(Photo Credit: The Radisson Blu Hotel Amsterdam)
The vibrant Dutch city is one of the most kid-friendly capitals in Europe. Amsterdam, best known for its shady Red Light district, party atmosphere and cultural gems, is also a haven for families with a surprising amount to do with kids. There are also many affordable accommodations. Here is a selection:
Near all the attractions, shopping and the central station, the modern 248-room four-star hotel can also be accessed by boat thanks to a private jetty. Arriving "pirate style" on the water is an adventure in itself for the kids. Choose a room theme from Naturally Cool to Scandinavian or Maritime and enjoy the in-room amenities including 24-hour room service, coffee and tea-making facilities, free WIFI and the use of the fitness room and sauna. The entire family will love the vast breakfast buffet. Looking for some time off? The hotel can organise babysitting. Those traveling with very small ones can book baby cots and high chairs, making life much easier.
(Photo Credit: Hotel Pulitzer)
Ideally located in the old city center, it's a quick walk away to many of Amsterdam's must see sights including the Royal Palace, Dam Square and museums. The 230-room five star hotel is a contemporary urban oasis although housed in two dozen 17th- and 18th-century canal houses. The hotel has free WIFI, a restaurant and bar, and even an art gallery. Families can request rollaway beds, cribs and connecting rooms as well as babysitting services. Other useful perks include bottles of water and Dutch treats in rooms, access to the gym, complimentary newspapers, and a helpful concierge service.
(Photo Credit: The Rembrandt)
Located in the Plantage, a 19th-century residential area close to the Artis Zoo, the Hermitage, Rembrandt House and Waterlooplein Flea Market, this 17-room hotel is intimate and perfect for a family visit. In the spacious family rooms, the usual trimmings include cable TV, Pay TV, free WiFi, minibar, wake-up system, and coffee and tea facilities. Even better, the staff is very helpful and have little toys and gifts on hands for young visitors! The hotel also has an international library, beautiful antique style breakfast room and wellness area with sauna for those wanting to unwind. Rembrandt fans will recognize the life size copy of his most famous painting "The Nightwatch" -- but, most of all, the kids will want to stay here because they also have a cuddly cat named Bink!
(Photo Credit: The Hilton Hotel Amsterdam)
Not only is this hotel ideally located for historical and cultural attractions such as the Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum, it's also legendary as the spot where John Lennon and Yoko Ono chose to have their "bed-in" for peace in 1969. Set on the canal, you'll have lovely views and can relax at the Ralph Lauren designed Half Moon Lounge or dine at the award-winning Italian Roberto's Restaurant. There's also a hair salon, health club featuring a sauna, steam room, whirlpool, and boutique and gift shop. Babysitting and cribs can be arranged, and, to minimize travel time and confusion, the Hilton offers an airport shuttle facility.
(MORE: Find great kid-friendly attractions to see in Amsterdam with the family.)
Crowne Plaza City Centre Hotel
(Photo Credit: Crowne Plaza City Centre Hotel)
Set right in the heart Amsterdam, it's a great location to walk to all the attractions and visit the city without too much time wasted in transport. You can hop on a tram or a canal boat tour to get from A to B. As well as Standard rooms and Club rooms, the hotel also has special bespoke Kids Suites. With separate bedrooms for kids featuring a bunk bed, computer games and a video player, it's rare to find such a great set-up for family travel. Just the thing to feel right at home! As well as an on-site restaurant, parents might like to take a little grown up time at the rooftop Club Lounge to make the most of the great skyline views.
Rowena Carr-Allinson contributed this to MiniTime.