Where To Stay In Amsterdam With Family – 7 Best Options
Choosing where to stay in Amsterdam with family can feel like a tricky question to answer.
Why? At first glance, Amsterdam may seem more suited for a romantic weekend getaway or a fun trip with friends rather than a family vacation.
The city’s popular activities—such as sightseeing, visiting renowned museums, shopping along Kalverstraat, or delving into Anne Frank’s powerful but somber history—might not immediately strike you as family-friendly, especially for younger children.
The bustling Old City Center, with its crowds and Amsterdam’s liberal stance on recreational drugs and prostitution, may further discourage families from considering it as a suitable destination. (Don’t worry, we’ll share later which areas are best avoided.)
But here’s the good news: Amsterdam is so much more than its stereotypes. Once you start exploring beyond the obvious, you’ll discover that this vibrant city has plenty to offer families.
Picture this: riding bikes through iconic streets lined with unique architecture, gliding along the canals on a boat ride, indulging in Dutch treats like fries and “stroopwafels,” and relaxing in one of the city’s many beautiful parks.
These activities alone make for a memorable family city trip. And when the kids need a little extra excitement, Amsterdam has you covered with the Artis Zoo and the interactive NEMO Science Museum—both fantastic for children.
At the end of this article, we’ve also included a list of more family-friendly activities to help you plan your trip.
With the right guidance—and that’s exactly what this article provides—you’ll have all the tools you need to find the perfect place to stay in Amsterdam with your family.
So, let’s dive into our recommendations!
The best areas to stay in Amsterdam with family are Westerpark, Jordaan, Oosterdok, Oud-West, Oud-Zuid, Plantage & Jewish Quarter, and the Canal Belt (Grachtengordel).
All of these areas are located right next to the Old City Center, meaning that they offer slightly more space, a calmer environment, and a more family-friendly vibe yet still has great access to the city’s highlights.
Westerpark: If you’re looking for space and tranquility, Westerpark is a top choice. This area offers a refreshing escape from the crowds of mass tourism while still being conveniently close to the city’s heart. With access to a large park and the possibility of finding spacious accommodations, it’s perfect for families, especially those with two or more kids.
Jordaan: Jordaan is a charming neighborhood just a stone’s throw from the city center. Unlike Westerpark, this area delivers that quintessential Amsterdam experience, complete with iconic architecture, narrow alleys, and picturesque canals. While finding a family-sized room can be a bit more challenging here, it’s definitely worth the effort for the ambiance and location.
Oosterdok: Situated near Amsterdam Central Station, Oosterdok offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the Old City Center. This dockside area has fewer buildings, creating a calmer vibe, yet it’s just a quick 5–10-minute trip to the historic core of Amsterdam.
Oud-West: When traveling with family, larger accommodations in the heart of the city can be hard to come by. That’s where Oud-West shines. Located just outside the city center, it provides more spacious lodging options and easy access to the beloved Vondelpark—ideal for families wanting a balance of convenience and comfort.
Oud-Zuid: Adjacent to Oud-West, Oud-Zuid shares many of its neighbor’s family-friendly qualities. While it has a touch more nightlife, the area remains welcoming to families. Its proximity to museums and parks makes it a great base for exploring Amsterdam with kids.
Plantage & Jewish Quarter: This centrally located area is a budget-friendly gem for families. Tucked away behind the Red Light District, it’s easy to avoid less family-oriented parts of Amsterdam while still staying close to key attractions. Plus, this neighborhood is home to the Artis Zoo, a must-visit for families with younger children.
Canal Belt (Grachtengordel): If your budget allows, the Grachtengordel—Amsterdam’s iconic Canal Belt—is a fantastic choice. Known for its elegant canals and picturesque views often seen on Instagram, this exclusive area offers a vibrant, central location. It’s among the pricier parts of the city, but its charm and convenience make it worth considering.
The best areas to stay in Amsterdam with family are:
1. Westerpark
On the western side of the Jordaan, Amsterdam’s iconic working-class neighborhood turned picturesque hotspot, lies Westerpark.
As the name suggests, this family-friendly area is closely connected to the expansive Westerpark, a large green space perfect for families to relax and explore.
Despite its central location, Westerpark offers a peaceful escape from the chaos of the Old City Center.
This vibrant and revitalized neighborhood, once a traditional working-class area, is now home to unique shops and restaurants, making it a delightful spot to explore.
