Amsterdam with Kids: 15 Things to Do, Food & Hotels (3-Day Plan)

Amsterdam is a great destination when it comes to family vacations.

If you’re looking for fun things to do with your kids in Amsterdam, you have come to the right place.

Amsterdam is full of kid-friendly activities, with beautiful parks, canals, interactive museums, fun playgrounds, and even petting farms.

We live here for 7+ years now, and we researched a lot to make the perfect guide for you on what are the best things to do in Amsterdam with kids, where to stay, where to eat, and what not to miss.

We asked our close friends who are parents what are their favorite go-to places, and we’re here to share everything they said.

in a Hurry? Here Are Some Quick Tips

Amsterdam City Card – if you want to save money, it’s smart to buy a card like this to benefit from free entrances to museums, travel with the tram / bus / metro for free, and get a free canal ride. You can have deals for 1 day or 5 days, but you save the most when you purchase the 72 hours card.

Get Your Guide – here you find the best deals on tours, skip-the-line tickets, and current events that are taking place when you visit
Best Luxury Family Hotel Pulitzer – if you want to stay in the center near the beautiful canals, in De 9 Straatjes, this luxury hotel is a fantastic choice.
NEMO Science Museu m – is a must-visit for kids but also for you, with hands-on science activities and fun experiments, it’s one of the best museums I have ever been

But first, Is Amsterdam Family Friendly?

If you’re wondering if Amsterdam is a kid-friendly city, we’re here to tell you that it is.

When I first moved to Amsterdam, what stood out to me was how laid-back and happy families seemed to be here.

It’s common to see parents casually singing with their kids while walking down the street, or moms and dads cycling around with their little ones nested comfortably in their cargo bikes.

The city is full of cool-looking playgrounds that are very safe for children, and it’s clear to me that Amsterdam is a really family-friendly place.

Don’t let the famous “Red Light District” make you think otherwise.

The Red Light District area is just a tiny part of our city, isolated in a specific region, often frequented by loads of tourists, and can easily be avoided.

Now let’s dive into the best activities to do with your family in the city.

In this Article

in a Hurry? Here Are Some Quick Tips
But first, Is Amsterdam Family Friendly?
Where to Stay in Amsterdam with Kids
Where to Eat with Kids in Amsterdam
3-Day Family Trip in Amsterdam | Itinerary
Frequently Asked Questions
Wrap Up

1. Dive into the World of Science at NEMO Museum

NEMO Science Museum is a futuristic world filled with interactive exhibits that will sparkle the curiosity of young minds, but also yours.

Here, children can immerse themselves in the fun side of science and technology, making the whole experience both educational and fun.

The museum is known for its interactive exhibitions and has amazing views on the top floor, you’ll find a great cafeteria & restaurant where you can have a bite and enjoy the rooftop views.

2. Connect with Nature at Artis ZOO

Situated near the east part of Amsterdam, but still close to the center Artis ZOO is an excellent spot for families to spend a few hours in the day, especially if the weather is nice.

You have around 900 species to see there, and it’s the fifth oldest zoo in the whole World.

It’s not the biggest, but that also makes it a very nice place to visit without taking you a whole day.

In 2-3 hours, you’ll see almost everything and then you can have a bite in the neighborhood and go to the next activity.

3. Become a Microbe Expert at Micropia

We’ve been at Micropia a few months ago, and we were fascinated by how interesting everything was.

It’s all about microbes, viruses, and microorganisms.

I was impressed from the very first minutes when I stepped into an interactive elevator that takes you into the museum.

In the elevator, you see cool visuals and you’re being introduced to the world of the microbes.

You feel like you’re in a very cool lab, where you are the scientist studying microbes.

This unique museum is filled with interactive exhibitions, where children and you can view real-life microbes through microscopes, see weird facts that will blow your mind, and discover the invisible life.

A fun thing that you do there is collecting stamps from each microscope.

Look at me being fascinated by it.

4. Unleash Creativity at Amstelpark Playground

Amsterdam is full of playgrounds, but the one in Amstelpark takes everything to the next level.

With a huuuuge slide, climbing towers, rides, zip lines, and mazes.

It even has a FREE petting zoo with goats, ponies, ducks, cows, rabbits, and other fluffy animals!

You need to pay for some of the rides with tokens but the prices are affordable.

Coupled with tasty food trucks nearby, this place can be a great idea to spend an afternoon full of fun for the entire family.

5. Experience Dutch Culture at Petting Farms

As we were talking about petting animals, petting farms are popular in the Netherlands.

They offer literally a “hands-on” experience for kids and parents to interact with small animals.

