visit amsterdam on a budget

9 ways to enjoy Amsterdam on a budget

Jul 9, 2023 • 8 min read

Make your budget stretch further in Amsterdam with these top money-saving tips © Drazen / Getty Images

With its small size and immense popularity, you should be prepared for high prices when visiting Amsterdam , one of Europe's favorite city break destinations.

However, with some advance planning and some inside know-how, Amsterdam can be surprisingly affordable. Visiting at quieter times, scouting out bargain fares and snapping up accommodation deals can reap big rewards. Once you're in the city, finding cheap eats and discounts on attractions, and figuring out the best transport options will also keep costs down.

Remember too that you can often find cheap deals for getting to Amsterdam, whether you come by air, boat, bus or train. Here are some tips, along with a guide to daily costs, to make your budget stretch further in Amsterdam.

Daily costs in Amsterdam

• Hostel room (dorm bed): from €12–85
• Basic hotel room for two (with shared bathroom): from €70 
• Basic hotel room for two (with ensuite bathroom): from €120
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from €150
• Public transportation ticket (one hour/day ticket): €3.40/9
• Train from Schiphol airport to Centraal Station (one-way): €5.90
• Coffee: €2–3.50
• Sandwich: €6–11

Avoid peak times to save on accommodation

Accommodation is likely to be one of the biggest-ticket items of your trip. Depending on when you're traveling , it may be a good idea to lock in your bed for the night before booking your transport, so you're not caught out by sky-high prices and limited availability. Dynamic pricing means rates can vary wildly according to demand; generally, the further in advance you book, the lower the cost.

Late fall (October/November) to early spring (February/March) is invariably the cheapest time to travel as the weather turns cold and wet. Accommodation prices jump in tulip season (around mid-March to May) and throughout the warmer months (April to September), and soar during major holidays.

Book well ahead for peak times, particularly  Easter (March/April) and King's Day, the Netherlands' national day, which falls on April 27 (or April 26 if the 27th falls on a Sunday). Even in winter, booking rooms at Christmas and New Year attracts a premium.

Amsterdam also fills up during high-profile festivals and events, so it pays to keep an eye on the tourist authority's calendar to find out what's on during your trip. Rooms and apartments booked through Airbnb and other websites can offer savings, but real bargains are rare thanks to government restrictions on private lets.

Visit mid-week for the best deals

Any time of year, Amsterdam is a hugely popular destination for weekend breaks, thanks to its easy international connections, superb cultural attractions and legendary nightlife, making Friday and Saturday the most expensive nights to stay at hostels, hotels or rental apartments.

Sunday nights are typically the cheapest of all, followed by bookings for the first few days of the week. The cost of transport to Amsterdam is also typically cheaper midweek. Visiting outside of weekends also means fewer crowds at attractions and restaurants, giving you more flexibility with your schedule.

Choose the best-value location for your stay

While accommodation prices are generally highest within Amsterdam's central, canal-encircled, Unesco World Heritage-listed old city, properties situated a long way out often aren't cost-effective once you factor in the price of transport and traveling time.

Neighborhoods fringing the center, such as Jordaan, the west, Plantage, the Eastern Islands, Oosterpark, the area east of the Amstel river, and the area south of Vondelpark offer good value and easy transport links .

A cool, often overlooked area is up-and-coming  Amsterdam Noord , on the northern side of the IJ river, which is easily reached from Amsterdam Centraal Station by a quick, free ferry ride (the metro also runs here).

Consider alternatives to flying

Flight comparison websites (such as Skyscanner and Kayak ) are handy for tracking down deals on plane tickets to Amsterdam from all corners of the world. However, trains may work out cheaper for short-haul travelers, especially once you account for travel time and costs to and from the airports at either end.

Amsterdam is well connected to destinations across the European mainland, and Eurostar now has direct services from London to Amsterdam, with a travel time of under four hours.

You can also find some great discount deals on tickets for the overnight DFDS ferries between Newcastle-upon-Tyne in the UK and the port of IJMuiden, 27km (17 miles) northwest of Amsterdam. While they're slow, onboard facilities include restaurants, bars and varying categories of cabins, and local 382 bus runs from IJMuiden to Station Sloterdijk on the Amsterdam metro.

Buses are usually the cheapest – and slowest – way to reach Amsterdam. Major international operator FlixBus has comfortable coaches with facilities including power sockets and wi-fi.

Consider investing in a discount card or museum pass for savings

If you're planning to see several museums, a discount card or museum pass can be a money-saver. Before purchasing one, check if you're eligible for discounted entry anyway. Many sights offer discounts for students (bring ID), seniors over 65 and their partners over 60 (show your passport), and even for selected professions (eg artists, journalists, museum conservators and teachers) with valid accreditation.

For travelers aged under 30, an excellent investment is the digital  EYC (European Youth Card), known in the Netherlands as the  CJP (Cultural Youth Passport). It offers discounts on transport, sightseeing, accommodation, shopping and other travel perks in 36 countries across Europe (cut-off ages vary in some countries). The cost is €14 and it's valid for a year; you don't need to be European and you don't need to be a student to qualify.

For older travelers, the I amsterdam City Card provides admission to scores of museums (albeit with notable exceptions, including the Anne Frank Huis, so check museum websites carefully). It also includes a GVB transit pass, a canal cruise, and discounts at shops, entertainment venues and restaurants, and it comes with a handy planning app. Prices range from €65 for 24 hours to €130 for five days,

A Museumkaart (aka Netherlands Museum Pass) gives you free and discounted entry to some 450 museums all over the Netherlands for one year for a cost of €64.90 but there are some caveats: without a Dutch bank account, you'll need to purchase a temporary card at one of the museums approved to issue them. It's valid for 31 days (covering a maximum of five museums) and you can then register it online and get your permanent card sent to a Dutch address (such as your hotel) within five working days.

On arrival, save on airport transport

If you do fly into Amsterdam, taking public transport is significantly cheaper than taking a taxi or using a rideshare service to reach the center. This will also save you a lot of time navigating the heavy traffic in Amsterdam's maze of streets. Schiphol airport is 18km (11 miles) southwest of the city center, and it has excellent  transport links , including airport buses and its own train station, linked by  NS trains to Amsterdam Centraal Station.

The convenient and good value all-in-one  Amsterdam Travel Ticket includes airport travel as well as the use of all GVB public transport services around Amsterdam. It costs from €18 for one day to €30 for three days.

Get around cheaply on foot or by bike or public transport

Walking is the ultimate way to explore central Amsterdam – the terrain is flat, the canal-scapes are enchanting and, best of all, it's free. Just remember to watch out for trams and cyclists as you wander.

To really roll like a local, hop on a bike. Fietsen (bicycles) famously outnumber cars in Amsterdam, with inexpensive  rental outlets everywhere and cycle lanes threaded across the city. If you need a practice run before entering the fray, take a spin around the leafy Vondelpark.

Amsterdam also has integrated ticketing across its excellent public transport network, including the city's iconic trams, the metro and most city buses. All are run by the city's transit authority, GVB , and hour-long and day tickets are available, as well as money-saving passes. Journey planner  9292.nl makes it easy to work out the most efficient routes.

Self-cater at Amsterdam's bountiful markets

Staying in accommodation with self-catering facilities will make a big dent in your travel costs in Amsterdam, but even if you don't have access to a kitchen, picnics can make a great substitute in fine weather.

Fresh produce, Dutch cheeses such as Edam and Gouda, and ready-to-eat snacks like haring (herring, chopped with diced onion on a fluffy bread roll), stroopwafels (caramel syrup-filled wafers) and poffertjes (tiny pancakes dusted with icing sugar) are all perfect portable snacks to take to the city's picturesque canal banks and parks.

The city's biggest street market, De Pijp's Albert Cuypmarkt , sets up every day except Sunday; fill your basket before heading to nearby Sarphatipark . Other standout markets for food shopping include the  Lindengracht Market ,  Noordermarkt ,  Ten Katemarkt , Nieuwmarkt's  Boerenmarkt (farmers market), the multicultural Dappermarkt , and the roving, artisan Pure Markt .

Take advantage of Amsterdam's brilliant cheap eats

Here's some great news for budget travelers – the entire city is fertile ground for low-cost, high-quality places to eat, encompassing cuisines from around the globe, as well as local Dutch cuisine. For the latter, seek out Amsterdam minichains such as Stach (gourmet sandwiches and deli items),  SLA (organic salads), De Bakkerswinkel (baked treats) and The Butcher (outstanding burgers) among countless others.

A fantastic taster of Amsterdam's budget dining offerings is Foodhallen , with local and international food stands set around an airy communal seating area at the tram-depot-turned-cultural-complex De Hallen . Be sure to not leave Amsterdam without savoring a coneful of crispy, fluffy Vlaamse frites ("Flemish fries") slathered in everything from the traditional mayonnaise to fiery sambal. Try popular and recommended hole-in-the-wall friterie Vleminckx .

This article was first published December 2021 and updated July 2023

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A Travel Guide for How to Visit Amsterdam on a Budget

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Amsterdam attracts a worldwide audience, and many arrive on a tight budget. The city's captivating canals and avant-garde  culture make it a distinctive destination, but there is much to interest a more traditional traveler, too. Think world-class museums and fine dining. Whatever your pursuit, keep in mind that although Amsterdam is associated with backpackers, it can be a very expensive stop.  

When to Visit

Amsterdam has a relatively mild climate for a place so far north, so even winter visits can be quite comfortable. Summer is the most popular season, so stay away at that time if crowds are a problem. Many experienced travelers choose the "shoulder seasons" of late spring and early fall . Amsterdam's status as an airline hub should make for good airfare searches  at all times of the year.

Where to Eat

When the Dutch had a colonial empire, they brought home some exotic treasures that became staples of Amsterdam dining. One example is the rijsttafel -- literally "rice table." It is a lazy-susan set-up offering 20 or more Indonesian dishes. Those you enjoy most are refilled. If smoked herring is your thing, you'll find street vendors who serve it up with style. In fact, it's easy to find a variety of tasty foods served from the sidewalks. It makes for a light, economical lunch.

As you search for economical Amsterdam restaurants , consider a staple of the local lunch scene. Broodjes  is a Dutch word for sandwich, and it's a distinctive, made-with-care item that doesn't resemble pre-packaged versions so common in European markets and budget grocery stores.

Where to Stay

Hotels are plentiful in Amsterdam , long one of Europe's budget accommodation champions. Shills will approach you touting their particular digs. It's better to rely on recommendations from the helpful VVV (pronounced Vay-Vay-Vay). It is Holland's official tourist information bureau, with 450 locations to serve everyone from the most inexperienced new arrival to seasoned travel veterans. Timeout.com offers nicer B&B links starting at €60. Book well in advance if you go in tourist season.

Another affordable place to shop for Amsterdam accommodations is Airbnb.com , where a recent search revealed 95 entries priced at under $40 USD/night.

Getting Around

Schiphol Airport is one of the busiest and finest in Europe. It is well-connected by train with central Amsterdam. Purchase tickets in the little yellow machines scattered throughout the Plaza area near the rail platform. Amsterdam is a very tough place to drive, so it's best to take public transportation within the city--and that includes floating vehicles on the many canals. Car rentals are practical for trips outside the city.

Amsterdam Attractions

Few cities in the world boast a better lineup of museums. You can spend an entire day wandering the Rijksmuseum's collections featuring the Dutch Masters and then take in the nearby Van Gogh Museum . Beyond great art, there is the Anne Frank House . Anne was a Jewish teenager during the Nazi occupation who recounted her tragic experiences in a diary that became world famous. The place where her family hid has been carefully preserved and is a must-see.

Culture Sampling

I Amsterdam City Card (found at the VVV) offers 25% discounts on scores of top attractions and restaurants. It is a significant investment, so consider carefully how many attractions you'll be visiting. A 24-hour pass costs €57, 48-hour is €67, a 72-hour pass is €77 and a 96-hour pass for €87. The Museum Jaarkart is also available at the VVV and worth a serious look for visitors spending more than a day in town. Ask about the guided architecture walks, which offer a stunning variety and an insight into the area's rich history.

More Amsterdam Tips

Explore the Diamond Markets. This might sound like strange advice for budget travelers, but it is actually a penny-pinching tip. Amsterdam is home to some of the world's best diamond cutters, many of whom will give free, fascinating demonstrations. Looking at their finished creations is free, too.

Explore the Countryside. If you're including Amsterdam in a string of European cities, this is a good place to leave the urban world behind and explore the surrounding countryside. Beautiful flower farms, the much-photographed windmills, and charming towns like Haarlem are only minutes away by bus, train, or automobile.

Rent a Bicycle. The Dutch love cycling and that means there are quite a few places to rent some wheels for the day. Be sure to observe the lane markings and common courtesy.

Beware the Steep Staircases. There are winches atop many Amsterdam houses for a reason: The staircases are too narrow and steep to move furniture. To a lesser extent, this is true of luggage, too. Ask about where your room is located and whether assistance with baggage is provided.

Shop Schiphol's Duty-Free Carefully. The Airport's massive Duty-Free offering isn't always the best deal on Delft china and other local favorites. The best advice if you're flying in and out of Schiphol is to check the city prices before buying. You can always make a purchase on the way out of town if the airport offerings are cheaper.

Make Amsterdam "Home Base." The relatively cheap accommodations available in this city make it possible to base yourself here and explore more expensive territories nearby. Rail connections generally are excellent.

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Amsterdam Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 25, 2023

Amsterdam is a city famous for its coffee shops, canals, houseboats, historic architecture, and its Red Light District. Founded in 1275 (supposedly by two fishermen and their dog), the city grew in importance and wealth as Dutch colonies were set up around the world via the Dutch East India Company. Today, it’s one of the most popular destinations in Europe .

While the Red Light District put the city on the map, travelers have since realized that there is much more to Amsterdam than meets the eye. Here you’ll find dozens of art museums, beautiful parks, wonderful outdoor cafes, lots of history, and a love of life here. This city is by far one of the most beautiful in the world. There’s nothing like cruising around the canals on a sunny day or relaxing in Vondelpark with a good book!

I briefly lived in Amsterdam years ago and I can tell you the best of Amsterdam is found outside the city center in the smaller neighborhoods with their quiet charm and canal-side cafes. Don’t hesitate to wander and get lost in this city. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what you discover.

This Amsterdam travel guide can help you plan your trip to what remains one of my favorite cities in the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Amsterdam

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Amsterdam

1. Visit the Van Gogh Museum

This museum is home to hundreds of incredible Van Gogh paintings alongside an excellent biography of his life. I can spend hours just staring at the paintings as Van Gogh is one of my favorite artists. It also has paintings by other famous masters of the period like Monet, Manet, and Matisse. It’s one of the best museums in the city. Get your ticket online before you go to avoid waiting in the massive line that always forms. Admission is 20 EUR.

2. Take a canal tour

One of the best ways to see the city is from the canals. Standard canal tours usually cost around 20-25 EUR and cruise around the canals for an hour or two so you can see the sights. There are lots of specialty tours too, such as pizza cruises , wine and cheese cruises , and even booze cruises with unlimited drinks .

If you can though, I suggest you rent your own boat. Eco Boats Amsterdam has small, open-air boats that give you a more intimate experience while still being affordable when shared with friends or other travelers. Prices start at 50 EUR per hour.

3. Explore the Jordaan

This former working-class district is now a maze of trendy cafes, cool shops, and hip restaurants. It’s peaceful place to wander while avoiding the mass of tourists crowding the main streets just a few blocks away. During the summer, it’s a popular spot where locals eat. I absolutely love wandering around here, people-watching while dining, and visiting the weekend farmer’s market. While in the area, be sure to eat at Moeders (traditional Dutch food) and Winkel 43 (get the apple pie).

4. Visit Anne Frank House

This is where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II. It showcases her childhood, life in the attic, as well as other information about the Holocaust. There’s also a display of her real handwritten diary. It’s a sad and moving place. Admission is 16 EUR. Tickets are only available online and sell out quickly. Every first Tuesday of the month, all tickets for the following month become available, so be sure to snag yours as soon as possible (there’s no waiting list). The museum is usually quite crowded, so if you’d like a more in-depth experience, take this Anne Frank walking tour , which is an excellent alternative option, as you get to learn about Anne Frank’s life, the Dutch Resistance, and Jewish life during World War II from an expert local guide.

5. Hang out in Vondelpark

Vondelpark was created in 1865 and spans over 48 hectares (120 acres). Amsterdam’s largest and most popular park, it’s a great place to walk, bike, people-watch, or relax, especially after a visit to a local coffee shop. There’s a playground as well as places to play sports. Bring a book, pack some food, and lounge the day away.

Other Things to See and Do in Amsterdam

1. take a free walking tour.

One of the first things I do in a new city is take a walking tour. They’re the best way to orient yourself to the city, learn some history, and find out where the major sights are. I think free walking tours are a wonderful first activity in any city. In Amsterdam, I recommend Free Walking Tours Amsterdam and New Europe . They both run great tours that can get you started on the right foot. Just be sure to tip your guide!

2. Visit the Amsterdam Museum

This museum features a comprehensive history of Amsterdam. It’s big so you need 3–4 hours to really go through it in detail. There are a lot of relics, maps, paintings, and audio-visual displays throughout the museum that bring the city’s history to life. My favorite is the video that shows the growth and construction of the city over time. The museum is located in a former monastery that was also once an orphanage. I can’t recommend this museum enough. It’s one of the best history museums I’ve ever visited. Admission is 20 EUR.

3. See the Tulip Museum

Located in a room inside a tulip shop, this small museum does an interesting job of telling the history of tulips in Holland, including the infamous tulip craze (in the 17th century, tulips became a popular luxury item and cost a fortune…until the bubble burst and they became worthless overnight). It only takes 30–60 minutes and, best of all, it’s never crowded. Admission is just 5 EUR.

4. Tour the Jewish Historical Museum

Located near Waterlooplein and often overlooked for the Anne Frank House, the Jewish Historical Museum tells the history of the prominent and influential Jewish people in Amsterdam. It also has an excellent section on World War II, the Holocaust, and how the Dutch dealt with the guilt of mass deportations after the war. Around 80% of the Jewish population in Amsterdam was killed in the Holocaust, making this an eye-opening museum worth spending time to see. Admission is 17 EUR.

5. See photography at FOAM

This photography museum houses wonderful pictures and sees few crowds despite being in the main part of the city. I really enjoyed all the black and white photographs and the outdoor garden. They change the exhibits all the time so you never know what is going to be on display (but it’s guaranteed to be good). I visit each time I’m in the city. You can check the website to see what’s on during your visit. Admission is 12.50 EUR.

6. Squeeze into the Houseboat Museum

This decorated houseboat provides an interesting glimpse into what living on the canals is like. I walked away with one impression of life on the canals: super neat, but super cramped. With admission at 4.50 EUR, it’s the cheapest museum in town and is worth a quick visit.

