Many families shy away from Amsterdam for obvious reasons, but there are so many MORE reasons why it's a good fit for your next family vacation:
Why Amsterdam?: It's a fairly compact city with great public transportation, an amazing park and plenty of top notch museums. More than anything, the architecture and canals create for an ambiance that is unique to Amsterdam. On a sunny day, there is nothing more fun than sitting at a canal side cafe watching the young locals cruise their "backstreets" with a Dutch beer in hand.
Where?: I prefer canal side accommodations on one of the major canals - Prinsengracht, Keizergracht or the Herengracht. One of my clients recently stayed at The Toren along the Keizergracht and had a great experience. Be aware that hotels in Amsterdam can be VERY expensive (especially when there is a conference in town) so do your research ahead of time.
When?: I prefer Amsterdam in July and August when Italy is sweltering; however, I would travel to Amsterdam in the spring to visit the Keukenhof park where 7 million tulip bulbs bloom each year - Open mid-March through mid-May.
How long?: I'd spend at least 4 nights in Amsterdam. With just over a week to spare, consider linking Amsterdam and Paris together by train - The Thalys train takes just a little over three hours. Haarlem makes for a quaint home base for those that don't mind the 20 minute ride to Amsterdam Central by train.
What?: Here are a few ideas on things to do in Amsterdam with kids:
- Vondel Park - I'm a sucker for big parks and this is one of the best. It's expansive with plenty of green grass for frolicking, multiple playgrounds and an open-air theater.
- Rijks Museum - Recently renovated, the architecture alone will blow you away. This is one of my favorite museums in all of Europe and it is best done with a local guide. With short attention spans and so much to see, a guide can be worth every penny. Although not 100% necessary, it's a good idea to purchase tickets in advance online.
- Van Gogh Museum - This is a fairly small museum compared to the RIjks and the helpful children's audio guide and scavenger hunt make it a bit more palatable for kids. Check the website for children's workshops held every weekend.
- Anne Frank House - This is a must-see sight for everyone who visits Amsterdam so purchase your tickets online well in advance. Those with younger children should be aware that there are steep stairs and strollers must be left at the information desk.
- NEMO Science Center - This hands on museums, shaped like a ship, is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages. Plan on spending at least a half day here.
- Canal boat ride - There are plenty of touristy companies offering canal boat rides, but I prefer paying a bit more and hiring a local guide to do a private tour by boat. This is a great activity upon arrival in Amsterdam.
How?: The Netherlands has great public transportation options. In my opinion, cars and parking can make traveling more stressful so I stick to public transportation when possible.
Questions? Comments? Looking for a hotel or a family-friendly guide in Amsterdam? Post on my Facebook feed or message me.
Stay tuned tomorrow for more travel inspiration!
Why Amsterdam?: It's a fairly compact city with great public transportation, an amazing park and plenty of top notch museums. More than anything, the architecture and canals create for an ambiance that is unique to Amsterdam. On a sunny day, there is nothing more fun than sitting at a canal side cafe watching the young locals cruise their "backstreets" with a Dutch beer in hand.
Where?: I prefer canal side accommodations on one of the major canals - Prinsengracht, Keizergracht or the Herengracht. One of my clients recently stayed at The Toren along the Keizergracht and had a great experience. Be aware that hotels in Amsterdam can be VERY expensive (especially when there is a conference in town) so do your research ahead of time.
When?: I prefer Amsterdam in July and August when Italy is sweltering; however, I would travel to Amsterdam in the spring to visit the Keukenhof park where 7 million tulip bulbs bloom each year - Open mid-March through mid-May.
How long?: I'd spend at least 4 nights in Amsterdam. With just over a week to spare, consider linking Amsterdam and Paris together by train - The Thalys train takes just a little over three hours. Haarlem makes for a quaint home base for those that don't mind the 20 minute ride to Amsterdam Central by train.
What?: Here are a few ideas on things to do in Amsterdam with kids:
- Vondel Park - I'm a sucker for big parks and this is one of the best. It's expansive with plenty of green grass for frolicking, multiple playgrounds and an open-air theater.
- Rijks Museum - Recently renovated, the architecture alone will blow you away. This is one of my favorite museums in all of Europe and it is best done with a local guide. With short attention spans and so much to see, a guide can be worth every penny. Although not 100% necessary, it's a good idea to purchase tickets in advance online.
- Van Gogh Museum - This is a fairly small museum compared to the RIjks and the helpful children's audio guide and scavenger hunt make it a bit more palatable for kids. Check the website for children's workshops held every weekend.
- Anne Frank House - This is a must-see sight for everyone who visits Amsterdam so purchase your tickets online well in advance. Those with younger children should be aware that there are steep stairs and strollers must be left at the information desk.
- NEMO Science Center - This hands on museums, shaped like a ship, is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages. Plan on spending at least a half day here.
- Canal boat ride - There are plenty of touristy companies offering canal boat rides, but I prefer paying a bit more and hiring a local guide to do a private tour by boat. This is a great activity upon arrival in Amsterdam.
How?: The Netherlands has great public transportation options. In my opinion, cars and parking can make traveling more stressful so I stick to public transportation when possible.
Questions? Comments? Looking for a hotel or a family-friendly guide in Amsterdam? Post on my Facebook feed or message me.
Stay tuned tomorrow for more travel inspiration!