Amsterdam with kids – the best family-friendly attractions and activities
Introduction
Amsterdam is a fantastic family destination: compact, flat, and full of experiences that appeal to children and parents alike. From gentle canal cruises to interactive science museums and animal encounters, the city has plenty to keep kids entertained without long transfers or complicated logistics. In this guide we focus on activities you can book via GetYourGuide — ideal for easy planning and instant confirmations — plus free options, accommodation tips and a sample itinerary.
why choose amsterdam for a family trip?
A few reasons families love Amsterdam:
- Compact and walkable: short distances between attractions reduce stress with small children.
- Child-friendly transport: trams, ferries and bike rentals make getting around simple.
- Lots of green space: parks and playgrounds are everywhere for breaks and picnics.
- High quality family attractions: zoos, science centres and kid-focused tours make it a learning holiday too.
Top bookable family activities
Here is an overview of kids friendly activities in Amsterdam which you can book.
Family canal cruise
A canal cruise is the most relaxing way to see Amsterdam — and kids love being on the water. Many family cruises have audio guides with children’s commentary or themed cruises (pirate cruises, treasure hunts) that turn the boat trip into an adventure.
Why it works for families: no long walking, sheltered from weather, flexible duration (30–75 minutes).
Bookable option (GetYourGuide placeholder): Family canal cruise with free Stroopwafel cookie!.
Artis royal zoo (tickets & experiences)
Artis is Amsterdam’s zoo and a firm family favourite. Beyond animals, Artis has an aquarium, planetarium and children’s farm. Booking skip-the-line tickets or guided experiences ensures you spend more time exploring and less time queuing.
Bookable option (several options available via GetYourGuide): Artis Royal Zoo tickets & experiences.
Nemo science museum tours
Nemo is an interactive science museum where kids can touch, experiment and learn through play. Exhibits are hands-on and designed for children of all ages — perfect for a rainy day or when you want structured learning with entertainment.
Book your Nemo tickets now: NEMO Science Museum tickets.
Anne frank house family tour
The Anne Frank House is powerful and moving. Family-focused tours are available that adapt the content for older children and provide sensitive introductions before visiting the house and the museum. These tours are best booked in advance.
Bookable tickets: Anne Frank House small group tour.
Keukenhof day trip (seasonal)
Keukenhof is the world-famous tulip garden and a magical day out for children in spring. Guided day trips from Amsterdam usually include return transport and plenty of photo stops — perfect for families who prefer not to drive.
Seasonal note: keukehof is open only in spring (typically March–May).
Book your tickets here: Keukenhof day trip tickets
Zaanse schans & windmills day trip
A short trip north of Amsterdam, Zaanse Schans shows traditional Dutch windmills, wooden shoe workshops and clog demonstrations — very kid-friendly and photogenic. Many family tours combine a visit to a cheese farm with windmill demonstrations.
Get your day trip tickets now: Zaanse Schans day trip.
Family-friendly bike tours
Amsterdam is famous for cycling. Book a family bike tour with child seats, tag-along bikes or cargo bikes (bakfiets) to explore like locals. Guides choose safe routes and include stops at parks and markets making it easy with children.
Bookable option: Book your tickets here.
Free and low-cost kid activities
Not everything has to be booked. These free or inexpensive options are perfect for families on a budget or for filling short pockets of time.
- Vondelpark: large playgrounds, open spaces for picnics, and free outdoor theatre in summer.
- Floating flower market (Bloemenmarkt): colourful and fun for kids to explore; they love the smells and display of bulbs.
- Canal-side playgrounds: several neighbourhoods have small play areas — great for breaks between museums.
- Free ferry to Amsterdam Noord: the IJ ferries are free and feel like a mini-adventure for children.
Where to stay with kids
Pick neighbourhoods that cut travel time and offer family-friendly facilities:
- Jordaan / canal belt: central, walkable, close to Anne Frank House and many family restaurants.
- De Pijp: near Sarphatipark and the Albert Cuyp Market — good for daytime exploration.
- Museum quarter / oude zuid: near the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Vondelpark — ideal if museum visits are a priority.
- Find your hotel here: Search family-friendly hotels in Amsterdam .
Practical tips for families
- Bring a lightweight stroller: Amsterdam’s cobbles are manageable, but a sturdy stroller helps on longer days.
- Plan nap-friendly schedules: fit museums in the morning and parks in the afternoon.
- Buy tickets in advance: museums, Anne Frank House and Keukenhof sell out fast — use GetYourGuide to secure timeslots.
- Pack snacks: having treats on hand avoids meltdown moments between attractions.
- Public transport day passes: convenient for families and cheaper than multiple single fares.
Sample 2-day family itinerary
A compact 2-day plan that balances museums, playtime and slow exploration:
- Day 1 (morning): Rijksmuseum (short visit, focus on highlights).
Lunch: picnic in vondelpark.
Afternoon: canal cruise (booked via GetYourGuide) and a relaxed canal-side stroll.
- Day 2 (morning): Nemo Science Museum or Artis Royal Zoo (choose based on child interest).
Lunch: Albert Cuyp Market (street food).
Afternoon: family bike ride or ferry to Amsterdam Noord for playgrounds and a casual dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
- is Amsterdam child-friendly?
- Yes — with compact distances, many parks and interactive museums, Amsterdam is well suited to families.
- are attractions stroller accessible?
- Most major museums and attractions are accessible, but historic houses (narrow staircases) may be challenging. Check accessibility notes on official sites and GetYourGuide listings.
- do kids get discounts?
- Many museums and attractions offer reduced or free entry for children — check age limits on ticket pages when booking.
Conclusion & next steps
Amsterdam is an easy, rewarding city to explore with children. Prioritise a mix of bookable experiences (canal cruise, nemo, Artis), free outdoor time in parks, and a relaxed pace.
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