An itinerary for spending some time in Amsterdam with preteen kids.
Day 1
One of the top attractions in Amsterdam for kids (and actually a lot of grown-ups too), is the zoo. While not as big as some other Dutch zoos, ARTIS is still a great zoo, where there is a lot to see and do. You could easily spend a day there, but if you still have some time left, take a canal cruise. Lovers is one of the most affordable ones and offers audio guided tours in over 15 languages.
For dinner try one of the many excellent burger restaurants Amsterdam has to offer.
Day 2
Like many other large cities with a lot of tourists Amsterdam also has a branch of Madame Tussauds. See how the museum combines centuries-old waxwork techniques and cutting-edge modern technology to bring enchanting sets and galleries to life. There are many wax sculptures to be found of famous people like Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Barrack Obama and Anne Frank.
If you like to have your kids learn a thing or two while having a lot of fun, head over to the NEMO Science Museum. Learn about the wonders of science inside this interactive space where you can get hands-on with experiments. Physics, engineering, chemistry, and biology are all waiting for your kids to discover them.
Day 3
If you’re kids are a little older and not get scared too easily, the Amsterdam Dungeon might be a fun place to go. The dungeon combines a perfect mix of spooky jump-scares, creepy history, and tongue-in-cheek dramatics. If you rather go somehwere a little less creepy, but just as strange, visit the Upside Down. Kids will love it and it’s a great place to make surreal and funny pictures.
In the afternoon take a ferry to the north side of Amsterdam and experience The Netherlands in a very unique way. This is Holland is a 5D experience, which takes you soaring over some of the country’s greatest highlights. Travel through mist, wind and different smells and fall in love with the feeling of flying.
Tip! On a budget? Why not spending some time in one of the many petting zoos. There are about 20 petting zoos throughout Amsterdam and entrance is free.