Geitenboerderij Ridammerhoeve in Amsterdamse Bos is a great place where your kids can meet and feed goats, and see chickens, tiny deers, cows, horses, and other cute animals. After your visit there, you can enjoy some authentic Dutch pancakes with bacon, cheese, and syrup (we love them) at the farm café. We really love them, but make sure to not order too many of them as they are big and quite filling.
Kinderboerderij De Pijp in the middle of the city is a peaceful place where kids can pet-friendly rabbits, chickens, and goats.

De Dierencapel is really a hidden gem located in Bickersgracht and is another great petting farm with a variety of animals ready to meet your kids.

6. Relax in Vondelpark

Vondelpark is a must-visit if you’re in Amsterdam and want a bit of nature to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

This green park, with lots of grass areas you can lay a blanket on, tiny lakes, doggies, and lots of ducks just roaming around, is ideal for a casual stroll or a picnic with the family.

At any hour, this park during the summer, is full of locals running, rollerblading, exercising, meditating, and having picnics with friends and families.

7. Embark on a Canal Boat Ride

What’s a trip to Amsterdam without a canal boat ride?

Hop on a boat (better to reserve in advance), bring a picnic, and soak in the city’s charm from the water.

The peaceful ride and stunning views will captivate both kids and adults alike.

When my parents came to visit us, we took a boat trip with Blue Boat, and it was amazing. I learned so much about the city’s history, about the architecture and it was so peaceful.

I was skeptical at first, but after 2 minutes I realized it was such a good choice to hop on that boat.

8. Visit a Windmill

Get a taste of Dutch heritage by visiting a traditional windmill.

Many of these national treasures are open to the public and give you a look into the history of the Netherlands.

You can go in the morning right after breakfast to Zaanse Schans. And why not, you can make it a day trip and visit more places in one day.

9. Rent a Bakfiets

One of the best ways to experience Amsterdam like a local is by renting a bakfiets.

This traditional Dutch cargo bike has space for children to sit in the front while you cycle, making it an unforgettable and practical experience for the entire family.

It’s a locals’ favorite. I always see parents, uncles, nannies, and grandmas with their cargo bikes full of kids / or dogs 😀

10. Playtime at Arcade Halls

Amsterdam’s arcade halls are perfect for children who love games – and I think they all do.

You buy chips that you can use during your visit to play all these various games.

A disclaimer here: It might get very pricey as the chips go fast, and one thing with kids is that they always want to play more and more and more 🙂

So make sure you have something else fun planned afterward, to make it easier for them to leave the place.

It’s a great activity to do on a rainy day when other outdoor options are limited.

11. Discover Nearby Villages with Day Trips

To experience life beyond the city, consider day trips to the nearby villages.

Explore cheese markets, tulip fields, admire windmills, and learn about Dutch culture.

Check our recent article on the best day trips from Amsterdam for ideas.

12. Harvest Your Own Fruits at Fruittuin van West

An exciting hands-on activity is a visit to the Fruittuin van West, where you can pluck your own fruits or veggies, fresh from the garden.

Pay for what you’ve gathered and take home or to the hotel the freshest produce you’ve ever tasted. It’s an authentic farm experience right in the city.

It’s fun to bike there to get the ultimate “village” experience.

13. The Scheepvaartmuseum

The Scheepvaartmuseum, or the National Maritime Museum, is a fascinating place where kids can learn about the Netherlands’ maritime history.

The museum has interactive exhibits and an authentic replica of an East Indiaman ship.

It’s a really interesting place also for adults.

14. Tony’s Chocolonely

Tony’s Chocolonely offers a chocolate tour that kids will love and you can create your own chocolate bar!

While there, you learn about the process of making chocolate and the mission of the company.

15. Pancakes and Forest Walks in Amsterdamse Bos

For a lovely day out, take your kids for a pancake breakfast at the café Boerderij Meerzicht in Amsterdamse Bos.

You also have tons of other options there: apple pies, cakes, and savory treats.

Plus, there are cute deers around you can pet or feed.

After breakfast, enjoy a pleasant walk in the forest.

The park offers canoe rentals, a petting zoo, and plenty of space for kids to play.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam with Kids

Choosing the right place to stay in Amsterdam with kids can make all the difference to your family vacation.

For some inspired options, check out our guide to family-friendly hotels in Amsterdam, which offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and needs.

Best Luxury Amsterdam Hotel for Families: Pulitzer

Where to Eat with Kids in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is full of all types of restaurants and has 23+ Michelin-star restaurants. There’s something for every taste and budget.

Some of the kids’ favorites include the pancake boat (Pannenkoekenboot), where you can enjoy unlimited pancakes on a 75-minute cruise.

