Theme Parks in Amsterdam

If you're looking for a way to entertain the whole family on your city break in Amsterdam, there's no better way to do so than at a theme park. These family-friendly attractions provide an escape from reality via a range of exciting activities.

You can walk among penguins, discover the solar system or seek the answers to your most pressing life questions at the Artis Royal Zoo. Alternatively, step into an enchanting land of fire-breathing dragons and magical fairies at one of the Netherlands' largest attractions.

Whichever of these theme parks in Amsterdam you choose, you'll be guaranteed an action-packed day making lifelong memories with your loved ones.

Artis Royal Zoo

Artis Royal Zoo is located in the heart of the city and has been educating locals, and tourists alike on the natural world since 1838. One of the oldest zoos in the world, this park is home to over 500 species of animals, which include majestic mammals, scaly reptiles and tropical birds.

You can expect to see a number of big cats here, including lions and leopards, which are both threatened in the wild, largely because of poaching. At this dazzling attraction park, you'll also find monkeys, sloths, elephants, penguins and turtles, among its impressive range of occupants.

Purchasing Artis Royal Zoo tickets doesn't just enable you to discover the daily habits of the world's most exciting beasts. You can also explore the many other attractions scattered around the park, including the aquarium, planetarium, micropium, botanic garden and museum, all of which are sure to awe you.

The aquarium is home to an abundance of vibrant marine life, such as rainbow fish, red-bellied piranhas and eels. You'll also find sharks swimming lazily through the waters of the aquarium and you can admire these misunderstood creatures from a safe distance.

The Artis Planetarium educates visitors on the different planets within the solar system and helps determine whether life on other planets is possible. There are a number of shows that teach adults and children the fundamentals of astronomy, and are designed to pique one's interest in the universe that surrounds you. Do you want to know what is beyond the Milky Way? You'll find out in one of these immersive experiences, which are completely captivating for everyone.

The Groote Museum, located within the park, focuses on the big questions of the natural world. How humans came to be, evolution and why the human population even exists are all topics that are addressed here. The museum is formed of 14 sections, each of which focuses on one part of the human body, such as the heart or vocal cords. You'll learn about your genetic makeup and how you are connected with the natural world through a variety of engaging installations, and interactive displays.

Alternatively, turn your attention to the invisible world at the Artis Micropia, which is the only museum of its kind in the world. Investigate micro-organisms and see how they affect everything on earth at this fascinating exhibition. You can even assemble your own microbial collection, which you'll then watch come to life before your eyes. The zoo also has an astounding history as a hiding place for almost 300 Jews during WWII, when the park remained open and provided entertainment for German Nazis.

Whether you're 4 or 94, you'll find something to learn at the attractions inside the Artis Royal Zoo. With reasonably-priced tickets and so much to see, and do, this site will provide you with a full day of entertainment on your city break to Amsterdam.

Efteling Theme Park

An easy hour's drive south of Amsterdam lies the magical world that is Efteling Theme Park. This attraction has been open since the 1950s and is themed around folklore and fairy tales. Efteling is the largest theme park in the Netherlands and is constantly rated as one of the top family-friendly destinations in Europe. You'll find a variety of attractions, from exhilarating roller coasters to haunted mansions, water rides and immersive 4D experiences.

Those seeking a thrill can buckle up and enjoy the spine-tingling Baron 1898, where you'll experience an almost 40-meter free fall at a staggering speed of 90 kilometers per hour. Alternatively, face a terrifying dragon on the Joris en de Draak wooden coaster or loop the loop on the Python.

If you don't mind getting wet, head to the Pirana river rapids ride where you'll soar past waterfalls and rocks at a thrilling pace. Or, opt for the Vliegende Hollander water coaster aboard a cursed ship. Family-friendly activities include immersing yourself in a world of fairies, elves and trolls on Droomvlucht, and watching the Fabula 4D film adventure. Travel through the attraction park on the classic steam-engined Stoomtrein and let your kids spin endlessly on horseback on the steam carousel.

Aside from numerous rides, Efteling Theme Park is home to children's play areas and an elevated Thai-inspired pagoda, where you can gain panoramic views over the theme park from 45 meters high. With Efteling Theme Park tickets in hand, you can wander among dragons, giants and beloved story time characters in the fairy tale forest. Plonk yourself in front of the talking tree and listen to an enchanting tale of woodland creatures, and magical beings.

The site changes throughout the year, meaning that you'll have a different experience, whichever season you choose to visit. In the winter, you can warm up around a bonfire, enjoy a selection of decadent wintery treats and try out your skills at the park's ice skating rink.

In the springtime, you can marvel at the abundance of colorful flowers coming to life, while the summer brings spectacular nighttime water shows, complete with fire, lights and music. During fall, walks through the fairy tale forest are elevated by the chilly air and dazzling shades of red, orange, and yellow that surround you as the leaves fall.

You can even choose to extend the wonder by opting for an overnight stay at the Efteling Theme Park. With a number of accommodation options, you can choose to feel like royalty at the attraction park's fairy tale-themed hotel or snuggle up in a cozy cabin that backs onto a tranquil lake.