Start your Amsterdam adventure by immersing yourself in the city's rich history and vibrant culture. In the morning, visit the Anne Frank House, a museum dedicated to the life of Anne Frank and her famous diary. Explore the secret annex where Anne and her family hid during World War II. Afterward, take a scenic boat tour along the picturesque canals of Amsterdam to admire the charming architecture and learn about the city's heritage. In the afternoon, head to the NEMO Science Museum, where interactive exhibits and hands-on activities will entertain and educate the whole family. As the evening sets in, visit Vondelpark, the city's largest park, for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or bike ride.
Anne Frank House: Entrance Fee: €14, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Breakfast: Pancakes Amsterdam. Enjoy delicious Dutch pancakes in various flavors such as bacon, cheese, and apple. Average cost for a meal is about €10 per person.
Lunch: Bakers & Roasters. Indulge in a fusion of New Zealand and Brazilian cuisine with options like gourmet sandwiches and hearty salads. Average cost for a meal is about €15 per person.
Dinner: De Silveren Spiegel. Experience traditional Dutch cuisine in an elegant and cozy setting. Sample dishes like herring, stamppot, and smoked eel. Average cost for a meal is about €30 per person.
Sunday, August 27: Family-Friendly Attractions
Spend your second day in Amsterdam exploring more family-friendly attractions. Start the morning by visiting the Artis Royal Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Europe. Marvel at the diverse range of animals and enjoy interactive exhibits and shows. Afterward, head to the Natura Artis Magistra, an aquarium and planetarium located within the zoo complex. In the afternoon, take a trip to the Nemo Science Museum, a fascinating destination where kids can engage in hands-on experiments and learn about science through play. As the evening approaches, make your way to the Pancake Bakery, a charming restaurant that offers a variety of delicious Dutch pancakes for both kids and adults.
Artis Royal Zoo: Entrance Fee: €26 (adult), €22 (child), Time spent: 3-4 hours
Natura Artis Magistra: Entrance Fee: €5 (adult), €3 (child), Time spent: 1-2 hours
Pancake Bakery: Estimated Cost: €15-20, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Moak Pancakes, located just a short walk from the Artis Royal Zoo. This cozy restaurant offers a wide selection of sweet and savory pancakes, with an average cost of around 10 euros per person.
For lunch, head to De Plantage, a charming restaurant situated in the heart of the Artis complex. Enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by greenery and a relaxed atmosphere. The average cost for a lunch at De Plantage is about 15-20 euros per person.
For a memorable dinner, visit La Rive, a renowned gourmet restaurant near the Nemo Science Museum. Indulge in exquisite French cuisine with breathtaking views of the Amstel River. The average cost for a dinner at La Rive is around 70-100 euros per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Amsterdam, make sure to visit the Hortus Botanicus, a beautiful botanical garden that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Kids will love the butterfly greenhouse and the diverse plant collections. Another hidden gem is the Science Center NEMO, which features interactive exhibits and experiments, providing an exciting learning experience for the whole family. Additionally, consider taking a day trip to the Kinderdijk windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage site located near Amsterdam. Here, you can explore the scenic countryside and learn about the history of Dutch windmills.