A family trip to Amsterdam and the Netherlands

Amsterdam and the Netherlands are a pleasantly surprising destination for families: picturesque canals, bikes everywhere, green parks and villages that look like a postcard. Everything is compact and accessible, and it's easy to combine city and nature. Here's a recommended itinerary.

Why Amsterdam suits families

The city is flat and full of bike paths, public transport is excellent, and most attractions are close to each other. There's a great balance here between culture, nature and fun for kids.

A suggested 4 to 5-day itinerary

• Day 1: central Amsterdam. A canal cruise, Dam Square and the flower market.
• Day 2: museums and parks. Museumplein, the NEMO science museum and Vondelpark.
• Day 3: windmill villages. Zaanse Schans, with windmills, cheese and wooden clogs.
• Days 4 to 5: day trips (see below).

Attractions kids love

The big hits here are the interactive NEMO museum, Artis Zoo, canal cruises and family bike rides. And if you come in the right season, the tulip fields are simply spectacular.

Day trips outside the city

Keukenhof, the largest tulip garden in the world, is open in spring only and worth every minute. All year round you can hop on a train to small, pretty cities like Haarlem or Utrecht, both short rides from the city.

Getting around and the weather

Amsterdam is easy on foot, by bike and by tram. The weather, on the other hand, changes without much warning, so pack a rain jacket even in summer. The best seasons are spring (tulip season) and summer.

If the Netherlands is one option among several, the complete family trip abroad guide helps you compare it with other destinations by your kids' ages, season and budget.

Ready to set off

Diretix builds you a family-friendly itinerary for Amsterdam and the Netherlands, with attractions, hotels and a daily schedule, in minutes. One trip a month is built in full, for free, up to 12 days.