37 awesome things to do in Amsterdam with teenagers

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit. As the capital of the Netherlands (as well as The Hague), there are many fun things to do in Amsterdam with teenagers. Amsterdam has a population of a little over 850,000 people. 3.5 million people visit Amsterdam every year.

Amsterdam is a city rich in history, art, culture, and fun and is home to two of the most famous museums in the world. The Rijksmuseum Museum and the Van Gough Museum. This makes finding things to do in Amsterdam with teenagers and families easy.

As family travellers, we like to find a mixture of experiences for everyone. It’s important for us to learn about culture and history as an educational experience for the kids.

Know before you go. Our top Amsterdam planning tips

Before we get started on all the amazing things to do and see with teenagers we have some essential Amsterdam information for you. The how to get there, where to stay, and how to get around Amsterdam. We hope this helps you with planning your Amsterdam with teens trip.

Where to stay in Amsterdam with teens

You’ll never be short of options for your accommodation in Amsterdam. In Amsterdam, you find a range of hotels, apartments, and hostels. You will be sure to be able to find something to fit your budget. If you’re not keen on any of our picks below or have specific needs, we recommend using Trip Advisor and Booking.com to find the best prices in Amsterdam.

• For a luxury family-friendly hotel in Amsterdam, consider Hotel Jakarta Amsterdam by WestCord, Hotel Sofitel Legend and Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. These luxury hotels feature high-end facilities such as spas, fitness centres and pools
• For Mid-Range and affordable hotels in Amsterdam, you should consider XO Hotels City Centre Ibis Budget Amsterdam South City and Via Amsterdam. All these hotels make accessing the city centre easy.

Best areas to stay in Amsterdam

Grachtengordel (Amsterdam canal ring) – This is the best place to stay in Amsterdam. This area makes the city centre highly accessible to families. Accommodation on one of the amazing canals is very picturesque. You find boats and bikes passing along the canals. We stayed on the Singel Canal when we visited.

Museum Plein – This area as the name suggests this area is close to world-famous museums such as the Van Gogh Museum. It’s also easy walking distance to Vondel Park, Albert Cuyp Market and the Heineken Experience. You will have a nice and quiet, authentic stay as this area reaches out of the city centre into the Suburbs of Amsterdam.

Centrum – Centrum is aptly named because it is the centre of the old town of Amsterdam. You will find a great mix of luxury and budget hotels in this area. It can also be very noisy as Amsterdam is a city that does not sleep, it rages on well into the night

Amsterdam apartment alternative for your stay

If you prefer a home away from home-style accommodation when on your Oslo trip with teenagers in Norway, then an apartment is the best choice for you on your family vacation. There are so many options for singles, families, and budget-friendly options in Oslo as well. You can search VRBO for tourist-class apartments in cities worldwide.

If you’re looking for something a bit fancier, discover Plum Guide’s exceptional luxury apartments, handpicked for their stunning views, prime locations, and indulgent amenities. With meticulous quality checks and a focus on unique experiences, they offer the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Experience the extraordinary and create unforgettable memories in these truly special accommodations

How to get to Amsterdam

• Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is just 9km from the city centre. Schiphol is the 3rd busiest airport in Europe with connections from all major cities. Search Amsterdam flights with Kiwi Flights
  • Book a transfer from Amsterdam Airport to Amsterdam Central
    • If your flights have a long stopover, or you just want to relax before your trip you should consider getting a lounge pass with a Priority Pass. Priority Pass has access to airport lounges all over the world. Search now for your lounge pass
• Trains run to Amsterdam Central from Brussels, Paris, Cologne, London and more. Trains arriving from Northern Europe cities like Stockholm arrive via Hamburg. Book your trains to Amsterdam with Omio
•  National Express, Megabus, Eurolines and Flixbus all service Amsterdam from destinations all over Europe. Book your bus tickets with Busbud.

How to get around Amsterdam

Amsterdam has an extensive public transport network. You can buy a 1 to 7-day ticket (€8.50 to €37), and children aged 4-11 will cost €4 per day. Kids over 11 are classed as adults.

• The Tram Network: Trams run from the central station throughout the city centre and into outlying Amsterdam neighbourhoods
• Amsterdam Metro: The Amsterdam Metro has 4 lines that run out from a central station. Amsterdam Metro stations do not have maned information booths, so be prepared
• The Amsterdam Bus Network: The most extensive and far-reaching of the three networks. The bus will deliver you to all suburbs and even as far as the main historic towns and villages north of Amsterdam.
• Consider the I Amsterdam card for free public transport, or buy an Amsterdam public transport ticket.

Amsterdam for international visitors

International travel to Europe requires a bit more thought. You will need travel insurance in Amsterdam. Medical care is not cheap and if you want good quality care it will cost you a fortune if you don’t have travel insurance.

