Discover Dutch Culture and History: 11 Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands With Kids

Updated May 2026

The Netherlands is a wonderful place to visit with kids. With its iconic windmills, charming canals, lush countryside, family-friendly cities, and fun food scene, this small country has a big reputation as one of Europe’s best destinations for families. Whether you’re visiting Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Delft, or the Dutch countryside, you’ll find plenty to keep kids entertained — from interactive museums and historic towns to bike rides, boat tours, playgrounds, and fairytale-like villages.

Families who want to experience the city like locals can also consider biking in Amsterdam, though it is best for confident riders and families with older kids or teens. For more tips on where to rent bikes, family-friendly routes, and what to know before riding, read our guide to Biking in Amsterdam: Rentals and Rides.

Kids will especially love exploring the canals, seeing windmills up close, tasting Dutch pancakes, and experiencing how easy it is to get around by train, tram, or bike. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder the Netherlands is one of the most popular places to visit in Europe with kids. If you’re planning a family trip to the Netherlands — or searching for ideas for Holland with kids — read on for our top picks for the best places to visit in the Netherlands with kids!

The Netherlands vs. Holland: What’s the Difference?

Before getting into the best places to visit in the Netherlands with kids, it helps to understand the difference between the Netherlands and Holland. The Netherlands is a small country in northern Europe made up of twelve provinces. It is well-connected by public transportation, making it relatively easy for families to visit multiple cities and towns in one trip.

Many travelers casually refer to the entire country as “Holland,” but technically, Holland only refers to two provinces: North Holland and South Holland. North Holland is home to Amsterdam, the Dutch capital and the country’s most famous city, while South Holland includes popular destinations such as Delft, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Leiden.

No matter what you call it, the Netherlands is a very family-friendly destination. Depending on how long you’re staying, families can easily combine world-famous museums, canal cities, charming small towns, beaches, countryside, and windmills into one itinerary. The country also has a kid-friendly culture, with many restaurants, museums, parks, and attractions welcoming children. Whether you’re looking for a city break, a cultural trip, or a slower countryside getaway, the Netherlands has something for every type of family vacation.

Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands with Kids

As mentioned above, the Netherlands is relatively small compared to many other European countries and is well connected by public transportation, making it easy for families to explore more than one destination during a trip. While many families use Amsterdam as their home base, several cities and towns across the country are worth more than a quick day trip.

From canal cities and historic windmills to interactive museums, beach towns, and charming villages, there are many Netherlands tourist attractions that work well for families. Keep reading to discover the best places to visit in the Netherlands with kids!

Amsterdam

If you’re looking for an easy European city to visit with kids, Amsterdam is a great choice. The Dutch capital is compact, scenic, and full of family-friendly activities, from canal boat rides and bike tours to world-class museums, parks, and hands-on attractions. It is also easy to get around by tram, metro, bus, ferry, or on foot, which makes Amsterdam one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands with kids.

One of the most meaningful things to do in Amsterdam is visit The Anne Frank House, where families can learn about Anne Frank, her family, and the Secret Annex where they hid during World War II. This is an important historical experience, but it may be too emotional or mature for very young or sensitive children. Families should also book tickets well in advance, as the Anne Frank House is one of Amsterdam’s most popular attractions.

For a more hands-on museum experience, younger kids will love The NEMO Science Museum, which focuses on learning through experiments, demonstrations, and interactive exhibits. It is especially good for school-age kids who enjoy science, technology, and “try-it-yourself” activities. For tweens and teens, consider the Rijksmuseum, The Van Gogh Museum, or The Moco Museum, depending on their interests. The Van Gogh Museum also offers family-friendly activities and children’s resources, especially during school holidays.

Of course, no family trip to Amsterdam is complete without a canal tour. It is one of the easiest ways to see the city with kids, especially after a long flight or a busy day of walking. Families can also visit ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo, located in the green and historic Plantage neighborhood, or spend time in one of Amsterdam’s many parks, including the famous Vondelpark.