7. Explore Oost

The area east of the city has an amazing park, a zoo, and lots of good eateries. Wandering around here, you’ll be hard-pressed to find more than a handful of tourists, most of whom are probably lost. It’s off-the-beaten-path and an underrated part of the city. Also, spend some time hanging out in Oosterpark. I enjoy coming here because it’s far quieter and more peaceful than Vondelpark.

8. Relax in Rembrandt Park

Not to be confused with Rembrandtplein in the city center, this park west of the city is a leisurely place to wander. The area around it is more modern than elsewhere in Amsterdam; it’s a nice contrast to the historic center. You know you are there when signs suddenly stop being printed in English and are only in Dutch!

9. Try the Heineken Experience

While I find this experience to be overpriced and commercial, it’s nevertheless an interesting stop for beer fans. Here you’ll get an overview of the company, a few samples, and some silly games to play. Note that this isn’t an actual working brewery, just a place where you can learn a lot about one of the world’s most popular beer brands. Admission is 21 EUR and the price includes two beers. You can also get a joint ticket online for both the Heineken experience and a canal cruise .

10. See the windmills

The Dutch are famous for their windmills and setting out on an adventure to visit the windmills surrounding Amsterdam is a great way to take in the city. There are eight in total – most of which are in Amsterdam West. De Gooyer is the closest to the city center and also happens to be a brewery, making it the perfect place to start (and maybe never leave). It’s just a quick 20-minute train ride from Amsterdam Centraal. Another windmill worth seeing is Sloten Mill, which is a reconstructed mill from 1847 that’s open to the public. Tours last 45 minutes and cost 7.50 EUR. You can also take guided tours to Zaanse Schans , an open-air living history museum that is often known as the windmill town, and where you not only learn about the inner-workings of the windmills but other traditional Dutch crafts, like clog- and cheese-making.

11. Stroll through the Plantage

This district in Amsterdam is comprised of tree-lined boulevards, quintessential canal scenes, several gardens and parks, and the Artis Royal Zoo. It’s a beautiful place to stroll and there’s a lot to see and do if you’re traveling with kids. Beyond the main zoo area, Artis is also host to a zoological museum, a planetarium, and an aquarium. Tickets start at 25 EUR.

12. Drink at the House of Bols

This is one of the most underrated attractions in Amsterdam. Run by the Bols distillery, this is a Dutch gin museum. The self-guided interactive tour takes about an hour and will tickle your senses. Of course, it includes a cocktail at the end as well. It’s a must for gin drinkers and cocktail snobs! Admission is 16 EUR.

13. Visit the Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is located next to the Van Gogh Museum and, after years of renovation, it’s now beautifully remodeled. The museum features an extensive Rembrandt collection, including the famous painting “The Night Watch.” Besides Rembrandt, there’s also a robust collection of other classic Dutch painters, like Frans Hals and Johannes Vermeer. Over one million works of art, craftworks, and historical objects are kept in the collection so be sure to budget a few hours. Admission is 22.50 EUR. You can book your tickets online in advance to save time and avoiding waiting in the long ticket line.

14. Wander the Museum Van Loon

The Museum Van Loon is a double-sized canal house located on the Keizersgracht canal. Built in 1672, the house was owned by the wealthy Van Loon merchant family who curated a beautiful art collection. Their home is now a museum with period furniture, art, and family portraits. There’s a beautiful garden here too. This off-beat museum is not to be missed. Admission is 12.50 EUR.

15. Shop at the Waterlooplein Flea Market

This open-air market is a giant flea market; everything can be found here. There are around 300 stalls and people sell secondhand clothes, hats, antiques, gadgets, gems, bikes, and more. You can find new items here too. If there’s something you want, it’s probably here. It’s open Monday-Saturday.

16. Take a day trip to Haarlem

Just a quick train (or long bike) ride from Amsterdam, Haarlem is a quiet Dutch town that has a picturesque central church, great outdoor market, and all the beauty of historic Amsterdam with fewer crowds (there are really fun canal cruises to be had here too that I recommend taking). The train costs between 4-8 EUR and takes about 15 minutes. It’s the perfect place to escape for an afternoon.

17. Visit Noord

Leave the city center, take the ferry across the IJ, and visit the up-and-coming area of Noord Amsterdam. In the last few years, a lot of people have moved here (it’s cheap), cool markets and restaurants have opened, and a lot of old industrial land has been reclaimed for public use. It’s the new hip place to be. If you’re into obscure cinema, be sure to visit the famous Eye, Amsterdam’s film museum. Admission is 11.50 EUR.

18. Read at the Amsterdam Library

The city’s library is a beautiful modern building built in 2007. It’s gigantic, overlooks the IJ, and has a wonderful top-floor cafe for impressive views of the city. It’s one of my favorite places to relax in the city. It’s quiet, peaceful, and there’s nothing like reading a good book with a great view!

19. Eat your way around Foodhallen

Located in Amsterdam West, this place is what the name implies — a food hall! Located in a refurbished tram depot, this indoor food hall has various vendors serving a variety of delicious food. Bring an appetite!

20. Explore the Red Light District

Unsurprisingly, Amsterdam’s Red Light District is one of the city’s main draws. Though much tamer than in previous years, the Red Light District manages to balance sex and seediness with being a major international tourist attraction. While it’s worth seeing, I’d keep your time here brief. It’s quite calm and quiet during the day, but at night the area is bursting with drunken revelers and gawking tourists that clog the sidewalks. Even if it’s not your scene, I’d still make sure to see the area with your own eyes at least once. It’s certainly unique!

21. See the Erotic Museum and the Amsterdam Sex Museum

Tucked away in an old warehouse in the Red Light District, the Erotic Museum (7 EUR) highlights eroticism in all its various forms throughout the ages. It has sculptures, paintings, drawings, photographs, and other artwork. And, of course, there is a gift shop if you want a more unique souvenir from the city. The Amsterdam Sex Museum (9 EUR) is the more serious museum and is much more informative than the Erotic Museum (but also a little less fun). It was the world’s first sex museum, having opened in 1985. It highlights the history of sexual views and norms, as well as the lives of some of the world’s most sexually famous individuals (like the Marquis de Sade).

22. Take a Food Tour

One of the highlights of any trip for me is getting to eat my way around a new city. Food is an important part of every culture, and it’s something I’m always happy to splash out on when given the chance. If you’re looking to learn more about Amsterdam’s food scene and sample some of the city’s best offerings then I suggest taking a food tour. Not only do you get to try amazing foods but you learn a ton about their history, how they’re made, and how the food culture here has evolved. Two companies worth checking out are Hungry Birds and Secret Food Tours . Tours with both companies are around 90 EUR.

23. See the Museum Amstelkring

Hidden inside a 17th-century canal house, this is one of the most interesting churches I’ve ever been to. Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder (“Our Lord in the Attic”) is a clandestine Catholic church that was secretly built during Protestant rule on the 3rd floor of a regular house (it was never really a secret, but since it was out of sight the authorities didn’t crack down on them too harshly). Built in the 1660s, the church has a beautiful drawing room and the furnishings and artifacts make this one of the best 17th-century rooms still intact. Admission is 14 EUR.

24. Learn About Drugs at the Hash, Marihuana & Hemp Museum

No trip to Amsterdam is complete without learning a little bit about drugs. This museum (which has a sister museum in Barcelona) is full of information about the historical and modern use of cannabis. It covers all the medicinal, religious, and cultural uses of the plant and focuses on how hemp can be used for all sorts of beneficial agricultural, consumer, and industrial products. It’s actually really educational! Admission is 9 EUR.

25. Do a bike tour

Bikes are to Amsterdam like wine is to Bordeaux. The locals love to bike everywhere and there are supposedly more bikes than people in the city. Bike usage has skyrocketed in the past two decades and locals collectively cycle over 2 million kilometers every day! If you want to explore the way the locals do, take a bike tour. Mike’s Bike Tours is the best company to use, whether for a tour or to rent a bike on your own. Not only do they offer city tours but they also offer bike tours of the surrounding countryside as well. Tours start at 34 EUR and last around 3 hours.

26. Browse the Stedelijk Museum

I’ll be honest: I don’t like modern art. It’s just not my cup of tea. But if you do, this is the place in the city to see it. Opened in 1874, the museum is home to over 90,000 items including works by Jackson Pollock and Andy Warhol. The exhibitions cover paintings, drawings, graphic design, sculptures, sound, and installations. To be fair, there is a ton of variety here — it’s just not my favorite style. But definitely check it out if you’re an art fan! Admission is 20 EUR.

27. Take an Alternative Art Tour

Amsterdam is home to some incredible street art. You’ll see it all over while you explore, but if you really want to appreciate it and learn about the alternative art scene in Amsterdam then take a tour. Alltournative Amsterdam runs an amazing, insightful tour where you can learn all about the alternative arts while getting to see the best murals in the city. All the people I took on the tour loved it! Tours start at 20 EUR.

28. Explore Micropia

Micropia is a “zoo” home to all sorts of microbes and bacteria. It’s super educational as you can learn about all the invisible microbes that we interact with day to day (you can also scan yourself to see what actual bacteria and microbes are on you right then and there). It’s a neat place to visit with kids. Admission is 17.50 EUR.

29. Visit Museum Vrolik

This quirky museum is home to one of the largest collections of human (and animal) deformities. The collection dates back to the 19th century and the first quarter of the 20th century and has around 150 different items, including creepy jars holding fetuses, human and animal skeletons, and even the remains of a pair of conjoined twins. It’s one of the weirdest offbeat things to do in Amsterdam . Admission is 7.50 EUR.

  For more information on other cities in The Netherlands, check out these guides:

• The Hague Travel Guide
• Rotterdam Travel Guide
• Utrecht Travel Guide

Amsterdam Travel Costs

Hostel prices – If you want a centrally-located hostel, expect to pay between 18-30 EUR per night for a bed in a dorm with eight or more beds. A 4-6-bed dorm costs upwards of 30-50 EUR per night. Prices are fairly consistent all year round.

A private twin room with an en suite bathroom starts at 85-115 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard but only a few hostels have self-catering facilities. Only a couple offer free breakfast.

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at 80 EUR per night (most average around 125 EUR), though there are a few new pod hotels in Amsterdam where you can get a single pod for around 60 EUR. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, a TV, and a coffee/tea maker.

Airbnb is available around the city, although it has become more tightly regulated in recent years. A private room starts at 80 EUR per night while an entire apartment averages around 175 EUR per night (though you can find plenty of apartments under 150 EUR per night if you book early).

Food – Dutch cuisine typically involves lots of vegetables, bread, and cheeses (gouda originated here). Meat, while historically not as prominent, is a staple of dinner meals. Breakfast and lunch usually involve open-faced sandwiches, often with cheeses and cold cuts. Dinners are very much a “meat and potatoes” meal, with meat stews and smoked sausage being two popular choices. For those with a sweet tooth, the stroopwafel (a waffle cookie with a syrup filling) is the go-to choice, though apple tarts/pies are also local favorites.

Cheap food (like burgers and fries) at the famous FEBO costs around 5-6 EUR, but don’t expect anything fancy (FEBO is Dutch drunk food). Other street food like pizza slices, shawarma, and falafel costs between 3-8 EUR.

There are plenty of budget-friendly fast-food restaurants in Amsterdam, ranging from McDonald’s to Maoz to Wok to Walk (which is by far the best). Combo meals (think McDonald’s) here cost around 9-10 EUR. Many cafes in the city offer prix-fixe lunch specials for between 10-15 EUR.

Mid-range restaurant meals start around 35-40 EUR for a three-course meal with a drink. Vegetarian and pasta dishes start from 12 EUR, and a beer to go with it costs about 5 EUR.

In a high-end restaurant, a five-course or seven-course menu costs around 80-100 EUR, while a glass of wine to go with it is about 6 EUR.

A cappuccino/latte is 3.50-4 EUR and a bottle of water is around 2 EUR.

For restaurants, I love Cafe de Jaren, Pancakes, Modoers, Café Papeneiland, and Burger Bar.

If you cook your meals, expect to pay 50-60 EUR per week for groceries that include pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic foodstuffs.

Backpacking Amsterdam Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Amsterdam, expect to spend about 60 EUR per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, taking public transit, cooking most of your meals, limiting your drinking, and doing free activities like walking tours and lounging in the parks. If you plan on drinking, add at least 5-10 EUR per day to your budget.

A mid-range budget of about 165 EUR covers staying in a budget hotel or private Airbnb, eating out at cheap local restaurants, having a few drinks, taking the occasional taxi to get around, and doing more paid activities like visiting museums or taking a food or art tour.

On a “luxury” budget of about 280 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out whenever you want, drink as much as you’d like, take more taxis, rent a bike or car for exploring outside the city, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. the sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Amsterdam Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Amsterdam is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe — and one of the most expensive. Every year prices go up, especially now, post-COVID. Fortunately, a visit here doesn’t have to break the bank because there are a lot of ways to save money in Amsterdam:

• Get the I Amsterdam Pass – This pass offers free entrance to most of the major museums and attractions as well as free public transportation. If you’re going to be bouncing between museums a lot, get this card. The pass starts from 65 EUR per day.
• Drink in hostels – Hostels have the best drink deals in the cities. Even if you aren’t staying at them, most have bars open to the public where you can get 2 EUR beers and other drink specials. Belushi’s Bar at The Winston is very popular among locals too.
• Get the Museumkaart (Museum Card) – Good for an entire year, this card gets you into museums in Amsterdam and beyond for only 64.90 EUR. With the Museum Card, you get access to dozens of museums in Amsterdam and hundreds throughout the Netherlands. You can buy it in select museums, and it’s a good option if you plan on spending an extended amount of time in the Netherlands.
• Take a free walking tour – If you want an overview of the city, take one of the free walking tours. The biggest one is offered by New Europe Tours and will give you a solid introduction and overview. Just be sure to tip!
• Grab an Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket – This ticket is valid for two days or seven days and costs 10-20 EUR. It gets you unlimited access to eight clubs, a welcome drink at five of the clubs, access to the Holland Casino, discounts on your Uber ride, and more. If you’re going to party in Amsterdam, this nightlife ticket definitely cuts down the cost.
• Hire your own boat – Instead of taking an expensive canal cruise, hire your own boat. If you have three or four people, it works out to be about 20 EUR a piece and you can bring alcohol, food, or smoke on it. Boaty Rentals (also known as Amsterdam Rent A Boat) has great options.
• Eat on the cheap – Febo, Walk to Wok, and Maoz are all cheap places to get food. Moreover, cafes in the city offer prix-fixe lunch specials for between 10-15 EUR. If you’re going to eat out, lunch is the best time to do it in Amsterdam!
• Cook your own food – Dutch food isn’t going to win any culinary awards and eating out in the city isn’t cheap. Head to the supermarket instead and cook your meals. You’re not missing out on anything and you’ll save a ton.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a service that lets travelers stay with locals for free. Not only do you get a free place to stay, but you also get to connect with a local who can share their insider tips and advice. Since a lot of travelers use this service, make your requests for hosts early.
• Save money on rideshares – Uber is cheaper than taxis and is the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to wait for a bus or pay for a taxi.
• Attend a free festival – During the summer, everyone stays outside all day and there are tons of events happening. Check the local tourism office for a list of free concerts, festivals, shows, and markets. Once the weather gets warm, the social calendar fills up and much of it is free!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a big city and there are tons of hostels here. Here are my suggested budget-friendly places to stay:

• Euphemia Old City Canal Zone
• Meininger Amsterdam City West
• Hostel Van Gogh
• StayOkay Amsterdam Vondelpark
• The Flying Pig Downtown

How to Get Around Amsterdam

Public transportation – Amsterdam has an efficient system of buses, trams, and a metro that can get you anywhere in the city. Getting around the city is easy — you just need a ticket card (cash fares are not available). You can buy disposable ticket cards for single trips or reloadable cards that you can refill as needed.

Single fares start at 3.20 EUR, though day passes are a much better idea. You can get unlimited travel around the city with the GVB Transportation Multi-Day Ticket . It’s the best way to explore Amsterdam on a budget!

Tickets are available from drivers and ticket sellers, tourist offices, and kiosks. If you download the GVB app it saves you from going to a ticket machine or a counter.

You can also get unlimited access to local public transportation with the I Amsterdam City Card . I highly recommend this card if you’re going to be seeing a lot of museums.

Bicycle – Amsterdam is one of the best cycling cities in the world and bike rentals here are plentiful and affordable. You can rent bikes starting around 10-15 EUR per day.

Taxi – Don’t take taxis here. They are way too overpriced and the city is small enough to walk around. And, if you don’t feel like walking, public transportation goes everywhere. If you do need a taxi, prices start at 5.25 EUR and go up by 2.40 EUR per kilometer.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Amsterdam but, again, public transportation goes everywhere and is cheaper.

When to Go to Amsterdam

Amsterdam is busy year-round but its peak season is July and August. The average daily summer temperature in Amsterdam is around 22°C (72°F), but it can get a lot hotter than that. This is when the city is packed so expect crowds, waits, and full hostels and hotels. If you’re visiting during this time, book your stay in advance.

If you come between mid-April and mid-May, you can see the tulip fields in bloom just beyond the city. The weather during this time is still nice, though you might get a bit of rain so bring a rain jacket.

Overall, I think late spring and early fall are the best times to visit as you beat the heat and the crowds so there’s no mad dash to book everything early. The weather is temperate so you can still walk everywhere too.

The average daily temperature in the winter is 7°C (45°F), though the Christmas season is a really lovely time to visit as the city lights up with markets and festivities. Beyond that, I wouldn’t suggest visiting in the winter.

How to Stay Safe in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an incredibly safe place to visit. Pick-pocketing is going to be your biggest concern and it frequently happens on crowded public transit. Keep your possessions secure at all times and make sure your valuables are tucked away just to be safe. Don’t flaunt your valuables either.

As a notorious party city, it’s also easy for thieves to take advantage of drunk tourists at night. Keep your belongings close and always keep an eye on your drink. Don’t accept drinks from strangers and try not to get super drunk just to be safe.

The Red Light District has become more dangerous in recent years, with illegal drugs and violent crime on the rise. Keep an extra eye out while you are there.

There are a few common scams in Amsterdam, such as people trying to sell you public transit tickets that have already been used. Be wary of purchasing a really cheap bike from someone off the street as well as it likely means it’s stolen. You can read about other common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.), especially as this is a party city. Definitely watch your drinks. There are a lot of solo female blogs out there that can provide more specific tips based on their experience.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Amsterdam Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Amsterdam Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling the Netherlands and continue planning your trip:

The 8 Best Hotels in Amsterdam

The Best Walking Tours in Amsterdam

Where to Stay in Amsterdam: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 34 Best Things to See and Do in Amsterdam

The 9 Best Hostels in Amsterdam

My Suggested 3-5 Day Itinerary for Visiting Amsterdam

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Travel Budget for Amsterdam Visit Amsterdam on a Budget or Travel in Style

• Amsterdam Costs

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• Best Hotels for One Night in Amsterdam
• Best Luxury Hotels in Amsterdam
• Best Adults Only Hotels in Amsterdam
• Best Cheap Hotels in Amsterdam
• Best Party Hotels in Amsterdam
• Best Hotels for One Week in Amsterdam
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• Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in Amsterdam
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• Is Amsterdam Expensive?
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• Cheap Things to do in Amsterdam for Budget Travelers
• Free Things to do in Amsterdam
• The Best Museums in Amsterdam
• Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting?
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• How much does it cost to travel to Amsterdam? (Average Daily Cost)
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Is Amsterdam expensive to visit?