If you use your bank account from home you will be stung with high transaction fees, while your mobile phone calls will all be charged at an international rate. These are just some of the things you need to think about when travelling to Amsterdam with teenagers.

• For international travellers, travel insurance is a must get a quote through Insurance Masters and don’t go home with a huge bill for medical expenses
• Load a Revolut Travel Money card with Euros for your visit and save on transaction fees
• Make phone calls with an international sim card or a virtual e-sim for your mobile phone.
• A 4G pocket Wi-Fi modem is essential for accessing the internet anywhere on your phone, tablet or computer, rent or buy a pocket modem.

Travel accessories for teenagers

For teenagers, travelling can be a fun and exciting experience. However, there are a few things that they need to take into account in order to make the trip as comfortable and safe as possible. One of these is ensuring that they have the necessary travel accessories.

Things to do in Amsterdam with teenagers

Amsterdam is a beautiful city and you will find yourself mesmerised by the streets that are so easy to walk. Getting around Amsterdam with teens is easy.

You can walk or even hire a bike for the day, it’s totally up to you and how you want to experience the beautiful Amsterdam with kids in tow. Here are our top places to visit in Amsterdam with teens.

Take a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam for teenagers

One of the best ways to see Amsterdam is by the water. The canal area of Amsterdam features fascinating houses, some straight and some learning, these days. You cruise past the 17th-Century canal house where Anne Frank lived, you can admire the historic canal boats.

The picturesque canals, Dutch houseboats and life in Amsterdam slowly disappear as you head out into Amsterdam Harbour to see the newer areas of the city. This is a great learning experience for teenagers as the history of the city is explained during the cruise.

Vondel Park Amsterdam

Vondel Park is Amsterdam’s main city green space. It’s located just over the bridge in the west direction from the Leidseplein. Vondel Park covers an impressive 47 Hectares of land. Vondel Park Amsterdam is a great place to enjoy the slower pace of Amsterdam. Take a frisbee or football.

Spend some time chasing the frisbee on the green wide open spaces of Vondel Park. Kids and teenagers in Amsterdam will like to hire a bike in Vondel Park. The paths in the park are well-signposted and wide for bike riding.

The park and its paths are used by cyclists getting from one part of Amsterdam city to the other. The paths in the park are not as crowded as in the city centre. It’s a more relaxed environment as you pass the ponds and sites of Vondel Park.

How to get to Vondel Park Amsterdam

To reach the park from Dam Square, take tram line 1 and get off at J.P. Heijestraat. Alternatively, it is a half-hour walk from Dam Square if you fancy the fresh air. If you are near the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, the Vondelpark is just a few minute’s walk away.

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Amsterdam Sightseeing – The Heineken Experience

The Heineken Experience might sound like a strange choice for a teenager in Amsterdam to do. We think it’s never too early to expose teens to responsible drinking practices, and there is an aspect during the tour where they are taught about responsible drinking.

The Heineken Experience is an interactive fun tour for all. Along the way, you will learn about the history of Amsterdam and Heineken.

Some of the interactive rides include the bottling line where you experience the beer from brewing to unboxing. All this is done in a 360-degree virtual cinema. All these and more teach you about the brewing process and industry in Amsterdam.

*Since November 2021 children under 18 are no longer able to go to the Heineken Experience.

How to get to the Heineken Experience

Walking: from the Rijksmuseum, ca. 10 minutes walk along Stadhouderskade West, from the Munt Tower and the Flower Market – 15 minutes walk South  along Vijzelgracht

Public transport: from Central Station tram 16, 24, 25: get out at Stadhouderskade; from Leidseplein tram 7, 10, exit at stop Weteringcircuit.

By car: from the Amsterdam ring A10 take exit S110, and follow the sign boards Centrum and Stadhouderskade. There are indoor parking options in the Heinekenplein garage and several other parking possibilities in the area.

By boat: several Amsterdam tours by boat offer the Amsterdam Heineken Experience combined with their canal tour, the boat stops in front of the brewery.

Top travel to Amsterdam tip: Consider buying the I Amsterdam card for free public transport in Amsterdam. Save time and buy the card >HERE<

Cool things to do in Amsterdam with teens

While there are things in Amsterdam to do with kids that we think they will love these are the ones that are totally cool and have to be on your Amsterdam itinerary when you are visiting Amsterdam with teens.

Swing above the city at A’DAM Tower

A’DAM Tower is a swing attraction in Amsterdam that is quickly becoming a popular tourist destination.

The swing can accommodate up to six people as it sends you out over the building’s edge, 100m (328ft) in the air, providing fun, thrills, excitement and an amazing view of the city. The ride is a lot of fun, and it’s perfect for teenagers and adults alike. Along with the swing, the A’dam lookout provides a view of the side of Amsterdam that you will only see from above.

