If you are new to Amsterdam, you are likely shocked at the sheer volume of bikes everywhere. In fact, there are approximately 23 million bikes in the Netherlands which equates to an average of 1.3 bikes per person!

Although biking is the preferred method of transportation in Amsterdam, some newly arrived expats can be hesitant to get on a two-wheeler. I get it! Even as a Dane (I was basically born on a bike) who hadn’t biked for many years after moving to Amsterdam from London, it took me a fair amount of courage and a little practice to get back on the bike-lane. Now, there is not a single day that I don’t bike and I absolutely love it! For those who drive a car, it’s the same feeling of complete independence and ability to get on your own without relying on others.

I hope this short article will help newcomers to Amsterdam with a few practical tips on how to bike in a safe way and what to look out for.

Traffic hierarchy:

The hierarchy is as follows – Trams, bikes, pedestrians, moving vehicles (cars, buses). While cars will stop for pedestrians at zebra crossings, bikes often don’t. Legally they should, but in practice they often don’t. There is a pragmatic reason for this in the sense that the sheer volume of bikes would mean a constant stop to the flow of traffic. As a pedestrian you can easily stop walking, but if bikes have to stop at all crossings it would clog up the bike lanes and make it unsafe at times. As a cyclist you need to pay attention to zebra-crossings, try to signal or make eye contact with pedestrians in order to “agree” on who goes first. Personally, I always stop for elderly people, children and often tourists if easily identifiable (the ones who walk leisurely  in the bike lanes and cross any street only looking at the pretty surroundings… you know who I am talking about).

Helmet or no helmet?

It is shocking for many non-Dutch expats to see so many bikes, but no helmets, me included. In Denmark most cyclists wear a helmet, especially children and so for this reason I did too when I arrived in Amsterdam…but it didn’t last long. Biking is generally not considered dangerous here and therefore helmets are not mandatory or even encouraged. However it is a personal choice and if you want to wear a helmet to feel more comfortable, you should not hesitate doing it. With the rise in electric bikes I would not be surprised if we start seeing more cyclists in Amsterdam with helmets on.

How many people can you fit on a bike?

“A lot”, is the answer and there are no rules on how you carry them! I often wonder if I am at the circus or on my way to work when I see people standing at the back or front of someone else’s bike. It is quite an acrobatic skill to commute this way, but it is not illegal. However, children under the age of 8 must have a designated seat on a bike so please keep this in mind. Parents in Amsterdam often bike their children around in a bakfiets (cargo bike). Two-wheelers are preferred over three-wheelers as they take up less space on the bike lane. There are many places where you can test-bike bakfiets before buying one. Juizz Amsterdam is a good place to start.

Where is a good place to start?

If you are not yet ready for the bike-lanes of the city, but still want to practice, going to less busy areas or parks is a good way to start. Although tempting, avoid Vondelpark on a sunny weekend afternoon. It is complete carnage with runners, bikers, walkers, tourists, bike tours and all sorts of other people. Rembrandt park is lovely and more quiet. You can also go early in the morning (before 9am) to the 9 streets or the Jordaan or any of the inner canals. Take in the sights with minimal pedestrians or other cyclists.

Texting while biking: A personal story

Completely illegal! In fact, any distractions on your phone while biking is a traffic violation. Let me tell you a personal story to warn you of the dangers of distracted biking. A few weeks ago I was biking through Vondelpark on my bakfiets with one of my kids. I took my phone out of my pocket as I felt it vibrate. The moment I looked at my screen, two uniformed police officers appeared out of nowhere and signalled me to pull over. They asked for my ID and how long I had been living in the Netherlands. Naïve as I was, I thought maybe they were doing a random police survey, but when the police officer informed me that texting while biking was made illegal in the Netherlands two years ago, I realized I was in trouble and not taking part in a survey….

Of course I understand that it is common sense not to text while biking, I genuinely didn’t know that it was ILLEGAL. After all, it feels as though the general biking rules in the Netherlands are quite lax… am I right?!

Without any hesitation, the police officer asked for my address and said that a fine would be sent to me. I asked if a warning was not sufficient as this was my first ever traffic violation, but my efforts were in vain.

Alas, I did the crime and will accept the punishment. I asked the police officer how much the fine would be (thinking it would be around 40 EUR in line with a small speeding ticket). Oh boy, was I wrong. The fine was 169 EUR and arrived promptly the next day in my mailbox with a convenient link to pay via IDEAL.

Safe to say, my phone is now safely stored away in my backpack whenever I get on my bike. For clarification I should add that any phone activity while biking is illegal so whether you are looking at directions or changing a song on Spotify, just don’t do it. Get a phone holder instead which will keep you both safe and financially stable.

Biking is a fun, healthy, sustainable and a very inexpensive form of transport. It is a great way to discover Amsterdam at your own pace and an even better way to integrate into the true Dutch lifestyle. Take it easy in the beginning, and before you know it, you will be parading around Amsterdam without even touching your steering wheel! Good luck and happy fietsen!

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This summer and due to a certain virus still floating around, we did not feel like taking any risks by going abroad for our 6-day family holiday. So we looked for a number of options within the Netherlands, and our decision was quickly made: Friesland it was going to be!

Getting There Is Half the Fun

If you go by car, a stopover in beautiful Giethoorn is a must. But even before hitting that gorgeous and world famous village in Overijssel, you will pass by Muiderslot (a medieval castle great for kids and with a poignant history explored by Stephanie Ernst Miller) and get a glance from the highway at Oostvaardersplassen close to Almere, a huge nature reserve where the documentary “The New Wilderness” was made.

You may giggle at the highway sign of a village called “Urk” in Flevoland. Or not. The majority of the inhabitants of this fishing village belong to the Dutch Reformed Church, a branch of Protestantism founded in 1571 with roots in Calvinism. It is a distinctive and charming place, so don’t let its short name make you think it is short on things to do.

Back to Giethoorn (also called the Venice of the North). Its center is only accessible by boat or by foot. Renting a boat is therefore a good idea, as it can get swamped with tourists. It was quite a revelation to see how world-renown Giethoorn was!

Characterised by charming thatched roofs and wooden bridges arching over the canals, Giethoorn was established as a settlement of peat harvesters. As all the canals were dug by man, the water depth of the canals is so low that one can always touch the bottom – even in the middle of the lake in front of the Smits Pavilioen, where one can enjoy lunch on the terrace overlooking the water and watch the canoes and pedal boats go by.