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• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
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How much does it cost to travel to Amsterdam?

You should plan to spend around $189 (€175) per day on your vacation in Amsterdam. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $47 (€43) on meals
• $21 (€20) on local transportation
• $221 (€204) on hotels

A one week trip to Amsterdam for two people costs, on average, $2,647 (€2,444) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 189 € 175
• One Week Per person $ 1,324 € 1,222
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 2,647 € 2,444
• One Month Per person $ 5,673 € 5,236
• One Week For a couple $ 2,647 € 2,444
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 5,294 € 4,887
• One Month For a couple $ 11,345 € 10,473

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Amsterdam cost?

A one week trip to Amsterdam usually costs around $1,324 (€1,222) for one person and $2,647 (€2,444) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Amsterdam on average costs around $2,647 (€2,444) for one person and $5,294 (€4,887) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Amsterdam will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Amsterdam on average costs around $5,673 (€5,236) for one person and $11,345 (€10,473) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Amsterdam has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Prices in Amsterdam are reasonable and comparable to your average travel destination. Hotels, food, and sightseeing are generally within normal price ranges.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Amsterdam is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Windsor or Santorini.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Amsterdam Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Amsterdam?

The average Amsterdam trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Amsterdam travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Amsterdam

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Amsterdam is $110 (€102). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Amsterdam is $221 (€204). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 110 € 102
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 221 € 204

Hotel Prices in Amsterdam

Looking for a hotel in Amsterdam? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Amsterdam based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $131. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Bed & Breakfast WestViolet Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 149
• Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 627

Transportation Budget in Amsterdam

The cost of a taxi ride in Amsterdam is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $21 (€20) per person, per day, on local transportation in Amsterdam.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 21 € 20

Recommended Services

• Amsterdam City to Schiphol Airport Transfer Viator $ 66
• Private Taxi Airport Transfer to or from Schiphol Airport (AMS) Viator $ 52

Flights to Amsterdam

Rental cars in amsterdam, what did other people spend on transportation in amsterdam.

Typical prices for Transportation in Amsterdam are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Amsterdam, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Ride on Tram € 3.20
• Renting a Bike € 15
• One Hour Canal Cruise € 10
• Single Day Transit Pass € 2.60
• Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport € 3.40

Food Budget in Amsterdam

While meal prices in Amsterdam can vary, the average cost of food in Amsterdam is $47 (€43) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Amsterdam should cost around $19 (€17) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Amsterdam is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 47 € 43

Recommended

• Small-Group Guided Sunset Canoe Tour in Waterland with Dinner Viator $ 85
• Amsterdam Trending Tastes Food Tour with Hollanda Tours Viator $ 86

What did other people spend on Food in Amsterdam?

Typical prices for Food in Amsterdam are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Amsterdam, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Afternoon Tea € 6.00

Entertainment Budget in Amsterdam

Entertainment and activities in Amsterdam typically cost an average of $40 (€37) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 40 € 37

The Go City Amsterdam Pass offers great discounts on attractions in Amsterdam. With the Go City Explorer pass, you can choose to visit specific sights and attractions at a discount. Or, you can visit as many included attractions as you like with a multi-day All-Inclusive Pass. The average visitor saves 30% off of the regular admission prices.

Recommended Activities

• Countryside Bike and Kayak Tour Amsterdam Viator $ 75
• Humans of Amsterdam - Small group walking tour Viator $ 97

What did other people spend on Entertainment in Amsterdam?

Typical prices for Entertainment in Amsterdam are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Amsterdam, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Two tickets to the Houseboat Museum € 6.00
• Entry for two to the Anne Frank House € 17

Tips and Handouts Budget in Amsterdam

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Amsterdam is $4.79 (€4.42) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Amsterdam is 5% - 15% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 4.79 € 4.42

Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps Budget in Amsterdam

Unfortunately, bad things can happen on a trip. Well, you've just got to deal with it! The average price for a scam, robbery, or mishap in Amsterdam is $102 (€94), as reported by travelers.

• Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps 1 $ 102 € 94

Alcohol Budget in Amsterdam

The average person spends about $26 (€24) on alcoholic beverages in Amsterdam per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 26 € 24
• Wine Tour & Cheese Tasting - Private Trip from Amsterdam Viator $ 285
• Amsterdam: Central Pub Crawl and Nightlife Experience Viator $ 27

Water Budget in Amsterdam

On average, people spend $6.04 (€5.58) on bottled water in Amsterdam per day. The public water in Amsterdam is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 6.04 € 5.58

Related Articles

Amsterdam on a budget.

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Food and dining, transportation, more related articles.

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Your complete guide to visiting amsterdam on a budget.

So I’m at that stage in life where when I travel, I travel on a budget. Maybe one day I’ll attempt luxury travel, but honestly? I like a challenge. 

My latest travelling on a budget came in the form of an Amsterdam city break, and it felt wonderful to return to one of my favourite places. Amsterdam is a place filled with history, culture, drugs and alcohol, and it’s somewhere you should definitely visit if you ever have the opportunity. 

However, along with this, Amsterdam is often regarded as an expensive destination to visit in Europe,  but it doesn't need to be; so here is my guide to visiting Amsterdam on a budget.

Travellerspoint

When to go to Amsterdam?

I shall base this on flying from London (since that’s where I have flown from), but according to Skyscanner (whom we always use to compare flights), the cheapest month to fly to Amsterdam is June, which is when we decided to go.

Regardless of which destination you travel to, you can use Skyscanner's “cheapest month” search tool to find the perfect time to fly! Which is great if you have some flexibility on your city break dates. Return flights to Amsterdam can average at around £80. We paid £54 for return flights.

If you are travelling from the UK to Amsterdam you now have the option to travel via the EuroStar from London to Amsterdam. " Trains  will run twice daily from 4 April, with the journey from St Pancras to  Amsterdam t aking three hours and 41 minutes." This will typically cost more than a flight, so if you want to do Amsterdam on a budget, then it may not be your first choice. However, if you're treating yourself or a loved one on a trip away to Amsterdam, then why not! I certainly think it would be more convenient.

How long should I go to Amsterdam for?

This is entirely based on what you want to gain from Amsterdam, but I’d say 3 nights and 4 days is a decent amount of time for a city break, however, you could definitely achieve what you want in less or more.

Many people stay a few extra nights in order to do some day trips from Amsterdam to places outside the busy city.

Getting from the airport to the centre

If you're visiting Amsterdam on a budget then you'll want the easiest and cheapest option which is to get the train. Follow the signs from arrivals to the train station and buy your tickets on a machine. It’s 4.70 Euro (June 2017) for a one-way journey and remember to validate your ticket on the machines (they look yellow and blue) by “scanning” your ticket so it beeps. When you get to the other side you need to beep to get out of the barriers and if you haven’t beeped in- there is a risk of a fine!

Where do I stay in Amsterdam On A Budget?

Again this depends on what you want. If you're looking to have a great time and meet new people, then why not opt for a hostel? It's also the budget-friendly option.

I stayed in the Hans Brinker hostel which actually prides itself on being the “worst hostel” in Amsterdam...don’t worry, this is just a marketing ploy, it’s actually a decent place in a good location! 

The thing about Amsterdam is, accommodation isn’t dirt cheap like Asia or South America , and a hostel can cost you more than you’d expect. 

This time around I decided to stay in a hotel since it was my sister's birthday. Trying to find a hotel for a good price, with good reviews and in a good location was a challenge, but I managed to find the perfect place for us. We stayed in Rembrandt square at the Rembrandt Square Hotel.  

We paid £120 each for a twin room with breakfast. Now, this hotel is located above a “coffee shop” (the weed kind, not the Starbucks type), and next door to one of the bigger clubs in Amsterdam. 

Rembrandt Square is basically full of clubs and bars, and if you seriously can’t handle the smell of weed, then it’s not the place for you (but then again, all of Amsterdam constantly smells of weed). The location was great for us because we were here to do some partying! 

The club beside the hotel stays open until 4 am, so request a top floor room or a pair of earplugs and you’ll be just fine. Otherwise, the breakfast was great, the staff were lovely, and my room had comedy central so I could watch friends when I was hungover; Perfection! One problem though, WiFi is pretty bad, but I put that down to being on one of the higher floors.

There are lots of great accommodation choices for Amsterdam to suit all budget, and I always recommend searching Booking.com for the best prices and the biggest range of choices for all budgets.

Other great budget accommodation options in Amsterdam include:

• ‍ Rho Hotel ‍
• Old City Amsterdam Bed And Breakfast ‍
• Roni Apartment

What to do in Amsterdam On A Budget?

What not to do should be the question! Depending on your budget for Amsterdam, there will be things you may want to skip or miss out, but since I did Amsterdam on a budget, I’ll take you through my itinerary as an example! 

Canal cruise

Amsterdam is considered the Venice of the North, simply because of the sheer amount of beautiful canals that run through the centre. You can get a “hop-on-hop-off” boat to navigate your way around the city, or you can take one of the many touristic tours available such as a cocktail boat canal ride, a lovers canal ride, a burger canal ride, basically just take a canal ride in any form. 

Whether you want a full tour is up to you but there are many wonderful options and something to suit absolutely every budget. A one-hour canal tour is as little as 9 Euro, check out below for more deals. I typically use Viator or Getmyguide to book cheap tours. No paperwork and all managed via your phone!

I AM AMSTERDAM sign

You can’t go to Amsterdam and not get a picture at this massive sign! Work quickly though as getting a letter to stand by is difficult in busy periods.

Anne Frank House

This is an absolute must see whether you’ve heard of Anne Frank or not. I’ve been twice and it just oozes history and a feeling of motivation, admiration and regret. Regret at what happened to the Jewish people, admiration for Anne Frank and her sheer bravery and stories, and motivation to never let history repeat itself. 

It’s a surreal experience standing amongst the house, and I really don’t want to give much away because it’s just worth seeing and hearing about it for the first time in person.

The problem with Anne Frank is the queues. There is now a system in place where up until 3.30pm you pre-book tickets online for an allocated time slot. These go on sale months in advance, and they sell out months in advance. I did try to get tickets but unfortunately, I was too late. 

They let “non-ticket” holders in from 3.30pm, but in order to get in the door anywhere close to that time, you need to queue from 2pm. Trust me. I did it. I actually arrived at 1.45pm and a queue was already there, so I suggest buying a sandwich or salad from the supermarket, bringing a  coat to sit on and a deck of cards and take advantage of the free WiFi. 

The wait doesn't feel as long as it is, but it’s worth it when you're the first group to get through the door at 3.30pm. The queue on the street is miles long, and I am not exaggerating. You don’t want to be in that queue. 

If you can’t make it at 2 pm, then wait until after 7 pm to go see Anne Frank where the queue will start to die down- the museum is open until 10 pm, so you’ve got plenty of time! Tickets are 9 Euro at the door and it takes approximately an hour to explore and grab a coffee. So it's not too expensive for those hoping to see Amsterdam on a budget.

The Red Light District

Oh my- it’s not for the faint hearted. 

The prostitution isn’t a new thing, it’s been around...forever and in Amsterdam, it’s all legal and licensed, so whether you agree with it or not shouldn't put you off having a nosey. 

It’s certainly a surreal experience, you find yourself walking into the first “street” by accident and you’ve suddenly got beautiful women to the left and right of you, mostly standing on their phones, sipping on red bull, or luring a guy in. You can’t take any pictures, so just respect that. 

As you walk through you’ll see women of all kinds, and honestly, you’ll not know whether to make eye contact or not, it’s funny and strange, but it’s a new experience all the same, and one you don’t get every day. I’ll not go into the pricing structure since I ain’t going to promote it (haha), but if you're wondering, knock on a window and ask! 

After you’ve had a nosey at the windows, which there seems to be more than a hundred of, you can grab a drink at one of the many bars, or opt for a sex show. Not my cup of tea, but I hear they are interesting and the Moulin Rouge show has been recommended to me which is 30 Euro for around 6 shows, and 40 Euro for shows with drinks. 

You could also check out the Museum of Prostitution which is 8 Euro if you book online and you’ll have the opportunity to stand/sit in a window & see a room in which the girls work! This is not a bad price for Amsterdam on a budget.

Update: I hear the city of Amsterdam is bringing in new laws to restrict tourists from "looking" at the girls in the Red Light District and you may only be able to visit it via a guide. I don't know if this has come into action yet, so if you know, comment below.

There is a sex museum and erotic museum in Amsterdam, I visited the former (it’s located near Amsterdam Central Station) It’s 5 Euro and not something I’d recommend. Not because it’s not interesting, but it’s just bland. 

It’s basically porn through the ages, and some mildly entertaining talking machines etc, and it just didn’t thrill me, plus it took around 10 minutes to explore- but if you want the opportunity to take a picture next to a massive oversized penis then maybe it’s worth it for you!

Dedicated to the works of Vincent Van Gough, if art is an area you are interested in then perhaps this is a must-see. I personally haven’t been as it’s not my cup of tea, but I have heard good reviews from fellow travellers. The entrance is 17 Euro or free with the IAMAMSTERDAM card.

If you are in Amsterdam to party (which I always am), then you should take advantage of its brilliant bars and clubs. What better way to do that than with a bar crawl. 

I’ve taken a bar crawl with two different companies, both of whom I had an AMAZING night. You meet so many amazing people just wanting to have a good time. Free drinks help keep the spending money low, and clubs on route sell shots for 2 Euro, which is cheaper than back home! 

If you're looking for a safe, fun and unforgettable time with amazing people, do a bar crawl with  Ultimate Party Amsterdam  as they are the best!

There's so much more to do in Amsterdam that I haven’t done! Here is a list of recommendations:

• Rijksmuseum
• Royal Palace of Amsterdam
• Vondel Park
• Heineken factory
• Vodka Museum
• Madame Tussauds
• Amsterdam Dungeons
• Body Worlds Amsterdam
• Other things to do with teenagers

Should I get the I AM AMSTERDAM card?

This completely depends on what you want to do. You can buy passes for 24 hours/ 48 hours and more, and you get free access to certain museums, a free canal cruise and free public transport. It starts at 57 Euro for a 24-hour card, but I just don’t think that’s worth it for me. 

That’s because I wasn’t going to all the museums so didn’t need to pay out, and honestly, everything in Amsterdam can be walked to. It’s a beautiful place to walk within so put on your comfortable shoes and use those feet. 

Amsterdam is a wonderful place to “get lost”, you’ll eventually find yourself at where you need to be. If you don’t want to walk….remember Amsterdam is a bike city, so rent one! You can  find out more about the I AM AMSTERDAM CARD here . 

Where to eat and drink?

If you want to eat on s budget in Amsterdam then head to the Leidseplein area where there are lots and lots of cheaper places to eat and drink.

If you are in the Remandrant Square area then I recommend St James Gate Irish bar because they do great food and lovely wine and prosecco. Wine is fairly cheap in Amsterdam with a glass averaging at 3-4 Euro. 

You can get bottles of Prosecco for 18 Euro and beer is also reasonable. If you are wanting a cheap casual spirit, then you will struggle a little more, a vodka and mixer averages at 8 Euro.

If you want to save money and have a drink in your room then head to a Lidl, there's lots of them and wine starts at 2 Euro a bottle and prosecco is 2.50 Euro- you can't complain!

If you can fine dine and splash the cash then there are lots of places for you to choose from. Check out trip advisor to find the top spots.

I hope you've enjoyed my guide to Amsterdam on a budget! If you've got any more tips, then comment below!

Check out my recent travel video for my city break to Amsterdam 

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Travel Europe on a Budget

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Amsterdam price guide | calculating the daily costs to visit amsterdam.

The daily costs to visit Amsterdam on a budget. How to much to budget for food, accommodation, attractions, and more.

Amsterdam is one of my favorite cities in Europe. It has loads of history, amazing canals, 1000+ beautiful little bridges, really tall Dutch people, and a few other high lights. However, Amsterdam is not a cheap destination. But since most travelers only spend a few days here, it shouldn’t tax your budget too terribly. So how much does it cost to visit Amsterdam? Let’s take a look at some typical travel costs to give you a better idea of Amsterdam travel prices.

This article is part of our City Price Guide Series —  Click here to see all our city price guides .

How Much Does It Cost to Visit Amsterdam?

These Amsterdam travel prices are based on what you’ll need to visit Amsterdam comfortably as a budget-minded traveler—the calculation doesn’t include things like big nights out at the bar/pub, club entry fees, souvenir/clothing shopping, tours, nice hotels, random purchases, etc. Don’t forget to budget extra for those “non-essentials.”

The prices below are for single travelers staying in well-rated hostels. The total nightly price for a budget hotel room typically costs about 2x-3x the price of a bed in a hostel. For example, if the average hostel bed costs €60/night, then a budget hotel will cost around €120-€180/night.

Daily Cost of Budget Travel in Amsterdam: €118 (Approx. $120)

• Attractions: €1 8 (one paid attraction + any free sites)
• Breakfast: €5
• Lunch: €9
• Dinner: €14
• Treat (dessert/beer/wine): €4
• Transportation: €6.40 (two rides)
• Accommodation (hostel): €60/night

Daily Cost of Frugal Travel in Amsterdam: €70 (Approx. $75)

• Attractions: €5 (free walking tour + visit one of the free sites)
• Breakfast: €0 (free hostel breakfast)
• Lunch: €6 (ethnic street food or takeaway shop fare)
• Dinner: €11 (more cheap eats)
• Beer: €2 (from the grocery store)
• Transportation: €3.20
• Accommodation (cheap hostel bed): €45/night

Amsterdam Attraction and Museum Prices

Many of Amsterdam’s museums are on the pricey side so it isn’t the most budget-friendly city when it comes to attractions. However, the city is beautiful so take advantage of simply walking along the canals and hanging out in one of the many parks. You can also stop into a coffee shop and take a whole different kind of trip—just be sure to take it easy because you don’t want your budget to go up in smoke.

• Anne Frank House:   €1 6
• Van Gogh Museum:  €20
• The Resistance Museum:  €14
• Heineken Experience:  €21
• The Rijksmuseum (National Museum):  €20
• Canal Cruise:  €20
• Walking Tours: Free (but you should tip the guides) — €20+ (for paid tours)

Consider buying the Go City: Amsterdam Tourism Pass to save money when visiting multiple different attractions during your trip.

Amsterdam Food Prices

Amsterdam isn’t exactly known for its cuisine but finding tasty food won’t be a problem—if you know where to look and avoid the tourist traps.

