12 day itinerary
Amsterdam
Itinerary
Amsterdam is a fantastic city for families, with its rich history, beautiful parks, and engaging museums. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 12-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and some unique experiences. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam
- Morning: Arrive in Amsterdam and check into your family-friendly hotel or rental. Consider places with family rooms or apartments for extra space.
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around the . It’s a great place for the kids to run around, and you can enjoy a picnic lunch.
- Evening: Head to for dinner. There are plenty of restaurants with kid-friendly menus. After dinner, catch a family-friendly show at the or .
Day 2: Explore the Canals
- Morning: Take a canal cruise. Many companies offer family-friendly options, and it’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective.
- Afternoon: Visit the . Make sure to book tickets in advance to avoid long lines. It’s a poignant experience, and there’s a family guide available.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local pizzeria or a casual eatery in the Jordaan neighborhood.
Day 3: Museums Galore
- Morning: Head to the . The museum has a family-friendly audio guide and a special kids’ route.
- Afternoon: Visit the next door. The vibrant colors of Van Gogh’s paintings are sure to captivate the kids!
- Evening: Dinner in the area. Try a local Dutch pancake house for a fun meal.
Day 4: Day Trip to
- All Day: Take a day trip to , a picturesque village with traditional Dutch windmills, wooden houses, and cheese-making demonstrations. Kids will love the open-air museum and the chance to see how clogs are made!
- Evening: Return to Amsterdam and have a relaxed dinner at your accommodation or a nearby restaurant.
Day 5: Fun at
- Morning: Take the free ferry from Amsterdam Central Station to . This area is known for its street art and creative vibe.
- Afternoon: Explore the and let the kids enjoy the playgrounds. You can also check out the for stunning views of the city.
- Evening: Have dinner at one of the quirky restaurants in the area, like Hangar.
Day 6: Science and Nature
- Morning: Visit the . It’s hands-on and perfect for kids of all ages!
- Afternoon: Head to the . It’s one of the oldest zoos in Europe and has a great variety of animals.
- Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant nearby, perhaps Cafe de Jaren with its lovely terrace.
Day 7: A Day in the Countryside
- All Day: Take a trip to (if visiting in spring) or explore the . Rent bikes and ride through the beautiful landscapes, or visit a nearby village like or .
- Evening: Return to Amsterdam for a cozy dinner.
Day 8: Amsterdam’s Markets
- Morning: Visit the . Try some local snacks and shop for souvenirs.
- Afternoon: Explore the . While it’s a brewery, they have a family-friendly tour that includes interactive exhibits.
- Evening: Dinner in the De Pijp neighborhood, known for its diverse food options.
Day 9: Art and Culture
- Morning: Visit the for modern art. They often have family workshops.
- Afternoon: Explore the , which sometimes has kid-friendly exhibitions.
- Evening: Dinner at a local Indonesian restaurant, a popular cuisine in the Netherlands.
Day 10: Parks and Play
- Morning: Spend the morning at , a large park with playgrounds, a petting zoo, and even a goat farm!
- Afternoon: Rent a canoe or pedal boat for some fun on the water.
- Evening: Have a picnic dinner in the park or head back to the city for a meal.
Day 11: Shopping and Relaxation
- Morning: Explore the for unique shops and boutiques.
- Afternoon: Treat yourselves to some ice cream at and relax at a nearby café.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant, perhaps with a view of the canals.
Day 12: Departure
- Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for a last stroll or a visit to a nearby café for breakfast.
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.
Tips:
- Transportation: Consider getting an Amsterdam Travel Ticket for unlimited public transport.
- Dining: Make reservations for popular restaurants, especially for dinner.
- Weather: Be prepared for rain; pack umbrellas and raincoats just in case!
I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Amsterdam with your family! Enjoy your trip! 🌷🚲