Giethoorn is also famous for a number of very good restaurants, including the two Michelin stars De Lindenhof. However, if fine dining does not tempt you, sandwiches for lunch on a boat are also a great children-friendly option!

Arrival

From Giethoorn to Friesland is less than an hour, and we quickly arrived through a beautiful tree-lined road to the small village of Beetsterzwaag (I highly recommended practising its pronunciation a few times in front of the mirror, to make sure you get it right).

One of the first things that we immediately loved in Friesland was the famous Frisian sugarbread. I don’t have a particularly strong sweet-tooth, but that bread with a bit of butter was divine! And for history lovers, the University of Groningen’s discovery three years ago that medieval Frisia was more Viking than previously supposed is very exciting; a real Viking hotspot right here in the Netherlands!

The friendliness and laid-back attitude of the people were really touching. I was expecting to have a hard time communicating with them as the Frisian language is very different from Dutch, although it is the second official language of the Netherlands – (N.B. People with Frisian origins often have surnames ending in – stra or –ma, which makes it probable our Amsterdam mayor Femke Halsema has roots in Friesland.)

Like in the saying “All roads lead to Rome”, it is impossible to go to Friesland without paying a visit to its capital city, Leeuwarden.  For people traveling by train, a trip up there is well worth it.

A visit to the small, eclectic Het Andere Museum is a plunge into years gone by – old cars, miniature trains, a still functioning jukebox from the 60’s, lace, etc. The owner will welcome you personally and is very passionate about the collection started by his parents.

Lunch at Toko Saigon, two minutes away from the museum on the other side of the canal for delicious gyoza (dumplings) and pho (Vietnamese soup) provides a welcome break. Follow it up with a walk around town along the canals of Waagplein, all the way to Wester and Norderplantage, where charming houses with manicured gardens can be found, and you will be in love with this lovely city.

The walk back takes you through the Frisian Museum  (which we unfortunately did not have time to see) to Blokhuispoort, a 19th century prison creatively converted into a beautiful waterfront restaurant/budget hotel with rooms made from old cells/beach-café and artists’ ateliers.  The famous lion of Leeuwarden itself can be found in the courtyard of the prison, completely built out of recycled bike parts. A rare sight!

Ending the day on the terrace of the restaurant Proefverlof (which also features an old reconverted cell into a small private dining room), with the sun setting down and small boats passing by, was a magical way to end our experience of the Frisian capital city.

For the Nature Lover

You can park your car at the visitors’ centre of the National Park De Alde Feanen, a Natura 2000 area of 25 km² containing morasses, lakes, forests, peat and meadows, as well as at least 450 plant species and 100 bird species. Different walking routes can be found on the board at the entrance of the Park (do make sure to take a picture of it so you can follow the different “knooppunten” or junctions on your route).

Another great family walk is from Beesterzwaag village to the Witte Huis hotel and restaurant (about 7km back and forth, with a stop for ice-cream on the terrace of the Witte Huis).

Finally for a longer one (12km), head off to the beautiful Bakkeveen duinen (car park at recreatiecentrum Dundelle). At exactly halfway through the loop you will find a great café, De Drie Provinciën, for a pit stop.

Recommended Accomodation

Hotel restaurant Het Witte Huis

Gast verblijf Klein Eden:

Landgoed Lauswolt

Looking for family-friendly accommodations? Consider booking your stay via booking.com/amsterdammamas. Find the perfect accommodation for your family while supporting Amsterdam Mamas at the same time.

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Mumbai – Some Basic Facts

Mumbai is a huge city! It has a population of almost 20 million people: to put that in perspective, New Mexico City, has around 23 million, and Amsterdam, approximately 800,000. Mumbai used to be called Bombay and is still fondly called by that name by some (ex) residents; including me. I tend to switch between the two.

You can take a girl out of Bombay, but you can never take Bombay out of a girl!

Bombay is on the west coast of India, with the Western Ghats (a mountain range that runs along the length of the Malabar coast) to the east. The city has grown in a northward direction. On a map, it appears as a long, skinny, densely populated metropolis. Bombay used to be seven small islands, which were later connected by reclaimed land. Mumbai is ideally located: with beautiful beaches, only a couple of hours out of the city, across the Thane Creek.  Travel a few hours inland southwards towards Tarkarli, and you discover farms, lush plains, lofty hills and table mountains.  Bombay’s tropical, hot, humid climate (30-32 degrees Celsius), is broken by a spectacular monsoon season from June to September and a few marginally colder months from December to February (26-29 degrees Celsius). A good time to visit is during these winter months when shorter days, languid evenings and cool breezes make walking and exploring quite enjoyable. 

I want to caution the first time traveller:  Mumbai is busy, crowded, loud, unclean and intense! Everything is heightened; smells, colours, emotions, breezes, tastes, disparities and wonders. Respect the culture and the climate, and you’ll have a great holiday. I have experienced visitors who love it and continue to return, and others that never quite get it and leave perturbed. 

Stay

You can treat yourself to unequivocal five-star luxury,  as  India is known for the most exceptional hospitality, or you can rough it a bit. The Taj Mahal hotel is incomparably luxurious but pricey. The Trident, the President, the Shalimar are all top hotels and well located. You want to be careful with food and water, with children especially, so plan your stay accordingly. I suggest basing yourself in South Mumbai; it’s the older, historic part of town. Public transport is tricky in terms of schedules and crowds.  A black-and-yellow cab or Uber is perhaps more convenient. 

Be careful with food but don’t miss out on local delicacies!

What to See

Things to not miss while in the city, include a ride on a BEST double-decker bus, a local train (outside of rush hour) and, a public ferry from the Gateway of India to Elephanta or Mandwa jetty.  Avoid going on a Sunday, when it can be over overcrowded with local tourists. Make sure to plan a few heritage walks through the Fort area, and artsy Kala Ghoda; this area is home to the Prince of Wales Museum (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya), a new Children’s Museum and the National Gallery of Modern Art.  It offers many art galleries, design hubs, and the Bhau Dadji Lad Museum, in the east of the city, next to the zoo.  Be sure visit the grand, fraying Ballard Estate, Ban Ganga, Chowpatty Beach and Marine Drive, Crawford Market and Kalbadevi. These neighbourhoods are a treasure trove of Victorian, Imperial, Indo-Saracenic, Art Deco, vernacular and traditional architecture!  Buildings, people and clothes are untidily meshed together, creating a riot of impressions. 