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Straat Graffiti Art Museum – Amsterdam Teenager activities

Graffiti art is one of the most popular and controversial forms of art in the world. It can be seen as a form of vandalism or a beautiful work of art, depending on who is looking at it. Amsterdam is well-known for its street art, and the city’s Graffiti Museum is home to the world’s largest collection of graffiti art.

The museum showcases graffiti from all over the world, including pieces from well-known artists like Banksy and Shepard Fairey. If your teens are hesitant to visit museums, this might just be a museum they love. Book your entry to Straat today

Attractions of Amsterdam – The Albert Cuyp Market

What to see in Amsterdam for teenagers that love food and shopping? The Albert Cuyp market is the place to go. The Albert Cuyp Market is a street market located in the De Pijp neighbourhood of Amsterdam, Netherlands.

It is named after the street on which it is located, the Albert Cuypstraat, the Market has been running in Amsterdam since 1905.

When in Amsterdam with teens, a visit to the market will find the latest fashions and foods from all over the world to sample. The market is known for its trendy clothing, jewellery and a variety of other goods, such as household items, and souvenirs.

Be prepared for teenagers to want this, that and everything. Sticky sugary Dutch sweets are everywhere. Waffles, smoothies and snacks abound all along the street.

How to get to Albert Cuyp Market

Amsterdam public transport on tram numbers 4,  16, 24, 3 and 12 will deliver you within easy walking distance to the Market.

Other markets in Amsterdam: In the Jordaan, the Noordermarkt is a farmer’s market on Saturdays, the Museum Market near the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum on the third Sunday of the month and the Waterlooplein flea market near the Rembrandt House.

Bungee Jumping in Amsterdam

If you are looking for an adrenaline adventure, bungee jumping is definitely worth considering. The heights involved can be nerve-wracking, but they are also part of what makes the experience so exhilarating.

If you are worried about being too scared to go through with it, don’t be – most bungee jump operators offer training and safety briefings before you take the plunge.

Bungee Jumping requires guts and bravery to take the plunge, but those who do it swear by the intense high they get from this extreme sport.

So what are you waiting for? Located opposite Central Station in Amsterdam, Bungee Amsterdam offers excitement in Amsterdam for older teens looking for a thrilling adventure.

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The Amsterdam Torture Museum

The Amsterdam Torture Museum could be one of the top things to do with teenagers in Amsterdam. It might show the kids of today how easy they get it punishment-wise. The museum will give your teenagers in Amsterdam an overview of what punishment was like in the middle ages.

There is a collection of over 40 different instruments to view with explanations as to how they were used. Our teens were both interested and horrified at some of these tortures. You will see how people were stretched, shackled, confined and tortured.

It highlights what a gruesome past we have had and how willing we are to inflict punishment on each other. Keep your expectations low and you may be surprised. It’s a good deviation from normal activities.

Body Worlds Museum

Body Worlds Amsterdam museums offer a fascinating look into the human body, you will be amazed at the intricacies and wonders of the human body.

From anatomy exhibits to interactive displays, teenagers are bound to find them both educational and intriguing. Discover how our bodies function, and marvel at the incredible complexity of our systems.

With engaging exhibits and cutting-edge technology, bodywork museums provide an interactive and immersive experience in Amsterdam. Grab a ticket and prepare to be amazed and inspired at Body Worlds Amsterdam Museum

Things to do in Amsterdam with teenage girls – High Tea

High Tea started out as a quintessentially British thing. This afternoon tea tradition involves savoury sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and of course, tea. For mothers and daughters, it’s a cherished ritual that often brings them closer together.

High tea first became popular in the early 1800s, when aristocrats would gather in the late afternoon for a light meal. These days, high tea is still enjoyed by many Britons and people the world over as a special treat.

If you’re looking to experience high tea firsthand, there are plenty of places in Amsterdam to have a High Tea. But be warned – it can be quite addictive! Once you’ve had a taste of those delicious treats, you’ll likely want to indulge again and again. Some of the best Amsterdam High Tea venues are.

• The Duchess Tea Rooms – SPUISTRAAT 172, 1012 VT, AMSTERDAM +31.20.811‭.‬3322 

• Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam – Herengracht 542-556 Amsterdam, 1017 CG, Netherlands

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Ripleys Believe It or Not!

Ripley’s Believe It or Not Amsterdam is a tourist attraction that consists of odd and strange items from around the world. This museum is located in the heart of Amsterdam with over 500 exhibits located over 4 floors and has been open for over 25 years.

The museum has different sections that include the weird and wonderful. Each section has interesting and unique items on display for visitors to enjoy.

