The 22 BEST Museums of Europe to Visit with Kids

(Last Updated On: October 12, 2023)

Looking for the best museums of Europe for kids? Look no further! Each of these museums was recommended by a top travel blogger. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or setting off on your first European adventure, make sure you add these museums to your bucket list.

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Museums in the UK for Families

Dive into the UK’s rich history and cultural diversity. From the bustling streets of London to the charming countryside villages, the UK boasts a wealth of engaging museums that kids will love.


1. Tate Modern, London

high rise building near body of water, tate modern

London’s Tate Modern is one of the best museums in Europe to visit with kids. Walking into the iconic Turbine Hall, kids will be awestruck by its vast scale. Tate Modern has an impressive collection of contemporary art, including works by Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol and Salvador Dali.

Most exhibitions are free (although you can book a guided tour, too. Not only is the space incredibly spacious, accessible and easy to navigate, the staff members are friendly and welcoming. You can bring a buggy anywhere and breastfeed if you need.

The Tate Modern actively encourages kids to engage with art and recreate the poses of people in the artworks displayed.

In the gallery shop, both young and old can create miniature works of art on paper to display proudly on the wall. Kids can also create digital works of art or participate in create-your-own-poster workshops, too.

Whether you’re planning a short family city break or a once-in-a-lifetime familymoon, Tate Modern is not only one of the best museums of Europe to visit with kids, it’s one of the best (and largest) in the world.

Plus, it’s just a convenient 20 minute walk along the River Thames from Big Ben and the London Eye, making it an easy addition to your London itinerary.

Recommended by Kaz, The Honeymoon Guide

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2. Museum of Transport, Manchester

museums in manchester, museum of transport, best museums of europe

Located on Cheetham Hill Road, the Museum of Transport in Manchester is a fascinating attraction that showcases the evolution of transportation in Manchester throughout history.

The museum’s collection includes over 70 historic vehicles, including trams, buses, cars, and motorcycles. The exhibits display the development of transportation from the early horse-drawn carriages to modern-day vehicles.

The museum also has a large collection of transportation-related artefacts, including signs, uniforms, and photographs, giving visitors a glimpse of what life was like back in the day.

One of the things that makes the Museum of Transport one of the best things to do in Manchester for families is that it’s very interactive. 

Children can learn about the history of transportation while having fun! They are allowed to go in some of the buses and trams, sit on the seats and be a bit of a passenger back in time.

The museum also has a lot of hands-on activities for both kids and adults, including a quiz.

Another highlight of the museum is the opportunity to ride on vintage vehicles. Visitors can take a ride on a historic bus from the museum to Manchester City Centre! This is available on some weekends; the full schedule is available on their official website.

Recommended by Pauline, Manchester Pocket Guide


3. St Fagan’s National Museum of History, Cardiff

St Fagan's National Museum of History, Cardiff

One of the best museums in Europe to visit with kids is St Fagan’s, the Welsh National Museum of History. Located on the outskirts of Cardiff, St Fagan’s is an open-air museum dedicated to teaching visitors about the history of Wales through its buildings and the people who lived and worked in them.

As one of Wales’s most popular heritage museums, the site is a huge park with a farm, traditional cottages, and buildings that span much of the history of the country.

Apart from the recreated Iron Age roundhouses, each building has been relocated, brick-by-brick, from its original location to St Fagan’s, and each is decorated with furnishing and fixtures of the period in which it was used. The village is a working village where you can even buy bread from the bakery!

What makes St Fagan’s so great for families to visit is the outdoor aspect, the farm animals, the playground, the village, and the opportunity for kids to enter the buildings to discover Wales through the centuries.

St Fagan’s brings Wales alive and with buildings including chapels, farmhouses, schools, a post office, a working village, and more, families will have an amazing time learning about Wales, its history, and the people that have made it the country it is today.

Recommended by Cath, Wales with Kids

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4. National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh

National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh

The National Museum of Scotland, located in the Old Town of Edinburgh is a large museum with a wide variety of exhibitions which make it an ideal place to bring kids.  No matter their interest, whether science, animals or history there’s something for them to enjoy.

The stunning museum is free which makes it a great place to keep in mind if the weather is not on your side, as it can often be in Scotland. 

It’s worth combining it with visiting Greyfriars Kirkyard, which is just across the road, where you can see the grave and statue of the loyal dog and some Harry Potter sites too which kids will love.