Budget Breakfast Prices in Amsterdam: Free-€10

• Many hostels will offer a free, simple breakfast that normally consists of cereal, bread/croissant, and maybe milk, coffee, tea, or juice.
• You can also find plenty of budget-friendly options at the bakery or grocery store. Pastries start around €1 and coffee will cost around €2-€4.
• A more hearty budget-friendly breakfast (omelet, toasty, etc.) will cost €6-€10

Budget Breakfast and Pastry Restaurant Recommendations in Amsterdam

• Omelegg : Omelets and sandwiches — most everything €6-€12.
• Toastable Nieuwendijk : Breakfast and lunch toasted sandwiches and other goodies — most everything €5-€10
• B&B Lunchroom Leidsestraat : Big, filling breakfast combos for around €15. Smaller options for €6-€10.
• Bagels & Beans : Bagels and such. Multiple locations around Amsterdam. Items range from €4-€9.
• Prins Heerlijk : Dutch and American pancakes. Plus plenty of other breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Breakfast options range from €4-€10
• De laatste Kruimel : A cute bakery with all kinds of goodies.
• Bakhuys : A great bakery with plenty of great pastries and light lunch options.

Coffee/Cafe Recommendations

• Bocca Coffee
• Lot Sixty-One Coffee Roasters
• Moods Coffee Corner

Budget Lunch Prices in Amsterdam: €5-€13

• Super budget travelers can make a super cheap lunch of bread, cheese, and fruit from any grocery store for a few euros.
• Takeaway meals (like kebabs with fries) or similar dishes from a takeaway shop will cost about €4-€6.
• A cheap pizza will cost about €5-€6.
• A combo meal at McDonald’s will cost about €7-€9.
• Note: Many of the restaurants on the breakfast list also have plenty of lunch options.

Budget Lunch Recommendations in Amsterdam

• Mister Meatball : Traditional Dutch meatballs and potatoes. Items range from €14-€19
• Jacketz : Baked potatoes with various toppings. Prices range from €9-€14
• Sir Hummus : Quick, tasty, and healthy hummus bowls. Prices start around €8
• Soup en Zo : Takeaway soup and salad place. Medium soup is around €7
• Ivy & Bros : Healthy brunch/lunch spot using locally sourced ingredients — lots of vegan/vegetarian options. Nice canal views.
• B&B Lunchroom Leidsestraat : Lots of burgers and sandwiches. Most things €6-€9
• Broodje Bert : Cafe serving salads, fried egg omelets, and sandwiches. Prices range from €5.50-€8
• Sugo Amsterdam : Delicious Roman-style pizza by the slice. Slices start around €3.50
• Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx : Fries with a ton of sauces. Start around €4
• Burger Bar : Tasty burgers starting around €6
• Benny’s Chicken : Food stall serving tasty chicken for very low prices. Most things under €5
• Leeman Döner : Tasty kebab and falafel for cheap. Kebabs are around €3.50
• Beste Doner : Delicious kebab for around €5.

Budget Dinner Prices in Amsterdam: €8-€20

• Budget travelers will want to look for one of the many ethnic restaurants in Amsterdam — expect to pay €8-€16
• Amsterdam has a strange fast food restaurant called FEBO (see on Google Maps ) and they sell a range of (mostly fried) food from vending machines. It’s a bit kooky, but they’re a big hit with stoned/drunk/cheap travelers. You can get a burger for about €3.
• Many of the options from the Budget Lunch section above also apply for dinner.

Budget Dinner Restaurants Recommendations in Amsterdam

• Bhatti Pasal : Authentic Nepalese Food and almost everything is under €15.
• Il Sogno Amsterdam : Nice pizza place serving up tasty pizzas for €7.50-€13
• Belushi’s : Sports bar serving up burgers ‘n things. Popular with the hostel crowd. Nice 2-for-1 drink deals during happy hour. Burgers range from €11-€13
• Wok to Walk : Take away Asian noodle joint. Super tasty and generous portions. You choose your own ingredients but it’s easy to spend less than €12.
• Hasta La Pasta : Small Italian restaurant serving up fresh choose-your-own pasta at affordable prices. Most pasta options range from €8-€12.
• Maoz Vegetarian : Popular Mediterranean joint serving up falafel wraps, hummus, and other vegetarian/vegan options. Falafel is €5.50 and the meal is under €10.
• Pasta Pasta : A nice little spot serving up pasta dishes for €7-€12.
• Hap-Hmm : Popular family-owned traditional Dutch restaurant serving up hearty classic Dutch food for reasonable prices. Main courses range €12-€16
• Yu Family Kitchen : Small Chinese restaurant that serves up quick and tasty meals for solid prices. Meals range from around €9-€11.

Drinks, Alcohol, & Weed Prices in Amsterdam

• A pint of standard beer at a bar: €3.50-€7
• A pint of beer from a grocery store: €1.50
• Bottle of wine from the grocery store: €7
• Pre-rolled joint: €6-€12
• Marijuana: €7 to €35/gram (depending on quality)

Amsterdam Public Transportation Prices

Amsterdam is a fairly compact city, so most things are within walking distance. Furthermore, the city is gorgeous, so walking is a pleasure and you may never have to take public transport. The tickets for the bus and tram are the same [ Source ].

• Single Ticket (valid for 1 hour):  €3.20
• OV Chipkaart (reloadable travel card):  €7.50 (for the card) + €1.50 per ride
• 24 hours (1 day)       €  8.50
• 48 hours (2 days)     € 13.50
• 72 hours (3 days)     € 20.00
• 96 hours (4 days)     € 25.50
• 120 hours (5 days)   € 29.50
• 144 hours (6 days)   € 34.00
• 168 hours (7 days)   € 37.00
• Bike Rental:  €4-€15/day
• Train Between Airport and City Center:  €9.50
• Taxi Between Airport and City Center:  €40-€50

Amsterdam Hostel & Hotel Accommodation Prices

Hostels and hotels in Amsterdam are expensive so finding a cheap deal is rare. Cheaper hostels and hotels are generally located a bit outside the city center but public transport is great so it isn’t much of an issue. Expect to pay a premium to stay in the city center—especially in the summer.

Note that it’s best to book as far in advance as possible because rates shoot up if booked last minute.

Amsterdam Hostel Prices: €40-€75/night (bed in a shared dorm room)

Plan on budgeting about €50-€65/night per person for a good hostel—although many hostels raise their prices on the weekend. Remember, these prices are for a bed in a shared dorm room. If you want a private room, expect to pay €80-€120/night. We book our hostels through Hostelworld .

Check out our guide to the best hostels in Amsterdam . 

Amsterdam Budget Hotel Prices: €90-€200

At the low end, you can expect basic accommodation, but once you get around €130/night, the hotels get a bit better—but you still might be outside the city center. I find that Booking.com has the best prices and selection in Europe.

Amsterdam Rental Apartment Prices: €90-€200

From my experience, rental apartments tend to be much bigger and much nicer than similarly priced hotel rooms. Plus, you’ll get a kitchen so you can save more money by cooking your own meals. Airbnb is a popular booking service but here’s a list of Airbnb Alternatives if you want more options.

Other Travel Costs To Keep In Mind

There are a handful of pre-travel costs that you should factor into your travel budget. I’ve listed a few below.

• How to Use Data Plans and Smartphone Phones In Europe
• How To Buy A SIM Card and Mobile Data Plans in Europe
• Guide To Using eSIM Data Plans in Europe
• Europe Packing List for Men
• Europe Packing List for Women
• The Best Travel Backpacks
• The Best Travel Shoes For Women
• The Best Travel Shoes For Men
• Avoiding Pickpockets and Travel Scams: Check out my guide to pickpockets in Europe and my guide to Europe travel scam s to avoid getting your money, phones, and property stolen while traveling.

Learn More About the Costs of Visiting Europe

We’ve created a super in-depth guide about how much it costs to backpack Europe (including more city price guides).

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Ten Minute Travel Break

Amsterdam on a budget.

What to See and So in Amsterdam Without Breaking the Bank

Amsterdam, with its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, is a city that beckons travelers from around the world. The good news is that you can experience the best of Amsterdam even if you’re on a budget.

From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, here’s a comprehensive guide to exploring the Dutch capital without breaking the bank.

What to See in Amsterdam on a Budget:

Vondelpark: a green haven in the heart of the city.

Start your budget-friendly journey in Vondelpark, a sprawling 120-acre oasis that offers a serene escape from the urban hustle. Established in 1865, this green haven boasts picturesque landscapes, ponds, and winding paths, providing the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. Locals and tourists alike gather here for relaxation, picnics, and open-air performances at the theater.

Anne Frank House: A Poignant Reminder of History

While there’s an entrance fee, a visit to the Anne Frank House is a must for its historical significance. This museum preserves the hiding place where Anne Frank and her family wrote their poignant diary during World War II. It’s an emotional journey through history, offering a stark reminder of the impact of the Holocaust.

Free Walking Tours: Unraveling Amsterdam’s Secrets on Foot

Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history by joining one of Amsterdam’s many free walking tours. Knowledgeable guides lead you through charming streets, unraveling tales of architecture, canals, and hidden gems. It’s an informative and budget-friendly way to acquaint yourself with the heart of Amsterdam.

Rijksmuseum Gardens: Art and Nature in Harmony

While the Rijksmuseum itself may have an entrance fee, the surrounding gardens are a hidden gem that’s free to access. Marvel at sculptures and enjoy a tranquil setting that seamlessly combines art and nature.

Red Light District: A Unique Amsterdam Experience

Wander through the world-famous Red Light District, known for its unique atmosphere. The narrow alleys lined with windows featuring red lights create an intriguing blend of history, entertainment, and nightlife.

NEMO Science Museum: Rooftop Views and Interactive Exhibits

Visit the NEMO Science Museum, housed in a distinctive ship-like building. While the museum may have an admission fee, the rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of Amsterdam for free. Inside, interactive exhibits make science engaging for visitors of all ages.

Begijnhof: A Tranquil Courtyard Steeped in History

Explore the peaceful Begijnhof, a courtyard surrounded by historic buildings. Originally created as a beguinage in the 14th century, it provides a serene escape from the city’s bustle. Admire the charming architecture and visit the English Reformed Church within the courtyard.

Museumplein: Vibrancy Amidst Renowned Museums

Although museums may charge admission, Museumplein itself is a vibrant square surrounded by Amsterdam’s major cultural institutions, including the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. In winter, it transforms into an ice rink, and in summer, it hosts events and concerts.

I Love Amsterdam Sign: Iconic Photo Opportunities

Capture memorable moments at the iconic “I Love Amsterdam” sign, strategically located at various spots across the city. Besides being a popular photo spot, it symbolizes the city’s welcoming spirit.

Noordermarkt: A Lively Market in Jordaan

Experience the lively atmosphere of Noordermarkt, a market in the Jordaan district. Held on Mondays and Saturdays, it offers a mix of fresh produce, vintage finds, and diverse street food. It’s an ideal spot to immerse yourself in the local scene.

Westerpark: Nature and Culture in Harmony

Westerpark is a spacious urban park hosting open-air concerts, food festivals, and art exhibitions. Its dynamic atmosphere, combined with industrial heritage, makes it a unique destination for relaxation and entertainment.

City Archives Exhibition Hall: Discovering Amsterdam’s History

Delve into Amsterdam’s history at the City Archives Exhibition Hall. With free exhibitions that change periodically, it offers insights into the city’s architectural evolution and significant events.

Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein: Nightlife and Entertainment Hubs

Explore the bustling squares of Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein, known for their vibrant nightlife. Lined with cafes, bars, and theaters, they provide a lively atmosphere perfect for an evening stroll or a taste of Amsterdam’s dynamic social scene.

Van Gogh Museum (Garden): Art and Nature Combined

While the museum may charge admission, the garden of the Van Gogh Museum is free to access. Surrounded by sculptures, it offers a contemplative space to appreciate the connection between art and nature.

Hortus Botanicus: A Green Oasis in the City Center

Hortus Botanicus, Amsterdam’s botanical garden, is a green oasis in the city center. Established in 1638, it features themed gardens, tropical greenhouses, and a butterfly house, providing a delightful and educational experience.

Amsterdam Public Library: Panoramic Views and Reading Retreats

The Amsterdam Public Library, or OBA, not only caters to book lovers but also offers stunning views of the city from its top-floor terrace. A peaceful spot to read, study, or simply enjoy the scenery.

Street Art in NDSM Werf: A Canvas of Creativity

Head to NDSM Werf, a former shipyard turned creative hub, to witness an impressive display of street art. The vast industrial terrain showcases vibrant murals and installations by local and international artists.

Waterlooplein Market: Historic Treasures and Second-hand Finds

Conclude your budget-friendly exploration at Waterlooplein Market, Amsterdam’s daily flea market. It’s the oldest in the city, offering a diverse range of second-hand items, antiques, and vintage treasures.

De Pijp District: Multicultural Vibes and Trendy Finds

Dive into the multicultural atmosphere of De Pijp, a lively district known for its trendy vibe. Explore boutique shops, cozy cafes, and international restaurants, and don’t forget to visit the iconic Albert Cuyp Market.

Amsterdam Tulip Museum: Exploring Floral Heritage

Dive into Dutch culture at the Amsterdam Tulip Museum. While there’s a small entrance fee, the museum explores the rich history of tulips in the Netherlands, providing a colorful and educational experience.

Brouwerij ‘t IJ: Craft Beer with a Windmill View

Beer enthusiasts can appreciate Brouwerij ‘t IJ, a local brewery near an iconic windmill. While the brewery may charge for tours, the outdoor terrace offers a relaxed setting to enjoy a variety of craft beers against the backdrop of the windmill.

Molen van Sloten: A Glimpse into Dutch Windmills

Venture to Molen van Sloten, a historic wooden windmill on the outskirts of Amsterdam. While there’s an entrance fee to explore the interior, the surrounding area provides a picturesque setting to experience the charm of Dutch windmills.

Amstelpark: Tranquility Along the Amstel River

Discover the lesser-known Amstelpark along the Amstel River. With beautifully landscaped gardens, sculptures, and a petting zoo, it offers a peaceful retreat for a leisurely walk or a paddleboat ride on the waterways.

Oudemanhuispoort Book Market: Literary Gems in the Open Air

Book lovers can explore the Oudemanhuispoort Book Market, an open-air market near the University of Amsterdam. This literary haven features second-hand books, prints, and maps, making it a unique spot for bibliophiles.

Rembrandt House Museum (Courtyard): Historical Charm Beyond Art

The Rembrandt House Museum, dedicated to the famous painter, offers more than just art. While there may be an entrance fee for the museum, the courtyard is free to access, providing a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city.

Tropical Museum (Free Entrance Areas): A Cultural Journey

The Tropenmuseum, focused on world cultures, features some areas with free entrance. While the full museum may require admission, these sections often host rotating exhibitions and cultural displays, offering a taste of the museum’s offerings without the full cost.

Foam Photography Museum (Free Thursdays): Visual Storytelling for All

Photography enthusiasts can benefit from free admission every Thursday evening at Foam, Amsterdam’s photography museum. Explore a diverse range of photographic works by both established and emerging artists in this contemporary space.

The Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes): Boutique Treasures and Quaint Delights

Stroll through The Nine Streets, or De Negen Straatjes, a network of charming streets ideal for shoppers and those seeking a quaint atmosphere. Lined with unique boutiques, vintage shops, and cozy cafes, it’s a delightful area to discover hidden gems.

Tolhuistuin: Cultural Events with a Riverside View

Explore Tolhuistuin, a cultural complex on the northern banks of the IJ River. While some events may have an entrance fee, you can still enjoy the outdoor areas and scenic views of the city without spending a fortune.

Dutch Resistance Museum (Free for Children): A Lesson in History

The Dutch Resistance Museum (Verzetsmuseum) offers insight into daily life during World War II. While there’s an entrance fee for adults, children under 7 enter for free, making it an educational and budget-friendly option for families.

Huis Marseille (Photo Exhibitions): Outdoor Art Appreciation

Huis Marseille, a museum dedicated to photography, may have an admission fee, but the courtyard often hosts outdoor photo exhibitions that are free to access. It’s a chance to enjoy visual storytelling without purchasing a ticket.

Amsterdam City Hall (Free Entrance): Architectural Grandeur on Waterlooplein

Discover Amsterdam’s City Hall, or Stadhuis, on Waterlooplein. While specific exhibitions may require admission, the main entrance hall is typically free to enter. This historical building’s grandeur and significance make it worth a visit for architecture enthusiasts.

TunFun: Indoor Playtime for Kids on a Budget

Families with children can head to TunFun, an indoor playground located in a former traffic underpass. While there’s a small entrance fee, it provides a budget-friendly option for kids to enjoy tunnels, slides, and climbing structures.

Museum Van Loon (Garden): Historic Elegance in the Open Air

Museum Van Loon allows visitors to explore the elegant interior of a historic Amsterdam residence. While there may be an admission fee for the museum, the garden is free to access. It’s a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city, surrounded by beautifully landscaped outdoor space.

Willet-Holthuysen Museum (Courtyard): Historical Charm in Every Corner

The Willet-Holthuysen Museum, another canal house museum, may charge admission, but the courtyard is free to enter. Immerse yourself in the historical charm of Amsterdam’s canal houses within this serene outdoor space.

EYE Filmmuseum (Outdoor Spaces): Scenic Views and Cinema Magic

The EYE Filmmuseum, located on the northern bank of the IJ River, may have an admission fee for the museum, but the outdoor spaces, including the terrace, offer panoramic views of the city and the waterfront. It’s a scenic spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Where to Eat in Amsterdam on a Budget

One of my favorite cost-saving tactics is filling up on the hotel breakfast (which is probably simple but included) and then taking advantage of the incredible selection of street food or ethnic food shops, where you can enjoy amazing cuisine at working-class prices.

Albert Cuyp Market: A Feast for the Senses

Head to the Albert Cuyp Market in the lively De Pijp district. Amsterdam’s largest street market, it’s a sensory delight with over 260 stalls offering fresh produce, flowers, clothing, and delicious street food. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you explore the market’s diverse offerings.

• Address: Albert Cuypstraat, 1073 BD Amsterdam

Dappermarkt: Multicultural Market Experience in the East

Head to Dappermarkt, a multicultural street market in the eastern part of Amsterdam. This vibrant market offers a mix of goods and foods from around the world, providing a unique and authentic experience away from the touristy areas. This is a bustling street market that offers a range of affordable food options. You’ll find stalls selling snacks, international cuisine, and more. It’s a good place to explore different flavors without straining your budget.

• Address: Dapperstraat, 1093 BS Amsterdam

Foodhallen: Culinary Delights in Amsterdam’s Urban Oasis

For a budget-friendly culinary adventure, make your way to Foodhallen, an urban oasis for food enthusiasts. Located in the Oud-West district, Foodhallen is a converted tram depot turned into a bustling indoor food market, showcasing the diverse flavors of Amsterdam’s culinary scene.

It features a diverse range of food stalls and bars, offering everything from sushi and burgers to Mediterranean and Asian cuisine. It’s a great place to sample different dishes at reasonable prices.

• Address: Bellamyplein 51, 1053 AT Amsterdam

Where to Stay in Amsterdam on a Budget

Read our article on the best areas to stay in Amsterdam , and get an overall idea.

