What To Do As A Family In Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a city that never sleeps, but it also offers a lot to offer families with children. From visiting the zoo and riding bikes to taking in the city’s spectacular architecture, Amsterdam has a variety of family-friendly activities to enjoy. Some of the best things to do in Amsterdam with kids include exploring the canals, visiting museums, or enjoying local markets.

To plan a family trip to Amsterdam with kids, consider these top 10 suggestions:

1. Visit the Van der Valk Amsterdam Amstel Hotel, which offers rooms specifically for families.
2. Explore the canals, including boats, trams, pancakes, pools, playgrounds, and pirates.
3. Visit the Anne Frank House, where you can tour the hidden warren of rooms behind a hinged bookcase.
4. Enjoy a day trip from Amsterdam, such as visiting Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans.
5. Book an Amsterdam photo shoot, explore the best day trips from Amsterdam, and explore the best day trips from Giethoorn.
6. Take a ice skate on the Museumplein Amsterdam at Ice Amsterdam during winter.
7. Explore the city’s canals, including Zimmer Hoeve, a neighborhood petting zoo, and the LEGO factory.
8. Enjoy a canal boat ride, wander the streets, and explore VondelPark and Kinderkook.
9. Visit the NEMO Science Museum and enjoy Dutch pancakes at Anne Frank House.
10. Enjoy a canal tour with all-you-can-eat Dutch pancakes at Amsterdam River Tour with Kinderkook.

How Much Money Should I Bring To Amsterdam For 3 Days?

When planning a trip to Amsterdam, it's essential to consider your budget. For shoestring travelers, daily expenses can range from €35 to €70, while low-budget travelers might spend €70 to €100 daily. Mid-budget travelers can expect to spend between €100 and €300 each day, and high-budget travelers may spend €300 to €600. On average, visitors spend around $216 (€206) per day. A week-long trip for two generally costs around $3, 022 (€2, 884).

While Amsterdam is known for its expenses, the cost of flights varies based on your departure location and dates. For flights, couples usually budget $1, 000-$1, 400 total. On average, a three-day trip costs about $676 per person, including accommodations, food, and local transport. Therefore, it is advisable to set a budget of roughly €60-100 per day, particularly if planning on visiting coffeeshops or attractions like the red light district.

Many visitors find a €100 Amsterdam City Card useful, which covers public transport and entry to some attractions. Expect to spend around €20-30 for a decent meal and some drinks. For those visiting for a short trip, budget travelers typically spend around €60-80 per day. Ultimately, planning ahead and identifying expenses can significantly enhance your Amsterdam experience.

What To Do In Amsterdam With Kids?

Small boats in Amsterdam offer unique experiences, especially with Pure Boats Amsterdam, which excels in accommodating families, including kids. This city is brimming with family-friendly attractions like museums, zoos, parks, and canals, catering to everyone from toddlers to teens. A must-try treat is the iconic stroopwafels at Van Wonderen. Families can engage in a myriad of activities, such as taking a canal cruise, visiting a working windmill, or experiencing a dungeon tour—all in one day.

Recommended attractions include the NEMO Science Museum, ARTIS Royal Zoo, and the Resistance Museum Junior. A two-day itinerary can maximize enjoyment, featuring easy navigation to discover art, history, and delicious street food. Iconic highlights include wandering the streets, renting bicycles, and enjoying the Butterfly Garden at Hortus Botanicus. Whether you're exploring VondelPark or the Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam is an exceptional destination for family adventures, blending culture, fun, and education seamlessly.

Do Kids Pay For Metro In Amsterdam?

From July 20, 2024, to January 5, 2025, children aged 4 to 11 can travel for free on Amsterdam's GVB buses, trams, and metros when accompanied by an adult. To access this free travel, parents must load the GVB Kids Vrij travel product onto their child's personalized OV-chipkaart. Applications for the free travel subscription can be made starting July 1. Each child must possess their own OV-chipkaart. Currently, short-term tickets are available: a 1-day ticket for €21 and a 2-day ticket for €31.

50, valid on local transport and to/from Schiphol Airport. Children under 4 travel for free, while unaccompanied children must pay the standard fare. Special events or peak times may alter fare rules, affecting the validity of the free travel policy. For those planning visits, the Amsterdam City Card can offer savings on museum entrance fees and unlimited public transport. Children’s day tickets are priced at €4. 50 for ages 4-11 and are valid across all GVB services starting on the first check-in.