Inside the museum there are lots of floors to explore different types of displays.  It’s great for kids who want to get hands on as there are many interactive displays such as getting a robot to spell out your name from random blocks, doing digital dinosaur digs or dressing up as some figures in history. 

There’s plenty to do that will keep kids busy for just a short time or up to hours if you need to keep them happy in the city.

Read More: The Best Edinburgh Hotels for Families  

Recommended by Kirsty, Lost in Landmarks


5. Museum of London Docklands

The Museum of London Docklands is a great choice for adults and kids alike. It’s housed in a converted warehouse and details the development of the London docks from initial construction in the 1600s until the present day.

There are several interactive sections throughout the general collection for kids to enjoy, including a display where they can build a small bridge and assemble a brick wall to learn about construction methods. There are also dressing up and drawing areas.

There is a café on site with a good selection, and a dedicated part of the museum for entertaining kids – Mudlarks. Mudlarks has a Docklands-themed soft play area and also hosts activities for kids, such as storytelling sessions and Victorian parlour game workshops. There is even a weekly ‘quiet’ session aimed to help children with autism spectrum and sensory conditions enjoy the museum in a calm environment.

The museum is free for both the general exhibition and also the kids’ sessions, however you will need to book tickets for activities at Mudlarks as there are limited slots available.

London has a large selection of museums that are family friendly and definitely make London worth visiting with kids, but the Museum of London Docklands is an underrated gem and definitely worth visiting if you are exploring London with children.

Recommended by Fiona, Following Fiona


6. York Castle Museum

York Castle Museum is an eclectic and fascinating family friendly museum and is one of York’s top attractions for kids. Its engaging galleries include toys through time (a trip down memory lane for parents), the Swinging Sixties and World War I and II.

There is a gallery which shows how living rooms have changed through the ages which is perfect for showing kids how furniture, technology and design has changed over time. 

The highlight of the museum is ‘Kirkgate’ a full size recreation of a cobbled Victorian Street complete with shops and a school that you can enter. Visit the Sweet Shop or the Pharmacy where costumed actors will tell you what life was like in Victorian times. 

York Castle Museum was once the courthouse and jail for the City of York and you can visit the eerie atmospheric cells where prisoners were incarcerated.

Hologram actors describe what life was like in the prison – don’t miss the exhibit at the end of the prison which tells you what happened to the unfortunate people you ‘met’ in the cells. 

There are interactive exhibits and activity areas throughout the museum which encourage play and sensory learning plus a regular programme of event for kids, particularly during school holidays. 

Entrance tickets can be booked online in advance and are cheaper than on the day tickets. Alternatively, you can get a York Pass which will give you access to over 20 attractractions including the castle museum. Get your York Pass here >>>

Recommended by Sinead, York Travel Expert


Museums in Croatia

Croatia, a beautiful country on the Adriatic coast, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a family trip.

In addition to its stunning landscapes and charming cities, Croatia boasts a range of fascinating museums.


7. Museum of Illusions, Zagreb

When choosing where to stay in Zagreb as a family, the Lower Town should be your top choice!

Not only is this area of the capital pedestrian-friendly (making it ideal for small children and strollers), but it is also home to some of the best family-friendly attractions in the city.

Right in the heart of Zagreb’s Lower Town is the Museum of Illusions, a unique and interactive museum featuring fun, educational, and mind-bending exhibitions.

What makes the Museum of Illusions such a fantastic place for families to visit in Zagreb with kids is its interactive nature.

Many of the exhibits encourage visitors to touch, play, and experiment with them, providing a hands-on learning experience for children and adults alike.

Visitors can experience everything from the Ames room, where people appear to change size as they move from one end of the room to the other, to the hologram exhibit, which features three-dimensional images that seem to float in mid-air.

Another reason why the Museum of Illusions is so great is the fact that it’s not just for kids. The entire museum is designed to be engaging and thought-provoking for people of all ages, so adults will have just as much fun as the little ones!

Recommended by Olivia, Inspired by Croatia

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Museums in Ireland

The Emerald Isle is known for its lush green landscapes, friendly locals, and rich cultural heritage. Ireland offers a variety of engaging and interactive museums that are perfect for kids to explore and learn about the country’s fascinating history.