Eat!

Be careful with food but don’t miss out on local delicacies! Street food is also available off the street at some lovely restaurants. If the heady smells don’t lead you there, I’d suggest feasting at Swati, Soam, Sri Thakur Bhojnalaya, and Dakshinaya; for a spread from the North, South and Gujarat. Coffee lovers needn’t fear; western-style cafés dot the city.  A few favourites are Kala Ghoda Café, Pantry and Basilico. 

Good food, fine dining and restaurants, with incredible spatial layouts, have found a home in the city. Masque, Koko, Vetro, Bombay Canteen and my forever favourite, The Table, are all worth the price tag. Though, Udipi restaurants, Irani Cafés, and street vendors continue to be the heroes of the culinary scene. The beauty of this city is that you can dole out a hefty amount for luxury or explore it on a tight budget, without missing out. 

Buildings, people and clothes are untidily meshed together, creating a riot of impressions.

Shop!

Bombay allows you to shop till you drop.  Prices are generally lower than in Europe. Mumbai offers a variety of shopping options: from clothes at Fashion Street for a few euros, to a handwoven pashmina, at a boutique, for a few thousand euros. Stores that are popular with tourists are Fabindia, Anokhi, The Shop, Chimanlals and my favourite, Good Earth. My kids cannot go past, Fashion Street, in Fort, where they can buy ‘Hikes’ (not Nikes) for under 10 Euro. 

Out of Town

Once you’ve seen what’s on offer in the metro, I’d suggest you drive up to Sanjay Gandhi National Park; an escape from a bustling city which can overwhelm the senses. It is an oasis of natural beauty inside the city borders. No, you will not be the only tourist. Still, you will find ancient Buddhist caves, birds, butterflies, flora, fauna, a rickety mini train ride safari,  and hiking trails.  Similarly, you can sail on a public ferry from the Gateway of India to Mandwa jetty, and then catch a rickshaw to the nearest beach or farm for a day out of town.

These are only some things that maintain my love affair with Bombay.  You can take a girl out of Bombay, but you can never take Bombay out of a girl!

Photo credits: All images from Yay Images

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This New York quick-guide is based on a trip I made in June 2019. I hope these tips will help parents to plan their family holiday to this incredible and diverse city.  To make your trip a memorable experience I highly recommend checking out www.newyork.co.uk.

PLAY!

A good way to balance the day with your kid(s) is to mix indoor and outdoor activities and fortunately New York has plenty of both.

Central Park There are many parks in New York. You probably will not be able to visit them all but you cannot miss Central Park. This immense park counts no less than 21 playgrounds and has numerous activities for everyone: you can walk, visit a zoo, bike, row, skate, and ice skate (depending on the time of year). It is also a perfect location for a picnic. You can very easily spend an entire day in this wondrous park. With little ones in tow, it may therefore be a good idea to split the visit over a couple of days, perhaps combining visits to the park with trips to the local neighborhoods surrounding it.

The High Line Park If you have time, the High Line Park, built on an old train track, is also worth a visit. It is a pleasant walk for some great photography. There is elevator-access to the park.

Chelsea Market Before hitting the park, you can take a look at the indoor Chelsea Market, located on the south side. Here, you will find many food stalls where you can buy take-away and easy-access picnic foods. There are also some beautiful, but expensive, little, crafty stores. Walking the park in the northern direction, you will arrive at Hudson Yards, the new district of Manhattan. There is a large shopping centre which houses The Vessel, a funky architectural piece of art. It’s free to visit and explore, but don’t forget to book your (free) tickets in advance. The structure is not pram friendly and therefore all prams and strollers will be required to be left in an unmonitored pram parking bay at the base of the structure. 

SEE!

Empire State Building A must-do is the Empire State Building. The view is breathtaking and will entertain the whole family! You can access the building with a pram but will be required to collapse it to pass the security checks in the lift and on the deck.

Flatiron Building & Grand Central Station While you are in Midtown, don’t forget to see the famous Flatiron Building and Grand Central Station. Both buildings have featured in many Hollywood movies and the kids will love being able to say they’ve stood in the same place as Iron Man or Thor from The Avengers (2012) or Spiderman (2002).

Hop on Hop Off Bus New York City is a very large city, with a population of over 8.6 million people. Distances can be deceiving and a great way to see the city with a minimum of effort and in a short amount of time, while resting the weary feet of your children (and yourself!), is to take the Hop-on Hop-off bus. There are different loops available, the rides are pleasant and the guides are very friendly! The busses can quickly become full so if you want to ensure a seat while enjoying the ride, be sure to hop-on at Times Square, the departing point of the Manhattan loop.

Another great way in which to accomplish some relaxed sightseeing is to take a Tourist Cruise. Some cruises are one, to one-and-a-half-hours, which makes it perfect for your little ones. You will be able to take some amazing photos of the Manhattan skyline and get closer to Lady Liberty.

 The Mets! If your kids are old enough, going to a sporting event in New York is both a fun and exhilarating experience. The atmosphere and the food are great! I went to see the Mets and had the best time even though baseball rules are a mystery to me!

The Broadway Another great indoor activity is to go to a Broadway show. Many Disney shows are played and there are enough choices to please everyone. There are shows every day of the week, both throughout the day as well as into the evening.

Museums New York City is home to some of the greatest museums in the world: Metropolitan Museum of Art, Guggenheim Museum, Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), The Whitney Museum, The American Museum of Natural History, The Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum, just to name a few. Some are more child friendly than others, so it is a good idea to see what is currently going on at any of these museums from a child’s eye perspective.

EAT!

You will easily find food everywhere in New York. Here are some good and practical addresses:

Ellen’s Stardust Diner: for an original breakfast/brunch where you will be served by professional singers! The food is not the best but the experience is amazing. You can’t book a table so be sure to go as early as possible.

Junior’s: for a slice of famous New York cheesecake. 

Carlos’ Bakery: for some amazing cakes! (And for lovers of TLC’s Cake Boss).

Magnolia’s Bakery: for when you are looking for something a tiny bit fancier.

John’s Pizzeria: for a cheap family meal. The pizzas are very large and delicious.