In Westerpark, you’re unlikely to encounter the city’s rowdier, party-focused travelers.
Instead, the area provides a more laid-back atmosphere.
Renting a bike is highly recommended, as it allows you to discover Amsterdam at your own pace.
The only downside? Some of Amsterdam’s major highlights are a bit farther away.
However, the trade-off is a quieter, more spacious environment to retreat to in the evenings—a setting we think is ideal for families.
Pros
- Peaceful, family-friendly area with plenty of hidden gems to uncover.
- A vibrant neighborhood with unique shops and restaurants.
Cons
- Some city highlights are located further away.
- Renting a bike is highly recommended for easy exploration.
How to get around in Amsterdam? The best way to get around Amsterdam with your family is by using public transportation or, even better, renting a bike.
The city is compact, and many of the main attractions are located around the Old City Center. However, after a day or two of exploring on foot, your legs will likely start to feel the strain.
In addition to walking, you can take the tram, metro, or hop on a bike. Biking is a popular and efficient mode of transport in Amsterdam, and the locals often ride fast on designated bike lanes. Be aware that in the Netherlands, bikes have the right of way in traffic. In Amsterdam, cyclists can be particularly quick and may not appreciate tourists lingering on “their” bike lanes, which can lead to dangerous situations. To stay safe, always avoid walking on the red-colored bike lanes.
For public transportation, make use of the handy website 9292ov.nl, where you can enter your departure and destination addresses to find the best options, including bus, metro, and tram routes.
2. Jordaan
The Jordaan is one of Amsterdam’s most iconic neighborhoods, situated closer to the city center than Westerpark.
Originally built during the Golden Age in the 17th century as a working-class district, the Jordaan has evolved into a slightly upscale area over the years.
Despite this transformation, it retains its charm with typical local bars, a tight-knit community, and a uniquely vibrant atmosphere.
The Jordaan is still primarily a residential area, known for its straightforward yet warm-hearted locals—a trait Dutch people are famous for, but perhaps even more so in this neighborhood.
While it may be less spacious compared to Westerpark, the Jordaan makes up for it with its central location.
It’s home to Anne Frank’s House and just a short walk from Amsterdam’s iconic canals and stunning architecture. Stroll east along the canals, and you’ll soon find yourself at the Amsterdam Royal Palace.
This blend of history, culture, and proximity to key attractions makes the Jordaan an excellent choice for those seeking a lively and central base in Amsterdam.
Pros
- More central location compared to the previous area.
- Lively and historically rich neighborhood.
Cons
- Less spacious than other areas.
- On the weekends, there are some popular bars open until late.
3. Oosterdok
If you’re looking for a quiet and centrally located area in Amsterdam, Oosterdok Island is one of your best options.
This artificial quay, once used for docking ships, offers a unique blend of seclusion and convenience. Despite its tranquil atmosphere, Oosterdok Island is situated right next to Amsterdam Central Station and just a five-minute walk from the Old City Center.
The area is home to some of the top hotel brands, attracting a more upscale crowd. As a result, you’ll find it free from the party-focused tourists often drawn to Amsterdam’s coffee shops, making it an excellent choice for families—provided it fits within your budget.
Being so close to Amsterdam Central Station makes day trips a breeze. While other recommended areas are also relatively close to the station, the convenience here is unmatched. Additionally, Oosterdok Island is right next to the NEMO Science Museum, a fascinating and interactive attraction for visitors of all ages.
However, the island itself doesn’t offer much in terms of entertainment or dining options. For restaurants and nightlife, you’ll need to venture into the city.
Much like Westerpark, Oosterdok Island is ideal as a peaceful base where you can retreat after exploring Amsterdam’s lively streets.
Pros
- Quiet and family-friendly, offering a peaceful retreat.
- Centrally located, with easy access to Amsterdam Central Station and the Old City Center.
- Close to the NEMO Science Museum.
Cons
- Limited dining and entertainment options in the immediate area.
- You always have to walk a bit on order to reach major attractions, shops, restaurants or other activities.
4. Oud-West
Oud-West, which translates to “Old West,” is a vibrant and authentic area of Amsterdam located just above the iconic Vondelpark.
Known for its boutique shops, trendy cafés, and design stores, Oud-West is often referred to as the hip(ster) neighborhood of Amsterdam. While it does attract its fair share of tourists, it’s far less crowded than the Old City Center, making it a fantastic area to experience everyday life in Amsterdam.