We actually recommend finding 3 star hotels, preferrably local European hotel brands, that are located in close to proximity to Amsterdam rail stations that will quickly and efficiently whisk you right into the central areas of the city.

Go to hostels if you have to, you know your own budget better, but I avoid them. Of course, there are apart-hotels and great deals to be had on short-term rentals if you are traveling in a group.

Getting Around Amsterdam on a Budget

One of the most iconic and cost-effective ways to navigate Amsterdam is by bicycle. The city is renowned for its extensive network of cycling paths, making it a cyclist’s paradise. Renting a bike is not only affordable but also provides a local experience. Numerous rental shops offer budget-friendly rates, and some hostels even provide free or discounted bike rentals for guests. Pedal through the narrow streets, explore hidden gems, and relish the freedom of getting around at your own pace.

Amsterdam boasts an efficient and well-connected public transportation system, making it easy for budget-conscious travelers to explore the city and its outskirts. The GVB (Gemeentelijk Vervoerbedrijf) operates buses, trams, and metro services, offering various ticket options. Opt for a day or multi-day pass to save money on individual tickets. The tram system is particularly convenient for hopping between major attractions, providing a cost-effective way to traverse the city.

Embrace Amsterdam’s aquatic charm by utilizing the city’s FREE ferry services. The ferries, operated by GVB, transport passengers across the IJ River to areas like Amsterdam Noord. Enjoy stunning views of the cityscape and experience a unique mode of transportation without spending a dime. The ferries run frequently, making them an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore beyond the city center.

Experience Amsterdam on a Budget

Without question, Amsterdam is a city that expensive, even by European standards.

But if you are creative, you will find Amsterdam generously offers a plethora of experiences without requiring a hefty budget. You don’t have to visit every museum and spend a ton of cash on expensive hotels in order to really enjoy and experience Amsterdam.

By exploring these budget-friendly destinations, you’ll not only witness the iconic landmarks but also delve into the city’s cultural richness and local charm. Amsterdam, with its canals, museums, markets, and parks, becomes an open canvas for budget-conscious travelers seeking an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Netherlands.

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• Netherlands / Travel

Traveling on a Budget in Amsterdam – Tips for an Unforgettable Visit

by John Marx Velasco · December 6, 2023

Amsterdam marked the start of my recent European adventure , and it was nothing short of a dreamy introduction. Wandering through its cobblestone streets and alongside iconic canals, I found myself enchanted by the city’s charm. With a reputation for rich history, artistic heritage, and a friendly atmosphere, Amsterdam promised me a one-of-a-kind experience. Surprisingly, even with its fancy image, I figured out how to enjoy the city without emptying my wallet.

Amsterdam, often touted as an expensive city, pleasantly surprised me with its budget-friendly options for savvy travelers. During my 5-day stay in the city, I managed to explore and experience a lot. Thanks to my shoestring budget, I uncovered affordable attractions and stumbled upon local gems that made my Amsterdam adventure truly unforgettable. If you find yourself in this city, here are some wallet-friendly tips for making the most of your stay.

Affordable Activities in Amsterdam

Exploring Amsterdam on a budget doesn’t mean missing out on all the fun. There are plenty of affordable activities to enjoy that showcase the city’s charm and culture without draining your wallet. From leisurely bike rides along picturesque canals to visiting free museums and exploring charming neighborhoods, there’s no shortage of options for budget travelers in Amsterdam. Join me as we uncover some of the best activities this city has to offer that will make your trip both memorable and affordable.

1. Explore the City by Bike

When visiting Amsterdam, exploring the city by bike is an absolute must. Whether you choose to rent a bike or join a guided cycle tour, it’s an excellent way to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and embrace the city’s unique atmosphere. On my first day in Amsterdam, I decided to rent a bike and set off to explore on my own. With Google Maps as my trusty guide, I pinned interesting locations to ensure I didn’t miss any must-see spots. Biking through Amsterdam’s charming streets and alongside its famous canals provided me with a sense of freedom and excitement that’s hard to replicate. In just one day of biking around the city, I had the opportunity to visit most of the iconic attractions.

2. Take a City Canal Cruise

Another must-do activity when in Amsterdam is to join a city canal cruise tour . It’s truly one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the city’s unique ambiance. Gliding along Amsterdam’s enchanting canals, you’ll be treated to views of the UNESCO World Heritage canals, iconic bridges, and charming waterfront houses that define the cityscape. During my visit, I had the pleasure of joining one of the city canal cruise tour, and their 75-minute tour was an absolute delight. It offered me a wonderful opportunity to see Amsterdam from a different perspective and left me with unforgettable memories of the city’s beauty.

3. Go on a Walking Tour

Exploring Amsterdam on foot offers both an enjoyable and budget-friendly option for travelers. Whether you opt to join one of the many free walking tours available or embark on a self-guided stroll through the city, you’re guaranteed to have an enriching experience and see a lot of what Amsterdam has to offer. During my stay, I decided to stroll around the neighborhood where I was staying, and I was pleasantly surprised by the number of nearby attractions. I discovered charming parks, beautiful canals, and interesting museums. Walking around let me experience the local vibe and find hidden gems along the way.

4. Purchase a City Card

If walking or biking tours aren’t your preference but you still want to explore Amsterdam independently, I recommend getting a City Card . This card offers unlimited travel on all GVB trams, buses, ferries, and metros, both day and night. Available for 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 days, the City Card is the most convenient and cost-effective way to experience Amsterdam. Additionally, the City Card grants free or discounted access to numerous museums and attractions, making it a great value for travelers.

Tourist Attractions to Visit in Amsterdam

From the famous canals and historic buildings to the cozy cafes and bustling markets, there’s so much to see and do in Amsterdam. Here are some of the iconic landmarks and tourists attractions I was able to visit while I was in the city for 5 days.

• This is Holland
• Amsterdam Central
• Basilica of Saint Nicholas
• Oude Kerk Amsterdam
• Royal Palace of Amsterdam
• Anne Frank House
• Nergen Straatjes
• Staalmeestersbrug
• Groenburgwal
• Rijksmuseum
• Van Gogh Museum
• Museumplein
• Heineken Experience

Budget in Amsterdam

To help with your trip and make sure you enjoy your vacation, here’s a rough estimate of how much I spent during my 5-day stay in Amsterdam .

Accommodations:

• Private double en-suite room at ClinkNoord Hostel (3D/2N) – Php14,000
• Bed in a 4-bed dorm room at Cocomama Boutique Hostel (4D/3N) – Php15,000
• City Card (2 days) – Php555
• Bike Rental (1 day) – Php840
• City Canal Cruise – Php1,050

Transportation:

• Roundtrip flight ticket from Manila to Amsterdam via Saudia Airlines – Php23,600
• Train from Schipol Airport to Amsterdam Central – Php370
• Other transportation expenses – Php1,000
• Food and drinks (estimated cost for my lunch, dinner, and snacks for 5 days) – Php10,000
• Schengen tourist visa – Php4,904
• Schengen tourist visa courier fee – Php480
• Travel insurance – Php2,890
• International Sim card AIS (valid for 15 days) – Php1,480
• Shopping – Php10,000
• Philippine travel tax – Php1,620

Approximate total expense per person: Php88,149

Search for best activities, attractions and fun things to do in Amsterdam by booking amazing travel experiences with Klook.

Got some questions? Put it in the comment section below!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through the link. For more information, see my disclosures  here .

Tags: Amsterdam Europe Netherlands Travel

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Amsterdam on a Budget: 10 simple ways to save on your trip

Feb 18, 2023

Audrey Sykes

Amsterdam isn’t the most expensive city in Europe (we’re looking at you London !), but it’s certainly not the cheapest. When visiting Amsterdam, you can expect to pay a little bit more for all of the essentials than you would in a place like Italy or Spain.

Luckily, with a little bit of planning and know-how, a visitor can easily keep to a budget in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam on a budget: 10 simple ways to save

Here are 10 ways to make that happen:

1. Avoid taxis if you can

Amsterdam is small and walkable, and public transport covers all areas of the city. A cab ride that costs you €20 to Museum Square is a quick and cheap €2.80 on the tram.

Please note: The city is not car-friendly , so time is rarely saved when cabbing it. If you must take a taxi, you can also try a private cab company like Uber. But a better solution is to go like a local and hop on a bike .

Wheels of Dutch cheese at the Saturday farmer’s market on Noordermarkt. Free samples are available! Photo: Craig Nelson

2. Shop the markets before the stores

This applies to food, clothes, trinkets, souvenirs, books and even wine. Waterlooplein’s flea market is open daily (except on Sundays) until 5 PM, while Nieuwmarkt and Noorderkerk have weekend markets with organic and locally grown produce and natural food products.

Mondays at Noorderkerk hold a vintage clothing market, while the Dappermarkt and Albert Cuypmarkt sell food, flowers, fresh fish stands, clothes, souvenirs and more. The flower market, however, is tourist priced. Here’s a list of our favorite outdoor markets in Amsterdam .

Related: 5 cheapo souvenir ideas to bring home from Amsterdam

3. Get an unlimited ticket for the trams

Instead of buying your tram tickets one by one at €2.80 each ride, think about an option that gives you unlimited access over one, two, three or seven days . The rates are quite reasonable:

• One day ticket: €18
• Two day: €24
• Three day: €30

Not only will you save money, but it’s just easier to hop on and off with this type of ticket. Tickets can be purchased sometimes on the tram itself, but try to buy at the metro area under Amsterdam Central Station if you can. (You can also purchase them online through the official transportation website .)

4. Think before paying for audio guides at museums

Now, we do love audioguides, so nobody take offense here. But at most museums in Amsterdam, many (if not most) descriptions of artwork and artist biographies are posted in both Dutch and English. Most likely the free info pamphlets will also be in Dutch and English.

So before reaching for an audio guide that costs extra, make sure it’s worth it — or that you’re really into the subject . We think the Van Gogh museum’s audioguide is worth a splurge, but think twice with Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank House , as you might be fine without it.

5. Skip the hotel breakfast and head to a bakery

Amsterdammers aren’t big on breakfast. Brunch on the weekends has recently caught on, but the usual morning starts with a simple combination of a baked good paired with fresh orange juice or coffee. The city is stocked with bakeries on every corner, selling whole-grain croissants, freshly baked bread rolls and cheese-filled pastries. It’s a cheaper option than any café that serves a typical American-style breakfast, and it might just be a tastier option as well.

It’s also probably a more affordable option that what’s being served at your hotel. As we mention in our Amsterdam hotel guide , ask when checking into your hotel about the breakfast menu. Before committing to pay for it, know what’s being served. A nearby bakery is probably a better deal.

6. Buy water at grocery stores

All that walking (and maybe biking!) is going to work up a thirst. With a lack of drinking fountains and free tap water, you should try to always buy your daily water at the nearest grocery store.

A normal bottle of water will cost about €2.50 at a snack stand or kiosk in the center of town. And you’ll see tourists lined up to buy them. However, at a grocery store, that same bottle will cost less than a euro —even for the fanciest mineral water. In fact, you’ll be able to buy an entire liter for less than a euro.

It might sound small, but the savings can really add up over the course of a week.

Bicycle Hotel in De Pijp neighborhood offers rooms starting at $50. Photo: EuroCheapo

7. For cheaper hotels, think outside the center

Hotels outside the city center are usually newer, renovated and slightly larger than hotels in the Red Light District and around Dam Square. Although you can find some good deals in the center , venturing to neighborhoods like De Pijp , Plantagebuurt , or  Jordaan  will offer refreshing alternatives not that far from the big attractions.

And plus, if you purchase an unlimited tram ticket (see above), you’ll still be able to explore the city to your heart’s content. See all of our recommended hotels in Amsterdam here  and read out round up of our 10 favorite budget hotels in Amsterdam .

8. Avoid the Argentinian steakhouses

You’ll see them all over town, but there is really nothing Dutch or cultural about them. Argentinean steakhouses are just here for tourists. Most offer daily specials of steak and fries for about €20. Not too costly, but if you’re looking to spend your dime on quality food, try something else and use these tips to save when dining out .

9. Opt for beer and wine at the bar

If drinks are on the nightlife agenda, stick to beer and wine. Cocktails, mixed drinks, and anything bubbly is going to cost you. The alternatives are more impressive and half the price: house wine is usually something tasty from France or Spain, while the brews can be a classic pils or even a strong Belgian beer. Here’s a list of our favorite bars for beer .

Related: Navigating the exciting Amsterdam nightlife scene on a budget

10. Quantity over quality for bike rentals

To blend in like a local, hop on a bike to see the city . Timewise, it’s always cheaper to rent a bike for a long period of time, compared to just a few hours. Since bicycles are the main mode of transport in Amsterdam, it’s the most useful way to get around for natives and visitors alike. And rentals encourage this via their prices: a one-day rental could be anywhere from €7.50 to  €15, but a three-day rental could be also €15.

Here are a few rental agencies that offer the cheapest prices  in town.

More ways to visit Amsterdam on a Budget

Be sure to check out more of our articles about ways to save on your trip to Amsterdam here .

Search Hotels in Amsterdam

About the author.

About the author: Audrey Sykes hopped across the pond from the US eight years ago for a Masters degree in global journalism. Since then, she’s lived all over Europe, reporting and editing for music sites, snowboard mags, and travel media. She’s also the Amsterdam author for Party Earth , a guide to nightlife across Europe.

Related Posts

• Amsterdam Hotel Advice: Read this first
• Weekend in Amsterdam: The perfect first trip for budget travelers
• Best budget hotels in Amsterdam for 2024
• Amsterdam: 10 tips for dining on a budget

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7 thoughts on “Amsterdam on a Budget: 10 simple ways to save on your trip”

Tired of eating out? Try stocking up at the neighboring Albert Hijn supermarket. Good selection of food (suggest ham and various cheeses), helpful clerks, and the store layout is makes sense. Preiswertig. You’ll be done in a snap. Carry it back to your hotel and feast.

Sorry, but these are the worst tips I have every read. I mean, of course taxis are more expensive then the public transportation (actually this is the same in any kind of western european city). And water is cheaper in the Supermarket?! Really – what a tip.

Sorry but I was looking for real insider tips!

But by the way: Most of the time shared hostel rooms are cheaper then Single or double rooms in an expensive Hotel. But don´t tell anyone. 😉

Bakery a save bet for breakfast. Do they have table for dine in since you said it was cheap and more choice. Love the pastries and a coffee.

Regards…

They organise guided bike tours at the windmill park Zaanse Schans and around very close Amsterdam! http://www.zaanseschans-tours.com

Having had the opportunity to spent time in Amsterdam a number of times I have to say I agree with all but one of your suggestions. Unless you are a very experienced cyclist comfortable with riding in a commuter bicycle environment skip the temptation to try it in Amsterdam (or other European cities) where it is a common commuter activity. They ride fast and have a lot of experience… and are perhaps a little intolerant of those learning the necessary skills.

Great point! When I’ve been there, it’s almost like a thrill ride. You hop in the bike lane and away you go. No time to sightsee and meander along the path. You also have to be careful as a pedestrian to keep an eye out for bikes at all times. Thanks for chiming in.

THANK YOU !! I like your blog. You do write “who and what to avoid” while most others don’t. Keep it up !! I like the cheap Chinese buffets in Spain. Looking forward to how to eat cheap in Scandinavia.

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How To Visit Amsterdam On a Budget! Staying, Eating and Getting to Amsterdam!

Categories Cost of Travel , Europe , The Netherlands

Amsterdam is one of those European bucket list cities, isn’t it? You hear about all of the crazy trips people have there as well as the beautiful city break you can have there, but can you visit Amsterdam on a budget?

It must be an expensive city to visit right??

I had been wanting to visit Amsterdam for years and I nearly did on 2 different trips however, in the end, I decided against it due to money. I thought that Amsterdam was a city that couldn’t be visited on a budget.

However, I finally did go to Amsterdam for 2 days on a  solo trip and I couldn’t believe how little money I spent in one weekend in Amsterdam!

It proved to me that Amsterdam is not as expensive as I had thought it would be or has to be and Amsterdam can be visited on a budget !

Amsterdam on a Budget

In this Amsterdam travel blog, I’m going to share with you how to visit Amsterdam on a budget including eating in Amsterdam on a budget, staying in Amsterdam on a budget and the cheapest way to get to Amsterdam.

Related Post:  My 10 Tips For Visiting Amsterdam as a Solo Traveller.

How Expensive is Amsterdam to visit?

Like all cities, visiting Amsterdam can be done on a range of budgets and it really depends where you decide to prioritise your money.. or your savings!

What I love about Amsterdam is that it’s a big and beautiful city, perfect for walking around and although there are many attractions in Amsterdam like museums you don’t have to go to them to enjoy the city.

The fewer attractions and activities you do in Amsterdam, the cheaper your trip is going to be and I have a list of cheap Amsterdam attractions below.

When it comes to eating and drinking, again, you can pick your budget. Amsterdam is a residential city as well as being popular with tourists so there are many local places to eat in Amsterdam that will be less expensive than tourist places.

Overall, in comparison to many other European cities I’ve visited. The answer to ‘is Amsterdam expensive?’ is no! It is not as expensive as the likes of London and Scandinavian cities like Oslo .

It is however more expensive than other Dutch cities like Rotterdam and The Hague .

Staying in Amsterdam on a Budget

Accommodation in Amsterdam is expensive so if you’re in Amsterdam on a budget, staying in a hostel in Amsterdam will be your best option and Amsterdam is set up for travellers visiting this popular Dutch city on a budget!

I stayed at Stayokay Amsterdam Zeeburg Hostel which I really loved and on a second visit I stayed at Stayokay Vondelpark Hostel which I also recommend.

One of the ways to find even cheaper accommodation in Amsterdam is to stay out of the city centre . On my first visit to Amsterdam, I stayed in Zeeburg at Stayokay Zeeburg Hostel which required me to get a tram into the city and it was still much cheaper than paying for this and staying out than staying in the city centre.

Plus, staying out of the direct city centre gives you a better chance to see local life in Amsterdam which I loved!

Hostel dorm room rates in Amsterdam vary in price depending on the season and the day of the week.

Based on the Zeeburg Hostel, a dorm room on a Sunday can cost as little as  €24.00 a night which is great for Amsterdam! Midweek prices are around  €27.00-31.00 with Friday and Saturday nights reaching up to  €51.00 a night. If you’re on a budget but you’re flexible this just proves that accommodation in Amsterdam can be done on a budget.

Here’s my detailed review of Stayokay Amsterdam Zeeburg Hostel.

If you want a private room in Amsterdam , another way to get accommodation on a budget in Amsterdam is to stay in a hostel still but in a private room which is what I did at Stayokay Vondelpark Hostel .

This hostel is in the city centre but slightly on the outskirts, it’s located next to Vondelpark and its lovely to see this side of Amsterdam whilst being so close to the canals and busy tourist streets too!

To look up all accommodation in Amsterdam for all budgets check out Booking.com !