For families planning activities in advance, guided tours, canal cruises, and museum tickets can be booked through platforms like GetYourGuide , Viator, or directly through the official attraction websites. For hotels check out our article on 14 Best Hotels In Amsterdam For Families

Best for: First-time visitors, museums, canals, easy transportation, tweens and teens, and families who want a classic Netherlands city experience.

Rotterdam

For families who love modern architecture, maritime history, food halls, and a more contemporary Dutch city experience, Rotterdam is one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands with kids. Located south of Amsterdam, Rotterdam is less than an hour away by train, making it an easy day trip or overnight stop on a Netherlands family vacation.

One of the best things about Rotterdam with kids is that it is easy to get around. The city has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, metro, buses, and water taxis, and many popular Rotterdam attractions for families are close enough to combine in one day.

Start by exploring some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Erasmus Bridge, the futuristic Cube Houses, and the impressive Markthal. Kids who enjoy unusual buildings will especially love seeing the tilted yellow Cube Houses, one of Rotterdam’s most recognizable architectural attractions.

Rotterdam’s harbor is another major highlight. As one of Europe’s largest and busiest ports, it gives families a different perspective on Dutch culture and the country’s long maritime history. Families can take a harbor tour, ride a water taxi, or walk along the waterfront to see boats, bridges, and modern city views. The Maritime Museum Rotterdam is also a great stop with kids, especially for families interested in ships, seafaring, and the Netherlands’ connection to water and trade.

When you want a quieter break from the city, visit Trompenburg Gardens & Arboretum, a peaceful botanical garden in the Kralingen district. It is a nice place to walk, explore plants and trees, and slow down after sightseeing. Families with younger kids may also want to check current seasonal activities before visiting.

When everyone gets hungry, consider visiting Markthal Rotterdam instead of Rotterdam Foodhallen. Markthal is one of the city’s best-known food attractions, with food stalls, restaurants, shops, and a dramatic indoor design. It is an easy option for families because everyone can choose something different, from Dutch snacks and cheese to international food and desserts.

Families who want to book activities in advance can reserve Rotterdam walking tours, harbor cruises, architecture tours, or day trips through platforms like GetYourGuide, Viator, or directly through official attraction websites.

Best for: Architecture, harbor views, food halls, older kids, tweens, teens, and families who want a city that feels very different from Amsterdam.

The Hague 

Families looking for an exciting, educational, and easy-to-reach city in the Netherlands will love The Hague. Located south of Amsterdam and less than an hour away by train, The Hague is home to the Dutch government, the royal family, international courts, excellent museums, green spaces, and one of the country’s most popular beach areas. It is one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands with kids, especially if your family wants a mix of culture, history, art, and time by the sea.

Art-loving families should visit the Mauritshuis, one of the best museums in The Hague. It is home to famous Dutch Golden Age paintings, including works by Vermeer and Rembrandt. Older kids, tweens, and teens may especially appreciate seeing masterpieces like Girl with a Pearl Earring up close. For younger children, keep the visit short and focused so it does not feel overwhelming.

Another great option for families is Museon-Omniversum, formerly known simply as Museon. This family-friendly museum combines interactive exhibits with immersive dome films and is especially good for curious kids who enjoy science, culture, nature, and big-picture global topics. It is a useful rainy-day option in The Hague with kids.

For something truly unique, head to Madurodam, an interactive miniature park where kids can see many of the Netherlands’ most famous landmarks in one place. It is one of the most popular things to do in The Hague with kids and works especially well for younger children and school-age kids.

Families can also visit the Peace Palace, one of The Hague’s most important landmarks. However, it is not a regular public park where visitors can freely wander the gardens. Families can visit the free Visitors Centre, and guided tours of the Palace grounds or gardens may be available depending on the schedule. Tickets for guided tours are usually released close to the visit date, so check availability in advance. 

