Amsterdam

Photo by Jahanzeb Ahsan on Unsplash

Why This Itinerary?

Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most family-friendly destinations—walkable, scenic, safe, and packed with hands-on museums and outdoor activities. This itinerary balances culture with fun, ensuring kids stay engaged while adults enjoy the city’s iconic charm.

Day 1: Canals, Bikes & Dutch Culture

Kick off your trip with a laid-back introduction to Amsterdam.

9:00 AM Canal Cruise

Start with a classic Amsterdam canal cruise—great for kids and a perfect orientation to the city.

Duration: 1 hour | Cost: €15–20 per adult, €8–12 per child (approx.)

11:00 AM Rijksmuseum Family Highlights

Visit the Netherlands’ most iconic museum. Use the family-friendly audio tour to keep things fun and engaging.

Duration: 2 hours | Cost: €22.50 adults, under 18 free (approx.)

1:00 PM Lunch at Museumplein

Relax on the grassy Museumplein with sandwiches from local cafés.

Duration: 1 hour | Budget: €€

2:30 PM Vondelpark Playground & Bikes

Rent family bikes or a cargo bike and explore Amsterdam’s biggest park—perfect for kids.

Duration: 2 hours | Cost: €10–15 per bike (approx.)

6:00 PM Dinner in De Pijp

Try kid-friendly options like pasta, falafel, or Dutch pancakes.

Duration: 1.5 hours | Budget: €€

Day 2: Hands-On Museums & Local Markets

A day packed with interactive exhibits kids will love.

9:30 AM NEMO Science Museum

One of Europe’s best science museums for kids—tons of experiments, water play, and rooftop views.

Duration: 3 hours | Cost: €17.50 per person (approx.)

1:00 PM Lunch at Foodhallen

Family-friendly indoor food market with cuisine from around the world.

Duration: 1 hour | Budget: €€

2:30 PM Anne Frank House

A meaningful and educational visit for families with older kids (10+ recommended).

Duration: 1.5 hours | Cost: €14 adults, €7.50 ages 10–17 (approx.)

5:00 PM Jordaan Neighborhood Stroll

Explore quiet canals, quirky shops, and family-friendly cafés.

Duration: 2 hours | Cost: Free

Day 3: Windmills & Dutch Villages

Make a fun day trip just outside Amsterdam.

9:00 AM Zaanse Schans

Visit traditional windmills, cheese factories, and wooden shoe workshops—great for kids.

Duration: 3–4 hours | Cost: Free entry; €5–€7 per windmill visit (approx.)

1:00 PM Lunch in Zaandam

Try Dutch snacks like poffertjes (mini pancakes) and fries.

Duration: 1 hour | Budget: €€

3:00 PM Boat Ride Through the Countryside

Enjoy a peaceful boat tour through the quiet waterways north of Amsterdam.

Duration: 1 hour | Cost: €10–20 per person (approx.)

5:30 PM Dinner Back in Amsterdam

Return to the city for a relaxed dinner near your hotel.

Duration: 1.5 hours | Budget: €€

Day 4: Parks, Pancakes & Kid Fun

A light, fun final day perfect for families.

9:00 AM ARTIS Zoo

One of Europe’s oldest zoos—with an aquarium, planetarium, and plenty of play areas.

Duration: 3 hours | Cost: €25–27 adults, €20 kids (approx.)

12:30 PM Pancake Lunch

Try Dutch pancakes—sweet or savory—always a hit with kids.

Duration: 1 hour | Budget: €€

2:00 PM Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets)

Browse cute shops, grab ice cream, and enjoy the scenic canal bridges.

Duration: 2 hours | Cost: Free

💡 Essential Travel Tips

  • Transport: Trams are easy and stroller-friendly.
  • Best Time: April–September for outdoor fun.
  • Budget: Expect €120–160/day for a family of four (excluding accommodation).
  • Museum Tickets: Pre-book Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank House.
  • Biking: Use cargo bikes for young kids—it’s common and safe.

🏨 Where to Stay

Family-friendly areas include De Pijp, Jordaan, and Museum Quarter. Look for hotels offering larger rooms or family suites.

Browse hotels in Amsterdam → (Affiliate link)

✈️ Getting to Amsterdam

Fly into Schiphol Airport (AMS), just 15 minutes by train from Amsterdam Centraal. Trains run every 10 minutes.