Getting around Amsterdam on a Budget

I always assumed that getting from the airport into Amsterdam Central would be quite pricy but again, I was very wrong.

A train ticket from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Central Station is  €5.70 each way which is a really good price. The train is really easy to use and very quick too!

During my second time in Amsterdam, I took the Amsterdam Airport Express which is a bus from Schipol Airport to the city centre. I believe the price has increased to €11.75 for a return journey which is a very good price for a return airport transfer in Europe!

When it comes to getting around Amsterdam on a budget, walking really is the answer!

Amsterdam is such a walkable city and a pleasure to walk around that it seems a shame to miss it whilst on a tram, train or taxi.

Of course, the popular way to get around Amsterdam is by bike which is inexpensive.

Related Post: Walking Guide from Amsterdam Central to Rijksmuseum.

Eating in Amsterdam on a Budget

One of the best ways to find cheap eats in Amsterdam is to go where the locals do and not the tourists which is the case in all big cities.

Street food markets in Amsterdam are a great place to go as they are aimed at the locals, and this is a great list of cheap restaurants in Amsterdam to check out!

If you are on a budget in Amsterdam avoid eating in all of the main tourist areas (you’ll know exactly what area is touristy when you get there) because this is where prices will be higher because of the tourist market.

I found the price of food in Amsterdam to be similar to London . Some examples of what I ate and what I paid are:

Dinner at Stayokay Zeeburg Hostel –  €9.90

Lunch & Coffee at a nice cafe in the Centre –  €16.20

Brunch at Drovers Dog with coffee in Zeeburg –  €14.90

Starter and Main at a Noodle Bar in the Centre –  €19.45

Dutch Fries with Mayonnaise from a stall –  €3.00

Just a heads up, the prices mentioned here are based on data from a few years back, so they might not quite match up with the current rates.

Budget Attractions in Amsterdam

A trip to Amsterdam doesn’t mean buying tickets for lots of attractions because it’s a beautiful and amazing city to see on foot without going in anywhere!

Whilst in Amsterdam on a budget, I did pay for a canal boat tour . I really enjoyed it and I learned a lot from the commentary so I’d highly recommend going on a boat trip to Amsterdam, even if you are on a budget.

I booked this at a stand in the city and paid  €16.00  for an hour trip. Here are some boat trips in Amsterdam for a reasonable price:

There are many free and budget things to do in Amsterdam . A free walking tour is a must of course and there are many on offer. I really enjoyed doing this in Amsterdam and learnt a lot too.

If you like museums, I’d recommend picking just one museum and going to this rather than trying to visit them all.

There are more free things to do in Amsterdam here !

Getting to Amsterdam on a Budget

Finally, how to get to Amsterdam on a budget. This is going to depend on where you are visiting from.

From the UK, there are so many ways of getting to Amsterdam. Infact, there are 4 ways of getting to Amsterdam without flying that I recommend checking out as these vary in price, especially the option of getting the boat from Northern England .

The Eurostar and flying will always be more expensive, sometimes you can get a deal on cheap flights to Amsterdam but it’s best to book in advance.

The bus is always one of the cheapest ways to get around Europe including getting to Amsterdam so check out Flixbus and MegaBus .

How Much I Spent on a Budget Weekend in Amsterdam?

Overall, 2 Days in Amsterdam on a budget excluding flights and accommodation cost me about £100.00 which I was really happy about! With accommodation on a Friday & Saturday night, it would have cost me £180.00 .

A few points to keep in mind about how I visited Amsterdam on a Budget for a Budget Weekend in Amsterdam!

I visited Amsterdam solo and I wasn’t bothered about partying or eating in really fancy places in Amsterdam.

My aim of going to Amsterdam solo and on a budget was to see the beautiful and iconic canals and streets, eat some dutch fries and maybe a waffle.

If this sounds like you and what you want from a trip to Amsterdam then read on. If you plan to go out drinking and clubbing you may not find this post as relatable as your costs will increase!

I hope this post helps you out and convinces you that you can visit Amsterdam on a Budget .

To look up accommodation in Amsterdam check out Booking.com !

• More of my Amsterdam Posts see:
• 4 TOP Ways for Travelling to Amsterdam from the UK Without Flying!
• My Top 10 Tips For Visiting Amsterdam as a Solo Traveller.
• Walking Guide from Amsterdam Centraal Station to the Rijksmuseum.

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Cheap Things To Do in Amsterdam (Under 10 Euros)

Amsterdam can be an expensive city, however there are plenty of things which can be done on a budget. In this article we list 30 ideas for cheap things to do in Amsterdam for either under 5 euros or 5-10 euros.

We’ll consider museums, transport options, city views and various other activities.

Please also see our list 101 Free Things To Do in Amsterdam for a whole host of freebies.

Cheap Things To Do in Amsterdam: €5 or less

Houseboat Museum – Explore an authentic Amsterdam houseboat at Prinsengracht 296K – walk westwards from Spui. €5, for more info see our Houseboat Museum review

Van Eesteren Museum – Small museum pavilion on the banks of the Sloterplas lake with a focus on Amsterdam’s architectural development. €4 entrance, open Thu-Sun 1200-1700.

Electric Ladyland – A unique museum showing fluorescent lighting art. At Tweede Leliedwarsstraat 5 in the Jordaan. €5, open Wed-Sat 1400-1800 by appointment only.

Amsterdam Tulip Museum – This is a shop in the Jordaan district (at Prinsengracht 116) which has a small museum in the basement. It has displays on the history of the tulip. At €5 entry, perhaps a little steep for some unless you have a real interest in tulips. Open daily 1000-1800.

ARCAM Architecture Centre – This is the city’s institute for architecture, urban design and landscape architecture. The visitor’s centre is open to the public and costs €4. It includes temporary exhibitions, a chronological display of Amsterdam’s architectural history and a variety of models, books and maps to browse. This strikingly compact building is located at Prins Hendrikkade 600 and is open 1300–1700 (Tue–Sun).

Have a picnic in the park – On a sunny day take a picnic with you to one of Amsterdam’s parks or open spaces. For example, there is a large underground Albert Heijn supermarket on Van Baerlestraat at Museumplein where you can pick up supplies – bread, cheese and a small bottle of wine can be had for around €5 – and take it to nearby Vondelpark or sit down on the grass at Museumplein. A wonderful way to spend a sunny afternoon…

Drink with a view – There are a few café/bars/restaurants where you can get a drink whilst admiring a panorama of Amsterdam. You could check out the terrace at Amsterdam Central Library , Café Blue° at the top of the Kalvatoren shopping centre, the restaurant on the roof of Nemo Science Museum , Canvas in the Volkshotel in east Amsterdam or the (more expensive) Skylounge bar of the Doubletree Hotel near Central Station.

Eat a raw herring – Forget the junk food chains. For a couple of euros you can get yourself an authentic Dutch delicacy – a raw (cured) herring covered with chopped onions. The taste is surprisingly good and it is packed with healthy oils. Available for sale at street fish stalls all over the city including at the Albert Cuyp street market.

Transport ride – A 1 hour single ticket for a GVB Amsterdam metro, bus or tram ride costs €3.40. Head to the GVB ticket office outside Central Station, grab a free transport map ( lijnennetkaart ) and see where you would like to go.

Filmhuis Cavia – An underground non-profit arthouse cinema founded in 1983 showing alternative, cult films. With only 40 seats it is the smallest cinema in Amsterdam. A film screening costs €5 and the cinema even accepts Bitcoin as payment. Located at Van Hallstraat 52-I in the north-west of Amsterdam.

Cineville Pass (residents only) – Cinneville is an alliance of 44 art-house cinemas in 20 cities/towns around the Netherlands. It offers an unlimited monthly ticket (minimum subscription 4 months, Dutch bank account required ) called the Cinevillepas for just €21 per month. Watch a couple of films a week and you are paying less than €3 per film.

Museums in Amsterdam with entrance €5 to €10

The following museums in Amsterdam have an entry fee between €5 and €10:

Cat Cabinet (€10) – A quirky museum with a unique collection of cat-related art. Herengracht 497. Book tickets here

Fashion For Good Museum (€10) – The world’s first interactive museum for sustainable fashion innovation, found in the centre at Rokin 102. Book tickets here

Hash, Marihuana & Hemp Museum (€9) – A museum dedicated to the cannabis plant at Oudezijds Achterburgwal 148. Book tickets here

Museumyard ‘t Kromhout (€10) – This working shipyard museum (of interest to enthusiasts) is involved in renovating old boats and engines. Only open Tuesdays, at Hoogtekadijk 147.

Luther Museum (€7) – The former Evangelical-Lutheran Diaconal house, now a museum with period rooms. Located at Nieuwe Keizersgracht 570.

Multatuli Museum (€7) – This is a museum dedicated to the life and works of Dutch author Eduard Douwes Dekker (1820-1887) who wrote the famous book Max Havelaar under the pseudonym Multatuli. The house at Korsjespoortsteeg 20 was where Dekker was born. Guided tours are available Fri-Sun.

NEMO The Studio (€7.50) – Part of the NEMO Science Museum, this presents temporary science and technology exhibitions for more adult audiences. It is located in building 027A at the Marineterrein area of Amsterdam.

Torture Museum (€9.50) – Museum in the centre of Amsterdam at Singel 449 which exhibits past instruments of torture.

Museum Vrolik (€10) – Museum of the human body with a unique collection of anatomical and embryological specimens. Located at Amsterdam UMC hospital (AMC location).

Cheap Things To Do in Amsterdam: €5 – €10

24 Hour GVB Transport Ticket – For €9 you can buy a GVB day ticket and ride Amsterdam’s trams, metro and buses for 24 hours. For example, explore modern architecture at the island of IJburg (tram 26); visit the Flevopark (trams 7/14); have a look at the Johan Cruijff ArenA Stadium (metro 54) or the old Olympic Stadium (tram 16). Book a ticket online here , pick-up in Amsterdam.

Sloten Windmill – Take a 45 minute guided tour (€8) of this historic windmill located in the western part of Amsterdam. Open daily, tours run every hour from 1000-1600. Address is Akersluis 10, reachable by tram 2 or 1.

Art-deco swim – Go for a swim at the art-deco Zuiderbad building (Hobbemastraat 26, close to Rijksmuseum in the heart of the city). The pool is open daily and entrance is €5.95.

Zaanse Schans – You can go and see the windmills and village at Zaanse Schans, some 15km north of Amsterdam. A day return train ticket from Amsterdam Central to Zaandijk Zaanse Schans will set you back €8.40 including €1 disposable ticket surcharge.

Bike Rental – Go local and get on your bike, it’s a great way to explore the city. A day’s bike rental should come in at about €10.

Church Panorama – If you are fit enough then you can climb to the top of the Zuiderkerk church tower. Giving great views of Amsterdam, tours cost €9 and are available April-October.

Historical tram rides – Every Sunday (Easter to end of October) you can take a ride on one of the city’s historic old trams. The Line 30 starts at the Tram Museum Haarlemmermeerstation depot in south-west Amsterdam roughly between the Olympic stadium and Vondelpark. The line is some 7km long and travels south through the Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam forest), Amstelveen and on to the village of Bovenkerk. Due to works the line currently terminates at Parklaan in Amstelveen. The trams run between 1100 and 1800 and the journey takes around 25 minutes. A return costs €7.50.

Line 20 makes a loop around Amsterdam city centre and runs every Sunday – plus every first and third Saturday of the month. A ride costs €9.

Ice Skating – The Dutch are crazy about ice skating. The Jaap Eden IJsbaan is an outdoor 400m ice rink open October-March, entrance costs €9. At Watergraafsmeer in east Amsterdam, the address is Radioweg 64.

Pedal Boats – If you want to discover Amsterdam’s canals under your own steam then rent a pedalo. A 1 hour rental costs €27.50 for up to 4 people (€6.88 per person) from Stromma (location: Stadhouderskade 520). Book tickets here

There you go, that’s 30 ideas for cheap things to do in Amsterdam. If you are on a budget it’s good to mix and match a range of activities. Yes, you can always do a few of the more expensive-but-essential ‘must-see’ things in Amsterdam. But by adding in some of the free or cheaper activities you can keep your total costs down.

This article was originally published in 2010. Last updated 9 May 2023 .

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How to Enjoy Amsterdam on a Budget: 10 Ways to Save

Last Updated on January 30, 2024 by Michela

There is nothing more satisfying than a trip where you can have memorable experiences without breaking the bank. Especially when it is to one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Amsterdam! And despite the general consensus of western European cities being expensive destinations, there are tons of ways to save if you’re up for a little compromise and creativity. Plan your perfect trip to Amsterdam on a budget with these travel tips!

Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full disclosure !

Arriving to & Getting Around Amsterdam on a Budget

Transportation is a major cost on any trip. Discover how to limit your spending while getting around Amsterdam.

1. Get creative with flights

If you are flying from elsewhere in Europe, you may be able to take advantage of one of my favorite cheap flight hacks .

Low-cost European airlines can offer super cheap flights, but if you are traveling at peak times like weekends or the summer season, prices can take off.

But, there is a travel hack that, while it takes a bit of planning to pull off, can help you save big and also better explore The Netherlands! It’s also how I pulled off visiting Amsterdam on a budget.

Flights to Schiphol Airport tend to be costly, but low-cost airline companies like Ryanair also fly to much smaller regional airports that are within two hours of Amsterdam . I got a super cheap flight flying into Dusseldorf and out of Weeze (both small airports in Germany) and arrived to Amsterdam by renting a car.

Renting the car also allowed me to visit the tulips at Keukenhof Gardens and do day trips like Zaanse Schans !

Pro Tip : If you end up not renting a car, but still want to see these places, you may want to consider booking a day trip to Keukenhof Gardens and Zaanse Schans to have it all planned out for you.

While this is not going to be a budget hack for everyone (you will have to weigh the cost of the flights + rental car with the cost of the flights directly to Amsterdam), it can be a super saver if your dates work out and you are willing to do the calculations.

2. Put on your walking shoes

Amsterdam is a fairly compact city and the main areas of the historic city center are all walkable.

It is actually better explored on foot because of all the beautiful (and tricky to navigate) canals running through it. And walking is free!

Avoid taking taxis, as they are way overpriced. If you need to, use the tram to get around for a ride that costs €2.80.

3. Rent a bike for a day

The last budget-friendly way to get around Amsterdam is to do as the locals do!

Being one of the bike friendliest cities in the worl d, Amsterdam is the perfect place to be seen by bike, getting you around quicker than if you were walking but also for fairly cheap!

Bike rentals can often go down in price the more days you rent them for, so consider this when planning your trip itinerary.

Staying in Amsterdam on a Budget

4. book accommodation outside the city.

The best tip for staying in Amsterdam on a budget is – don’t stay in Amsterdam!

I hope you get lucky and find a nice accommodation for a good price in the city center – but in all my searching, staying in the city center is a killer to an Amsterdam trip budget.

Instead, opt to stay in an area just outside of Amsterdam, like Halfweg . I stayed at this simple, budget-friendly hotel De Keizerskroon that also had the bus stop right outside taking you straight into the city!

5. Consider a private room in a hostel

Another usually budget-friendly option for staying in Amsterdam is to take advantage of the city’s many hostels.

You may not want to sleep in a dorm with others, but many hostels like Generator Hostels , also offer private rooms. Of course, you will have to weigh the option of a private room in a hostel to a private hotel room because they can creep up in price significantly from the dorm room prices.

Exploring Amsterdam on a Budget

6. free walking tours and itineraries.

Google “Amsterdam walking tours” and you will find a whole website dedicated to providing free walking tours of Amsterdam that can take you anywhere from the Red Light District to the Anne Frank House to the Van Gogh Museum.

You could also check out the many articles online sharing walking itineraries so you can see the best of Amsterdam without spending a penny on transportation in the city.

7. Invest in one good tour

While I love a good walking tour, I really loved the canal tour I did in Amsterdam.

If I can tell you to spend on one thing, it would be on a canal boat tour , the best way to see this completely unique city an experience you just can’t replicate anywhere else.

8. Free things to do in Amsterdam

It may not seem like there are many, but there are indeed lots of free things to do in Amsterdam beyond just walking around and exploring!

One of my favorite free things to do was to go up to the NEMO Science Museum rooftop where you got an amazing view of both modern and old town Amsterdam.

Some museums are free to enter in Amsterdam, like the Amsterdam City Archives , Rijksmuseum Gardens , and Open Space Contemporary Art Museum .

Better yet? You can even find free museum tours, like at Gassan Diamonds Factory . Just book in advance to reserve your spot.

Lastly for free things to do in Amsterdam, check out the city’s parks and markets. They offer an amazing glimpse into local life, from the floral Bloemenmarkt to the endless Vondelpark.

Bonus: Should you get the I Amsterdam city card?

I did not personally get the I Amsterdam city card because I wasn’t doing all of the museums. The card starts at €66 for one day, however it does include a lot like unlimited use of public transport, a canal cruise and a 24 hour bike rental.

If you are really looking to make the most of your time and see as many landmarks as possible, then it could be a worthy investment. However, I do think you can enjoy Amsterdam on a budget without it.

Eating in Amsterdam on a Budget

9. Opt for food halls over restaurants

A great way to accessing the diverse food scene of Amsterdam is to skip table dining and go for food market halls.

The prices at food market halls can vary from stand to stand, leaving you the choice of both budget-friendly options or a more upscale experience across cuisines.

Head to Foodhallen to taste Amsterdam!

10. Scope out Amsterdam cheap eats

There are tons of articles online that highlight the best places to get cheap eats in Amsterdam .

Save these spots ahead of your travels and integrate them into your itinerary so you don’t end up resorting last-minute to an expensive restaurant because of poor planning.

Bonus tip : Amsterdam has free drinking water fountains all around the city. Don’t pay for bottled water – bring your own empty travel water bottle to fill!

Best Amsterdam Weekend Itinerary

Now that you’ve learned how to save on a trip to Amsterdam, plan the ultimate Amsterdam itinerary ! In my itinerary, I’ve highlighted the best things to do if you have just 2 days in Amsterdam, plus shared the tips for what you must know before you go.

The SGTD Take: Is a budget trip to Amsterdam worth it?

I’m all about budget travel, but sometimes I do stop and think before I book and say: will this trip be worth it if I have to be super conscious of my spending?

Luckily, with Amsterdam, it is. It’s not the cheapest city you will ever travel to, but its cultural significance and crazy charm make it worth a spot on anyone’s bucket list.

I know it can get really easy to forget about a trip budget the moment you make it to your destination, which is why I wanted to share tips for visiting Amsterdam on a budget that could be seamlessly integrated into your pre-trip planning and easily executed upon arrival. I hope you have gotten something useful out of them!

Save this budget travel guide on Pinterest!

What are you finding the most difficult about planning a trip to Amsterdam on a budget? Let me know in the comments so we can chat strategy!

Safe travels!

Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and time-saving quick itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

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Amsterdam Budget Travel Guide

This Amsterdam budget travel guide will hopefully help future travelers explore this famous city cheaply!

Amsterdam is one of those cities that every traveler has an image of in their mind before they’ve been there.