Planet Hollywood: is another good location for a great eating experience. The kids will love it.

If you wish to purchase groceries, Whole Foods Supermarkets offer a good range of products.

SHOP!

Most kids don’t like shopping. However, here are some places they will LOVE (Amsterdam’s Intertoys may look a little small and unexciting after a visit to these imagination wonderlands):

Disney Store

Lego Store

Fao Schwarz

American Girl Store

M&M’s World

GETTING AROUND

Walk: Pack some good, comfortable shoes as you will walk A LOT! Don’t forget to look up while striding through the city, water towers and fire escapes are beautiful!

Public transport: The metro is very practical. It is handy to have an idea of where you are heading geographically as you will take the metro direction of either “Uptown” or “Downtown”. Most stations are equipped with an elevator.

Taxi: Yellow cabs are great, and you shouldn’t miss the experience and pleasure of hailing one! You will be able to charge your phone, and even watch some New York television for the duration of your journey.

Looking for family-friendly accommodation in New York? Book your stay via booking.com/amsterdammamas and we’ll receive a portion of the reservation value. Find the perfect accommodation for your family and support Amsterdam Mamas at the same time!

Photo credits: Main banner image from Pixabay; all others copyright permitted by Julie Mills

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A great destination for family travel all year round, northern Italy is particularly charming during the Christmas holidays. Beautiful Christmas markets brighten the towns and snow is falling in the higher elevations; it is magical. The fabled Italian love for family and children is also true! Our small daughter was showered with hearty smiles and sweet words: “Bella”, “Bellissima”, “Bimba” greeted us on cobblestoned streets, hiking trails, even while sitting in trattorias (less formal than a ristorante but more formal than an osteria). Speaking of which, Italy’s cuisine is scrumptious, even for the pickiest toddler!

Verona

This beautiful old city is the famous setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Could he ever have imagined his tragic tale of young lovers would be played off the stage as well as on? Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House) is crowded with tourists anxious to capture a selfie on her famous balcony and the walls under it are covered with lovers’ scribbles: pledges, promises, wishes, heartache … it’s all there.

As Verona is a small city, you can easily explore it in a day or two. We enjoyed the best pizza of our life at Don Peppe Pizzeria e Trattoria in the huge mall Adigeo (a shopping paradise and very child-friendly: kids’ washbasins, playgrounds and a playroom for kids 3+).

Vicenza

We visited this charming village during a day trip from Verona. It took us about two hours to see this town, including having lunch at one of the local restaurants. Fortunately, as it was the festive season, there were bustling and colourful Christmas markets everywhere.

Pellizzano

In mountainous Pellizzano we decided to try an Agriturismo: a genuine, working farm! It’s a popular thing in Italy, ideal for nature lovers and tourists craving the quiet and serenity of rural life. Our farm accommodation had a wooden interior, a heated bathroom floor, hearty dinners, and smiles.  The highlight though was riding in a two-horse open sleigh! Dashing through the crispy snow surrounded by rolling hills is romantic and peaceful! Sadly, our visit was cut short as there was heavy snow forecasted which could have trapped us in one place if we did not leave before the storm (read about snow tires in Notes below). Be aware that in rural areas not knowing any Italian, communication can be difficult.  Google translate doesn’t always cut it.

Trento

Trento is famous for its Christmas market; try the treccia mochèna (plaited pastry cake) and the polenta brustolada (grilled polenta). Trento also offers two wonderful museums that are great places to escape the cold.

Buonconsiglio Castle Museum

Enjoy ancient frescos, carved ceilings, Egyptian and other collections. Not a lot for the youngest visitors (our daughter was napping in the backpack, fortunately) but older kids may find exploring a castle entertaining!

MUSE Science Museum

This little gem has everything you could wish for a visit with a child: interesting exhibits, themed floors, WC’s with changing facilities and kids toilets, kids play areas, interactive exploration activities for bigger kids and adults, and lectures about the exhibits and artefacts in the museum.

Bolzano and Bozen

These towns are little Austria of  Northern Italy. The architecture, Christmas markets, cuisine; everything looks and feels Austrian. They even speak German here! Grab the opportunity to enjoy typical Austrian pretzels and white sausages without actually leaving Italy.

Street food is a must at the Christmas markets but when it’s cold, sooner or later you’ll need to find a place to warm up and eat something more substantial. The kid-friendly restaurant Aida is easily distinguished from outside by a row of buggies next to the entrance. They don’t have a play corner but do have high chairs and a baby changing facilities.

Riva del Garda

For New Year’s Eve and Day, we found an exceptional place which is reasonably priced: an ancient castle transformed into a  stylish apartment hotel with picturesque views of the mountains and vineyards from all the windows. What could be a better and more romantic place to welcome the New Year? Our accommodation was so snug that we didn’t even feel like leaving that beautiful castle but we ventured out for a couple of walks around the nearby lakes.

Walking around the Lago di Ledro took us about 2.5 hours with our toddler sleeping in the backpack carrier. The lake is at an elevation of 650 meters and it is several degrees colder than in Riva del Garda, with snow and ice all around. On our way we came across several playgrounds, on frozen beaches and in empty camping sites, all the houses and restaurants were either empty or closed. Obviously, this area is geared towards summer holidays.

On New Year’s Eve day we walked for two hours on a trail along Lago di Garda. The lake is huge and exquisite, and walking next to the mist-covered lake is pure pleasure. This trail is popular, even on a cold Winter’s morning.

Ristorante Acetaia Del Balsamico offers beautiful views and delicious food, and its amazingly child-friendly waiters make it even more special. The restaurant offers its own home-made olive oil and 7-year old balsamic vinegar for sale – perfect for gifts.

Notes

• Winter tires cost extra, but as the winter weather can make driving treacherous in the higher elevations, it’s a good idea to request them from your rental agency.
• Eating out in Italy requires some planning, particularly during holidays. Most restaurants are open from 12 pm – 2 pm and then after 7 pm, and on New Year’s Day, only fast food places are open!
• Restaurants normally collect a coperto (cover charge) from every person at the table, including children. It seems strange at first that children pay the service fee but when you look under the table after the meal, you wonder why children don’t pay double!

Looking for family-friendly accommodation in Northern Italy? Consider booking your stay via booking.com/amsterdammamas. Find the perfect accommodation for your family while supporting Amsterdam Mamas at the same time! 