Other fun things to do in The Hague with kids include Panorama Mesdag, where families can see a massive 360-degree panoramic painting of Scheveningen from the 19th century, and nearby Scheveningen Beach, which is perfect for a seaside break. In warmer months, families can enjoy the beach, pier, promenade, playgrounds, and casual restaurants. Even outside of summer, Scheveningen is a nice place for a walk and fresh air after museum visits.

Finally, do not forget to treat the kids — and yourself — to Dutch pancakes at one of The Hague’s pancake houses. It is an easy, family-friendly meal and a fun way to add a local food experience to your visit.

Best for: Art, history, museums, beach time, Dutch culture, school-age kids, tweens, and teens.

Maastricht

If you’re looking for one of the most charming places to visit in the Netherlands with kids, Maastricht is definitely worth considering. Located in the southern Netherlands near the borders of Belgium and Germany, this historic city is known for its picturesque setting on the Meuse River, medieval architecture, lively squares, and compact, pedestrian-friendly center. It is around 2.5 hours from Amsterdam by train, so it works better as an overnight stop than a quick day trip for most families.

Maastricht has a slightly different feel from cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or The Hague. It is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, with Roman history, cobblestone streets, old churches, cafés, and a vibrant university-town atmosphere. This makes it especially fun for families with tweens and teens who enjoy wandering, shopping, eating, and exploring a city at a slower pace.

Start in the historic Old Town, where families can walk through narrow streets, pretty squares, and along the Meuse River. The Basilica of Saint Servatius is one of Maastricht’s most important landmarks and one of the oldest churches in the Netherlands. Families can visit the church and treasury, making it a worthwhile stop for older kids, tweens, teens, or families interested in history and architecture.

Art-loving families can visit the Bonnefanten Museum, one of Maastricht’s most recognizable museums. The museum features a mix of old masters, modern art, and contemporary exhibitions inside a striking building designed by architect Aldo Rossi. It may appeal most to older kids, tweens, teens, or families who already enjoy art. Depending on the exhibition calendar, the museum may also offer children’s activities or family programming, so check the schedule before visiting.

For local history, stop by the Maastricht Museum, located inside Centre Céramique. This museum focuses on the history and culture of Maastricht and the surrounding Limburg region. It is a better description than calling Centre Céramique simply an archaeological museum, although archaeology is part of Maastricht’s broader story.

Kids will also enjoy Maastricht’s parks and open spaces, including Stadspark, a pleasant green space near the city center and riverfront. For families who want something more adventurous, consider Fort Sint Pieter, an 18th-century fortress overlooking the city. Families can take guided tours of the fort and nearby caves, which can be a memorable experience for older kids. Check tour times and age suitability in advance, especially if traveling with younger children.

Maastricht is also a great food city. Families can enjoy Dutch pancakes, waffles, pastries, cafés, and relaxed meals around Vrijthof Square or along the river. Because of its southern location and university-town energy, Maastricht is a particularly good Netherlands destination for families who want history, atmosphere, and a slower pace.

Best for: Tweens, teens, history, cafés, walkable streets, university-town energy, old churches, and families who want a different side of the Netherlands beyond Amsterdam.

Planning a spring family trip? The Netherlands can also be a great option for spring break, especially for families who want museums, tulips, canals, and easy train travel.

Utrecht 

Families who want to visit one of the Netherlands’ most historic and charming cities should add Utrecht to their itinerary. Located southeast of Amsterdam, Utrecht is about 30 minutes away by train, making it an easy day trip or overnight stop during a Netherlands family vacation. With canals, medieval architecture, museums, parks, and a lively city center, Utrecht is one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands with kids.

One of the best things to do in Utrecht with kids is to visit the Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. Families can climb the tower as part of a guided tour and enjoy sweeping views over the city. Keep in mind that the climb includes many steps, so it is best for older kids, tweens, teens, and families comfortable with stairs. Families with younger children may prefer exploring Dom Square or visiting DOMunder, an underground experience where visitors learn about 2,000 years of Utrecht history beneath the square.