You will find shrunken heads from the Amazon a robot made from car parts, the world’s longest fingernails and more. Book your Ripley’s entry tickets today

Things for teenagers to do in Amsterdam – Madame Tussauds

See popular figures from sports, entertainment and politics sculptured out of wax. Your kids can get pictures taken with their favourites. I have a picture of James Bond! Madame Tussauds in Amsterdam is the original wax museum before the brand was franchised all around the world.

This would have to be one of the most fun things to do in Amsterdam with kids. Madame Tussauds is an ideal attraction for family holidays in Amsterdam.

The Amsterdam Dungeons

The Amsterdam Dungeons follows the successful formula of the other Dungeon sites across Europe and the UK. The concept is half history and half horror as you are taken through the gory history of Amsterdam on a 1-hour experience with actors, lighting displays, props and much more.

The Dungeons are a highly popular attraction in cities worldwide. The dungeons are one of the fun things to do in Amsterdam for young adults.

The Upside Down Museum

The Upside Down Museum is a unique attraction located in Amsterdam, Netherlands. It features a series of rooms and exhibits that are designed to be experienced while standing on the ceiling, giving visitors the sensation of being upside down.

The museum features a range of interactive exhibits, including a room filled with floating furniture, a room where the laws of gravity seem to be suspended. If you’re in Amsterdam and looking for a fun and unusual way to spend a few hours, the Upside Down Museum is definitely worth checking out! Book your entry tickets today.

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Places to visit in Amsterdam The Rijksmuseum 

Rijksmuseum Amsterdam is one of the top places to visit in Amsterdam and offers a few different family tours. This is great that such an esteemed, important museum has embraced family travel and kids visiting the museum.

You can try Rembrandt drawing lessons. You can try your hand at drawing every Saturday and Sunday between 11:00 and 16:00 in the Picnic Room.

You will be encouraged to draw a shell, a countryside, a cityscape or sketch an animal in one minute. Learn to draw really well, just like Rembrandt did, by looking and doing. We love attractions like this that include things for kids to do. The Rijksmuseum Amsterdam is one of the must things to do in Amsterdam with kids.

Another activity is the Digital Family Game. This activity is an engrossing family game where you will need to solve eight fascinating Rijksmuseum mysteries.

It takes about 1 hour and if you succeed, there’s another surprise waiting at the end of the tour. The game is for two to four persons with a device hired from the museum. Book your Rijks tickets today.

How to get to the Rijksmuseum

Public transport:
– By tram: (from Central Station) – lines 2 or 5 (exit on stop Hobbemastraat); from elsewhere in the city – tram 6, 7 or 10 (stop Spiegelgracht).
– By bus: 145, 170, 172 (stop Hobbemastraat). Please note that the bus stop Museumplein is far from the city museums. You should consider the I Amsterdam city card for free public transport to make your stay in Amsterdam easy!

By car: leave the city ring A10 on exit S108 (Amstelveen) and drive direction Centrum via Amstelveenseweg and De Lairessestraat. Turn left on the crossing at the Concertgebouw and try to park your car in the underground Q-park car park, under the Museumplein. The entrance to the car park is directly in front of the Concertgebouw, at the Albert Heijn supermarket entry. You have to drive through the sidewalk to enter it.

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Van Gogh Museum

Having a famous museum for just one artist shows the importance of van Gogh’s contribution to the art world. This Amsterdam museum is home to many of artist Van Gogh’s best works. The museum houses the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works in any one place. You can also find works by his contemporaries Monet and Gauguin who were influences on Van Gough.

The museum chronicles the rich history of works in a number of different galleries, so you can see Van Gogh’s progression of works. The museum is one of the most crowded of Amsterdam’s many attractions.

If you have a teenager interested in art then a visit to the Van Gogh museum is a must. Open Sunday–Thursday from 9 am–7 pm and Friday—Saturday from 9 am–9 pm. We suggest pre-booking tickets online, so you don’t miss out.

How to get to the Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is located at Museumplein 6, +31 20 570 5200. Tram number 3 stops just near the Museum. A combination ticket to the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum Museum will save you money.

The Moco Museum

The Moco Museum (Modern Contemporary Museum) is a private museum that focuses on modern and contemporary art. The museum features works by well-known artists such as Banksy, Warhol, Picasso, Haring, and Koons.

The museum also features temporary exhibitions of emerging artists and a collection of modern art from the private collection of the museum’s founders. The Moco Museum is located at the Villa Alsberg on the Museumplein, a short walk from the Rijksmuseum.

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Other notable attractions for teens in Amsterdam

There are so many places to consider when you visit Amsterdam. These are some that many travelling teenagers will enjoy but it does really depend on your child.

Amsterdam where to visit – Anne Frank House

The writer’s wartime house where she wrote the ever-popular Anne Frank diary is now a biographical museum. You can visit the museum and learn about what Anne and her family went through as they hid inside from the Nazis.