8. Dublinia Viking and Medieval Museum, Dublin

Dublinia Viking and Medieval Museum, Dublin

A great museum in Europe for families to visit is Dublinia in Dublin City Centre. Located across the road from one of the top attractions in Dublin, Christ Church Cathedral, Dublinia is the museum of Dublin through Viking and Medieval times.

Visitors start on the Viking floor and discover more about the people who founded the city which is now Ireland’s capital.

Character actors dressed in Viking attire are on hand to answer any questions young visitors have, or to show them interesting things related to the era.

There is a Viking house to step inside, you can try on Viking clothing, or even step on board a Viking ship.

Move upstairs, and you will enter Medieval Dublin. The city becomes cramped and busy, you will learn about the crime and punishment of the times and even peek inside a doctor’s cabinet to see what ‘medicines’ were in use during medieval years.

There are artefacts on display found during local excavations in the museum, and you can also climb St Michael’s Tower to enjoy views across the city.

Kids will love the interactive displays, enjoy dressing like a Viking or medieval merchant, and even interact with the Living History guides to learn even more about the history of Dublin. It is a unique museum that brings the history of the city to life and is a great place for families to visit in Dublin.

Recommended by Cath, Travel Around Ireland

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Read More: Ireland Theme Parks


Museums in Germany for Families

Germany, a country known for its rich history, diverse culture, and technological innovations, offers a plethora of activities, including plenty of family-friendly museums.


9. Little Big City, Berlin

Little Big City, Berlin

Little Big City Berlin is an incredible attraction in the heart of Berlin, Germany, that will take you on a journey through the city’s history.

As a parent, I highly recommend it as an excellent place to take your kids during your visit to Berlin with kids. This attraction offers a unique interactive experience that is both fun and educational.

Using state-of-the-art technology, Little Big City Berlin has recreated the city’s most iconic moments and landmarks on a miniature scale. It is the perfect way to explore the city’s history with your children without having to do a lot of walking.

My kids were fascinated by the attention to detail put into every miniature model. We all learned about Berlin’s history in an interactive and engaging way. Kids can explore the city’s past from the Middle Ages to modern-day Berlin, all in one place.

The attraction also features a fantastic 3D cinema experience that will transport you and your kids into the heart of Berlin’s history. You can even meet historical figures such as Albert Einstein and King Frederick II, who have been brought back to life using cutting-edge technology.

Little Big City Berlin is located in the heart of Berlin, making it an easy addition to your itinerary. The attraction is suitable for kids of all ages, and they will love the interactive displays, sound effects, and special effects.

It’s also an ideal activity for a rainy day or a hot summer afternoon when you want to escape the weather. Trust me, you won’t regret visiting Little Big City Berlin with your kids – it’s a unique and unforgettable experience that they will talk about for years to come!

Recommended by Janine, Families Magazine

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Best Museums in Europe: Museums in Spain for Families

Spain is a vibrant country known for its rich history, delectable cuisine, and lively culture. The country has an array of fantastic museums that kids will love!


10. Prado, Madrid

Prado museum, museums in madrid

The Prado Museum, located in Madrid, Spain, is a cultural gem attracting millions of visitors yearly.

Known as one of the world’s premier art museums, it houses an exceptional collection of European paintings from the 12th to the early 20th century.

With its vast array of masterpieces, the Prado Museum offers an enriching and educational experience for families.

Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by a stunning display of renowned works by artists such as Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.

The museum’s collection encompasses various styles and periods, including Renaissance, Baroque, and Romantic art, providing a comprehensive overview of European artistic traditions.

What makes the Prado Museum particularly appealing to families is its commitment to providing engaging activities for children.

The museum offers family-friendly guided tours specially designed to introduce young visitors to the world of art in an interactive and accessible manner. These tours focus on captivating stories and fascinating details, making the artworks come alive for children.

Additionally, the Prado Museum offers workshops and creative activities tailored for children of different age groups. These hands-on experiences allow kids to unleash their artistic talents and deepen their understanding of the artworks they encounter. The museum also organizes temporary exhibitions and events specifically geared toward younger audiences, ensuring a dynamic and enjoyable visit for the entire family.

To plan your visit to the Prado Museum, it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance here. However, if you’re in Madrid on a budget, you should check the official website since they offer free entry on special days.

Recommended by Victoria, Guide Your Travel


11. Picasso Museum, Malaga

museums of europe for families

There are many reasons to visit Malaga, and one of them is its family-friendly museums like Picasso Museum Malaga and the Interactive Music Museum (MIMMA).

