Netherlands

The Netherlands is a fantastic destination for families, with its beautiful parks, charming towns, and plenty of outdoor activities. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 7-day itinerary that skips the museums and focuses on parks and green spaces. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam

Morning: Arrive in Amsterdam and settle into your accommodation. Grab a family-friendly breakfast at a local café. Pancakes are a must-try!

Afternoon: Head to Vondelpark, the largest city park in Amsterdam. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, and there are playgrounds for the kids to enjoy. Pack a picnic or grab some snacks from nearby vendors.

Evening: Explore the Jordaan neighborhood. It’s a lovely area with canals, quaint shops, and cozy restaurants. Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly eatery.

Day 2: Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans

Morning: After breakfast, take a short train ride to Zaanse Schans, a picturesque village known for its traditional windmills and wooden houses.

Afternoon: Explore the area on foot. Kids will love the open spaces and the chance to see the windmills up close. Don’t forget to check out the cheese-making demonstrations and sample some delicious Dutch cheese!

Evening: Return to Amsterdam and have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Consider trying some Dutch fries with mayo – a local favorite!

Day 3: Day Trip to Keukenhof (Spring Only) or National Park

Morning: If you’re visiting in spring (mid-March to mid-May), head to Keukenhof Gardens to see the stunning tulip displays. It’s a feast for the eyes! If it’s not spring, consider visiting Hoge Veluwe National Park for a day of nature exploration.

Afternoon: At Keukenhof, enjoy the beautiful flower gardens and let the kids run around. If you’re at Hoge Veluwe, rent bikes and explore the park’s scenic trails.

Evening: Return to Amsterdam and enjoy a relaxed dinner. Maybe try a local pizzeria or a burger joint that the kids will love!

Day 4: Utrecht Adventure

Morning: Take a train to Utrecht, a charming city with beautiful canals. Start your day with breakfast at a local café.

Afternoon: Visit Griftpark, a fantastic park with a playground, a petting zoo, and plenty of green space for a family picnic. You can also rent a pedal boat on the canals for some fun on the water!

Evening: Stroll through the city center and enjoy dinner at one of the many family-friendly restaurants. Try some traditional Dutch pancakes for dessert!

Day 5: Rotterdam and the Euromast

Morning: Head to Rotterdam. After breakfast, visit the Euromast, where you can take an elevator to the top for stunning views of the city.

Afternoon: Explore Kralingse Bos, a beautiful park with a lake. You can rent a canoe or simply enjoy a walk or bike ride around the park. There are also playgrounds for the kids!

Evening: Have dinner in Rotterdam. The city has a vibrant food scene, so you’ll find plenty of options that cater to families.

Day 6: The Hague and Scheveningen Beach

Morning: Travel to The Hague. Start your day with breakfast at a local café.

Afternoon: Spend the day at Scheveningen Beach. The kids can play in the sand, and you can take a stroll along the promenade. There are also beachside restaurants for lunch.

Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner while watching the sunset. It’s a perfect way to end the day!

Day 7: Back to Amsterdam and Departure

Morning: Head back to Amsterdam for your last day. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and maybe do some last-minute shopping or exploring.

Afternoon: Visit Amsterdamse Bos, a large park with plenty of activities. You can rent a canoe, go for a bike ride, or just relax in the green space.

Evening: Have a farewell dinner in Amsterdam, reminiscing about your wonderful week in the Netherlands.

And there you have it! A week filled with parks, outdoor fun, and family-friendly activities. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌷🚴‍♂️🌊