The vast GVB network includes key routes in Amsterdam, Diemen, and nearby areas. Passengers using the tram can obtain tickets directly from conductors. Overall, this initiative promotes accessible public transport for families in Amsterdam.

Where To Stay In Amsterdam With Kids?

Hotel JL No76 is a modern boutique hotel located in a 19th-century townhouse in Amsterdam, ideal for families. It offers spacious family suites with bunk beds, a lovely courtyard garden, and bike rentals. The Grachtengordel canal ring is a prime area for families, ensuring convenience and luxury. The Pulitzer Hotel is highlighted as a top choice, while Oude Centrum serves as an exciting base. Families can enjoy local treats like van wonderen stroopwafels.

Amsterdam is considered very kid-friendly, with accommodation options in the city center or quieter areas just outside. Families can easily find large rooms with kitchens and amenities such as washers/dryers and pools. Neighborhoods like Vondelpark and Oud-West are recommended, along with up-and-coming areas like Bos en Lommer. Family-oriented hotels include Ibis City Centre, Mercure, Novotel, and Hotel Twenty Eight, which offers luxury and self-catering options. The Park Plaza Vondelpark is particularly welcoming for children, making it an ideal destination for a family getaway in Amsterdam.

Is Amsterdam Friendly To American Tourists?

Amsterdam is recognized as one of the safest cities for solo travelers, including women, thanks to its friendly locals and relaxed atmosphere. However, exercising common sense is essential; avoid leaving drinks unattended to prevent drink spiking. Although Amsterdam is generally welcoming to American tourists, it operates with regular business hours, so it's not a 24/7 city. Most locals speak English, making it easy for Americans to navigate and enjoy the compact city.

Despite concerns about safety, the city's ranking in the Safe Cities Index 2021 affirms it is one of Europe's safest locations, with a safety index score of 71. Petty crime, bike theft, and occasional drug-related incidents exist, while violent crime, particularly against tourists, is very rare. Popular tourist areas like the Red Light District should be approached with caution at night. To address overcrowding, Amsterdam has initiated a "Stay Away" campaign aimed at controlling tourism growth.

Overall, while there are specific behaviors that may irritate locals, respectful and considerate tourists are generally appreciated. Travelers are advised to stay vigilant, particularly due to heightened terrorism threats in the region. Nevertheless, its world-class museums, picturesque canals, and hospitable atmosphere make Amsterdam an attractive gateway for American tourists in Europe.

How Much Spending Money Do I Need For 3 Days In Amsterdam?

When planning a trip to Amsterdam, budgeting varies based on preferences. For a shoestring budget, allocate €35 - €70 per day, while a low budget suggests €70 - €100 daily. The average daily spend for travelers is about €106 (£94), which typically includes major attractions and some nightlife. A solo traveler’s weekend trip often costs around $1215, with a couple's expenses rising to approximately $2066, and families of four estimating even higher. For a comfortable mid-range stay of three days, expect to budget between €450 to €600, excluding flights.

The I Amsterdam City Card is recommended for maximizing your visit to attractions. While some manage on €30-40 daily, eating out and engaging in activities can easily increase spending to €100-150 per day, especially with additional expenses for trams, snacks, and entertainment. Budget travelers might find €60-80 sufficient, while mid-range travelers should prepare for €100-150. On average, expect to spend about €34 daily on meals and a similar amount on entertainment. Therefore, plan ahead to ensure a well-balanced experience in Amsterdam, catering activities to your financial flexibility.

Is 3 Days Enough For Amsterdam?

Three days is an ideal duration to explore Amsterdam, as the city is relatively small, making it easy to visit top attractions without feeling rushed. While some might argue that three days is excessive for such a compact city, it serves as a great starting point for first-time visitors. Although not enough to see every hidden gem, three days enable you to grasp the essence of Amsterdam and its significant landmarks.

For those planning a trip, an itinerary that includes the Rijksmuseum, the Floating Flower Market, Begijnhof, and Dam Square can be quite rewarding. You can comfortably navigate Amsterdam on foot, walking the city center in about 45 minutes. This makes it feasible to appreciate the famous canals and quaint streets, while also allowing leisure time for exploration or relaxation.

Moreover, while three days can cover the highlights, being well-organized is key to making the most of your visit. Including activities like a canal cruise or a stop at the Van Gogh Museum can enrich your experience. It’s essential to strike a balance between visiting major sites and enjoying the city's ambiance.