This article is based on a post from Julia Smile’s blog Frogs in the Box.

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The Netherlands

Don’t overlook the many beautiful destinations within The Netherlands itself: beautiful coastline, historic cities and towns, amusement parks, and forests.

Holiday Destinations Within The Netherlands

A Weekend on Texel

Summer Travels Near and Far

Stay in a Castle in Domburg

Spain and Portugal

The Iberian Peninsula is filled with glorious cities, stunning scenery, warm people, and delicious food.

Barcelona

Galicia

Lisbon

Seville

Algarve, Portugal

France

France has it all – mountains, beaches, castles, quiet country towns, glittering cities, and the je ne sais quoi that is so French.

Paris

Disneyland Paris

Brittany: Biking Holiday

Central Europe

Mountains, castles, charming cities, river valleys – the center of Europe has innumerable places to see and things to do …

Budapest

Berlin

Vienna

Prague

Zagreb

Poland: Stay in a kid-friendly palace

Romania: Stay in the Prince of Wales’ Transylvanian Guesthouse

Slovenia: Go Green in the Julian Alps

Italy and Greece

Sun soaked Mediterranean towns and beaches, ancient ruins, vibrant people, and loads of crowd pleasing food, you can’t go wrong visiting either of these ‘classics’.

Athens

Rome

United Kingdom and Ireland

Beyond the exuberance of London there is a vast and beautiful countryside and coastline filled with friendly, cozy, accomodations and people in the UK, and the Emerlad Isle lives up to its image of being green and friendly.

London

Ireland Glamping

Edinburgh

Scandinavia

Are you ready for a very long, beautiful, day? Go north and experience the natural wonders and beauty of Scandinavia in the summer!

Stockholm

Norway: Hiking

Denmark: Legoland Billum

Looking for family-friendly accommodation in Berlin? Consider booking your stay via booking.com/amsterdammamas. Find the perfect accommodation for your family while supporting Amsterdam Mamas at the same time! 

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Like most kids, mine are crazy for Legos. I’ve lost count of the number of lego blocks that have taken up residence in our home, which is why a trip to Legoland seemed the perfect school holiday break for our family. It seems everyone we know, with school-aged children, has been to Lego basecamp in Billund, Denmark and raved about the experience.

Our own experience was nothing short of a fun-filled, long-weekend for the whole family. At ages nine and seven our daughters were the perfect age (and height) to fully enjoy the park experience. While Lego appeals to a wide age range, we found the park filled with mostly young families; we encountered few teenagers.

Tickets & Accommodation

The park’s website is very clear and easy to navigate; information is provided in several languages as well as currency conversions. Be sure to check the Legoland visitor calendar and opening hours before you go. Outside of the summer months there are several days when the park is closed, or has shorter opening hours.

Legoland, Billund is celebrating its 50th birthday in 2018 with special passes, birthday shows, and new rides. Purchasing tickets through the website in advance for day passes, meal passes, and accommodation can save you a few euros per visitor.

There are several accommodation choices offered by Legoland itself, or by registered third parties in the vicinity, in combination with a day pass. The nice thing about Billund is that it is very compact. The Legoland Hotel, for example, is on the park premises with direct access and offers a wide range of themed rooms and a restaurant. We booked a celebration package (tickets and accommodations) through the website which gave us three nights at the Legoland Holiday Village and two days entrance to the Park.

Legoland Holiday Village  is located only 450 meters from the entrance, in one of the Wild West Cabins. It offers a range of accommodations: motel, cabins, teepees, and camping. Our cabin had beds and bunks for five with a kitchenette, table and chairs, and bathroom; just enough to be comfortable for a short stay. The Village itself offers a supermarket, restaurant, several playgrounds for young children, as well as activities – upon arrival our children participated in a scavenger hunt with the possibility of winning a lego set!

Next door to the Holiday Village is Lalandia, a destination in and of itself, and very similar to Center Parcs. They offer several types of bungalows, but their big draw is an indoor facility and the Aquadome Water Park. We visited the indoor pavilion and had dinner one evening in one of their theme restaurants. If the weather is not good for being outdoors, this really can be the perfect place to entertain yourself for hours.

Getting There

As Billund is roughly 750 kilometers from Amsterdam, we chose to drive. It is a fairly easy drive – first to Hamburg, then head north into Denmark – and also scenic, with plenty of rest areas along the way. The only real traffic you may encounter is in and around Hamburg.

However, you can fly in and out of Billund easily. The airport is located across the street from the park. KLM offers 5 flights a day an a return trip is less than €200 per person.

Inside Legoland

Legoland is all about families. At the entrance they offer free children’s wristbands for emergency contact information. There are also a variety of picnic areas scattered around the park. Take a cue from the locals and bring your cooler (and backpack or boulder car) stocked with food for the day. The park is very clean; smokers have a designated area.

If you’ve visited and enjoyed Madurodam, then the recreated villages and structures in Legos will be familiar. It is very pleasant to get an ice cream and stroll through the gardens while you admire the impressive engineering.

There are a range of rides for all age types, even toddlers for whom the Duplo area is specifically intended. The roller coasters are compact, reasonably tame, and enjoyably thrilling – no upside-down moments, an important point for my youngest. We highly recommend the Polar X-plorer; I believe we rode it no fewer than 10 times.

You will be able to see and enjoy most of the park in one day depending on visitor numbers and ride wait times. With a two-day pass we could take our time and go back on rides we enjoyed the first day. Don’t forget to visit the Aquarium or see one of the 3D or 4D shows.

Meals

Within the park there are a variety of food options from fast-food to buffet style dining. Many dietary options are available. To save money we had breakfast in our cabin, and we packed lunch and snacks for the day. We only spent money on ice cream (€20 for 4 cones) or dinner (€100 for 4 hamburger meals with drink, ouch!). Outside of the park there are a few restaurants in Billund mostly catering to the tourist diet of burgers and pizza. There are, however, local supermarkets, which make it easy to cook for yourself.

Language

Language was not an issue and while, naturally,  you will hear several Nordic tongues, English was widely spoken and signed everywhere we went.

Currency

The Danish use the krone; 1 EUR is a little over 7 DKK. You will feel the cost of things, both the currency exchange and being subjected to tourist/amusement park prices. Thankfully, we did not need to exchange cash and we were able to PIN everywhere using our Dutch bank cards.

