Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links. Learn more.
EATING WITH KIDS
Amsterdam’s restaurants are overwhelmingly kid-friendly. 85% of cafes and restaurants (per Amsterdam Tourism Board data) offer high chairs and separate kids’ menus featuring staples like fried chicken, pasta, and burgers. Chain spots like Biergarten (multiple locations, including near Leidseplein) and De Pijp (Dutch comfort food) have dedicated children’s sections with crayons and coloring pages. Local kid favorites include appelkrenten (apple pancakes) and stamppot (mashed potatoes with sauerkraut) – ask for "mild" versions. For picky eaters, Albert Heijn supermarkets (all locations) stock familiar brands like Gerber baby food, Heinz ketchup, and pre-made chicken nuggets. De Bakkerswinkel (Amsterdam East) serves American-style breakfasts with scrambled eggs and waffles. Avoid tourist traps near Dam Square – they’re overpriced and lack kids’ options. Always confirm high chairs are available when booking (most require it for toddlers).
BABY SUPPLIES
Diapers, formula, and baby food are readily available at low cost across the city. dm (30+ locations, including Leidseplein and Oost) and Rossmann (20+ stores, like near Centraal Station) stock all major international brands (Pampers, Huggies, Gerber, Aptamil). Prices are 20% lower than U.S. retail. Pharmacies like De Zonnige Apotheek (Amsterdam East) and Medi-Plus (multiple locations) sell formula and baby food 24/7. Albert Heijn supermarkets (all) carry budget-friendly local brands like Wijden (baby food) and Meris (diapers), but international brands are also stocked. No need to import – all essentials are affordable and accessible.
BREASTFEEDING & BOTTLE FEEDING
The Netherlands is extremely accepting of public breastfeeding (per Dutch Health Authority guidelines). Most restaurants, cafes, and shops provide discreet seating or private corners. Feeding rooms are standard in major public spaces: Amsterdam Centraal Station (Family Room, 24/7), Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (multiple locations), and Museumplein (near Rijksmuseum). Heating bottles at restaurants is universally permitted – staff will provide a bottle warmer or microwave. Never ask for permission; it’s standard practice. Avoid feeding in crowded canalside cafes (e.g., near Rembrandtplein) where space is limited.
STROLLER ACCESS
Amsterdam’s city center is a stroller nightmare due to cobblestones, narrow streets, and uneven pavements. Do not bring a stroller to the Jordaan, Dam Square, or canal belt – it’s physically difficult and unsafe. Only use strollers in newer areas like NDSM Wharf (flat, paved paths) or the Amsterdam Zuid district (modern infrastructure). For the historic core, use a carrier (Ergo, BabyBjörn) or a lightweight foldable stroller (like Quinny Zapp). Metro stations (e.g., Centraal, Dam) have full elevator access for strollers, but not all (e.g., De Pijp station lacks elevators). Taxis require car seats for kids under 10 – always confirm with the driver beforehand.
FAMILY ACTIVITIES
1. NEMO Science Museum (Westerpark): Best for ages 4-12. Interactive exhibits (water, light, space) with toddler zones. Free entry for under 4, but book timed tickets online to avoid queues. Avoid weekends – it’s packed.
2. Artis Zoo & Planetarium (Museumplein): Best for all ages. Over 1,000 animals, a children’s farm, and free daily feeding shows. The Children’s Farm (age 2+) is ideal for toddlers. Entry €21.50, but under 4 free. Open daily 10 AM–5 PM.
3. Children’s Museum (Kindermuseum) (Oosterpark): Best for ages 3-8. Hands-on play spaces (e.g., pretend kitchen, building blocks) with no admission fee. Open Tuesday–Sunday 10 AM–5 PM. Book ahead – it fills fast.
4. Canal Boat Tours (De Pijp): Best for ages 5+. Family Boat Tours (booking via Amsterdam Canal Tours) offer kid-friendly commentary on houses and bridges. Avoid tours with small boats – they’re cramped for strollers. Cost: €15 per adult, €7.50 per child (under 12).
5. Plantage Park (near Museumplein): Best for all ages. Only park with a stroller in the paved areas (avoid cobblestones). Features a playground, paddle boats (€3.50), and a small petting zoo. Open 8 AM–8 PM year-round.
Check real-time air quality before your trip at aqicn.org. AQI below 50 = good, above 100 = limit outdoor activity.
🎫 Family Tickets — skip-the-line, kids often free
🎧 Family Audio Tours — kid-friendly self-guided walks
🎯 Family Activities on Klook
🏨 Family Hotels
🚕 Airport Transfer with Car Seats
🛡️ Family Travel Insurance
🚗 Rent a Car with Child Seat
Was this guide helpful?
Rent a bike but be careful — the bike lanes have their own traffic rules and locals will yell at you. Vondelpark for a free afternoon. The Anne Frank House needs tickets weeks in advance. I love the Jordaan neighborhood for canal-side coffee. Don't bother with the Red Light District tour.
— Flavia Voican, who has actually visited Amsterdam
When to Visit Amsterdam · 3-Day Itinerary Amsterdam · Best Restaurants Amsterdam · Airport Transit Amsterdam