Planning a trip to Amsterdam with the whole family can be challenging. How do you balance the wishes of young children or teenagers looking for adventure with those of parents and grandparents who prefer a more relaxed cultural experience? Fortunately, Amsterdam offers something for everyone. Here are five unique experiences that promise an unforgettable day out for visitors of all ages.
1. Step into a Time Machine on Amsterdam’s Canals
A traditional canal cruise is an Amsterdam classic, but when you’re traveling with kids or teenagers, you may be looking for something a little more immersive. VR Voyage offers an innovative 75-minute canal cruise that combines the city’s iconic waterways with a captivating virtual reality experience.
As you relax aboard a comfortable, heated luxury boat and admire modern-day Amsterdam, you’ll put on a VR headset at carefully selected points along the route. Suddenly, you’ll find yourself surrounded by breathtaking 360-degree recreations of 17th-century Amsterdam during the Dutch Golden Age.
- For kids and teens: The cutting-edge technology transforms history into an interactive adventure, making it feel like they’ve stepped into a real-life video game.
- For parents and grandparents: The boat is fully enclosed and heated, making it a comfortable choice in Amsterdam’s often unpredictable weather. Meanwhile, the bilingual audio guide provides fascinating, historically accurate insights into the city’s rich past.
2. Discover Amsterdam’s Maritime History at the National Maritime Museum
The National Maritime Museum is sometimes overlooked in favor of Amsterdam’s more famous museums, but it is an absolute must-visit for families. The museum provides essential insight into how Amsterdam became a global power during the Dutch Golden Age through shipbuilding and international trade.
Outside the museum, a spectacular replica of the VOC ship Amsterdam is moored at the quay.
On board, the whole family can discover what life was like at sea in the 18th century through hands-on and interactive experiences.
3. Taste Traditional Dutch Treats at the Albert Cuyp Market
While many tourists stay in the city center, locals head to the daily Albert Cuyp Market in the lively De Pijp neighborhood. This vibrant street market stretches for almost one kilometer.
Visitors of all ages can enjoy traditional Dutch treats that are simply not to be missed.
Treat the family to freshly made stroopwafels, fluffy poffertjes topped with powdered sugar, or a freshly baked Dutch doughnut known as an oliebol.
4. Enjoy the View from the Rooftop of NEMO
For a relaxing break with a spectacular view, head to the rooftop of the NEMO Science Museum. You don’t even need a museum ticket to visit—the rooftop is freely accessible and offers one of the best free views over Amsterdam’s historic city center.
The striking green, sloping roof has been transformed into a public square with plenty of seating and its own café.
While children can safely explore the rooftop, adults can enjoy the sweeping panoramic views over the River IJ and the old city.
5. Escape the City Buzz with the Family in Amsterdamse Bos
Do the kids need some space to run around? Just outside the city, you’ll find Amsterdamse Bos, a huge natural park that is nearly three times larger than Central Park in New York.
This vast green area features forests, meadows, lakes, and even a goat farm.
Rent bicycles to explore the extensive network of paths, or find a peaceful spot for a family picnic away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Ready for an unforgettable family adventure?
Whether you choose to explore the great outdoors or dive into Amsterdam’s rich history together, the city has something special to offer every generation. Want to experience Amsterdam in a way that the whole family will remember for years to come? Explore Amsterdam in a different way and book your tickets for the innovative VR Voyage boat tour.