Curator’s statement
Amsterdam is a very family friendly destination—which you might find surprising! In this guide you will find tips to help your family have a great time in Amsterdam. After living in Amsterdam for over three years with a child, I've certainly learned a few tips and tricks that I am excited to share with you. From where to stay, what to do and even where to eat—you'll find it all in my local's guide to Amsterdam with kids.
The Fora Difference
Book with Ashley to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Amsterdam
Unlock perks by contacting Ashley to book your trip.
Things to do in Amsterdam
Indoor activities—great for rainy days:
NEMO Science Museum
OBA Oosterdok: Library with indoor play area and rooftop cafe.
Playhood: An indoor creative play space.
Candy Castle: For when kids really need to get their energy out.
Tony's Chocolonely: You can even create your own chocolate bar.
Maritime Museum
Outdoor activities:
Canal cruises: You can find one or two hour cruises which are great for little ones; some are covered for rainy or cold days.
ARTIS Zoo: On Saturday evenings in summer there is live music.
Exploring parks and playgrounds around the city.
Amsterdamse Bos: You can find a petting zoo, a pancake house, splash pool and climbing course.
Amstelpark offers a small amusement park with rides.
Weekly markets around the city.
Best playgrounds:
de Vondeltuin: Located in Vondelpark, a climbing tower great for older kids next to a cafe.
Groot Melkhuis: Located in Vondelpark, a great playground combined with a cafe.
Terrasmus: Located in Erasumuspark, a cute playground with a cafe.
Saraphatipark: Offers two playgrounds, one for smaller kids and one for larger kids.
Herenmark: Great when exploring Jordaan and need a break for the kids.
Day trips:
Zandvoort Beaches: Kids can run and play while parents relax at the beachside cafes.
Zaanse Schans: To see windmills and get an insight into history.
Keukenhof Gardens: To see the tulips in April.
Places to eat & drink in Amsterdam
Breakfast:
Dignita: Several locations, some with play areas.
Staring at Jacob
Flo's Bagels: Several locations.
Box Sociaal
Winkel 43
Dutch pancake spots or even a Dutch pancake cruise.
Lunch:
de Vondeltuin: Outdoor dining with a playground.
Focacceria
Winkel 43: For a toastie and apple pie.
A covered and heated patio on Leidseplein for classic Dutch bites.
Terrasmus: Outdoor dining with a playground.
EshPitabar: Near Rijksmuseum.
Dinner:
Groot Melkhuis: Pizza and playground.
Ikaria Park: For really good Greek food with an outdoor area.
Ladybird: Fried chicken and mac n cheese.
PizzaBeppe: Several locations.
Mangia: Several locations for pizza.
Burgers: Bill's Burgers or BeefChief.
Travel Advisor
Ashley Farlow
Get in touch with Ashley
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Ashley within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to Amsterdam. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, 1 Week in Switzerland with Babies, Toddlers & Kids.