BONUS: Lego House

Finally, and not to be missed is the newly opened Lego House located in the town center of Billund. You will need a separate pass (about €25pp) for entrance as it is not connected with Legoland. The Lego House is a combination experience center and museum. You will be given a personalized wristband which connects to the Lego House App. At various points throughout the House you can scan you wristband and photograph your experience as you build and interact with legos. You can later download your photos as a memento. The basement floor offers a mini tour of the history and evolution of Lego. Allow 3-4 hours in order to fully experience the Lego House. Each level of the building offers a different playground experience, a peek inside the building, and a view of surrounding Billund and all of your adventures from the rooftop.

Photo Credits: Melissa Curran Kalker

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Whether you are looking for an adventure holiday or a few days of relaxation, the region of Galicia is a fascinating destination with many treasures to be discovered, like ancient cities, scattered pazos (old manor houses), hórreos (traditional stone granaries on stone stilts), castros (fortified Celtic settlements), and even folk music festivals. Galicia is both open to the influences and novelties intrinsic to being a coastal region and simultaneously enxebre (genuinely rooted to its identity). 

See and Do

A Coruña

This port city, also known as the Glass City due to its galleries in the Marina promenade, is home to the oldest operating lighthouse in the world.  Spread over 13km of seafront promenade are countless monuments, museums, parks and child friendly areas to make A Coruña a perfect place for a holiday with kids.

Be sure to visit:

1. Torre de Hércules: Built by the Romans in the second half of the 1st century, legend has it that it was from this lighthouse, now a World Heritage Site, that the son of Breogán glimpsed a distant green land which led him to sail towards what is today’s Ireland.
2. San Antón Castle: This 16th century fortress is a pleasant walk from the old city centre and is an historical and archeological museum.        
3. The Domus: An interactive museum of human physiology and perception. Don’t miss the interesting reproduction of Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa made from over 10,000 photos of people at the entrance of the museum.
4. Aquarium Finisterrae: An interactive centre dedicated to marine biology and oceanography.
5. The National Science and Technology Museum (MUNCYT): This glass cube building received the National Young Architecture Award of the 9th Spanish Biennial.  
6. Picasso’s Childhood Home:  Pablo Picasso lived in this large apartment for almost five years, while his father taught art at the Instituto da Guarda school on nearby Plaza de Pontevedra. You will find copies of the many paintings and drawings that Picasso did while here, testament to his precocious talent. 

The popular bonfires on the beach of Riazor on the “noche de San Juan” (Midsummer night), mark the beginning of the summer holidays, and the Fiestas de María Pita, has family friendly festivities that take place throughout the month of August.

Santiago de Compostela

This historical city is the capital of the Galicia region.  Its origins date back to its shrine to Saint James the Great (now the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela). It has been the final destination of the ancient pilrgrimage route, the Way of Saint James, since the 9th century.

1. Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela: Built over the alleged burial site of Saint James, this Romanesque/Gothic/Baroque church has a fascinating history and is open every day. Don’t miss the guided tour of the roof. 25th July is the feast of St. James, with a big display of fireworks and performances.
2. Old Town: A Unesco World Heritage Site, Santiago de Compostela may welcome you with the sound of bagpipes resonating from the cobbled streets or perhaps by the serenading of the tunos (university students dressed in 13th century garb) playing traditional instruments in the main square of Plaza del Obradoiro. Old Town bustles with the thousands of pilgrims who still arrive every year, and it is filled with restaurants and bars, and souvenir and jewellery shops. Look for their traditional silver and black amber pieces.

Costa da Morte

Many a ship has been wrecked on this stunning but treacherous stretch of rocky coastline.   It does however offer calm and safe beaches perfect for families with children. There are lovely little fishing villages scattered all along the coast line, with two especially charming villages being Laxe, and Finisterre. Laxe is an enchanting town with a lovely walk to the lighthouse.  The ancient Romans believed Finisterre to be the “End of the Earth”, and it is therefore the perfect final destination of the Way of St James.

Eat

Galicia offers scrumptious seafood cuisine. Pulpo á feira is the most iconic dish of Galicia, octopus served over thinly sliced potatoes seasoned with paprika. Some good eateries to sample this delicacy in A Coruña, are Pulpeira A Nova Lanchiña and Pulpeira de Melide. 

If the kids balk at eating octopus, there are some other specifically Galacian tapas to look for, including: Tequeño (a warm breadstick filled with melted cheese), Pimientos de Padrón (small peppers grown only in the region of Padrón), Raxo (no paprika) and Zorza (with paprika) which are pork morsels cooked with garlic and herbs and served on a bed of crisp potato slices.

For a quick tapas pit stop try La Bombilla near María Pita Square in A Coruña.

The sweet tooth in your family can indulge in Tarta de Santiago.  It is a delicious sponge cake made with ground almonds and dusted with powdered sugar. Naturally, the very best are to be found in Santiago de Compostela itself!

If you are looking for a traditional Chocolate con Churros (fried batter sticks with chocolate for dipping), Bonilla Lavista will please both children and grown ups alike. 

Looking for family-friendly accommodation in Galicia? Consider booking your stay via booking.com/amsterdammamas. Find the perfect accommodation for your family while supporting Amsterdam Mamas at the same time!

Photo credits: Costa da Morte beach, Pulpo á feira, Picasso House Museum, Santiago Old Town – Ana Rial

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Trips Near …

Even when you think you’ve got every single day of the summer school holidays planned in advance, there will be a day or more when you just want to get out of the city, but are stumped. No worries, for fun day or weekend trips consider the following options:

Favorite Day Trips

Haarlem and Vicinity

Delft

Breda

Maastricht

Den Haag

Beaches and Lakes Near Amsterdam

Hoge Veluwe: A national park and a national treasure, the Hoge Veluwe offers camping, biking, horse riding, Safari adventures, fishing, restaurants, hotels, meditation workshops, farmers’ markets … and a world class art museum? Wow!

Texel

Efteling

And Trips Far!

If you are thinking of venturing further from Amsterdam … Prague, Athens, Norway, Scotland, Ireland, Austria, or Spain, anyone? These are only a few of the destinations covered by Amsterdam Mamas. Start packing!

Quick Guide with Kids Directory

7 Offbeat and Family Friendly Stays in Europe

Looking for family-friendly accommodation in Europe? Book your stay via booking.com/amsterdammamas and we’ll receive a portion of the reservation value. Find the perfect accommodation for your family and support Amsterdam Mamas at the same time!

