When it comes to classic spots for family outings or date days, aquariums, zoos, and amusement parks are always at the top of the list.
Whether it’s watching a dolphin show, strolling through the most beautiful zoo in the Benelux region, driving through a safari park in your own car, spending the day at the third most visited amusement park in Europe, staying overnight at a holiday park with both rides and water slides, or enjoying kiddie rides with the little ones—there’s no shortage of leisure spots across the Netherlands.
With the sunny season calling us outdoors, we’ve put together a list of popular Dutch destinations where you can connect with animals and enjoy fun attractions.
Sometimes, spending a whole day just playing and making noise is the best kind of holiday.
Seal Nursery
Located in the northernmost part of the Netherlands, the Seal Centre Pieterburen is a rescue and rehabilitation facility for wild seals. Injured or sick seals are taken in and cared for until they are healthy enough to return to the sea.
The center livestreams the seal pools 24/7, capturing hearts online for the cuteness and playful nature of the seals—earning the nickname “Seal Kindergarten” on social media.
Although this is a rescue center and not an aquarium with performances, visitors can still tour the facility. You’ll learn about seal biology and how the team cares for the animals during their recovery process.
The Seal Centre operates on donations, so if you visit, consider contributing to the seal fund (you can also donate through their website).
Dolphin & Sea Lion Shows at Dolfinarium
Located in the small town of Harderwijk, about 60 km east of Amsterdam, Dolfinarium is a unique marine park featuring only eight species of sea animals, including dolphins, sea lions, and walruses.
Despite its small number of species, the up-close marine animal shows make it a one-of-a-kind experience. The park also includes a garden area and a water park, so you can relax in the sun or splash around in the pool.
Rotterdam Zoo & Aquarium
Diergaarde Blijdorp in Rotterdam is a historic zoo that celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2007.
Home to over 5,600 species of animals and plants, it’s been named the most beautiful zoo in the Benelux region.
The zoo grounds include a botanical garden and an aquarium. In the Oceanium aquarium, visitors can walk through a glass tunnel and feel as if they’re strolling beneath the sea.
ARTIS Royal Zoo in Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s ARTIS Zoo, founded in 1838, is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and will celebrate its 200th anniversary in 2038.
At the entrance pond, flamingos always make for a colorful welcome. Inside, you’ll find classic zoo animals like lions, elephants, and zebras. ARTIS regularly hosts tours and workshops, so be sure to check their website for events before you go!
Beekse Bergen Safari Park
Located just south of Tilburg in the south of the Netherlands, Beekse Bergen is the largest safari park in the Benelux region, home to 1,250 animals across 150 species roaming freely.
You can tour the park in your own car, or opt for safari experiences by boat or bus. The park also features a hotel and campground, so you can stay overnight surrounded by wildlife. Some accommodations even offer safari views from your balcony!
Efteling – The Fairy Tale Theme Park
North of Tilburg lies Efteling, the largest theme park in the Netherlands and the third most visited in Europe, with over 5 million annual visitors. Opened in 1952, Efteling is a whimsical park themed around fairy tales and folklore.
The park features unique characters and immersive storytelling, along with a wide variety of attractions—from family-friendly rides to thrilling roller coasters like the wooden “Joris en de Draak” and the high-speed drop ride “Baron 1898” that plummets from 37.5 meters at 90 km/h.
Slagharen – Amusement Park, Water Park & Lodging
About 150 km northeast of Amsterdam, near the German border, Attraction park Slagharen is a holiday park complete with lodging, an amusement park, and a Mexican-themed water park.
Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can enjoy a day in the park filled with exciting rides—from spinning swings and free-fall towers to kid-friendly carousels and sky bikes. There are so many attractions, it’s impossible to see them all in just one day!
The water park features tropical-style pools and water slides. After playing in the water, relax in the jacuzzi. Guests staying at the holiday park get free entry to the water park.
Whether you’re planning a fun family outing, a romantic date, or a thrilling weekend adventure, the Netherlands has plenty of amusement parks, zoos, and aquariums to explore.
Make the most of the leisure season and create unforgettable memories at these amazing destinations!
