A family vacation in your own country boring? Absolutely not! The Netherlands in 2025 will be buzzing with family-friendly outings – from wild nature to historic cities and amusement parks full of magic. In this comprehensive article, we take you along the best destinations for a family holiday in the Netherlands in 2025. We'll highlight beautiful nature reserves, charming coastal towns, captivating cities, and popular holiday parks. You'll also discover new highlights for 2025 and practical tips on transportation, accommodations, and budgets. Get inspired for an unforgettable family vacation.
Adventure in nature: forests, wildlife and outdoor fun
The Veluwe: on safari in your own country
The largest forest and heathland area in the Netherlands is a dream for families who love the outdoors. Here you can hike and cycle endlessly, and who knows, you might even spot red deer or wild boar. In De Hoge Veluwe National Park, free white bicycles are available for the whole family to zip through the forest. For children, there are fun treasure hunts that teach them about nature in a playful way.
The Veluwe will be extra attractive in 2025 because you can combine nature with family attractions in the area, such as Apenheul and Julianatoren children's amusement park. Veluwe you will find numerous child-friendly campsites and holiday parks in the middle of greenery, often with pool, playground and nature activities.
Drenthe: heathland, dolmens and adventure
Drenthe is perfect for families who love peace, space, and history. Take beautiful bike rides past purple heathlands and mysterious dolmens. Children can climb on these prehistoric stones and imagine themselves as archaeologists. A day trip to Wildlands Adventure Zoo Emmen offers a mix of jungle, savannah, and marine life. For overnight stays, there are farm lodges, campsites, and luxury resorts such as Hof van Saksen, known for its spectacular water slides.
Blow out at the coast: islands and beaches for the whole family
Wadden Islands: adventure on the water
A crossing to Texel, Ameland, or Terschelling is already an experience for children. Texel is a playground with wide beaches, dunes, and seven charming villages full of pancake restaurants. Visit Ecomare, climb the lighthouse, or explore the Beachcombers Museum. Ameland and Terschelling offer endless beaches, minimal traffic, and plenty of space for go-karting, flying kites, and building sandcastles.
Zeeland: sunny beaches and treasure hunting
Zeeland Zeeland is known for its clean, wide sandy beaches and often a bit more sun. Popular family destinations include Domburg and Renesse, but Nieuwvliet-Bad is also ideal with its calm, shallow water. In Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, you can even find fossilized shark teeth on the beach at Cadzand. Zeeland combines beach fun with cultural outings, such as the Delta Works at Neeltje Jans and charming fishing ports.
Coastal cities full of fun
The Hague and Scheveningen combine beach and city life. During the day, play on the beach or in the surf, in the afternoon visit Sea Life or Madurodam. In the evening, enjoy a stroll along the boulevard. Harlingen in Friesland is also recommended, with its charming harbor and as a departure point for trips to Vlieland and Terschelling.
Historic cities with kids: culture and adventure
Amsterdam celebrates 750 years
In 2025, celebrate Amsterdam Its 750th anniversary is marked by year-round festivities, including SAIL Amsterdam in August, a five-day maritime spectacle, and a unique cultural festival where the entire A10 motorway is closed to cars for one day.
Besides these events, Amsterdam always offers many child-friendly activities: canal cruises, playing in Vondelpark, doing experiments in NEMO, watching animals in Artis, and exploring the Maritime Museum.
More family-friendly cities
- Utrecht: compact, car-free, and home to the Railway Museum and the Miffy Museum.
- Maastricht: Burgundian atmosphere, cave adventures in Valkenburg and a cable car to castle ruins.
- Groningen: lively city centre, the Groninger Museum and nice day trips in the area.
In all cities you will find playgrounds, petting zoos and parks to relax in between.
Holiday parks full of fun: everything in one place
Efteling: magic and overnight stays in style
Efteling remains a top destination for families. The new Danse Macabre attraction will fully open in 2025. On August 1st, the Efteling Grand Hotel will also open, right in the heart of the park, allowing you to stay immersed in the fairytale atmosphere even after closing time. Other accommodation options include Bosrijk Holiday Park and Loonsche Land.
Swimming, playing and relaxing
Holiday parks like Landal and Center Parcs offer subtropical swimming pools, indoor playgrounds, and entertainment. Several parks, such as Landal De Lommerbergen and Center Parcs De Eemhof, were renovated in 2025, with new slides and updated facilities.
Combine amusement park and accommodation
Sleeping next to an amusement park or zoo is a hit with families. Think of Slagharen Holiday Park, Duinrell with its Tiki Pool, or Safari Resort Beekse Bergen, where you can watch giraffes walk from your lodge. From budget campsites to luxury resorts: the selection in 2025 will be greater than ever.
Practical tips for a family holiday in the Netherlands
Transportation
- Train: affordable with a Railrunner ticket or Kids Free subscription.
- Cars: flexible, but pay attention to environmental zones and choose P+R for city visits.
- Bike: ideal for day trips, especially on the Wadden Islands and in nature reserves.
Accommodation
From campsites and holiday parks to family hotels, glamping, and even castles, family rooms are becoming increasingly popular, and some hotels let children stay for free.
Budget & luxury
Save money by traveling outside school holidays, booking a midweek break, or cooking your own meals. Luxury options include private beach houses, 5-star hotels, and VIP theme park tours.
Closing note
Whether you choose a midweek break in the woods, a sunny beach holiday, an adventurous city break or a stay in an action-packed holiday park: The Netherlands will offer something special for every family in 2025With new attractions, events, and plenty of child-friendly amenities, this is the perfect time to discover the most beautiful places in our country.