The Kinderkookkafe, a cafe where children can cook their own meals, is another unique culinary experience.

If you’re looking for pizza, check out Nnea Pizza which is the best in town (but make a reservation far in advance cause they’re always booked).

But if you didn’t reserve in advance and want to test your luck, drop by and ask for their spots at the bar. Sometimes they’re free.

Pizza Dope in De Pjip is also known also for its delicious pizzas – also, call for reservations first.

After dinner, or anytime during the day actually, try a soft ice cream from Jamin.

If you’re in a rush and want a quick 3-day family trip itinerary in Amsterdam, here’s what we came up with:

3-Day Family Trip in Amsterdam | Itinerary

Day 1: Discover Central Amsterdam

Morning in Centrum

Enjoy breakfast at De Bakkerswinkel
Visit NEMO Science Museum

Explore The Maritime Museum
Visit Tony’s Chocolonely store (free entry, make your own chocolate bar, prices for chocolate vary)

Afternoon in East

Lunch at de Plantage restaurant
Short visit to Artis Zoo
Learn about microbes & viruses at Micropia Museum (€16 for adults, €14 for kids)

Evening in Centrum

Have a dutch style dinner at The Pantry in Leidseplein
Stroll around Dam Square

Night walk along the canals

Day 2: Embrace Local Neighbourhoods

Morning in Westerpark

Breakfast at Dignita Hoftuin

Bike through Westerpark
Visit Fabrique des Lumières
Pick your own fruits or veggies at Fruittuin van West (prices per kilo)

Afternoon in Oud-West

Pizza at Nnea Pizza
Walk around the street market Ten Katemarkt and indoor food market (free entry, dishes €5-€15)

Enjoy a movie at De Filmhallen cinema (adults €11, kids €7.50)

Afternoon in Jordaan

Stroll around Jordaan and admire the canals

Grab an ice cream at Monte Pelmo (we love the blood orange one)
Dinner at Toscanini

Day 3: Outdoor Adventure and Relaxation

Morning in Amsterdam’s Forest

Enjoy a pancake breakfast at Boerderij Meerzicht
Forest walk in Amsterdamse Bos
Visit Geitenboerderij Ridammerhoeve petting farm (free)

Afternoon in Museum Quarter & Vondelpark

Visit Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum
Stroll around Museumplein

Picnic in Vondelpark

Evening in De Pjip and Centre

Steak & Fries at Loetje

Enjoy nice movies at the stunning Pathé Tuschinski

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Amsterdam worth visiting with kids?

Absolutely! Amsterdam is a very family-friendly city with lots of activities, museums, parks, and cool playgrounds that are perfect for kids.

Is Amsterdam good for toddlers?

Yes, Amsterdam is excellent for toddlers.

The city’s numerous parks, child-friendly museums, and petting farms provide lots of fun options for fun-filled activities.

Enjoying some pizza and ice cream by the canals is just by itself an activity to remember.

How do you get around Amsterdam with kids?

Getting around Amsterdam with kids is easy. The city is compact and walkable.

For longer distances, public transport is convenient, with tram stations everywhere and metro stations as well.

If you dare, rent bikes with child seats or cargo bikes (bakfiets) – they are common options for locals.

Is Amsterdam a good family holiday?

Yes, Amsterdam offers a unique mix of culture, history, and fun activities making it an excellent choice for a family holiday.

Is Amsterdam kid-friendly?

Definitely. Amsterdam is incredibly kid-friendly. From parks, petting zoos, and museums to a variety of kid-friendly restaurants, there’s no shortage of activities for children of all ages.

Do Kids pay for Metro in Amsterdam?

Children under 4 travel for free on public transport in Amsterdam. For kids aged 4-11, a child’s day ticket is available at a significantly reduced rate.

Are children allowed in the Red Light District, Amsterdam?

While there are no laws against taking children into the Red Light District, many people may consider it inappropriate due to the adult nature of this area.

Especially if you go during night time, you can see lots of drunk men or groups of loud tourists.

But Amsterdam is trying to change this and move the Red Light District in a more secluded part of the city.

Which museums are free for kids in Amsterdam?

Many museums in Amsterdam offer free entrance for young children.

For instance, the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum are free for children under 18.

But others as well have free entrance or may offer discounts for older kids and students.

Be sure to check each museum’s website for specific details.

The smartest thing to do is to pre-buy the I Amsterdam City Pass which gives you and your kids free entrance to museums, one free canal ride and free rides with public transport.

Wrap Up

Whether you’re a local or planning a vacation to Amsterdam, I hope this guide will inspire you to make the best out of your days.