Weekend Family Guide to Amsterdam

Canal Cruise: Start your day with a classic Amsterdam experience—a canal cruise. Many companies offer family-friendly tours with commentary that highlights the history of the city, its famous landmarks, and interesting facts about life on the water. Some boats even have glass roofs, allowing you to enjoy the views in any weather. The kids will love gliding along the picturesque canals and spotting the iconic narrow houses.

Visit Anne Frank House: After your canal cruise, head to the Anne Frank House. While this is a more somber activity, it’s an important and educational experience for older children (typically recommended for ages 10 and up). The museum offers a poignant glimpse into the life of Anne Frank and her family during World War II. Be sure to book tickets in advance, as this popular attraction often sells out.

Lunch in Jordaan: The Jordaan district, where the Anne Frank House is located, is full of cozy cafés and family-friendly restaurants. Choose a café with outdoor seating where you can enjoy Dutch specialties like pancakes (pannenkoeken) or a simple sandwich. Many places offer children’s menus, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Visit NEMO Science Museum: After lunch, head to NEMO Science Museum, a must-visit for families. This interactive museum is designed to make science fun and accessible for all ages. Kids can engage in hands-on experiments, learn about physics, biology, and technology, and explore the rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city. The museum’s playful design and engaging exhibits make it a hit with both children and parents.

Explore Vondelpark: After the museum, take a relaxing stroll through Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest and most famous park. The park is a green oasis in the city, offering playgrounds, open spaces for picnics, and even a paddling pool for younger children. It’s a great place to let the kids run around and enjoy some outdoor fun. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, you might catch a free outdoor performance at the park’s open-air theatre.

Dinner in De Pijp: For dinner, head to the vibrant De Pijp neighborhood, known for its diverse culinary scene. Choose a family-friendly restaurant where you can enjoy a relaxed meal, with options ranging from traditional Dutch dishes to international cuisine. De Pijp’s lively atmosphere and colorful streets make it a great place to explore after dinner.

Evening Walk Along the Canals: After dinner, take a leisurely evening walk along the canals, particularly in the historic Grachtengordel (Canal Ring) area. The bridges and buildings are beautifully lit at night, creating a magical atmosphere. Stop for an ice cream or a warm stroopwafel (Dutch caramel waffle) from a local vendor as you stroll.

Visit the Rijksmuseum: Start your second day with a visit to the Rijksmuseum, one of the world’s most famous art museums. While the museum’s extensive collection includes masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer, it also offers special family tours and activities designed to engage younger visitors. Kids can pick up a treasure hunt map at the entrance, making the museum experience more interactive and fun.

I Amsterdam Sign: After exploring the Rijksmuseum, head outside to the Museumplein area to see the famous “I Amsterdam” sign. While the sign is no longer permanently located in front of the museum, there’s often a temporary version around the city, and it’s a great spot for family photos. The open spaces in Museumplein are perfect for a short break, and there’s a playground nearby for kids to enjoy.

Picnic in Museumplein: If the weather is nice, pick up some sandwiches, cheese, and fruit from a local market and enjoy a picnic on the grass in Museumplein. The open spaces and vibrant atmosphere make it an ideal spot for a family lunch.

Lunch at a Museum Café: Alternatively, choose one of the cafés in the museum area, such as the Rijksmuseum Café, for a relaxed indoor lunch. Many museum cafés in Amsterdam offer delicious and reasonably priced meals, with options that cater to both adults and children.

Rent Bikes and Explore the City: After lunch, rent bikes and experience Amsterdam like a local. The city is famously bike-friendly, with well-marked bike lanes and flat terrain that make it easy for families to get around. Rent a cargo bike or a tandem bike if you have younger children who aren’t ready to ride on their own. Explore the city’s charming neighborhoods, parks, and canals at your own pace.

Visit Artis Royal Zoo: If your family loves animals, consider spending the afternoon at Artis Royal Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Europe. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, from elephants to penguins, and also features an aquarium and a planetarium. The beautifully landscaped grounds and interactive exhibits make it a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Dinner in a Canal House Restaurant: For your final evening, enjoy dinner in a traditional canal house restaurant. Many of these historic buildings have been converted into charming eateries that offer a unique dining experience. Choose a place with views of the canals for a memorable meal.

Evening Canal Cruise: End your weekend with an evening canal cruise. Many companies offer special evening or sunset cruises that allow you to see the city from a different perspective. The illuminated bridges and buildings create a beautiful backdrop as you glide through the canals, making it a peaceful and picturesque way to end your trip.

Public Transportation: Amsterdam’s public transportation system, including trams, buses, and ferries, is efficient and easy to use. Consider getting an Amsterdam Travel Ticket, which offers unlimited travel on public transport for a day or more.

Book in Advance: Many popular attractions, such as the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum, can get crowded, so it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

Kid-Friendly Activities: Amsterdam is full of parks, playgrounds, and family-friendly attractions beyond the main sites, such as the NEMO Science Museum, the Tropenmuseum, and the interactive Micropia museum, which explores the world of microbes in a fun and engaging way.