Amsterdam is the ideal destination for family travel. You can enjoy visiting museums and historical monuments, as well as taking a boat ride through its emblematic canals. You can also make nature plans in its extensive parks or pay a visit to the zoo. If you are planning to go to Amsterdam with children, we propose a list of the essential places to see in the city.
1. The Jordaan neighborhood
One of the best ways to get to know this city is walking through its neighbourhoods, either on foot or using the most typical means of transport in the Netherlands: the bicycle. Of all the neighborhoods, the Jordaan neighborhood stands out in particular. The Anne Frank House is located there , a practically obligatory stop. The best way to avoid queues is to pre-book tickets to the museum online.
2. Micropia Museum
Micropia is the world’s first museum dedicated to microbes . In its facilities you can learn about the most recent biotechnological advances and even have your own body scanned. In addition, the Zoo Artis Royal is located next to the museum and it is possible to get discounts at both establishments by booking a combined ticket.
3. The channels
On a trip to the capital of the Netherlands you cannot miss a walk through its canals. For this it is highly advisable to use a pedal boat . By renting one of these boats you can navigate and discover the best views of the city from the water.
4. Van Gogh Museum
In this museum is the largest collection of paintings by the famous Dutch painter of the 19th century. Some of the most outstanding works on display are “Field Under Stormy Sky” and “Vincent’s Bedroom.” Admission is €18 for adults, but it is free for minors. Audio guides are included in the ticket and provide interesting information about the life and works of Van Gogh.
5. Amsterdam Dungeon
It is also known as the Amsterdam Dungeon. It is a popular horror show in which the actors interact with the public during 11 acts. In this representation the darkest stories of Holland are told. To avoid running out of tickets, it is best to book them online in advance.
6. National Maritime Museum
This museum is located in the old port of the city. With its 11 exhibitions it tries to show how much of Dutch culture comes from the sea. You can explore its rooms with the free audio guide or hire a guided tour.
7. Madame Tussauds Museum
In Amsterdam’s Dam Square is the most famous wax museum in the Netherlands. In it there are statues of such famous people as Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson or Barack Obama. Also of historical figures such as Pablo Picasso or Madame Tussaud . You can pose with the figures and take photos, and there are even costumes and accessories available for more accomplished shots.
8. Flower Market
Flowers and especially tulips are a symbol of Holland. A very curious place to visit is this floating flower market that has been open since 1862. It is located on the Singel canal, very close to the tram stop, making it very accessible. You can walk through its colorful stalls and buy flowers and seeds of the traditional plants of the Netherlands.
9. Vondel Park
This city center park is the largest in Amsterdam with an area of ??45 hectares. Admission to the park is completely free and it has optimal spaces for walking or cycling. In addition, inside there are numerous playgrounds and an open-air theater where dance and musical performances are held in summer.
10. NEMO Science Museum
It is an interactive science and technology museum housed in a ship-shaped building. I n its interior there are interactive exhibitions and real experiments, and it has a store to buy games and continue experimenting at home. It is also highly recommended to go up to its terrace, as it has a viewpoint from which you can enjoy fantastic views of the city.