Family Holiday in the Netherlands

Are you working in the Netherlands through DB Work and would you like your family to come and spend a few days on holiday with you?

The Netherlands has many interesting places for children, and the distances between cities are relatively short. You can also use public transport in the Netherlands from tains to buses. With a little planning, you can enjoy a long weekend or even a full week together.

Here's when to plan your family holiday in the Netherlands and which places are worth visiting.

1. When is the best time to bring your family to the Netherlands?

The best time depends on the weather, your children's school holidays and your days off work.

April–May: This is tulip season, with plenty of spring events. You can visit Keukenhof Gardens and celebrate King's Day on April 27. However, some attractions can be crowded.

June: The days are long, and the weather is usually pleasant for walks and outdoor activities.

July–August: These months are ideal for families with school-age children, as they are on summer holiday. You can go to the beach, visit amusement parks or explore several cities. Keep in mind that accommodation prices may be higher.

If your family is visiting the Netherlands for the first time, a 5–7-day trip can give you enough time to enjoy several attractions and relax together.

2. What can you visit in the Netherlands with children?

Here are some great places to visit during a family holiday in the Netherlands.

Efteling – Amusement Park. A theme park with fairy-tale-inspired attractions, suitable for both children and adults. It is located near Tilburg, and it's worth setting aside a full day for your visit.

NEMO Science Museum – Amsterdam. An interactive museum where children can discover science through games and experiments. It's also a great choice for rainy days.

Madurodam – The Hague. A park where you can see miniature versions of famous Dutch buildings, cities and landmarks. Children can discover the Netherlands in a fun and engaging way.

Keukenhof – Lisse. If your family visits in spring, you can explore the famous tulip gardens. Check the opening dates, as the park is only open for a few weeks each year.

Scheveningen and Zandvoort Beaches. For a relaxing day, you can head to the seaside. Beach access is free, and you'll find restaurants and places to walk nearby.

Amsterdam – Canal Cruise. A boat trip along Amsterdam's canals can be a memorable experience for the whole family. You can combine it with a visit to the city centre.

3. How much does a family holiday in the Netherlands cost?

Your budget depends on the number of days, the time of year and the activities you plan. The main expenses include travel to the Netherlands, accommodation, meals, local transport and attraction tickets.

How can you save money?

• Book your transport and accommodation in advance.
• Choose accommodation with a kitchen so you can prepare your own meals.
• Combine paid attractions with free walks and activities.
• Check ticket prices and possible discounts online.
• Choose attractions that are close to each other to reduce transport costs.

If you work through DB Work, keep in mind that the accommodation provided for employees is not intended for family stays. For visitors, you will need to book a hotel, apartment or another type of accommodation separately.

4. How do you prepare for your family's visit?

A few simple steps can help you organise your holiday more easily:

• Plan your time off in advance. Talk to the DB Work team about your holiday dates and the approval process.
• Check travel documents. Children must have valid travel documents. If a minor is travelling with only one parent, check the rules regarding consent from the other parent.
• Book accommodation and transport. Especially during summer, it's best to make reservations early.
• Pack suitable clothing. The weather in the Netherlands can change quickly, even in summer.

For information about attractions and activities, you can visit the official website for turisim of the Netherlands  or read the DB Work guide of free activities in the Netherlands.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to bring my family to the Netherlands?

Spring is ideal for seeing tulips and enjoying outdoor walks, while July and August are great options if your children are on school holiday.

What can I visit in the Netherlands with a child aged 6–12?

Efteling, NEMO Science Museum, Madurodam, Keukenhof and the beaches are some of the most popular options.

Can my family stay in DB Work accommodation?

DB Work accommodation is intended for employees. You will need to arrange separate accommodation for your family's visit.

How do I plan my time off when my family comes to visit?

Inform the DB Work team in advance and check the availability of your holiday days before making any reservations.

Can I organise a family holiday in the Netherlands without spending too much?

Yes. You can reduce expenses by choosing free activities, booking in advance and preparing some meals at your accommodation.

 

A family holiday in the Netherlands is a great opportunity to show your loved ones the country where you work and spend quality time together.

You don't have to see everything in a single week. Choose a few places you would like to visit, plan ahead and enjoy your days off.

For more ideas, check out the DB Work guide to free activities in the Netherlands or our article about public transport in the Netherlands.

 

WHAT BENEFITS DOES DB WORK OFFER WHEN YOU START WORKING IN THE NETHERLANDS?

• Accommodation with everything you need for a comfortable living;
• Local transport provided with DB Work company vehicles;
• Work equipment and protective gear;
• Health insurance included;
• Support throughout the entire contract period;
• Access to guides with complete information about living in the Netherlands;
• Access to the Plan4Flex application, where you receive real-time information.