10 Best Wheelchair-Friendly Activities in Amsterdam
10 Best Wheelchair-Friendly Activities in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a vibrant city full of culture, history, and beautiful sights. But what if you use a wheelchair? Fortunately, the city offers many accessible activities that allow you to explore without obstacles.
Whether you’re interested in museums, parks, or a relaxing canal cruise, this list of 10 wheelchair-friendly activities in Amsterdam will help you plan a memorable visit.
1. Take a Wheelchair-Friendly Canal Cruise
One of the best ways to experience Amsterdam is from the water. A wheelchair-friendly boat tour allows you to see the city's famous canals, historic buildings, and charming bridges without any accessibility concerns.
- Step-free boarding with ramps.
- Spacious seating for wheelchair users.
- Unobstructed views of Amsterdam’s most famous sights.
- Several companies, including Wheelchair Boat, offer 100% accessible canal tours.
2. Explore the Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is home to some of the most famous Dutch masterpieces, including Rembrandt’s Night Watch and Vermeer’s The Milkmaid.
- Fully wheelchair-accessible entrances and elevators.
- Wide exhibition halls for easy navigation.
- Wheelchairs available for rent at the entrance.
3. Visit the Van Gogh Museum
This museum showcases the life and work of Vincent van Gogh, including The Starry Night and Sunflowers.
- Step-free access with ramps and elevators.
- Accessible restrooms and seating areas.
- Pre-booked tickets ensure a smooth entry process.
4. Stroll Through Vondelpark
Vondelpark is the largest and most famous park in Amsterdam, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s busy streets.
- Flat, paved paths make it easy to explore.
- Wheelchair-friendly cafés inside the park.
- Scenic spots perfect for relaxing and people-watching.
5. Discover the NEMO Science Museum
Perfect for families, NEMO Science Museum is an interactive experience with fun, hands-on exhibits.
- Step-free access throughout the building.
- Elevators to each floor for easy navigation.
- Wheelchair-friendly rooftop terrace with amazing city views.
6. Visit the Anne Frank House (Limited Accessibility)
The Anne Frank House tells the moving story of Anne Frank and her diary during World War II.
- The museum itself is not fully accessible, but the entrance and lower level are.
- The surrounding Prinsengracht area is wheelchair-friendly.
- Consider learning about Anne’s story through online exhibits before visiting.
7. Explore the Jordaan District
The Jordaan is one of Amsterdam’s most picturesque neighborhoods, known for its canal houses, boutique shops, and cafés.
- Many streets and bridges have step-free routes.
- Accessible cafés with outdoor seating are available.
- Perfect for a relaxed afternoon of exploring.
8. Experience Artis Zoo
Artis is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and offers a beautiful mix of animals, gardens, and historic architecture.
- Flat, wheelchair-friendly paths throughout the zoo.
- Accessible restaurants and restrooms available.
- Calm, green environment perfect for a stress-free visit.
9. Visit the National Maritime Museum
Discover the history of the Dutch Golden Age and the country’s seafaring past. The VOC ship replica outside is a must-see.
- Elevators and ramps make the museum fully accessible.
- Wide open spaces for easy wheelchair movement.
- Interactive exhibits bring maritime history to life.
10. Enjoy a High Tea at a Wheelchair-Friendly Café
Amsterdam has many accessible cafés where you can enjoy a relaxing afternoon with tea and pastries.
- Café De Jaren – Spacious seating and easy access.
- Blue Amsterdam – A rooftop café with elevator access and great city views.
- Pllek – Located on the waterfront with wheelchair-friendly outdoor seating.
