The Netherlands with 12 yo

[Brindisa]

We’re planning a short break in February half term - just me and 12 yo ds. I’m thinking Amsterdam/ Rotterdam - maybe 1.5 days in each? Does this sound sensible?

ds likes art, science, food. I can’t decide if it would be better to stay in one place for 3 to 4 days or visit both. Has anyone been and do you have any recommendations for where to stay and what to do?

Just stay in Amsterdam. There's more than enough to do there for three days. I blog about Amsterdam and the wider Netherlands.

Take a look, lots of itinerary suggestions and more in the kids' section

Www.amsterdamwonderland.com

I’d just stay in Amsterdam. There is loads to do x

My DD loved the Zaanse Schans open air museum which is a preserved 18th/19th century village where many on the windmills are still operational (they were sawing logs in one the day we were there). There are also things like traditional cheese makers, bakery, clog maker as well as cafes and restaurants. There are indoor exhibits but best to go when the weather is reasonable.

www.dezaanseschans.nl/en/

I would do Amsterdam only, there is plenty to do and see.

You obviously have the big art museums, it depends a bit on what his interests are.

3 days? Stay in Amsterdam.

Agree about staying in Amsterdam. Rotterdam is less charming, and plenty to do in the former.

Ah ok brilliant! I had heard Amsterdam could be a bit seedy at night but i guess we just need to avoid certain areas ..?

Exactly. Book any excursions early ... we couldn't get in some places.

I went twice with DD, once she was 11 and this year, she is 17 now.

You have to be know where not to go but that's a very small area of a otherwise great city.