Utrecht also has several excellent museums for families. The Centraal Museum is a good option for families interested in Dutch art, design, fashion, and local history, though it may appeal more to older kids or teens. For younger children, the Dutch Railway Museum, also known as Spoorwegmuseum, is usually the stronger family choice. Kids can explore historic trains, interactive exhibits, themed experiences, and family-friendly attractions connected to the history of rail travel in the Netherlands. The museum also has a working steam locomotive experience called Arend under Steam, though availability may depend on the schedule.

Another fun place to visit in Utrecht with kids is Máximapark, a large public park west of the city center. Families can walk, bike, play, relax, and visit the park’s butterfly garden, known as Vlinderhof. It is a lovely option if you want a break from museums and city sightseeing.

Of course, no visit to Utrecht would be complete without spending time along the canals. Utrecht’s canals are especially atmospheric because of their lower-level wharves, where families can find cafés, restaurants, and waterside walkways. Take a canal boat tour, rent a pedal boat in season, or simply stroll along the Oudegracht for an easy afternoon activity.

Best for: Canals, medieval history, train lovers, older kids, tweens, teens, and families who want an easier, less crowded alternative to Amsterdam.

Delft

The Dutch city of Delft is a wonderful place to visit with kids, especially for families who love canals, history, art, and charming European streets. With its cobbled lanes, pretty bridges, centuries-old architecture, and compact city center, Delft is easy to explore on foot and feels more relaxed than Amsterdam. It is also well located between Rotterdam and The Hague, and families can reach Delft from Amsterdam by train in about one hour, depending on the route and departure station.

Start your visit at Royal Delft, where families can learn about the history of Delft Blue pottery and see how this famous Dutch ceramic tradition is made. Kids may enjoy watching painting demonstrations, exploring the museum, or browsing the gift shop for a small souvenir to take home. Families who want a more hands-on experience should check in advance to see whether painting workshops or family-friendly activities are available during their visit.

Next, head into Delft’s historic center to visit the Oude Kerk, or Old Church. This Gothic church is one of the city’s most important landmarks and is known for its leaning tower, stained-glass windows, and historic tombs. It is also the burial place of Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer, who was born, lived, and worked in Delft. Since the visit is quiet and historical, it may be best for older kids, tweens, and teens rather than very young children.

Families interested in Vermeer can also stop at the Vermeer Centrum Delft, located near the main square. It is not an art museum with Vermeer’s original paintings, but it is an information center dedicated to his life, work, techniques, and connection to Delft. This is an important distinction for readers, especially because many families may expect to see original Vermeer paintings here.

Save time to explore Delft’s Markt, the city’s main square, which is home to the Delft Town Hall and the Nieuwe Kerk. The Nieuwe Kerk is another major Delft landmark and is connected to the Dutch royal family through the royal burial vault. Families with older kids may also enjoy climbing the church tower for views over the city, if open during their visit.

Delft is also a great place to slow down and enjoy Dutch food. Families can try stroopwafels, poffertjes, Dutch pancakes, fries, cheese, or a casual café lunch while wandering through the old town. Because the center is compact and scenic, Delft works well as a low-stress day trip with kids or as a quieter overnight stop during a Netherlands family vacation.

Best for: Canals, Dutch history, Delft Blue pottery, Vermeer, walkable streets, older kids, tweens, teens, and families who want a charming alternative to Amsterdam.

Best Small Towns and Day Trips From Amsterdam With Kids

Amsterdam is the Dutch capital and a convenient base for families visiting the Netherlands. Thanks to the country’s excellent train, tram, bus, and ferry network, families can easily take day trips or short overnight excursions to smaller cities, charming villages, beaches, windmills, and historic towns.

While some destinations are easy to reach by direct train, others require a car, organized tour, or a train-and-bus combination. Keep reading for some of the best small towns and places to visit in the Netherlands with kids on a day trip from Amsterdam.

Giethoorn

There is no place quite like Giethoorn in the Netherlands. This idyllic village in the province of Overijssel looks like something straight out of a fairytale, with canals, thatched-roof cottages, wooden bridges, and quiet walking paths. Often called the “Venice of the Netherlands” or the “Venice of the North,” Giethoorn is one of the most unique day trips from Amsterdam with kids.

