than buying train tickets for the whole family.

Frequently Asked Questions About Amsterdam With Kids

Looking for More Inspiration for Amsterdam With Kids?

Amsterdam is one of those cities we keep coming back to. Every visit seems to introduce us to a new neighborhood, restaurant or family-friendly activity.

We’re already planning future guides about the best day trips from Amsterdam and even more ideas for visiting Amsterdam with kids on rainy days.

Plan Your Family Trip to Amsterdam

Where to Stay in Amsterdam
➜ Check out the best family-friendly hotels in Amsterdam

Tickets and Activities in Amsterdam
➜ Discover popular attractions and activities, including NEMO Science Museum, ARTIS Royal Zoo and Amsterdam canal cruises

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