In conclusion, Amsterdam is perfectly suited for a three-day stay, providing a plethora of experiences that can fit into a long weekend. Whether it's indulging in the vibrant culture, historical architecture, or delicious local cuisine, visitors can immerse themselves in what Amsterdam has to offer. With careful planning, you can make the most out of your three days, ensuring a memorable trip.

Can Kids Go To Amsterdam Red Light District?

The Red Light District in Amsterdam is a residential area with no official age limit for visiting, but it is not recommended for children. While it's acceptable to bring a small baby in a stroller, children who can walk should generally not be exposed to this environment. Certain establishments within the district enforce strict age restrictions. Families visiting Amsterdam may wonder if daytime visits are suitable for young children, such as two boys aged 4 and 7.

The Red Light District is described as relatively safe during the day, but the atmosphere shifts dramatically at night, attracting intoxicated crowds and potential scams. While there are families seen visiting during the day, the district’s nature may not be appropriate for minors. Proper behavior is essential while navigating the area, including respecting sex workers, avoiding photography, and adhering to local regulations such as the new cannabis smoking ban.

Overall, strolling through the Red Light District during the day can be safe and informative regarding respectful treatment of individuals. However, it’s advisable for families to consider alternatives, as areas within the district could lead to uncomfortable conversations for young children. It's crucial to be mindful of the content and discussions appropriate for children when considering visiting the Red Light District.

Where To Go For A Family Trip In Amsterdam?

Tickets for children aged 3-10 are available exclusively on the official WONDR website and are non-refundable. The STRAAT Museum in Amsterdam is an excellent option for families with older children, offering a hands-on experience of street art. A highlight of our trip was staying at the Van der Valk Amsterdam Amstel Hotel, which we thoroughly enjoyed. Another must-visit is the Anne Frank House, where you can explore the secret rooms behind a hidden bookcase.

For families organizing a city break, Amsterdam is a welcoming destination. While the city is known for its coffee shops and red-light district, it also has numerous family-friendly attractions. As children grow out of strollers, exploring Amsterdam becomes more fun, with museums and activities that cater to curious minds. Our detailed itinerary outlines various activities, dining options, and family accommodations. The five-star Sofitel Legend the Grand Amsterdam offers family suites and is centrally located.

Highlights for kids include A'dam Lookout, ARTIS Zoo, and NEMO Science Museum. Enjoy biking, canal tours, and unique experiences like treasure hunts and Dutch pancake feasts while exploring Amsterdam.

Is Amsterdam Very Expensive?

Amsterdam is famously recognized as one of the most expensive cities to visit globally. Travelers often wonder about the actual costs associated with a trip to this vibrant city. A thorough breakdown of expenses such as accommodations, transport, museums, tours, and food and drink can assist visitors in making informed choices that suit their budgets. An average seven-day trip to Amsterdam could amount to approximately $2, 130, covering a range of typical expenses.

While it is true that Amsterdam has a reputation for being costly, many travelers only stay for a few days, making it manageable for most budgets. Although attractions and accommodations can be pricey, Amsterdam remains relatively affordable compared to cities like Paris and London. This guide provides insights into the estimated costs for both low-budget and moderate-budget travelers for 3-day and 5-day trips. Despite high costs, there are opportunities for savings.

For example, rent for a one-bedroom apartment typically starts around $80 USD per night. Overall, while Amsterdam can be expensive, it is still viewed as a fair deal considering its popularity and the richness of experiences it offers.

Why Is Amsterdam Famous?

Amsterdam, as the capital of the Netherlands, serves as a vibrant commercial and financial hub. Each year, it attracts millions of tourists with its rich historical attractions, renowned art collections, and well-preserved old sections that showcase unique color and flavor. The city's famous canals, often likened to Venice, form a picturesque network that highlights its heritage. Moreover, Amsterdam, developed from reclaimed land, ranks among Europe's great cities, celebrated for its stunning landscapes and deep culture.

Visitors flock to its many museums and renowned art scene, often linked to iconic figures like Rembrandt and Van Gogh. The city is also known for its diverse culinary scene, particularly its Chinese and Indonesian restaurants, as well as the charming houseboats lining its canals. Since the 1960s, Amsterdam has gained notoriety for its liberal atmosphere. A biking capital, it boasts excellent nightlife and festival activities, making it an attractive destination for a wide range of interests. From its iconic canals to historical landmarks, Amsterdam has something for everyone, truly embodying a unique urban experience.