Curator’s statement
I love teaching my kids about our heritage, and because they are part Dutch, Amsterdam was a must-do location for us. Amsterdam combines a relaxed atmosphere with an abundance of engaging, kid-friendly activities, making it the perfect destination for family travel. Whether you're into museums, outdoor adventures, or just strolling along the canals, there’s something for everyone!
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Things to do in Amsterdam
Photo op at Zaanse Schans after exploring windmills and wooden shoe making.
Canal cruises
There are many canal cruises where you can learn about the city’s history while enjoying the sights from the water. Some have dinner, wine, or onboard activities. I suggest doing this early to get an idea of the city areas.
The Dutch countryside
Take a quick trip by public transport to Zaanse Schans. Kids can learn about the famous Dutch windmills, wooden shoe making, and countryside life in a very engaging way. This was our favorite day in Amsterdam.
Keukenhof Gardens
About 40 minutes by bus south of Amsterdam, explore the most famous tulip garden in the world!
The Anne Frank House
Walk through the annex where Anne Frank hid during World War II. It is an emotional experience that will stick with you. They have kid-friendly headsets that explain the history in a safe way. Timed tickets are released six weeks ahead of time, so plan accordingly.
Artis Zoo
Amsterdam’s zoo is home to a variety of animals and has an aquarium, planetarium, and a petting zoo.
Playgrounds
Amsterdam has some of the coolest playgrounds in Europe. One of the most notable is "Speeltuin," a large, innovative playground that’s perfect for children to burn off some energy. You’ll find numerous parks with creative play structures scattered throughout the city.
Museums
Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and the NEMO Science Museum are popular attractions for art and history lovers. They have scavenger hunts to keep kids interested, too!
Places to eat & drink in Amsterdam
Cafe Sonneveld in the Jordaan district
Dutch pancakes
You can find these on almost every corner, but The Pancake Club does it best!
Cafe Sonneveld
A family-owned restaurant in the Jordaan area with classic Dutch comfort food. The service was outstanding and we actually had to order seconds!
Impero Romano
If you’re in the mood for Italian food, this is the place to go. The Alfredo is made tableside and food is imported from Italy.
Rene’s Croissants
Located in the downtown Amsterdam streets, we discovered this gem and kept coming back for more. Make sure to try the churro sticks!
De Kas
Farm-to-table ingredients in a unique greenhouse setting.
Need to know
Amsterdam is central to many European cities, making it a great stop for two to three days or a vacation on its own. Public transport is easy to use and the streets are clean and welcoming. Be aware of the designated bike lanes, as bikers often whiz by.
Travel Advisor
Alissa Southway
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Amsterdam page.