Anne Frank Haus in the Jordaan neighbourhood is one of the most popular places to see in Amsterdam so you must book in advance.

Anne and all of her family except her father dies while in a concentration camp before the war was over. Her father Otto Frank returned to Amsterdam, where he found Anne’s diary still hidden. You will visit the secret annexe/attic where the family hideout.

There are many ways you can learn about Amsterdam in World War 2 with Anne Frank’s life being an ever-present story from that time. Click here to find the best Anne Frank tour for your family

Indoor go-karting in Amsterdam

The next time you’re looking for an indoor activity that is both exciting and challenging, look no further than indoor go-carting! Indoor go-carting is the perfect activity for family members looking to add a little friendly competition to their day.

With its fast speeds and sharp turns, indoor go-carting is sure to get your heart racing. In Amsterdam, you can visit Race Planet which has two go-kart tracks, laser games and bowling.

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Where to go in Amsterdam – I am Amsterdam sign

More for us parents than teenagers visiting Amsterdam. A family picture in front of this famous sign makes a great memento. The sign is one of the most famous Amsterdam attractions.

As of early 2019, the sign has been moved from its location near the Rijks Museum and is now on a rotating basis around different spots in the city. The best bet would be to ask the tourist office for its whereabouts.

Amsterdam Zoo

The Artis, or the Natura Artis Magistra, is a zoo in the centre of Amsterdam. It is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and one of the oldest zoos in mainland Europe. The zoo is a one-stop shop for families with younger kids looking for things to do.

Besides the animals, the zoo features an aquarium, a planetarium, an arboretum, and a large art and sculpture collection. Book your Amsterdam Zoo tickets.

Things to do in Amsterdam – This is Holland 5D flight

Embark on a 5D flight over Holland and see the Kinderdijk windmills, the canals of Amsterdam, the flower fields, The Delta Works, the port of Rotterdam, and countless other Dutch landmarks from an entirely different perspective.

This amazing 5D flight experience will see you hanging inside a sphere-shaped screen with your hands and feet dangling free.

Moving with the images, you’ll imagine yourself floating above Holland for a period of 9 minutes. Special effects like wind, mist, and scent complete this unique experience. Book your 5D Holland experience.

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Things to do in Amsterdam with kids – Exploration game

If you are looking for great vacations with teen ideas then look no further than a family exploration game in Amsterdam. Instead of a traditional sightseeing tour, get to know Amsterdam in a unique way as you find clues and solve challenges to track down the person who stole the Golden tulip.

On your exploration game, you will pass through Westerkerk, Amsterdam Tulip Museum, and lesser-known places. An Amsterdam exploration game is a completely unique thing to do in Amsterdam with teenyboppers. Book your game in Amsterdam for families.

Stand-up paddleboarding in Amsterdam

If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy the canals of Amsterdam, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) might be just the thing. SUP is a relatively new sport that involves standing on a large, surfboard-like paddleboard and using a long paddle to move through the waters of the Amsterdam Canals.

It’s also a great way to explore new areas and see things from a different perspective on your trip to Amsterdam with young adults. Book your fun in Amsterdam on a paddleboard.

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Have a food experience with a local

Some teens cook some teens get served, so why not take a cooking class or eat with a local family on your vacation? Food plays a huge part in the local culture in the places you visit. Maybe experience what the locals eat or take any number of different cooking classes in your city of choice.

Food plays a big part in local cultures, whether it be cooking it, or eating it. Search and book your Amsterdam food experience.

Flyboarding in Amsterdam

Flyboarding is a new water sport that has been gaining in popularity over the past few years. It is a combination of jet skiing, wakeboarding, and skateboarding. Flyboarding is done by attaching a board to your feet and using the power of a jet ski to propel you into the air.

After a short introduction from the fly-board team, strap on your fly-board and be shoot into the air for unique views of Amsterdam. Book your best things to do in the Amsterdam experience today.

Watch a football match in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the places to holiday with teenagers who love sports. Amsterdam is home to one of the most popular and famous teams in the world, Ajax Amsterdam.

Ajax is the most successful team in the league, winning the domestic title year in and year out and regularly featuring in the finals of European competitions. If you can’t get tickets to a match, you can do a stadium tour in Amsterdam.

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De Hallen Amsterdam

De Hallen is a cultural centre located in the West neighbourhood of Amsterdam, Netherlands. It is housed in a former tram depot, which has been converted into a modern, multipurpose cultural centre. The building features a movie theatre, a library, a food court, and several exhibition spaces.

The exhibitions in De Hallen focus on contemporary art, design, and photography. There is also a variety of workshops, lectures, and events hosted in De Hallen throughout the year.

