Things to do with kids in Amsterdam
Behind the red lights and coffeeshops, Amsterdam is home to many attractions that will captivate children. Active families will have fun strolling along the canal walkways, admiring the flower-decked houseboats, or cycling in the beautiful Vondelpark. They will also enjoy hiring bicycles and pedalling around the compact city's canals and quaint neighbourhoods.
For a more relaxing day out, parents can pack a picnic and head to one of Amsterdam's fabulous parks, such as the huge Vondelpark. Plenty of other free attractions abound, but the more popular ones involve a bit of money, such as trips to the zoo, farms, museums and theme parks. Younger children will be absolutely enchanted by Efteling and the miniature model city of Madurodam.
Cooking schools and Indoor playgrounds are an option on rainy days, while some of the city's museums will also intrigue children, such as Anne Frank House.
Anne Frank House
This museum is dedicated to the memory of Anne Frank, whose famous diary describes the experiences of a Jewish teenager during World War II. The family and others hid in part of th…
Anne Frank House
This museum is dedicated to the memory of Anne Frank, whose famous diary describes the experiences of a Jewish teenager during World War II. The family and others hid in part of the house (today's museum) to escape Nazi persecution. Visitors explore the concealed attic where eight people lived, and get some sense of the cramped and fearful existence described in the diary. The original diary is on display and there's plenty of information on the lives of the people involved. With the exception of Anne Frank's father, Otto, the occupants were discovered and sent to their deaths in concentration camps. Visitors need not have read the diary to appreciate the museum.
Website www.annefrank.nl
Artis Zoo
Locally known as the Plantage, the Artis Zoo is something of an oasis in the centre of Amsterdam, and a must for children and animal lovers. Boasting more than 700 species of anima…
Artis Zoo
Locally known as the Plantage, the Artis Zoo is something of an oasis in the centre of Amsterdam, and a must for children and animal lovers. Boasting more than 700 species of animals and 200 species of local and exotic trees (many of which are on the verge of extinction), the institution will captivate visitors of all ages. The grounds are huge and can easily keep visitors busy for hours, with the aquarium, butterfly house, planetarium and a handful of museums all featuring as part of the experience. Visitors will also find several restaurants and a shop selling souvenirs such as books, toys and postcards.
Website www.artis.nl
Efteling
Built in the 1950s and still one of Europe's leading theme parks, Efteling is a must for children of all ages. Kids are sure to relish its special attractions, which include a maze…
Efteling
Built in the 1950s and still one of Europe's leading theme parks, Efteling is a must for children of all ages. Kids are sure to relish its special attractions, which include a maze, water show and bobsleigh course, as well as a creepy ghost castle and swinging-ship ride. They will find theme-park classics such as several roller coasters, carousels and playgrounds. Games, activities, restaurants and refreshment stands are also on offer. Queues get very long, particularly in peak tourist season, so it's best to arrive early.
Website www.efteling.com
Madurodam
Located around 30 minutes outside of Amsterdam and first opened in 1952, Madurodam is quite literally the smallest city in the Netherlands. The park features hundreds of miniature …
Madurodam
Located around 30 minutes outside of Amsterdam and first opened in 1952, Madurodam is quite literally the smallest city in the Netherlands. The park features hundreds of miniature houses and factories that reflect real Amsterdam architecture, exact replicas of famous Dutch landmarks and transport systems such as ships, airports and railways. Children and adults alike will enjoy the attraction, and will find many tremendous photo opportunities as they stroll around. Visitors can also activate parts of the park for a small cost, setting trucks moving down highways or getting planes to land. Otherwise, they can buy souvenirs in the park's shop and purchase refreshments at one of its restaurants.
Website www.madurodam.nl