Picasso Museum Malaga is one of the most famous museums in Europe AND one of the top most visited museums in Southern Spain. The museum is dedicated to the painter Pablo Picasso, who was born in Malaga. You can find many of his famous paintings and other artistic creations here.

The museum offers activities for schools and families to bring art closer to kids. Some fun activities include storytelling, painting workshops and attending the puppet show in the garden, among others.

In addition, you can also book a guided tour adapted for children and visit the shop with a children’s section where you can get painting books and other things to get your kids into art.

Overall, the museum is accessible to everyone and provides a good experience for families with kids. However, checking out any workshops on their website and booking in advance is always worth checking out.Buy tickets with audioguide here (children under 17 enter for free).”

Recommended by Christina, My Little World of Travelling


Museums in Belgium for Families

As well as delicious chocolate, picturesque medieval towns and captivating cities, Belgium has some fantastic museums.


12. Museum of Natural Sciences, Brussels

natural science museum brussels, best museums of europe, museumsin  brussels

One of the best museums in Europe to visit with kids is the Museum of Natural Sciences in Brussels. As soon as you walk through the entrance, you are met with huge dinosaur skeletons.

There must be at least 10 to 15 different skeletons. It’s the largest dinosaur gallery in Europe and kids love dinosaurs, right?

Even if you are not the biggest fan of museums, you will love this museum in Brussels. It’s one of the reasons Brussels is worth visiting.

There are so many things to see and do, on top of the dinosaur skeletons. The museum is home to hundreds of stuffed animals, which allows children to get an up-close view of animals they might never see in their life. Lions, giraffes, whales, you name it, the Museum of Natural Sciences has it.

There are also lots of interactive exhibitions and they change throughout the year. The current one is on the evolution of mankind, from ape to human and it’s one of the best exhibitions you will ever see. Child or adult, this museum is a must-visit. 

Recommended by Josh, A Backpacker’s World

Read MoreGardens and Parks in Brussels


Museums in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is steeped in history and full of enchanting castles, picturesque towns, memorable bridges and striking landscapes. Here are the best museums in the Czech Republic for families!


13. Prague National Museum

Prague’s National Museum is one of the country’s most beautiful and engaging museums; this centrally located museum houses one of the most extensive and diverse collections of artifacts, artworks, and natural specimens in Europe.

It’s the perfect spot for kids to run around and explore unique exhibits.

Visiting the National Museum is one of the best things to do in Prague and an ideal way for families to spend a day immersing themselves in the history, culture, and natural wonders of the Czech Republic.

It’s easy for kids to get lost in the many floors featuring zoology, botany, anthropology, mineralogy, and archeology. The museum offers a wealth of experiences for children of all ages.

For example, the Zoology Department features an impressive display of animal specimens, including elephants, giraffes, and tigers, which will keep children engaged for hours. 

The Mineralogy Department features an extensive collection of minerals, precious stones, and meteorites which can inspire curiosity in geology and space science. 

Meanwhile, the Anthropology Department features displays that highlight the cultural diversity of different societies throughout history. Children can learn about different traditions and past civilizations. 

Additionally, the museum offers various interactive activities that can engage children and enhance their learning experience.

For instance, the museum has an archeology workshop that allows children to learn about excavation techniques and artifacts. Moreover, the museum organizes educational tours and guided visits for schools and families, where experienced guides can answer questions and provide insights about the collections. 

If you plan to visit Prague’s National Museum, you can buy tickets at the museum or online here in advance

Written by Samantha Tatro of Undiscovered Path Home


Museums in Poland for Families


14. Museum of Municipal Engineering, Krakow

Krakow museum of engineering

The Museum of Municipal Engineering in Krakow is a great museum for families with children of all ages. Situated in the Kazimierz district, the museum is housed in a historic tram depot that dates back to 1913. 

It offers a unique and interactive experience, showcasing the fascinating history of transportation and engineering in the city.

The museum is particularly well-suited for families, as it provides a range of interactive and engaging activities for children. The museum’s extensive collection of old and new trams and trains is one of its main highlights. Kids can explore and climb into the various tram cars and trains on display.

The Museum of Municipal Engineering also hosts temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year, whether you visit Poland in the summer or the winter, there is always something new and exciting to discover. Families can participate in these special events to further enhance their museum experience and create lasting memories.