The most Instagrammable places in Amsterdam

With Instagram and social media playing an important part in the lives of teenagers, we have some great places for Instagram photos in Amsterdam. We recommend visiting The Floating Flower Market, The Prince’s Canal, The trendy streets of Jordaan and Amsterdam sign for the best Instagram shots in Amsterdam.

Alternatively, book yourself, an Instagram tour with a guide who will take you to all the hotspots in the city. Check prices on the best Instagram tour in Amsterdam.

Professional photoshoot in Amsterdam

As our kids get older, we spend less and less time with them making family memories. One excellent way to capture some of these important family vacation moments is to hire a professional photographer for a few hours to make some lifelong memories for you.

The photographer will supply everything, your family just needs to provide the smiles for your Amsterdam photoshoot. Book your memory-making shoot today.

Amsterdam Tiktok inspiration

If you’re in need of some inspiration, look no further than TikTok. TikTok is today’s app of choice for teens around the globe. This app is full of creative content and talented people from Amsterdam. From fashion to beauty to DIY, there’s something for everyone on TikTok.

Here are just a few of our favourite Amsterdam TikTok accounts to help inspire you and plan for your vacation.

Bike riding in Amsterdam

Amsterdam bike riding is a popular family activity when travelling with teenagers. Bike riding allows you to experience your location, either in town or out in the surrounding areas. You will find bike tours are the best way to go if you want to get an up-close and personal experience of the city.

You will either have a guide to point out all the important attractions in Amsterdam or a map to follow. The bike tours will take you on an Amsterdam family vacation 2-wheeled adventure. Alternatively, you can find locations that hire bikes and let you explore on your own. Book an Amsterdam Fatbikes e-bike tour today.

10 Pin Bowling in Amsterdam with teenagers

Nothing like a good bit of family competition to get everyone going on your holidays with teenagers. 10-pin bowling in Amsterdam is a great family activity for all. You will find bowling alleys all over the city for your family to have some fun at.

Most bowling alleys these days are more entertainment centres featuring amusement, food and drink options. You will find some of the best bowling locations in Amsterdam below or you can book your fun night out bowling in Amsterdam right here with Get your Guide.

• Aloha – Hawaiian-themed play centre with 10-pin bowling, UV minigolf & laser tag
• Race Planet Amsterdam offers 2 go-karting tracks, a laser game arena & bowling alley.

Axe Throwing – things to do in Amsterdam for young people

Axe Throwing is a new phenomenon that is sweeping around the world and Amsterdam is home to the Axe Effect. No experience is required, as the staff at Axe Effect will run you through the safety percussions before giving tips and hints on how best to throw an axe.

If you are looking for unique experiences for teenagers in Amsterdam then axe throwing could be it. Axe Throwing is one of the awesome things to do in Amsterdam on your family vacation. For more information, click through to Axe Effect.

Escape Rooms in Amsterdam with older kids

For those new to Escape rooms, this is a quick run down. An escape room, also known as an escape game, is a physical adventure game in which players solve a series of puzzles and riddles using clues, hints, and strategies to complete the objectives at hand.

Escape rooms may consist of a large, single room, or span multiple rooms. Players are given a set time limit to unveil the secret plot which is hidden within the rooms. If your teen likes this stuff it is definitely one of the top things to do in Amsterdam with teenagers.

Sherlocked is ranked the number 1 escape room in Amsterdam by Trip Advisor. Boasting the most breathtaking escape rooms in the city. Address: Beurs van Berlage Damrak 247,1012ZJ Amsterdam The Netherlands Website: https://sherlocked.nl/

Amsterdam Catacombs Escape Room is for those that like a bit of horror and scares in puzzle-solving. This is only for teens 16+ years old. Address: Haarlemmerstraat 124-126 Amsterdam. Website: http://amsterdamcatacombs.com/en/home/

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Going to the gym in Amsterdam

Fitness is very important to a lot of teenagers these days. Working out is a big part of a healthy lifestyle. Just because one is travelling does not mean one needs to stop working out.

In Amsterdam, you can go to a number of Gyms that sell passes ranging from a day to a week and a month. Day passes start at 15 euros a day while a week pass costs 45 euros. You can find a list of Gyms in Amsterdam on the Trainaway fit website

Family holidays in Amsterdam – Going to the cinema

Watching a movie is popular with teenagers anywhere in the world. Going to the cinema on your family holiday with teenagers is a great evening activity. You will find state-of-the-art screens and sound for you to watch the latest blockbusters in Amsterdam cinemas.

In Amsterdam, multiplex, Imax, 3d and speciality cinemas show art-house and indie films. You can use this Trip Advisor guide to the best cinemas in Amsterdam.