Giethoorn is about 1.5 to 2 hours from Amsterdam by car, depending on traffic. By public transportation, it usually takes longer and requires a train to Steenwijk, followed by a local bus to Giethoorn. This is why families with younger kids may prefer driving or booking an organized day tour from Amsterdam. Giethoorn’s official tourism site notes that travelers from Amsterdam Zuid can take trains to Steenwijk, with some routes direct and others requiring a transfer, while travelers from Amsterdam Central usually need to connect before reaching Steenwijk. 

Giethoorn is famous for its picturesque canals and bridges, which families can explore by renting a quiet electric boat, joining a guided boat tour, or walking along the village paths. Renting a boat is one of the most popular things to do in Giethoorn with kids, especially in spring and summer. Since Giethoorn can get crowded during peak travel periods, it is smart to reserve a boat rental or tour in advance if this is a priority for your family.

When you want to explore on foot, Giethoorn is peaceful and scenic, with plenty of photo-worthy bridges, cottages, and canal views. The historic village center is largely car-free, though there are roads and parking areas around town, so it is more accurate to describe Giethoorn as a village best explored by boat, bike, or on foot rather than a place with no car access at all. Giethoorn’s official tourism site describes it as a water village known for its canals, wooden bridges, and boat tours instead of roads. 

Families can also visit Museum Giethoorn ’t Olde Maat Uus, where kids can learn more about the village’s history, traditional farm life, and why water played such an important role in the area. There are also cafés, restaurants, and small shops where families can stop for lunch, snacks, or souvenirs.

Giethoorn is beautiful, but it is not the easiest day trip from Amsterdam by public transportation. For families with toddlers or limited time, a closer canal town may be more practical. For families with older kids who enjoy scenic villages, boat rides, and unusual places, Giethoorn can be one of the most memorable places to visit in the Netherlands with kids.

Best for: Scenic canals, boat rides, fairytale villages, photography, older kids, tweens, teens, and families with a car or organized day tour.

Zaans Schans

When it comes to the most iconic places to visit in the Netherlands with kids, Zaanse Schans should be high on the list! Located just north of Amsterdam, this open-air heritage area is known for its historic windmills, green wooden houses, traditional workshops, small museums, and classic Dutch scenery. It is also one of the easiest day trips from Amsterdam with kids. Families can take the train from Amsterdam Central Station to Zaandijk – Zaanse Schans, which takes around 17 minutes, followed by about a 15-minute walk to the main area.

Start your visit by exploring the windmills and historic wooden houses along the Zaan River. Families can go inside some of the working windmills, learn about traditional Dutch crafts, and see how people lived and worked in the region in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Zaans Museum is another great stop if you want to learn more about local history, Dutch industry, and the famous Verkade chocolate and biscuit brand.

Kids will also love the Wooden Shoe Workshop of Zaanse Schans, where they can learn about Dutch clogs and watch clog-making demonstrations. Then, stop by Cheese Farm De Catharina Hoeve to see a cheese-making demonstration and sample Dutch cheeses in the shop. Several shops and cafés around Zaanse Schans also sell traditional Dutch products such as clogs, cheese, chocolate, and Delftware-style souvenirs.

Because Zaanse Schans is very popular, try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds. It works especially well as a half-day trip from Amsterdam.

Best for: Windmills, Dutch crafts, clogs, cheese, younger kids, school-age kids, and an easy day trip from Amsterdam.

Zandvoort

For families who want to add beach time to their Netherlands itinerary, Zandvoort is one of the easiest seaside day trips from Amsterdam. Located on the North Sea coast, this popular beach town is easy to reach by direct train from Amsterdam and works well for families who want sand, fresh air, casual restaurants, and a break from museums and city sightseeing.

In warmer months, families can spend time on Zandvoort Beach, walk along the promenade, rent bikes, or enjoy lunch at one of the beach clubs. Teens may especially enjoy the relaxed beach atmosphere, coastal views, and the chance to explore somewhere that feels completely different from Amsterdam.