Keep in mind that the museum offers reduced admission prices for children, making it an even more attractive option for families on a budget.

Recommended by Diana, Travels in Poland

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15. Chopin museum

chopin

Located in the heart of Warsaw, the Chopin Museum is one of the most modern and high-tech biographical museums in Europe. It tells the story, through multimedia displays and exhibits, of the most famous composer in the country, Frédéric Chopin.

Housed within the extravagant Ostrogski Palace, the museum has a range of interactive activities for children to get a better understanding of his life and his most important work. A big favourite among kids is the listening room, where they are able to sit and listen to Chopin’s masterpieces and to view his travel words from his diary.

While learning about his life, families will also enjoy encountering many of Chopin’s personal belongings and unique memorabilia that include his Pleyel piano, death mask, hand casting, gold watch, old photographs, and lock of hair.

A visit to the Chopin Museum is a must on any trip to Warsaw, where children under 7 are granted free access.

Recommended by Rai, A Rai of Light

When you’re in Poland, make sure you also read our guide to the best theme parks in Poland for inspiration!


Museums in France for Families

France, a country synonymous with romance, art, and gastronomy, also boasts an array of exceptional museums that cater to families with children. In France (especially Paris), you can immerse your kids in in the country’s rich history, culture, and artistic heritage.


16. Musee d’Orsay in Paris

Musee d’Orsay in Paris

The Musée D’Orsay is not only one of the top attractions in Paris, but it is also one of the best museums in Europe to visit with kids.

The Musée D’Orsay is located in a former train station, the Gare D’Orsay.  The tall ceilings and arched windows illuminate the classical sculpture gallery in the main hall with natural light, making for a stunning display space.

But the real star of the museum is its fantastic collection of Impressionist art – the largest in the world!  Gaze upon masterpieces such as Monet’s Water Lilies, van Gogh’s The Starry Night, and The Ballet Class by Degas. 

The Musée D’Orsay is a great choice for families, as children under 18 enjoy free admission to the museum.  And if you’re a resident of the EU, an adult accompanying a child can enjoy discounted museum admission tickets as well.

The museum offers special guided tours for children and families on certain days of the week.  Or (for a small fee) pick up a kid-oriented audio guide so your child can explore the collection with Pompon the polar bear, the museum’s mascot.

Recommended by Lisa of Waves and Cobblestones


17. City of Science and Industry, Paris

Situated in Parc de la Villette complex in Paris, France. It is recognized as one of the largest science museums in Europe and one of the best museums to visit in Paris. It features exhibits, hands–on activities, and educational programs designed to inspire curiosity and interest in science, technology, and innovation.

The Explora area is the heart of the museum, with over 600 interactive exhibits that allow visitors to explore the wonders of science and technology.

Here, visitors can learn about electricity, magnetism, mechanics, optics, and many other topics through hands-on experiments and demonstrations.

The Children’s area is designed for young visitors, with exhibits and activities for children aged 2 to 12.

It includes a giant ball pit, a water play area, a construction zone, and various other activities that encourage learning through play. Even parents will find it difficult to tear themselves away from the engaging displays. 

Recommended by Imee Magbag, Journey to France

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Best Museums in Europe: Museums in Albania

Visiting museums in Albania offers the chance to explore the intriguing history, art and traditions.

18. Bunk’Art museum in Tirana, Albania

Bunk’Art 2 is a fascinating museum in Tirana, the capital of Albania, that is worth a visit. The museum’s location inside a military bunker will instantly give children a unique experience!

If you’re wondering why a museum would be housed inside a bunker, communist ruler Enver Hoxha grew deeply paranoid that Albania would come under nuclear attack (that never happened) and built thousands of bunkers around the country.

The museum is in the center of Tirana near Skanderbeg Square and was opened to the public in 2016. Bunk’Art 2 is a massive underground bunker built between 1981 and 1986 with plenty to explore. I

f your family enjoys learning about World Wars and the Cold War, this is the perfect activity to add to your itinerary!

As you journey through the 24 different rooms in the bunker, you’ll learn rich Albanian history from 1912 until 1991.

In addition, through the different artifacts, preserved rooms, and documents, you’ll see what living in Albania was like in the 20th century.

There are also interactive areas, such as the investigation room, where you can even enact a phone call home.