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Shopping Malls in Amsterdam for young adults

For more shopping with a teen in Amsterdam, you may want to visit one of the shopping malls located around the city. A typical Amsterdam teenager activity is visiting malls.

• Magna Plaza – has four floors, with fashion, beauty and cosmetics stores. Definitely a must for teen girls visiting Amsterdam
• Kalvertoren – a modern stylish centre with 4 floors featuring H&M, HEMA, Guess, Swatch, Dixons and more
• Gelderlandplein – is a hidden gem outside of the city centre. Featuring some great Dutch stores and an ice skating rink for kids in the winter.

We know you will do something that you love in one of these shopping centres. If not there is always great food on offer when shopping in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam for teens 18 years and over

The city of Amsterdam is a popular destination for young adults looking to experience all that the city has to offer. From its vibrant nightlife and world-renowned museums to its trendy cafés and lively markets offer the best things to do in Amsterdam for young adults.

Amsterdam is also a city of bars, pubs, and nightclubs which are highly popular with young adults visiting the city. Older teens in Amsterdam can experience the Red-Light district and thanks to Holland’s liberal drug laws bars sell Marijuana (in no way do we endorse or condemn this) Amsterdam is one of the most popular party cities of Europe for young people.

Free things to do in Amsterdam for teens

Amsterdam offers, some of the best free things to do with your teenage family members. These free Amsterdam activities are perfect for keeping everyone happy and entertained without having to spend any money.

There are also plenty of affordable restaurants and shops where you can shop for souvenirs without breaking the bank. Some of our recommendations for free family activities in Amsterdam are as follows.

Discover more: How to keep your teens social and engaged while travelling

Annual events in Amsterdam that teens will love

Amsterdam is a city with a rich culture and history. There are many annual events that take place in the can be enjoyed by families and teens visiting Amsterdam. Some of these events include:

• King’s Day – a huge street party in Amsterdam where everyone wears goes orange to celebrate the King’s birthday. Date: 27 Apr 2023.
• Over het IJ Festival – A theatre festival held on the waterfront that also includes live bands, DJs and plenty of good food. Held annually in July
• Dekmantel Festival – An Electro music festival featuring a large line-up of artists playing across 8 stages. Date: August 2023.

These teenage holiday activities in Amsterdam help to make it a vibrant and exciting city to visit on your next family travel vacation.

See the US: 62 top things to do in Los Angeles

A day trip from Amsterdam – Efteling Amusement Park 

Efteling is a themed amusement park in Kaatsheuvel in the Netherlands. The attractions are based on elements from ancient myths and legends. Efteling is the largest theme park in the Netherlands. It is also one of the oldest theme parks in the world.

Efteling is huge being twice as large as the original Disneyland Park in California. For our tween in Amsterdam, theme parks are a must.

The park has more than 5 million visitors. In 2017, it was the third most visited theme park in Europe, behind Disneyland Paris and EuropaPark. The park is divided into five themed areas. In 2017, Efteling Park was given the award as the best Theme park in the world by Theme Park Insider. Book your tickets today and don’t miss out.

How to get to Efteling from Amsterdam

Car from Amsterdam: From Amsterdam
Maintain in the direction of Utrecht (A2). Follow E25 to ‘s-Hertogenbosch. Take exit Waalwijk (A59), followed by exit Waalwijk/Kaatsheuvel (N261). Follow the signs Efteling.

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Public transport from Amsterdam to Efteling

Take the train to ‘s-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch). There are bus connections that go to Efteling from here (bus lines 300, 301, 136 and 800). Get off at the Efteling bus stop.

You can also travel directly to Efteling from Amsterdam Bijlmer/Arena and Almere on Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays with the Flixbus (bus line 811)

Pack like a pro:

Day trip to Bruges Belgium

Bruges, Belgium, is a must-see location for tourists interested in European history and culture. Situated just an hour and a half train ride from Amsterdam, Bruges makes for an easy day trip from the Dutch capital.

The city is home to well-preserved medieval architecture and a lively arts scene. Visitors can wander the winding streets of the historic centre, take a canal cruise, and sample Belgian chocolate and beer. The best way to see Bruges is to take a day tour from Amsterdam. Another option is to find some fun things to do in the Hague, which is a close by city to Amsterdam.

If you have more time in Bruges: Plan your stay with our ultimate guide to Bruges

Places to eat in Amsterdam with teenagers

Vacationing with teens absolutely needs to include a brilliant meal to remember the family holiday. Family travel with teenagers is a wonderful thing, and bonding over a meal of Dutch food at the end of the day or even during it is a great way to connect with your teen travellers. Having a meal with family is one of the top things to do in Amsterdam with teenagers.

Mannekenpis Fries

Located just a few hundred meters from Amsterdam Central Station on Damrak is Mannekenpis french fries. The Mannekenpis french fries have become the darlings of social media in the last few years with their amazing fries and the abundance of topping you can get on their fries.