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Ireland

Burren Glamping: Glamp in style in a converted horse cart which can sleep up to five people (two double beds, one single) on a sustainable family pig farm on the west coast of Ireland, along with ducks, chickens, cats, dogs, donkeys, and a small herd of cattle. The closest village of Kilfenora has restaurants and a small grocery store.(*Available through Booking.com)

Amenities: Bathroom with shower, kitchenette, and fireplace. Homemade full Irish breakfast available for additional cost. Sheets and towels provided. No wifi.

Need a Car?: Yes. Dublin airport is a three-hour drive.

Cost: Moderate. €120/night.

Why We Loved It: Hosts Eva and Stephen will make your stay on their pig farm absolutely delightful. (Don’t let the pigs scare you off – you won’t smell anything unpleasant as it’s free-range.) Since it’s a one horse-cart show, you’ll be the only guests, allowing you to fully enjoy the solitude and tranquility of the area. It won’t be long before your kids are trailing after Stephen, mini farmers-in-training, to help feed the animals. The farm is located in an area called The Burren, which together with the nearby Cliffs of Moher, form what’s called an UNESCO Geopark, promoting sustainability, agrotourism, local gastronomy, cultural heritage, and the preservation of natural landmarks. The area is full of ancient ringforts and megaliths (one ringfort is adjacent to the farm), hikes and bike trails, miles of rugged coastline, castle ruins, and of course, plenty of pubs (complete with a thriving music scene). There’s even a rumored haunted house down the road. Most people pass through the Burren in a day – we spent four days exploring the area and loved it.

 It won’t be long before your kids are trailing after Stephen, mini farmers-in-training, to help feed the animals …

Poland

Piotrowice Nyskie/Prince-Bishop of Wroclaw’s Palace: Call a palace home, in private apartments in partially-restored 14th century palace in Poland’s rural Silesia. The palace is undergoing renovations; so the furnishings are eclectic and basic. The charm is in the palace itself. (*Available through Booking.com)

Amenities: Family suites are large with one to two bedrooms, free wifi, kitchen, wood-burning fireplace, and modern bathroom, each with room for four to six people (or more, they are really flexible). Available family supplies include cots, cribs, high chairs, books, and toys. We were allowed to use their laundry facilities as well, so just ask for what you need.

Need a Car?: Helpful. It’s possible to arrive via train (transfers available), but if you want to explore the countryside you’ll need a car. Nearest airport is Wroclaw (one hour).

Helpful Info: Pets are welcome, extra charges apply. The palace is located in a tiny village with no amenities. Nearest grocery store is ten minutes by car. The property has plenty to occupy: gardens, grass tennis courts, a swimming pond, and various animals, but there’s also lots to explore in this off-the-beaten track area of Poland (and the Czech Republic is just a few kilometers away). Be aware that, unlike the well-worn tourist spots in Europe, cushy amenities such as information in English and viable eating options will be few and far between. The charm and lack of crowds will more than make up for it.

Cost: Moderate. €118/night for two adults/two children (per AirBnB). Costs may vary based on room selection and number of people.

Why We Loved It: The property is a children’s haven. Hosts Jim and Anna live in part of the palace with their adorable and large multilingual British/Polish family. Your kids will instantly be best friends with their children and will happily run around the property, shooing away the cockerels, and playing in their fairy gardens and old barns. Jim and Anna are gracious hosts and will be happy to show you around the palace and property, enthusiastic to share information and stories. Our favorite part of staying here is that no part of the palace is off limits (at your own risk, beware of construction areas). We were free to explore and wander to our hearts’ content. This is a place you won’t forget.

Portugal

Aldeia da Pedralva: Select from one of 31 adobes in a restored village-hotel at the ‘end of the world’ in the Algarve. Painstaking restoration has transformed the former rural Vila do Bispo into Aldeia da Pedralva (the rebuilt village). These 31 adobes range from one to three bedrooms. (*Available through Booking.com)

Amenities: All rooms feature a kitchenette, living area, a TV (for DVDs only), heat (but no AC), toiletries, and include daily housekeeping. Extra (for cost) services include a breakfast buffet, gourmet grocery service, babysitting, laundry, and massage appointments. Child cots available on request.

Need a Car?: Helpful, to get there and to explore the region. Airport transfer service available for a fee.

Helpful Info: Pets allowed for an extra fee, except for July and August. There are two restaurants available in the village and an outdoor swimming pool. Wifi is available in the main lobby only, where you can also check out games and books.

Cost: Moderate to pricey, depending on room.

Why We Loved It: This village feels worlds away from the soulless resort strips of the Algarve yet is just a short drive away from many of the most beautiful spots in the area. So, you’re away from it all but with plenty to do – lunch in the adorable fishing village of Sagres, a visit to the lighthouse on the most Southwestern tip of Portugal, or sunbathing on your choice of beaches. If the temperature is moderate enough, there is plenty for nature lovers and adventure seekers, including horseback riding, snorkeling, windsurfing, and surfing lessons. The village itself is clean and cheerful. And it certainly doesn’t hurt that you can get possibly the world’s best chocolate mousse at the popular pizza place in the center of the village (reservations required).

Romania

The Prince of Wales’s Guesthouse: Rejuvenate in royal style in a remote Transylvanian hillside setting. The Prince of Wales stays there once a year to retreat to nature. It’s luxurious but with a rustic flair – “roughing it” for the royals. The property is a former estate, impressively restored, with multiple houses and buildings providing seven rooms for guests. Most rooms will accommodate one to three people plus an extra child’s cot.

Amenities: The all-inclusive package provides all meals, and daily nature excursions with guides. Standard amenities are similar to any hotel: housekeeping, tea and coffee provisions, etc. Extra (for cost) amenities include laundry services, bicycle hire, and bear watching excursions (yes, bears!). There is no wifi – by design – and very poor cell coverage. Guests are encouraged to unplug.

Need a Car?: No. This is a very remote location, but various transfer options are available (though not cheap). Upon arrival, you will likely not use your car again.

Helpful Info: Children and families are welcome, but not exactly catered to. We recommend this for ages five and older. Meals are late, communal, and somewhat formal, but the staff are very accommodating (if also a bit standoffish). Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need. The Guesthouse is located on the edge of a village, with sparse grocery options. If your kids are picky or get hungry between meals, bring an ample supply of snacks.

