How to Spend 5 Hours in Amsterdam with Kids

AD. - this post contains affiliate links. This post was published in Jan 2024. Prices and info were last checked on this date and are subject to change - check with attractions direct for the most up-to-date info.  The DFDS Mini Cruise is a cheap way to enjoy a weekend away with kids. You get two nights on board a ship and time in Amsterdam. It is best to see this as a full trip away - your break starts from the second you step on board, rather than just a few hours in Amsterdam. This post shares some ideas for things to do in Amsterdam with kids within easy walking distance of the coach drop off.  You can discover the best prices and latest deals for this trip here: Amsterdam Mini Cruise Deals  You are dropped off near Amsterdam Central Station on the side near the larger body of water. Keep the water on your right, walk along the road for a few minutes and you will see Central Station on your left.  Transfer coach outside of Amsterdam Zoo  Walk through the Central Station building to access most of these attractions.  FREE Google Map  I've added a free Google Map below with all of the locations for the places mentioned in this post pinned as well as the coach drop off / collection point. so it should give you a rough idea of how far attractions are.   
Create Your Own Google Map  I'd highly recommend downloading the free Google Maps app and using it to plan your trip before you travel.  Add pins to your map by typing in the place you'd like to visit and then clicking the save icon.  Then they will be super easy to find again. Once you're in Amsterdam, click on your pin and hit the arrow button for live walking directions or click the bus for live public transport info (including platform numbers and how many stops your destination is). You do need access to mobile data or free WiFi for this to work best but you can also download a free map to your phone before you travel and use GPS.  A Few Tips for the DFDS Mini Cruise  You get around 5 hours in the city which isn't long but it's enough for a canal cruise, lunch and little mooch around. See the whole trip as a weekend / short break rather than just your time in the city. This deal does not include travelling by car and is for foot passengers only. Yes, you need a valid passport to travel.

If you'd like to stay for longer, check out the longer DFDS breaks which include overnight stays in Amsterdam here: DFDS Short Breaks including Hotel

Estimated timings (subject to change)
Day One: Leave North Shields at 5pm and sail overnight to Amsterdam. Day Two: Arrive in Holland at around 9:30am. It takes around 1 hour to get through passport control, board your transfer coach and travel to Amsterdam. Spend 4-5 hours in Amsterdam. The last coach leaves the city at 3:30pm and the ship departs at 5pm then sails back to Newcastle overnight Day Three: Arrive in North Shields at around 9:15am. It takes around 30-45 minutes to get through passport control