Nature-loving families can also visit nearby Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, known for dunes, walking trails, wildlife, and wide-open landscapes. It is a great option if your family wants an active outdoor day without traveling too far from Amsterdam.

Zandvoort is not as packed with cultural attractions as Delft, Utrecht, or The Hague, but it is a great choice when families want a simple, low-pressure beach day during a Netherlands vacation.

Best for: Beach time, dunes, fresh air, casual restaurants, teens, and families who want an easy seaside day trip from Amsterdam.

Hoorn

The Netherlands is a great place to visit with kids, and Hoorn is one of the most charming towns to see on a day trip from Amsterdam. Located on the IJsselmeer, just north of Amsterdam, Hoorn has canals, historic harbors, medieval architecture, and a relaxed small-town feel. It is also easy to reach by direct train from Amsterdam Central Station, usually in about 35 to 45 minutes.

Hoorn has a fascinating history dating back to the Middle Ages and the Dutch Golden Age. Families can walk through the old town, see the Hoofdtoren, a historic harbor tower, and enjoy views of the boats along the waterfront. There are also plenty of fun things to do in Hoorn with kids.

One highlight is the Museum of the 20th Century, a kid-friendly museum on Oostereiland where families can explore daily life from the last century through toys, technology, household items, film, sound, and nostalgic displays. For a truly memorable historical experience, families can also ride the Museum Steam Tram Hoorn-Medemblik, which departs from Hoorn and travels through the West Frisian countryside to Medemblik. Some itineraries also combine the steam tram with a boat connection toward Enkhuizen, so check the schedule before planning your day.

Families can also take a boat tour or simply enjoy a walk around Hoorn’s harbor and old streets. It is a nice choice for families who want a smaller, less crowded Dutch town with history, water views, and an easy train connection from Amsterdam.

Best for: Historic harbor views, steam train rides, small-town charm, school-age kids, tweens, and families looking for an easy day trip from Amsterdam.

Families planning to stay overnight can also look for apartments, vacation rentals, or boutique stays in and around Hoorn. Use Plum Guide to look for exceptional homestays around Hoorn now!

Abcoude

For families looking for a quiet and charming day trip from Amsterdam, Abcoude is a lovely choice. Located just southeast of Amsterdam in the province of Utrecht, this small Dutch village has historic houses, canals, bridges, cafés, and a peaceful countryside feel. It is easy to reach by train from Amsterdam, usually in around 15 to 25 minutes, depending on your departure station and route.

Abcoude is best for families who want a slower, more local experience rather than a packed sightseeing day. Families can stroll through the village center, see the Dorpskerk, walk along the Angstel River, and enjoy the pretty streets and waterfront views. The surrounding polder landscape also makes Abcoude a nice place for biking, walking, or simply taking a break from busy Amsterdam.

One of the most interesting places nearby is Fort Abcoude, part of the historic Defense Line of Amsterdam, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Families can also visit nearby countryside stops, cafés, or farms, depending on the season and how much time they have. Abcoude does not have as many major attractions as places like Zaanse Schans or Delft, but that is part of its appeal.

Families looking for an easy, low-key outing can combine Abcoude with a countryside walk, lunch at a local café, or a bike ride through the surrounding villages and waterways.

Best for: Quiet village charm, countryside walks, biking, canals, cafés, and families who want a peaceful day trip close to Amsterdam.

A Guide For Families Biking In Amsterdam: Rentals And Rides

Happy Travels!

We hope you enjoyed this list of the best places to visit in the Netherlands with kids! From traditional Dutch villages with historic windmills to lively cities filled with art, history, canals, and culture, this beautiful country offers something for every member of the family.

Whether you’re planning a first trip to Amsterdam, a day trip to Zaanse Schans, or a longer Netherlands family vacation, there are so many memorable ways to explore Dutch culture with kids. Enjoy your family trip to the Netherlands!

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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