I just spent a weekend in Amsterdam, and the city definitely fulfilled my expectations.

I saw the scenic canals, the tightly packed buildings, the red light district with prostitutes hanging out in the windows, the weed-filled coffee shops, and the narrow streets filled with cyclists that I was expecting.

But the capital city of the Netherlands offered so much more that I wasn’t expecting!

I found myself in awe of the architecture, street markets, and culture packed into this busy city.

In this Amsterdam budget travel guide, I’ll include a few travel tips for Amsterdam so you know where to stay and when to go.

Then I’ll list all the best Amsterdam attractions that are affordable for backpackers .

So “Is it possible to visit Amsterdam on a budget?” Of course! Here is exactly how I was able to explore Amsterdam on a weekend trip from London super cheaply!

I hope this Amsterdam budget travel guide is helpful!!

In this budget travel guide to Amsterdam, I’ll cover when to visit, how to get there, where to stay, how to get around, and list all the best things to do!

I also recommend checking out my post about Travel Hacks for Europe . This covers some more general ways to save money in Europe which can apply to your trip to Amsterdam.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Amsterdam?

Autumn is the best time to visit Amsterdam due to the natural beauty, affordable prices, and pleasant temperatures.

Autumn in Amsterdam is magical. The leaves start to turn to beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow, which makes the city even more scenic than usual.

Also, autumn is shoulder season in Europe . So flight prices are cheaper than in the summer, which is peak season.

I visited Amsterdam in October, and the weather was crisp and cool but not freezing.

What months are cheap to visit Amsterdam?

The cheapest time to visit Amsterdam is winter. Winter has the coldest weather, so prices drop because fewer tourists want to visit.

Amsterdam is a very walkable city as well. Most of the scenic beauty is best discovered on foot!

Exploring Amsterdam in winter can be freezing. So if you do visit in winter to save money, just make sure you pack warm clothing.

Amsterdam Budget Travel Guide – Transport

Now I’ll cover how to get to Amsterdam on a budget. Luckily there is lots of cheap public transport in Europe for traveling from country to country.

Traveling to Amsterdam from Overseas

If you’re coming from overseas, or another European country that is far away, check Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights.

I’ve written an entire detailed guide about  How To Find The Cheapest Flights Abroad . Check that out for more tips!

Traveling to Amsterdam from Europe

If you’re traveling to Amsterdam from another nearby city like London , Paris , or Brussels , a bus or train might be cheaper than a flight.

I always recommend checking Rome2Rio to compare travel prices between two destinations.

This will help you find the cheapest method of transport for getting to Amsterdam!

If you’re really trying to see Amsterdam on a budget, take an overnight bus . Check Omio.com  for bus dates and times!

This isn’t the most comfortable way to travel, but it’s definitely cheap.

My friend and I took an overnight bus from London to Amsterdam on a Friday night and did the same coming back on Sunday.

So we paid about $40 round-trip for the two overnight buses and only had to pay for a hostel on Saturday night.

Again, it was not comfortable and we were exhausted.

But we saved so much money and had two full days to enjoy Amsterdam!

Read next: How To Save Money For Travel

Where To Stay In Amsterdam On A Budget

Luckily for budget travelers, there are tons of cheap hostels in Amsterdam!

As far as European cities go, Amsterdam is on the pricier side. So the cheapest hostel dorm rooms are still at least 20 Euros per night.

But, that’s still cheaper than a hotel room and the hostels in Amsterdam are amazing and social.

Book a hostel near the city center so you don’t have to take public transport!

Visit Hostelworld to browse through the best Amsterdam hostels!

We stayed at Flying Pig Downtown , which was awesome and had free breakfast.

(I am updating this post in 2024 and this hostel has upped their prices A LOT. Check hostelworld.com for a hostel that suits your price range!)

How To Get Around Amsterdam Cheaply

The best ways to explore Amsterdam on a budget are by foot, by public transport, or by bicycle.

Amsterdam On Foot

Amsterdam is such a pedestrian-friendly city and most attractions are within walking distance of the city center.

So you can easily walk everywhere and avoid taking public transport at all, except to and from the airport (take the metro!).

Have a navigation app like Maps.Me or Google Maps for walking around. With all the canals that look alike, it is SO easy to get lost in Amsterdam .

I used a paper map to try and be old-school, and I was always so confused trying to find my way!

Amsterdam by Public Transport

BUT, if you prefer taking public transport I have a money-saving hack for you!

Buy a GVB Public Transport Ticket that gives you unlimited public transport access to the tram, bus, metro, and ferry for 1-7 days.

It costs less than 9 Euros !! And it has over 13,000 positive reviews from travelers who have booked the transport ticket on Get Your Guide .

So if you will be taking transport often, definitely buy this and you’ll save lots of money.

Amsterdam by Bike

One of the best ways to get around Amsterdam is by bicycle!

You’ll blend in with the locals and get to reach more of the city than you would on foot.

There are tons of bike rental places around Amsterdam. Or you can book a full-day bike rental online for only 7 Euros.

Amsterdam Budget Travel Guide: Best Things To Do

Now that we’ve covered all the basics of an Amsterdam budget travel guide, it’s time for the fun part.

Here are all the best things to do in Amsterdam on a budget. If you’re looking for free things to do in Amsterdam as well as affordable activities and attractions, there are many!

1. Stroll along Amsterdam’s Canals (or take a boat tour!)

Of all the Amsterdam attractions, the canals are the best. They’re EVERYWHERE, they’re incredibly scenic, they make for great photos, and they’re free.

Anywhere you walk in Amsterdam is photogenic because of the canals that run along virtually every street.

Those on a strict budget can soak in their beauty just by walking alongside them. Those who want to treat themselves can book a boat cruise along the canals.

I didn’t do this, but I know lots of people who did and LOVED IT.

This classic Amsterdam boat tour only costs 20 USD and has almost 3,000 great reviews from other travelers.

So if you want to book a fun boat tour in Amsterdam that is reputable and also cheap, I’d go with this one.

2. Visit the Floating Flower Market

One of my favorite places in Amsterdam was the  Bloemenmarkt , also known as the floating flower market .

Situated on the edge of the Singel Canal , this market is packed with so many gorgeous flowers and unique plants that it’ll make your head spin (in a good way).

We actually visited this market twice because we were so intrigued by everything there. This is also a great place to buy cheap souvenirs for the family.

• Address: Singel Canal
• Hours: 9 am to 5:30pm, opens at 11 am on Sundays

3. Take Photos on the iAmsterdam Sign

Sure, it’s a tacky and touristy thing to do. But it MUST BE DONE!!

You can’t visit Amsterdam without stopping by this iconic landmark.

The big red and white letters spelling out iAmsterdam were installed in 2004 as a celebration of the citizens of the city.

Nowadays it’s one of the top Amsterdam attractions, and it’s free to visit!

If you arrive super early you may be able to see the sign without any tourists climbing all over the letters for photos.

They used to be in front of the Van Gogh Museum, but they’ve been moved. There are actually 2 signs now, and you can find them at:

• Sloterplas Lake in western Amsterdam
• Schiphol Airport outside at Arrivals 1

4. Visit the Van Gogh Museum

Speaking of the Van Gogh Museum , this is one of the top things to do in Amsterdam.

Vincent van Gogh is the most famous artist to come out of Holland.

His post-impressionist paintings, including “The Starry Night” are well-known around the world but you can visit his own personal museum in Amsterdam.

I’m not a huge art fanatic and I thought the 20 Euro price was a bit steep so I didn’t go in the museum.

But if history and art are huge passions of yours, I’ve heard the museum is amazing so I recommend going if you get the chance.

5. Check out some traditional Delftware

As you wander through Amsterdam and check out a few shops, you’ll notice that there are intricately decorated blue and white ceramics everywhere.

This is called Delftware , or Delft Pottery.

This blue and white pottery was invented in the 17th Century in Holland and is still a staple form of art in the country today.

There are so many shops throughout Holland that sell this beautiful and delicate form of pottery.

So definitely browse through them and maybe take a piece home as a cool souvenir.

6. Book a Heineken Experience

Attention beer-lovers! One of the top things to do in Amsterdam is taking a tour of the Heineken brewery .

This world-famous beer originated in Amsterdam, so a tour of the brewery allows you to taste some beer and learn all about the history and brewing process of Heineken.

If you’re on a strict budget or you don’t like beer, you can skip this.

But if you’re a huge beer lover and want to book a Heineken Experience, you can do so here for just 20 USD .

7. Indulge in free samples at the Amsterdam Cheese Museum

This is probably my favorite thing to do in Amsterdam, especially because it is free!

The Amsterdam Cheese Museum has a huge display of colorful, crazy cheeses, each with a bowl of free samples.

You can also learn about the process of making and exporting cheese, see a diamond-encrusted cheese cutter worth more than everything I own, and take photos like this:

So it’s a great time. Visit the Amsterdam Cheese Museum website for more info.

• Address: Prinsengracht 112, 1015 EA Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Hours : 9 am to 7 pm
• Cost: Free!

8. Check out a Coffee Shop

Other than canals and cheese, what is Amsterdam most famous for? Cannabis! Marijuana! Weed! Coffee shops that sell weed and weed treats legally!

If you’re not a fan of marijuana, you can totally enjoy Amsterdam without visiting any coffee shops.

There is so much more to the city than weed, so just skip this and continue on with your Amsterdam sightseeing.

For those who do like weed and maybe can’t get it in a cafe in their home countries, Amsterdam is pretty cool.

A few of the best coffee shops in Amsterdam include

• Boerejongens
• De Tweede Kamer
• The Point Coffee Shop

You can also book a “ Cultural Ganja Walking Tour ” of Amsterdam for 20 USD and spend a few hours learning about the cannabis culture and hitting some of the best coffee shops with a knowledgeable guide.

9. Visit the Amsterdam Tulip Museum

What else is Holland known for, in addition to canals, cheese, and cannabis? Tulips!

We just stumbled across the Tulip Museum while exploring the city, and it turned out to be an adorable little addition to our Amsterdam experience.

This small museum is super cheap to enter and you can learn all about the history of tulip production and cultivation, and better understand the significance of tulips to the culture and economy of Holland.

• Address: Prinsengracht 116, 1015 EA Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Hours: 10 am to 6 pm
• Cost: 5 Euros

10. Admire the Architecture of Amsterdam

Another fun thing to do in Amsterdam is admire the architecture.

I had seen many pictures of those infamous tall, narrow, canal-side houses. But seeing them in person added a whole new level of depth to the beauty of these buildings.

From the ornate roofing designs, to the quaint balconies, to the perfectly symmetrical windows and the rustic brick walkways, every building is fascinating to look at.

11. Head to the Anne Frank House

Another thing that Amsterdam is famous for is housing the young Jewish girl, Anne Frank, during World War II.

You can visit the house that Anne Frank hid in during the Nazi Occupation, and the house has been converted into a museum with tons of interesting facts and stories about her life.

If you’re keen to enter the Anne Frank House, definitely book a ticket in advance !

The lines can get so long that they spread across multiple streets.

We made the mistake of showing up thinking we could buy a ticket at the door. So we skipped it instead of waiting in line for hours.

Head to the Anne Frank House website for ticket information.

12. See the Multicultural Design of Zevenlandenhuizen

One of the coolest things to do in Amsterdam is find this little street of architectural genius.

Zevenlandenhuizen is just a row of seven houses, each of which is designed to reflect the style and architecture of a different country, including England, The Netherlands, France, Spain, Italy, Russia, and Germany.

The buildings are absolutely stunning, and it’s so cool to see the influence of each unique culture in the artistic styling of the houses.

13. Relax in Vondelpark

One of the best things to do in Amsterdam is visit Vondelpark!

This beautiful green space is completely free to visit, and it’s the perfect spot for riding your bike, having a picnic in the grass, or just taking a break from a busy day of sightseeing.

Read next: 50 Budget Travel Tips

So that concludes this Amsterdam budget travel guide!

Overall, Amsterdam represents a chill and peaceful, yet culturally enticing place with lots of interesting attractions and a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

Not to be creepy or anything but this fine gentleman hanging out on his boat with his adorable dog seemed to really embody the relaxing atmosphere of Amsterdam. So I had to capture this beautiful moment.

It is very easy to explore Amsterdam on a budget, and I hope this article was helpful!

For more budget travel guides around Europe, check out these articles:

6 Things To Do In Berlin, Germany On A Budget

London: The Ultimate Travel Guide

9 Budget Travel Tips for Spain

The Ultimate Travel Guide To Budapest, Hungary

This post may contain affiliate links. Read more about this in my About Me page!

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Amsterdam Travel: Amsterdam on a Budget - Guide & Tips

If you've been following this blog for a while you'll know a number of things about this blog. Firstly, I live in Amsterdam and know the city fairly well so like to write about travel to Amsterdam, the best things to do and to share with you lots of Amsterdam travel tips (like where to stay in Amsterdam and what to do in just one day in Amsterdam ). Secondly, you may know that when I travel elsewhere I'm not really a budget traveller.

While I was able to write this monster l ist of free things to do in Amsterdam (there are over 100 activities for you to choose from!) when it came to writing a guide to Amsterdam on a budget, I knew I would need some help. I wanted to find someone who was used to travelling on a budget and was someone had been to Amsterdam a number of times. And luckily for me, and for you, I found that person. Maria has been to Amsterdam a number of times including as recently as this month. She always travels affordably and likes to help others do the same. She knows all the best Amsterdam cheap things to do as well as Amsterdam budget accommodation options so with no further ado, here is our guide to Amsterdam on a budget!

(DISCLOSURE: A gentle FYI that this post contains affiliate links. They don't cost you anything and are often chosen to find you the best possible deal! Read the full disclosure and privacy policy here .)

A Guide to Amsterdam on a Budget

It is a common travel misconception that the larger and more popular the city - a city like Amsterdam - the more expensive it will be to visit. What many people don't understand is that popular cities have a way of offering many different options to give its visitors a wonderful experience without breaking the bank.

This is exactly the case with the beautiful city of Amsterdam. (And if you do want to know just how much it costs to visit Amsterdam in general, read Frankie's post about how expensive Amsterdam is .)

Amsterdam is world famous for its canals, Red Light District and its crazy party scene. However, there is so much more to see and enjoy. And the best part? You can see it all on a budget! Yes, really! You can travel to Amsterdam for cheap, just read on to find out how. And if you're keen to find out about other affordable European cities when travelling on a budget, this guide to the best cheap European destinations here.

What is budget travel in Amsterdam anyway?

The idea of a budget is different for every traveller. This will largely depend on how much you want to spend on your trip overall, which will then give you an idea of how much you will have to spend per day.

While wanting to plan a cheap visit to Amsterdam, you should be realistic and plan to spend around $60-$100 USD (or €50-€90) per day including budget for your accommodation, food and travel. No, this is not the cheapest budget travel destination, but it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and it is a prominent European capital city, so this influences how affordable travel to Amsterdam really is. However, this budget is really quite easy if you keep the following things in mind:

Budgeting will only work if you are willing to work with what the city is offering in addition to the sites you want to see. This does not mean that you will not be able to see what you want, but rather, it means that you have to be flexible when making plans and may have to do and see things based on days or times of the day where pricing is lower or in some cases, free. It also means that you have to do some research before heading out to explore the city.

Visit the city outside of peak dates.  As with pretty much any place you visit, prices vary based on the popularity of the season you are traveling within. In addition to being wary of crowd sizes and increased prices during summer months, be sure to keep in mind dates that are festive for the city.

Visiting Amsterdam around King's Day or during high peak season for tulips will also mean you will be paying much more than if you visited on ordinary days or shoulder months (non-peak months close to popular ones, such as April or September. You can find out more about the best time to visit Amsterdam in this post and check out the best prices for flights to Amsterdam on SkyScanner .

Be mindful of where you decide to have your meals and drinks.  Amsterdam, like many other tourist cities, is much more expensive in the areas surrounding key attractions and locations, such as Amsterdam Centraal Station, museums or on the main streets where you see the most foot traffic surrounded by canals and souvenir shops.

While stopping for a quick bite or snack in these areas won't break the bank, it will certainly add up if you are traveling with a group or a family, or you do it regularly.

Budget accommodation in Amsterdam

The secret to a cheap Amsterdam trip starts with finding appropriate budget accommodations. Keep in mind, this step varies from person to person and is based 100% on personal preference. However, my general rule of thumb when visiting a new place is that you really won't be spending that much time in your hotel or hostel room since you will be out exploring, so you can cut some corners when searching for a place to stay.

Hostels and low budget hotels are a fantastic way of cutting some costs when visiting a popular destination. The city of Amsterdam is full of really interesting low budget places to stay. You can find some of Frankie's favourite Amsterdam hotels for all budgets here , as well as some affordable options for the city centre included in this list here .

My favourite budget Amsterdam accommodation include the following:

Generator Hostel

A chain of hostels all over the world, Generator is known for providing activities and having common areas that create the perfect setting for making friends and travel companions. I have stayed at Generator Hostels in various cities, but the one in Amsterdam is by far my favorite.

Situated in the urban oasis of Oosterpark, you are not technically in the center of the city, but only a few tram stops away and you're on the right side of the city for attractions like Royal Artis Zoo and Hortus Botanicus . The beauty of this location is that you have stunning views of the park from your room during your stay.

While Generator Hostels do cater to a younger demographic, they do not exclude others from experiencing its amenities. I have met travelers in their 70's while staying here and they absolutely loved it. However, this wouldn't be the first place I recommend for families or travelers with small kiddos.

Find the cheapest rates and latest real guest reviews  for Generator Amsterdam on TripAdvisor , Booking or HostelWorld .

The Bulldog Hotel

A budget guide to Amsterdam would not be complete without this Dutch staple. The Bulldog Hotel is located within the Red Light District and is a well-known party hostel - a perfect place for backpackers looking to have a great time.

Some of its features include a bar with an awesome rotation of DJs every weekend, large common areas and its own coffee shop (the first one in Amsterdam, if you can believe it). The hostel is also incredibly accommodating when staying in large groups. When I stayed here, I was with a group of 7 people and we were able to get our own shared room space with a private bathroom at no additional cost!

Find the cheapest rates  and latest guest reviews for The Bulldog on TripAdvisor  or HostelWorld .

Perhaps one of my favorite places to stay when visiting Amsterdam, the Volkshotel is a beautiful boutique style hotel with open, airy work/common areas and spacious rooms.

The hotel is budget and kid friendly, provides activities for people of all ages and features a beautiful terrace area which is usually illuminated with twinkling lights and lively music. One of the best things about the Volkshotel is its location. While it's not directly in the center of the city, it is a short walk from the popular De Pijp quarter - a must see area when visiting Amsterdam!

Find the cheapest rates and latest real guest reviews  for Volkshotel on TripAdvisor or Booking .

Also a favorite among my places to stay while visiting Amsterdam, ClinkNoord caters to people like me - digital nomads! The amenities are exceptional and include work spaces, large common areas and a large kitchen for guests who prefer to make their meals during their stay (highly recommend from a budget perspective!).

