Family fun

Amsterdam is the place to do something different. Why not hire a bike, hop on the canal or visit a working windmill? The Dutch capital is a centre for all things creative too, so you’re bound to discover your arty side. Not only will you be met with tasty pancake houses, there are heaps of museums to keep everyone entertained.

Madame Tussauds Amsterdam

Hang out with the stars at Madame Tussauds Amsterdam and get your photo taken with the incredibly lifelike wax sculptures of world leaders, sports heroes, musicians and A-listers. Check out the new, interactive I Am Art attraction and become a part of famous artwork by Dutch artists like Van Gogh.

Amsterdam Cheese Museum

Pop on your clogs and get dressed up like a traditional Dutch cheese farmer at the fun Amsterdam Cheese Museum. Learn about the history and process of cheese making in the quaint museum and taste a wide variety of fine, flavoursome cheeses in the shop, before deciding which to take home.

Anne Frank House

An educational and moving, must-see experience is a visit to Anne Frank House. It’s hard to imagine what life was like hiding from the Nazis in the family’s Secret Annex but the collection of audio clips, photographs and salvaged documents help bring Anne’s story to life. Be sure to book in advance.

Artis Zoo

At Artis Zoo you’ll find all creatures great and small, including penguins, gorillas, elephants and lions. It’s well set out so you can get close to many of the animals and watch them being fed, and there are regular live shows and displays. The zoo also has a bird house, butterfly enclosure and aquarium.

Science Center NEMO

The eye-catching Science Center NEMO will entertain all ages, with five floors of fun, hands-on science exhibitions. Learn about chain reactions using giant dominoes, give your brain a workout with a memory test, and conduct experiments in the giant science lab. Head to the top floor for a great view.

Vondelpark

Close to the museum quarter, Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s largest city park and a popular place for walks and picnics. Look out for the wild ducks and herons, and a Picasso fish statue. There are several children’s play areas, and if you’re here in the summer the open-air theatre has free entertainment.