Amsterdam with the Family

Bikes, cruises and ferries

Exploring Amsterdam by bicycle is thoroughly recommended. The designated cycle paths, well-marked routes and bikes fitted with child seats and safety belts make this a dream destination for cyclists. Routes will take you across the historic canals via museums and farmers' markets.
A canal cruise is another convenient way to discover Amsterdam's hidden gems. Toilets on board and audio guides in various languages make for a stress-free experience. Also recommended is a ride on the historic GVB commuter ferry, which takes commuters from Centraal Station across the IJ river to Amsterdam-Noord. Toddlers and teens alike will appreciate the novelty, plus it's free!
For a slightly offbeat experience, consider spending a night on a rented house boat. Crazy for pancakes? Then hop aboard the Pannenkoekenboot (Pancake Boat), where you can cruise down the river while gorging on some of the heartiest pancakes Amsterdam has to offer.

Culture, art and museums

When rain tries to spoil the fun, Amsterdammers head to Openbare Bibliotheek, Europe's largest library. An entire floor is dedicated to kids, featuring oversized furniture and storytelling sessions. Teenagers can browse music or movies and connect to the free Wi-Fi. The café on the 7th floor provides delightful city views.
Introduce the kids to the Dutch master painters by taking them to the Rembrandt House. The world famous Van Gogh Museum organises a treasure hunt where the winner takes home a special gift. Another worthwhile stop is the Neerlandia Building, which is the city's Hermitage Museum. Young visitors typically love the workshops organised here. The Tropenmuseum (Tropical Museum) also thrills the little ones with the sights and sounds of the tropic and sub-tropic regions.
The Nemo science museum is similarly educational, featuring theatre shows, workshops, films and interactive installations that facilitate learning through sight, sound and touch. Kids can don labcoats and perform laboratory experiments, produce purified water and even hoist their own body weight using pulleys. How's that for an educational family holiday in Amsterdam? Nemo's roof transforms into a beach during summer, with beanbags, drinks and sand – a perfect hangout for teenagers on holiday.
A family holiday in Amsterdam would be incomplete without a deeply sobering visit to the Anne Frank House. While not overly child-friendly, it's a beautiful and poignant way to introduce teenagers and young adults to the legacy of the Holocaust.
The Ontdekhoek discovery centre is a little out of town but accessible by metro. Here, kids can indulge in fun, educational activities including cooking potato chips, building a dam, making music by stamping a paper sheet with holes, roasting coffee beans and writing with an ink quill. These immersive workshops are very popular with local school groups.
Contrary to public opinion, Madame Tussauds is more than just a museum displaying stuffy kings, queens and other historical figures. Kids will absolutely love posing with E.T., getting dolled up in regal finery and testing their football skills in interactive exhibits.

Nature, parks, zoos and more

The central Vondelpark epitomises a family city break with its outdoor theatre, free summer shows for kids, duck ponds, sandpits and water areas. There's even a Kinderkookkafe, where young aspiring chefs can try their hand at cooking.
The Java and KNSM islands are an interesting visit for those interested in modern town planning and Dutch architecture. A number of specialty shops keep the kids occupied, such as Sissy Boy Homeland and Pol's Potten. Opened in 1835, the Artis Zoo is a must for animal lovers and includes playgrounds and restaurants.
Wondering where to go on that next trip? A family holiday in Amsterdam could be the answer!

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Author: Lana de Wit

Guest Relations Manager at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky

My name is Lana de Wit, Guest Relations Manager at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. Together with the Guest Relations and Guest Services team we are making sure that all guests are having the best experience at our hotel and look after their special requests, celebrations and expectations. I get energy out of solving problems and striving for the best there is possible and I love the fact that every day is different and full of surprises. I always wanted to work at Krasnapolsky since I was a little girl, so being able to work here the past years has been a dream together with my fantastic colleagues. My biggest mission is to let every guest leave with extraordinary stories and unforgettable memories to take home. I look forward to welcoming you here in Amsterdam to give you the true Anantara experience!