Cost: Pricey, but good value for an all-inclusive. Children under 14 stay at half-price.

Why We Loved It: The number one thing we loved was that it was all-inclusive (no thinking about meals whatsoever!). The number two thing we loved was the emphasis on nature and simplicity. Instead of kid’s clubs and mini-golf and indoor pools to keep busy, the objective here is to escape busy-ness: play in a stream, read in a hammock (bring books!), animal-gaze, star-gaze, navel-gaze … you get the picture. The shining star of this guesthouse is its setting, the gorgeous foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, and the order of each day is just to enjoy it. Once the (only slightly painful) detox from their devices was over, our kids loved every minute of this holiday and swore to live in the country forever. Plus, if you’re into the British royal family, there’s the opportunity to stay in Prince Charles’s own room or at least take a peek.

Netherlands

Stayokay Domburg: Stay in a hostel-style accommodation in a 13th century castle. Budget meets medieval splendor. (*Available through Booking.com) 

Amenities: Rates for private family rooms Include breakfast, linens (make your own bed), and wifi. No toiletries are provided and towels cost extra. Baby cots available on request. Bikes are available to rent, and there is a bar and restaurant on location.

Need a Car?: Helpful. Public transportation in Zeeland is not as extensive as the rest of the Netherlands. Helpful info: This is a hostel, which means single beds and putting on your own sheets. Pets not allowed.

Cost: Budget.

Why We Loved It: Bunk beds and a buffet breakfast win my children over every time. This family-friendly hostel is a short bike ride through a nature reserve to the beach. It’s also located next to the Terra Maris museum, a nature museum complete with a made-for-kids outdoor space. Zeeland is a beautiful, tucked-away province of the Netherlands, and we enjoyed exploring the little villages of Domburg and Oostkapelle. You’ll have plenty to do here. Also, what is not to love about staying in a castle just minutes away from the beach?

The rolling hills were a small shock to the system compared to Amsterdam cycling; however, we also enjoyed the challenge and loved coming home to our cozy gite after adventurous treks on our bikes.

France

Breton Bikes: Take a fully-equipped cycling holiday in Britanny. From May through September, you can choose between hotel or campsite cycle tours (cycling to a different location each day). There is also a self-catering gite-based option available year-round (stay in one place and take day trips).

Amenities: Depends on the type of lodging. All bike equipment is provided by Breton Bikes. You’re not likely to have wifi.

Need a Car?: Depends. The base location is deep in Brittany, but once you arrive there is no need for a car unless you do the self-catering option. It’s possible to arrange a transfer from the local train station for a fee.

Helpful Info: This is a super family-friendly holiday outfitter. Owners Geoff and Kate are parents themselves and enthusiastically accommodate cyclists of all ages. Bike options include a variety of kid-friendly choices: from baby and child seats, to trailers, to tandem bikes, to electric bikes. Holiday options are Saturday-Saturday or Friday-Friday. The website has all the information you need – there’s a lot of info to take in but it’s all there.

Cost: Budget (for a cycling holiday), ranges from 260-710 euro/adult/week. Rates are reduced for children under 17. Includes bikes, maps, and lodging (except campsite fees). Meals not included.

Why We Loved It: We did a Breton Bikes holiday during their off-season, and stayed in one of the self-catering gites for a week with full use of their supplied bikes and routes for day trips. Our kids were on the young side (ages four to nine), so we figured they wouldn’t do as well in a group cycling tour, and we wanted to take advantage of their off-season rates. This meant that the weather was a bit cold and dreary in Brittany (which we kind of loved) and operating business hours were a bit fast and loose (which we did not love as much). The rolling hills were a small shock to the system compared to Amsterdam cycling; however, we also enjoyed the challenge and loved coming home to our cozy gite after adventurous treks on our bikes. The countryside is beautiful and Geoff and Kate are incredibly helpful. Overall, it was one of our more exhausting yet enjoyable holidays. Oh, and Brittany is the birthplace of crȇpes. Need we say more?

Slovenia

For hiking enthusiasts, go breathtakingly rustic in Slovenia’s Julian Alps.

Triglav National Park: Basic and rustic huts, part of the Triglav National park system in Slovenia. Similar to hostels, with shared and private rooms available.

Need a Car?: YES, and be warned, the roads are some of the windiest in the world! There are also tour buses, and the occasional city bus, for those with stomachs of steel.

Amenities: Basic beds, shared bathrooms and showers. Bring your own sheets, they supply blankets and pillows. Shared kitchen facilities or breakfast available in some cases.

Helpful Info: Advanced reservations are required. A great route is to drive from Kranjska Gora to Lake Jasna, then stay at one of the cabins along route 206, before descending down the other side. True outdoor adventurists can also hike from one hut to another in the mountains. Signs and maps available at the tourist office in Kranjska Gora. Click here for more information about hiking in Slovenia.

Cost: Budget

Why We Loved It: Super affordable! The Julian Alps are breathtaking – one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. We loved mingling with locals in such an incredible natural setting. It’s a real Slovenian experience!

Norway

More hiking and camping in the mountains of Norway.

DNT Hut System: Spend your nights in beautifully kept rustic cabins, beautifully kept.

Need a Car?: You can take public transportation or a car to the trailheads, but you will have to hike to all huts.

Amenities: Bunk beds, food in pantry (pay on your honor), shared kitchen, outhouses. Huts provide duvets, pillows, and firewood. Like a hostel, bring your own sheets.

Cost: Budget (for Norway)

Helpful Info: Before you go, you’ll need to get a pass and the key for the huts from any DNT office. Here’s a quick video showing you “everything you need to know”. Some cabins have shared out-houses and no running water, others are staffed, provide hot meals, and have hot showers. All the information you need is on their very well-organized website

Why We Loved It: We love hiking, staying in beautiful, remote places, and sharing that experience with our children. And Norway is one of the most amazing places to do all that.

Looking for family-friendly accommodation in Europe? Book your stay via booking.com/amsterdammamas and we’ll receive a portion of the reservation value. Find the perfect accommodation for your family and support Amsterdam Mamas at the same time!

Photo credits: Donna Bardsley (Portugal, Poland, Romania, Netherlands, France); Brooke Lowry (Norway)

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