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.