Family-Friendly
Things To Do With Kids in Amsterdam 🚲
Amsterdam is exceptionally family-friendly with pancake houses, child-friendly museums, petting zoos and miles of safe cycling paths. The NEMO Science Museum and Artis Royal Zoo are firm favourites with kids of all ages.
Amsterdam is one of Europe's most family-friendly capitals, with a compact centre that's easy to navigate by bike or on foot. The city blends world-class culture with relaxed canals and green parks that welcome visitors of all ages.
Families in Amsterdam are spoilt for choice. The NEMO Science Museum is a hands-on hit for children of all ages, while Artis Royal Zoo — Europe's oldest — combines animals with a planetarium and aquarium in one ticket. Vondelpark and Amstelpark offer playgrounds, petting zoos, and open-air theatre in summer. The Efteling theme park is a 90-minute drive away for a full-day adventure.
Family events in Amsterdam
See all →No upcoming family events found right now.
Browse all Amsterdam events →Family-friendly attractions
See all →
't Binnenhuis
Raadhuisstraat 48, Amsterdam
't Brinkie
€12–€18ARTIS Zoo - Micropia
Allard Pierson Museum
FreeAmsterdam ArenA Boulevard — Kids Attractions
From USD21Amsterdam Micropia entrance ticket
Discover the world of microscopically small life. Meet your microbes with a body scan and enjoy an educational experience in Micropia.
💚 Free things to do with kids in Amsterdam
Many Amsterdam parks like Vondelpark have free playgrounds, paddling areas and puppet theatres in summer. The Amstelpark petting zoo is free for children. Public libraries often host free story-time sessions.
Practical tips for families in Amsterdam
- 1Book popular attractions in Amsterdam early — especially during school holidays and summer when queues can be long.
- 2Use public transport where possible — trams, metros and buses in European cities are child-friendly and much cheaper than taxis.
- 3Check the weather before heading out in Amsterdam — pack a light rain jacket even in summer.
- 4Look for city tourist cards that bundle museum entry and public transport — they often save significant money for families.
- 5Many restaurants in Amsterdam offer children's menus — look for family-friendly spots away from the main tourist squares for better value.
Frequently asked questions
Is Amsterdam good for families?
Amsterdam is exceptionally family-friendly with pancake houses, child-friendly museums, petting zoos and miles of safe cycling paths. The NEMO Science Museum and Artis Royal Zoo are firm favourites with kids of all ages.
What can kids do for free in Amsterdam?
Many Amsterdam parks like Vondelpark have free playgrounds, paddling areas and puppet theatres in summer. The Amstelpark petting zoo is free for children. Public libraries often host free story-time sessions.
What are the best family-friendly neighborhoods in Amsterdam?
Jordaan and De Pijp are great family bases — calm streets, playgrounds, and lots of independent ice cream shops.
Find all events in Amsterdam →
Hundreds of family events updated daily — workshops, shows, outdoor activities and more.
Browse Amsterdam events →