If you prefer to have a guide, this excellent history tour includes ticketed entry to Bunk’Art 2 and visits to famous sites around Tirana’s center. The museum is open from 9:30 AM – 6 PM Monday through Thursday and 9:30 AM – 8 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Recommended by Tamara, My Elated Odyssey


Museums in Italy for Families

Italy, a country renowned for its exquisite art, remarkable history, and delicious cuisine. Here are the BEST museums in Italy for families.


19. Doge’s Palace, Venice

When planning a family vacation in Venice, the Doge’s Palace is a must-visit destination for an unforgettable experience. This magnificent palace is located right on the Grand Canal and is one of the best things to do in Venice with kids.

As you enter the palace, you’ll be transported back in time and immersed in the opulent halls and chambers that showcase the city’s rich history.

Don’t forget to cross the famous Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the New Prisons. The bridge is a significant attraction and offers a glimpse into the harsh reality of the prisoners who walked across it.

You’ll be fascinated by the stories of how prisoners were kept only with bread and water while also seeing the Doge’s golden carriage in a painting in the same building.

Families with children will love details like a box with intel on spies that could be opened only with three keys that three different people were keeping! Seeing the prison cells and learning how Casanova escaped is also fascinating for kids.

It’s a good idea to book tickets in advance to avoid long lines during peak tourist season.

In conclusion, visiting the Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs is one of the best things to do in Venice with kids. It provides a unique opportunity to learn about the city’s history while the prison cells and the stories about escaping them fascinate kids.

Recommended by Jo, World Wild Schooling

Make sure you read our post on the best hotels in Venice for families here.


Museums in The Netherlands

As well as picturesque canals, vibrant tulip fields, and a rich artistic heritage, visiting at least 1 museum on your trip is a must-do.


20. Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam

The Van Gogh Museum is one of the best museums in Amsterdam and one of the best places to visit in Amsterdam with kids.

The museum explores the life and art of Vincent Van Gogh, arguably the most famous Dutch painter. At the Van Gogh Museum, visitors will experience the artist’s work’s chronological progression while learning about his personal life and artistic influences.

Admission is always free for children under 18 (although booking a ticket is still required), and the museum offers some fun activities to help kids connect with the art while having fun.

Pick up your treasure hunt instructions from the information desk, then search for the items throughout the museum. At the end of your visit, kids can return their completed treasure to the Information Desk to receive a gift.

The Van Gogh Museum is one of the most famous museums in Europe and has regular family events throughout the year, such as a family week in April and May.

They also have regular painting workshops for kids, one of the many reasons this is one of the best museums in Europe to visit with kids. 

For the best experience, book timed tickets for the Van Gogh Museum online in advance. This popular museum often sells out!

Recommended by Tamar, World by Weekend


21. NEMO Museum, Amsterdam

NEMO Museum

The museums in Amsterdam are numerous and there is so much to see and do that it is hard to cover everything in a single trip. One of the museums that we spent a lot of time in is the NEMO Science Museum. This is because we had two toddlers in tow and we were looking for a museum that was child friendly.

The NEMO Science museum is huge and it covers a lot of different scientific principles through various displays. The interactive nature of displays makes it great irrespective how old the children are.

As I mentioned before I went in with two toddlers and they just did not want to leave. It was a great opportunity for us to explain the scientific theories behind the experiments with them which meant we had as much fun as they did.

The only thing that I can say is that if you go, plan to spend 4 hours or more here. There is just so much to see and do!

Recommended by Penny, Globe Trove


22. Naturalis, Leiden 

Naturalis Biodiversity Center in Leiden is an impressive, award-winning natural history museum with a huge collection.

If you love nature, biology and evolution, this is the place to visit. Naturalis’ natural history collection was started in 1820 and is now one of the largest and most important worldwide. The museum underwent major renovations and reopend to the public in 2019, almost doubling in size.

Naturalis has 7 different exhibition galleries spread over 6000m2. The huge T.rex Trix is the queen of the impressive Rexperience exhibit. In the LiveScience lab you can see the researchers at work and ask them questions about their projects.

Other areas of the museum are dedicated to the ice age, early humans, temptation, the earth, live and death. Kids love Naturalis because there’s so much to see and do.

You can easily spend a full day discovering Naturalis. On the ground floor you’ll find a nice restaurant, so you don’t have to go hungry. 

Recommended by Lisa, Flip Flop Globetrotters


Best Museums of Europe Map


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Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.