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3 Days in Amsterdam — Family with Kids

family city-break amsterdam kids-friendly culture
Length
3 days
Stops
13
3 Days in Amsterdam — Family with Kids
Destination
Dates
Guests 1 room, 1 adults, 0 children
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What this plan covers

This 3-day itinerary is crafted for families eager to explore Amsterdam's charm while keeping children engaged and entertained. It balances iconic sights with hands-on activities, ensuring a memorable trip for all ages, from canal cruises to science museums and historic windmills.

Activity 5 Food 4 Culture 2 Nature 1 Viewpoint 1

Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.

Day 1 5 stops · about 9 hrs
1

Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Activity 1 hour

A relaxing and iconic way to see the city's beautiful architecture and learn about its history from the water, captivating for all ages.

Good to know

Numerous operators depart from various points; consider booking online for preferred times and choosing an open-top boat in good weather.

2

NEMO Science Museum

Activity Half day

An incredibly interactive and hands-on museum where kids can experiment, discover, and learn about science and technology in a fun environment.

Good to know

Arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays, to make the most of the exhibits; there's a rooftop terrace with great views and a café.

3

Lunch near Oosterdok

Food 1 hour

Enjoy a convenient and casual family meal with views of the harbor after an engaging morning at NEMO.

Good to know

Explore the various cafes and eateries around the Oosterdok area, offering diverse options for quick and easy lunches.

4

Het Scheepvaartmuseum (National Maritime Museum)

Culture 2-3 hours

Explore historic ships, maritime artifacts, and interactive exhibits that bring Dutch seafaring history to life for curious minds.

Good to know

Located right next to NEMO, it's easy to combine; check for family-friendly workshops or treasure hunts upon arrival.

5

Vondelpark

Nature 1-2 hours

Amsterdam's most famous park offers vast green spaces, playgrounds, and open-air performances, perfect for kids to run and play.

Good to know

Easily accessible by tram; bring a blanket for a picnic or let the kids enjoy one of the many playgrounds.

Day 2 4 stops · about 8.5 hrs
6

Rijksmuseum

Culture 2-3 hours

Introduce children to Dutch masterpieces and history, with special family routes and audio guides designed to keep young visitors engaged.

Good to know

Book tickets online in advance to skip lines; focus on a few key galleries or specific artworks to avoid museum fatigue with kids.

7

Lunch at Museumplein

Food 1 hour

A vibrant square surrounded by museums, offering various food trucks and cafes for a convenient and lively family lunch.

Good to know

Plenty of casual options for sandwiches, snacks, and drinks, perfect for a quick refuel between cultural stops.

8

ARTIS Royal Zoo

Activity Half day

A beautiful and historic zoo featuring a wide array of animals, an aquarium, a planetarium, and Microtopia, engaging all ages with nature and science.

Good to know

Purchase tickets online to save time; plan to spend several hours exploring all the different zones and exhibits.

9

The Pancake Bakery

Food 1.5 hours

Indulge in traditional Dutch pancakes, savory or sweet, in a cozy setting – a delightful and satisfying dinner experience for the whole family.

Good to know

Very popular, especially for dinner; consider arriving outside peak dinner hours or making a reservation if possible to avoid long waits.

Day 3 4 stops · about 8.5 hrs
10

Zaanse Schans

Activity Half day

Step back in time at this open-air museum featuring iconic windmills, clog workshops, cheese tasting, and traditional Dutch houses, perfect for hands-on exploration.

Good to know

Easily accessible by a short train ride from Amsterdam Centraal; plan for 4-5 hours including travel to fully enjoy the various attractions.

11

Lunch at Zaanse Schans

Food 1 hour

Enjoy traditional Dutch snacks or a casual meal amidst the picturesque windmills and historic buildings.

Good to know

Several cafes and restaurants are available on-site, offering local specialties and convenient options for families.

12

Bike Ride in Vondelpark or Jordaan

Activity 2 hours

Experience Amsterdam like a local with a family-friendly bike ride through scenic Vondelpark or the charming, quieter streets of the Jordaan district.

Good to know

Rent bikes from a reputable shop; inquire about child seats, tag-alongs, or bikes suitable for children of various ages.

13

A'DAM Lookout

Viewpoint 1.5-2 hours

Get breathtaking panoramic views of Amsterdam from a unique vantage point, with the optional 'Over The Edge' swing for thrill-seeking older kids and adults.

Good to know

Take the free ferry from Amsterdam Centraal Station (direction Buiksloterweg); book swing tickets in advance as they are time-slotted.

Where to stay

Hotels in Amsterdam

Book direct on our own Amsterdam hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.

Things to book

Tours and activities in Amsterdam

Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.

Keep planning

More Amsterdam itineraries

Other ways to spend a few days in Amsterdam, from our own travel research.

Back to the Amsterdam guide
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