Café de Watertuin
About
Café de Watertuin is a relaxed waterfront café perfect for families looking to unwind after exploring the Amsterdam area. With outdoor seating offering lovely water views, kid-friendly menu options including ice cream, and a casual atmosphere where children are genuinely welcome, it's an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or afternoon treat while little ones watch the boats go by.
Highlights
- ✓Scenic waterfront views perfect for watching boats and waterfowl
- ✓Delicious ice cream selection that kids love
- ✓Relaxed outdoor seating where families can spread out
- ✓Casual, unpretentious atmosphere welcoming to families with children
- ✓Convenient location just outside Amsterdam for a peaceful break
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive during late morning or early afternoon for the best outdoor seating with water views, especially on sunny days when tables fill up quickly.
- 2.English is widely spoken in the Netherlands, but learning a few Dutch phrases like 'alstublieft' (please) and 'dank u wel' (thank you) delights locals.
- 3.Bring bread to feed the ducks or swans from a distance (check local signs first), which keeps kids entertained between courses.
- 4.The café is located in Diemen, just east of Amsterdam, making it a peaceful alternative to the busy city center cafés and easily accessible by train or bike.
- 5.Cash and cards are both accepted, but the Netherlands increasingly prefers card payments, so having a chip-enabled card is helpful.
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings or early afternoons for a quieter experience, or weekend afternoons when the waterfront atmosphere is livelier. Spring through early fall (April to September) offers the best weather for enjoying the outdoor seating and waterfront views.
What to Know
This is a budget-friendly café with casual pricing. Outdoor seating is the main attraction, so weather-dependent visits are recommended. English menus are typically available, and staff usually speak English well.
Seasonal Notes
While open year-round, the outdoor seating experience is best enjoyed from April through September. Winter visits are possible but the waterfront charm is diminished. Dutch weather can be unpredictable, so check forecasts and bring layers even in summer.
More Activities Near Diemen
Ijsboerderij van Dijk
Ijsboerderij van Dijk offers a delightful farm-to-cone experience where kids can enjoy freshly made ice cream in an authentic Dutch countryside setting. This charming working farm gives families a taste of rural Netherlands life just minutes from Amsterdam, combining delicious homemade treats with a peaceful escape from the city.
Eetcafé De Bries
Eetcafé De Bries is a welcoming neighborhood restaurant in Diemen that takes the stress out of family dining with its relaxed atmosphere and dedicated children's menu. The spacious seating gives families plenty of room to spread out, while the casual vibe means parents can relax even when little ones get a bit wiggly. It's the kind of local spot where Dutch families gather, offering visiting families an authentic taste of everyday Netherlands dining.
Sports Complex Diemen
Sports Complex Diemen is a welcoming multi-sport facility perfect for active families looking to let kids burn energy while visiting the Netherlands. With tennis, football (soccer), baseball, and various recreational programs, this accessible complex offers both organized activities and open play opportunities in a safe, family-friendly environment just outside Amsterdam.
Diemerbos
Diemerbos is a sprawling forested park just outside Amsterdam that offers families a refreshing escape into nature without leaving the city limits. With its network of walking and cycling trails winding through woodlands, dedicated playgrounds, and plenty of open spaces for picnics and play, it's an ideal spot for families looking to let kids burn energy while enjoying the Dutch countryside.