The fun comes when you have to choose from the 20 different topping that comes with your order of fries. You can have multiple toppings on your fries.

You can choose from toppings such as Flemish Mayo, Cocktail sauce, Curry sauce, Cheese sauce, Satay sauce, Green pepper sauce and more. Your fries come served in a cone with large dollops of sauce on top. Luckily they provide you with a small fork and serviette to wipe your mouth.

This place is so popular you may find yourself in a lengthy line waiting for your serving of fries. Eating Manneken pis french fries is one the best things to do in Amsterdam.

Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam

Fun American burger joint themed with music memorabilia. The Rock shop at the Amsterdam Hard Rock cafe sells t-shirts and themed souvenirs. You might be lucky enough to catch a tribute night at the Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam.

Places to visit in Amsterdam – Tonton Club West  

TonTon Club West’s upper-level features around 20 coin-op arcade machines. Teenagers love arcade machines. This joint serves up Japanese-inspired meals, noodles, ramen, Angus beef burgers and more.

Amsterdam Evening Pizza Cruise

There are several companies in Amsterdam that offer pizza dinner cruises on canals. A food boat tour cruises typically last for a few hours and include a pizza dinner as well as all the sights along the canals. Some of these cruises may also include live music or other entertainment.

It’s a great way to experience Amsterdam’s canals and see the city from a different perspective while enjoying a tasty meal. Book your pizza dinner on the water.

Street food in Amsterdam

Street food is a popular way to eat in many parts of the world. It’s a quick and easy way to get some delicious local food without having to go to a full restaurant. Street food can be found in many different styles and options.

Some of the most well-known street foods include Tacos in Mexico, Zapiekanka in Poland, Dan Dan noodles in China, and Shawarma in Middle Eastern countries.

Street food in Amsterdam often has its origins in the cultural history of people who have immigrated to the Netherlands in the past. Some of the most popular Amsterdam Holland street foods include Stroopwafel, fried cod and tartar sauce and mini Dutch pancakes.

Be a bit cautious because a coffee shop in Amsterdam may not be a coffee shop, it may be a shop that sells marijuana and coffee!

Frequently asked questions about Amsterdam

There are so many frequently asked questions about Amsterdam, especially from families travelling with teenagers. Below we try to answer some of the most asked questions about travel in Amsterdam.

What to pack for a trip to Amsterdam with family

I could have gone on forever here recommending different things for different seasons. What you will find on my packing list for Amsterdam will be useful in all seasons. It’s practical things that you can take with you all year round when visiting Amsterdam

Amsterdam Packing List	Description	Browse the Product
Light Scarf	For cool summer days	Click here
Long Sleeve T-shirts	For both summer and winter wear	Click here
Rain Ready Shoes	Keep your toes dry	Click here
Travel Umbrella	Stay dry during the showers	Click here
Rain Coat	Rain is ever-present in Amsterdam	Click here
Guide Book	See the sights of the town	Click here
Day pack	For clothes, guidebooks, power bank & more	Click here
Power Cube	Hotels never have enough outlets	Click here
Power Adaptor	Different countries different power	Click here
Power bank	Re-charge on the go for all your devices	Click here

Where to stay in Amsterdam with family

At the top of the article, we suggested some accommodation choices for your holiday in Amsterdam with the kids. If you are looking for a wider variety of choices for your family stay in Amsterdam with older kids, please find below an interactive map from Booking.com for you to find your perfect stay for your Amsterdam vacation with kids.

Booking.com

Are you looking to book flights, hotels, apartments, tours, airport transfers, travel insurance and more? Are you just not sure what companies you can trust to book your travel online? We have a resource page that is full of companies that we personally use and book through for all trips from a weekend away to long term travel around the world. Click here to search our travel resources page.

⇒ Check out this great article on the costs of travelling to Amsterdam

Finally, just enjoy yourself. You will find plenty of fun things to do in Amsterdam with teens. It is a great city to get out and explore by foot or tram. Amsterdam with teenagers is a real-life experience in Culture, food, history and most importantly life experience. You will find you will want to come back for many more Amsterdam visits.

We hope this article from us here at Wyld Family Travel has you inspired to visit Amsterdam with teenagers. Amsterdam is a fantastic city full of history and culture as well as amazing sites.

Travel with teenagers and tweens. Travelling with young adults has just as many issues as travelling with young children. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations can be so time-consuming. 

Use our Travel with Teenagers Destination Guides from all over the world for your next family vacation inspiration to make your family vacations with teens epic.

For more amazing ideas on where to holiday in the Netherlands click through to our Netherlands Destination Guide page for more brilliant inspiration.

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More family travel inspiration for your family vacation with teens

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