For families who love exploring new cuisines, Oud-West is a culinary hotspot. You’ll find the newly opened De Hallen, an upscale food court offering a wide variety of gourmet options, and Ten Katemarkt, a bustling market perfect for sampling street food and finger foods.
Staying in Oud-West puts you close to Amsterdam’s iconic canals, Vondelpark, renowned museums, and distinctive architecture. However, getting around can be slightly challenging as the area is further from Amsterdam Central Station. Renting a bike or using public transport is highly recommended to make the most of your stay.
Despite this minor inconvenience, Oud-West provides an excellent balance of local charm, family-friendly attractions, and easy access to the highlights of Amsterdam.
Pros
- Trendy area with boutique shops and cafés.
- Upscale food court and vibrant market nearby.
- Proximity to Vondelpark, canals, and museums.
Cons
- Slightly challenging to navigate; renting a bike or using public transport is advisable.
5. Oud-Zuid
Oud-Zuid, or “Old South,” is a charming and authentic area of Amsterdam located just below Oud-West. This district is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including Vondelpark, the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the bustling Albert Cuyp Market.
Within Oud-Zuid, you’ll also find The Pijp, a vibrant sub-neighborhood known for its cultural diversity, student population, and lively atmosphere. While Oud-West is trendy and modern, Oud-Zuid offers a more traditional and authentic Amsterdam vibe, making it a favorite for visitors who want a glimpse into local life.
The area features plenty of restaurants, cafés, and shops to explore, but without the overwhelming tourist crowds found in the Old City Center. Its quieter, more residential feel adds to its charm, making it a great choice for families.
However, reaching the Old City Center from Oud-Zuid requires a bit of effort. Like Oud-West, we recommend renting a bike or using the tram for convenient access to other parts of the city.
Pros
- Authentic atmosphere and a glimpse into local Amsterdam life.
- Close to major landmarks like Vondelpark, Rijksmuseum, and Van Gogh Museum.
- Plenty of dining and shopping options.
Cons
- A bit far from the Old City Center, requiring a bike or tram for easier mobility.
6. Plantage & Jewish Quarter
The Plantage and Jewish Quarter neighborhoods offer a quieter and greener side of Amsterdam, located just behind the bustling tourist hotspots. Despite their proximity to the Red Light District and some less exciting areas of the city, these neighborhoods are often overlooked, making them a surprisingly good choice for families.
The Plantage is especially family-friendly, with attractions like the Artis Zoo and plenty of greenery. The Jewish Quarter, while closer to the Red Light District, still provides a calmer atmosphere compared to the chaotic city center.
Both areas are conveniently close to the Old City Center, with iconic landmarks such as the Rembrandt House Museum, The Old Church, and the Tuschinski Theatre nearby. If you’re visiting Amsterdam on a rainy day, don’t miss the chance to watch a movie at the Tuschinski Theatre, often considered the most beautiful cinema in the Netherlands.
While the area’s peacefulness is a big plus, it does come with fewer family-friendly hotel options compared to other neighborhoods. However, the ones available are worth considering for their central yet serene location.
Pros
- Central location with unique landmarks like the Tuschinski Theatre and Rembrandt House Museum nearby.
- Family-friendly attractions, especially the Artis Zoo.
- Quiet and green compared to busier parts of the city.
Cons
- Fewer family-friendly hotel options.
- Can feel less exciting compared to other neighborhoods
7. Canal Belt (Grachtengordel)
The final family-friendly area we recommend in Amsterdam is the Grachtengordel, or Canal Belt.
This picturesque area encircling the Old City Center is famous for its iconic, slightly tilted houses built along the canals. These historical buildings, part of the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2010, hold a fascinating history. The tilting design was intentional, allowing merchants in the past to lift goods directly from boats into their homes using pulleys installed at the rooftops.
Today, these iconic houses are a sought-after place to stay, symbolizing prestige even for locals. Many tourists dream of experiencing Amsterdam’s charm by staying in one of these unique buildings, but as you might expect, this exclusivity comes at a high price.
For families with the budget to splurge, the Grachtengordel is an excellent choice. The neighborhood is impeccably clean, central, and surrounded by stunning canals, with the Old City Center just a five-minute walk away. However, this unparalleled location and atmosphere come with a premium price tag.
Pros
- Stunning historical architecture.
- Iconic canalside location.
- Centrally located, close to the Old City Center.
Cons
- Very expensive, especially for families.