Their breakfast buffet is also amazing, though it is offered with an additional cost. However, if you add it when making your reservation, you will get a discounted rate instead of paying the full price in person.

The rooms are spacious and clean, staff is ridiculously friendly and the bar is more of a lounge hangout than a large party setting. Another bonus: you get to ride the free ferry across the Ij River that runs 24 hours a day. Take in the scenery and maybe brave swinging off the A'dam Building nearby!

Find the  latest real guest reviews and  cheapest rates for ClinkNoord on their website or on HostelWorld.

The White Tulip Hostel

Another budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of the Red Light District, the White Tulip Hostel is a great place for backpackers and solo travellers in Amsterdam alike. It offers free fantastic city tours (take advantage of these!) as well as discounts on various pub crawls and events giving guests an opportunity to meet new people.

Additionally, the hostel is just above the Irish Pub, Slainte, which offers all White Tulip guests a discount on their food and drink!

Find the cheapest rates and latest real guest reviews on TripAdvisor , Booking or HostelWorld.

On my latest visit to Amsterdam, I decided to stay at this really cool girls-only hostel. Everything I read about the comfy beds and soft linens was absolutely true! The staff is so friendly and the rooms are actually quite spacious.

My favorite part was the wall art. Local artists were hired to paint the walls and create their art. It's magnificent! The hostel features a large kitchen area for guests who want to make their own meals as well as a gorgeous outdoor terrace that is perfect for summertime.

Find the best rates and most recent reviews for Hostelle on Booking , TripAdvisor or HostelWorld .

StayOKAY Amsterdam Vondelpark

A great option if you are the type of traveler that loves to meet new people. They have an onsite restaurant and large common areas that allow for lots of interaction and conversation. When I first arrived, it felt like entering a gathering of friends rather than a hostel of strangers.

The vibe is very casual and friendly which, in my opinion, makes for a fantastic option for solo travelers or groups that are outgoing and love to mingle. Take a walk through Vondelpark while staying here - it is a huge, beautiful park that, on a nice day, will be full of people.

Find the cheapest rates for StayOkay on their website , Booking or on HostelWorld .

Cocomama and Ecomama

A cute boutique hostel (yes, those exist!) that is situated in the center of the city. Decorated in a very Dutch fashion, Cocomama has a warm and homey feel. I absolutely loved the days I spent at this posh hostel.

My room was very clean, the staff went above and beyond to make sure I was having a great stay and the atmosphere is very relaxing. Sister hostel to Ecomama, these two establishments truly know how to make a person feel welcome and provide a wonderful stay. Cocomama is a great place for solo travelers as well as couples and groups.

Find the cheapest rates for CocoMama on TripAdvisor or HostelWorld , and the best rates for EcoMama on TripAdvisor or HostelWorld .

You can find more budget accommodation options in this list of Amsterdam hotels for all budgets and this list of the best centrally located Amsterdam hotels .

Travelling around Amsterdam on a budget

Another key component of visiting Amsterdam on a budget is understanding the different types of ways you can get around the city for the best price. The great thing about Amsterdam is that there are various ways of getting around depending on prices, weather, and the distance you want or have to cover.

Walking in Amsterdam is free, and brilliant!

Walking is my personal favorite option for getting around. Amsterdam is the perfect city to walk around in as the surroundings are just so beautiful and everything is relatively close. The best part? It's free!

Just be sure to look both ways - twice - before crossing as many roads have bike paths as well as roads and possibly also tram lines to cross, and those locals do usually ride quite fast. This can be intimidating for visitors at first, but once you have done it for a day or two, it will feel like second nature.

There's also lots you can do at night just walking around. Here are some more suggestions of things to do in Amsterdam at night.

Cycling in Amsterdam is cheap, and fun!

Rent a bike! For less than €10 you can have access to a public bike for the entire day. Just be careful when cycling past other riders as the Dutch are experienced and very fast. Traffic laws actually favour bikers, so you don't need to be too worried about cars!

That said a little extra knowledge about riding a bike in Amsterdam will go along way so check out Frankie's tips for cycling in Amsterdam .

Public transport in Amsterdam is affordable, and reliable!

Sometimes you need to get places faster than a bike will take you, or maybe the weather is going to be against you when you're planning our Amsterdam visit. In these cases, Amsterdam actually has a fantastic public transport system that you should definitely take advantage of. Various transportation cards give visitors the chance to select their preferred option.

GVB Travel Cards for unlimited public transport in Amsterdam:  These cards provide unlimited travel within the time permitted and are usually the cheapest option if you are only visiting for a few days. Pricing starts at one hour for €3, 24 hours for €7.50, 48 hours for €12.50 and seven days for €34.50.

All time-based cards can be purchased on trams and buses, in some shops and at most stations. Just be sure to have Euros on hand as sometimes credit card machines may not be in service or just not accepted. Important to note: these travel cards are not valid on zones outside Amsterdam, for example - you can't use them to get to/from the airport. Find out more details online here .

GVB Reloadable Travel Cards: These cards (called OV-Chipkaarts in Dutch) are the most practical if you are staying for a longer period of time as you are charged on the basis of distance travelled so you can also cap the amount you spend if you like.

Another good thing about them is that they can be used on trains anywhere in the Netherlands so it's the best value for money if your trip to Amsterdam is part of more extended travel. There are two pricing options for this card, but unless you are a resident, you will be purchasing the 'anonymous' chip card which costs €7.50.

Unfortunately, this amount is non-refundable as it can't be used towards the balance. Reloadable chip cards can be purchased at the airport and all train stations. Find out more and order yours online if that helps here .

Amsterdam Travel Ticket (including transport to/from Schiphol): If you are traveling to/from the airport or planning on getting a 24 or 48 hour chip card, this option will save you a few euros. A one-day ticket is €16 and a two-day is €21. Tickets can be purchased at the airport or at some select train stations. Find out more about the Amsterdam Travel Ticket online . 

Travel by ferry, for free!:  There is a public ferry ride that runs 24 hours a day and crosses the Ij River. The ferry fits bikes and many people, so just be sure to keep an eye out when entering and exiting as it can get pretty crowded and hectic. The views are beautiful and on a sunny day, are perfect for pictures of Amsterdam! There are 3 different routes you could take:

BUIKSLATERWEG - The shortest of the three boat rides. It crosses the river straight ahead (every 6 minutes) and gets you access to the EYE Film Institute, A'DAM Toren and the I amsterdam letters.

UPLEIN - This ride will take you through the residential area of Amsterdam and has many small shops along the way (every 10 minutes).

NDSM WERF - My personal favorite - this ride heads left and takes you much further than the other two. You can get a really nice view of Amsterdam from the water and the industrial harbor, which makes this ride the best to take - if you have time! (every 30 minutes)

The best things to do in Amsterdam on a budget

While some of the most popular attractions in Amsterdam may come with a steep price tag, there are many things you can enjoy on a budget, some are even free ! As I mentioned earlier, you will need to do be a little flexible when it comes to the timing or days when these activities are available. However, once you figure it out, your wallet will definitely thank you.

These are some of my favorite activities you can do around the city that have little to no cost, while still giving you the Amsterdam experience :

Maria's Favourite Free Things to do in Amsterdam

The "Poezenboot" Cat Boat

Calling all cat lovers! The Poezenboot is actually a sanctuary for cats on an Amsterdam houseboat. I have been here with friends a few times, though I have never actually gone inside. As cute as these little guys are, I am highly allergic so unfortunately, I can't enjoy playing with them as my friends so often do. Entrance to the sanctuary is free, but it is hoped that you will give a donation.

The Bridge of 15 Bridges

This is an incredible place to visit that not many people know about. Found at the crossing of Reguliersgracht and the Herengracht, if you stand with your back to the Thorbeckeplein, you will be able to see 6 arched bridges in a row. To the left, you will find six more over the Herengracht, while on the right you will see two more. The 15th bridge technically is the one you are standing on. This is one of those sites that is just as breathtaking, if not more, to visit at night. The bridges are all illuminated, giving the area a special, more romantic view of Amsterdam.

Walk around the Red Light District

Is it cliché? Yes, totally. But you can't come to Amsterdam and miss out on walking through the Red Light District. That is like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower! The Red Light District is one of those things Amsterdam is famous for, with its interesting shops and store fronts, museums and rich architecture. A trip to the city wouldn't be complete without it.

You could also go on a guided tour of the Red Light District for under €20.

Take a Stroll in Vondelpark

One of the biggest parks in the city, Vondelpark is the perfect place for a walk, picnic or simply to drown the noise of the city. You will see many people riding bikes (at a much more leisurely pace) as well as many families and locals.

Directly nextdoor to the park you will find a small tea house called De Roos that not only has delicious food and drinks, but also sells incredible Buddhist trinkets and precious stones. While it's not free, it's definitely worth checking out if you like that sort of thing.

Visit Albert Cuypmarkt

The ‘Albert Cuypmarkt’ is the most famous and largest street market in The Netherlands. With more than 300 stalls, it sells all sorts of food (meat, cheese, seafood, etc.) as well as jewelry, flowers and clothing.

You can easily spend an entire morning walking through and visiting each stall. The vendors are all very friendly! Be sure to have cash on hand as many places do not accept credit cards.

Read more about visiting Albert Cuyp Market.

Enjoy Free Theatre on a Tuesday lunchtime

If you happen to be visiting Amsterdam on a Tuesday, you're in luck. Head to the foyer of the Dutch National Opera & Ballet at Waterloo Square for a free lunch concert. Usually, this is the time they practice for that evening's performance and are kind enough to give visitors a treat. Concerts are from 12.30-13.00 during the months of September to May.

Get a Panoramic View of Amsterdam From the Top of NEMO

Hidden within the NEMO Science Museum in the Oosterdokseiland neighborhood is the NEMO Panorama Terrace. Entrance into the terrace is free and can be reached by climbing up the steps on the eastern edge of the building. During the summer, the terrace is transformed into a beach with deck chairs and bean bags to sit on. You will also find a small café that sells drinks and small snacks.

And if you want to visit the museum, which I highly recommend if you have children, you can buy your tickets online . They're not cheap but you can spend many, many hours in NEMO and get your money's worth.

Find out about Amsterdam's Diamond H istory on a Free Tour

Fun fact: Amsterdam has been known internationally as the ‘City of Diamonds’ for over 425 years. Did you know that? For those of you who are interested in learning all about them, free guided tours are available every day.

The tour is fantastic and features information on carats, colors, clarity and cuts as well as the history of this Amsterdam craft. The tours are held at Gassan Diamonds daily from 9am to 5pm and are available in over 27 languages.

Read a book (and more!) in Europe's largest public library

A short five minute walk from Central Station will put you face to face with Europe's largest public library: the Openbare Bibliotheek. Entry is free as well as most books and materials within.

The best part? If you head up to the top of the building you will be able to capture the most amazing views of Amsterdam. Reading with a view!

Wander around the Nine Streets

One of the coolest areas in Amsterdam, the Nine Streets is a network of streets that is home to some of the best stores, cute cafes and pubs in Amsterdam. The crowds are generally less than in the city center, which makes it one of the best areas to wander all day.

Here you will be able to find everything from high end stores to vintage and second shops that have hidden gems! One of the best free things to do in Amsterdam, in my opinion.

Go Clubbing!

So, you may have heard that Amsterdam is something of a party city, and you would be right. But can you really enjoy a decent sample of Amsterdam's clubbing scene on a budget? Yes, you can if you get an Amsterdam Nightlife card . Priced just €10, you can get a 48 hour card that gets you free entrance in to over 30 different nightclubs so you can go club hopping all night. 

If you're staying in Amsterdam longer than two nights, there's a 7-night card option (for just €20) and you also get some additional extras like free shots in some clubs, and other discounts on nightlife experiences.

Enjoy free exhibits and a great view in the EYE Film Institute

Located on Amsterdam's waterfront behind Central Station, you will find the EYE Film Institute and museum. It is the Dutch center for film culture and heritage and has become an important attraction in Amsterdam. You can reach the museum via the Buiksloterweg free ferry service that takes you across in less than 3 minutes and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

One of my favorite things about this museum is the large terrace at the top, which gives you spectacular views of Amsterdam. There is also a bar and restaurant at the top that are open 7 days a week from 10.00pm to 1.00am. The museum's permanent exhibit in the basement is also free.

Also just outside the EYE Film Institute is where you can find the new home of the I amsterdam letters!

Find Chinatown and a Buddhist Temple

One of the most important tourist sites within Amsterdam’s Chinatown is the Zeedijk Buddhist temple, known as Fo Guang Shan He Hua Temple. It can be found on Zeedijk Street in between all the shops and bars. Fo Guang Shan He Hua Temple is the largest temple in Europe that has been built in traditional Chinese palace-style. The architecture is truly incredible, I can't recommend this place enough. Entrance is free, but donations are recommended. If you stop by, be sure to have something to cover your arms as a sign of respect.

Play Flash Invader around Amsterdam!

The phenomenon that started in Paris has finally reached Amsterdam! For those of you who are not familiar with the Flash Invader, he is a French artist who is known for leaving artwork in the form of tiles all over the city. You can find his shapes on everything from sides of buildings to sides of curbs and under canals. The point of the game is to find as many of them as you can all around the city using the Flash Invader app . On my most recent trip to Amsterdam I played along and can say from experience, you see a completely different side of the city! Looking for the tiled art also forces you to focus on small details on every building, canal and street. The app allows you to create a user name and challenge your friends, which makes it that much more fun!

The Best Things to do in Amsterdam under €20

At a capacity of over 50,000 people, the Amsterdam Arena is the largest stadium in the Netherlands. For only €16 you can tour the stadium, which includes a visit to the dressing rooms, the press room and even a stint on the pitch. Note: you receive a small discount if you book online in advance. Tickets will cost you €15,00.

Enjoy a canal cruise

Another activity you need to experience while visiting Amsterdam. However, it's important to take note of the different areas around the city and companies that offer cruises, as some are definitely much more expensive than others. Many of the tour companies offer canal cruises for under €15,00 . The company has been around for years and offers the lowest, most competitive prices on canal cruises in the city. Cruises will take you across some of the main canals within the center of the city.

Find out more about the most famous Dutch beer of all at the Heineken Experience

Many people I know have visited Amsterdam and NOT done the Heineken tour. The reason? They've either thought it would only focus on beer tasting or assumed it would be ridiculously expensive, like most of these tours usually are. However, the Heineken Experience is not like other tours. While beer tasting is among the things you get to do while walking through, the tour focuses on interaction, multimedia and entertainment as well. The best part? Tickets are only €18 when booked online in advance - and we really do recommend you do that as the queues can be very long! 

And while you're at the Heineken Experience, why not take a wander around the surrounding neighbourhood, De Pijp. Here's Frankie's in-depth guide of De Pijp with lots of recommendations for free things to do, affordable places to eat and even some cool shops to window-shop in!

Ride a bike and get fit seeing all corners of Amsterdam

Bikes are the primary form of transportation in the city and can prove to be invaluable when trying to get from one part of the city to another in a short amount of time. In Amsterdam, they are so important that they have the right of way and priority on the road over cars! Bikes can be found in bike shops all around the city and most are only around €10 per day to rent. You should also find out if your hostel or hotel has them available for free or cheaper than that. Just be sure to know and understand the rules of the road when biking as many of the locals have been doing it since they were kids and ride very fast. When attempting to do this on one of my visits to Amsterdam, I actually fell I was trying to take a picture and ride a bike…not a good combination for a non-rider!

Visit one of Amsterdam's world famous museums

Amsterdam is rich in history and has some of the most informational museums in the world. Fortunately, there are many museums that can be visited on a budget. Some of these have entrance fees around or under €20 and include: Rijksmuseum , Van Gogh Museum , Moco Modern Art Museum (with the largest collection of Banksy work in the Netherlands), the Stedelijk , Amsterdam Museum and the Tropen Museum .

Anne Frank Museum

Needs no introduction, this beautiful and tragic museum is an absolute must when visiting Amsterdam. Be sure to reserve early as tickets sell out fast. Also make sure to get to the museum with about 10 minutes to spare so you can beat the crowd of people that will form a line. Tickets are about €10 for adults and you must book your ticket and visit at a specified time online as they only sell a very limited number of tickets to those who queue. You can book tickets up to two months in advance and there are free audio tours available.

Ons Lieve Heer op Solder

This is one of my favorite museums in Amsterdam on a budget as it’s also only €12,50 for entry . This museum is actually three canal houses combined into one with a stunning secret church in the attic. The beauty of this museum is that you get to enjoy history, architecture and stunning views from a canal house.

Dutch Equestrian School / Living Horse Museum at the Hollandsche Manege

Something a little different and not as popular with the tourists, the Dutch Equestrian School Museum, The Hollandsche Manege, is the oldest riding school in the Netherlands. Within this school you will find yourself immersed in a different time when visiting the Living Horse Museum. Set in a beautiful neo-classical building at Vondelstraat, the museum is breathtaking to see in person. On specific days of the year, there is a live horse demonstration where pro riders show off new tricks with their beautiful animals. It's definitely a sight to see! It's €6,00 for adults to visit and €4,00 for kids over the age of 3.

Koninklijk Paleis / The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is spectacular to see up close and in person. Standing tall in the Dam Square, the palace is open to the public almost every day of the year, with some exceptions. Walking through the hallways transports you to a different time and world, leaving you speechless as you walk from room to room. My favorite room: The Citizen’s Hall. Be sure to have a camera handy through every room you step into as each is better than the next! Free audio guides are available in many different languages as well as for kids. Tickets are €10 for adults, €9 for students and free for kids up to age 18 - buy online to get a free audio guide.  

Waterland Day Ticket

Spend your day wandering through the lovely Waterland area just north of Amsterdam . It is infamous for its historic fishing villages and picturesque green polders. A Waterland day ticket costs €10 and you can hop-on and hop-off the EBS buses all day .

Zaanse Schans

An absolutely beautiful place to visit (and get those Insta-worthy shots!) of the gorgeous windmills that are synonymous with Holland. Located north of Amsterdam, a day return train ticket from Amsterdam Central to Zaandijk Zaanse Schans will set you back €7.60 including €1,00 disposable ticket surcharge. Be prepared to compete with many many tourists, unless of course, you can get there for sunrise!

The Best Places to Eat in Amsterdam on a Budget

For some reason, many people forget to add this to their planning and research before heading to a new place. While visiting attractions and saving on accommodations are a huge part of traveling on a budget, it's the food and drink that can potentially set you back the most. Before taking any trip, it's good practice to research eateries in the area to get an idea of what is offered and what the prices look like. This is even more important if you have food allergies or restrictions. And if you are vegan or vegetarian, please have a read through the best vegan restaurants and cafes I recommend in this vegan Amsterdam guide - some offer great value for money!

Here are my top recommendations for places to eat on a budget in Amsterdam that are still delicious and a fun experience.

Important to note: tap water is free and totally drinkable in the Netherlands - it's actually very tasty! Most restaurants should give you a glass of water if you ask. You can also request a carafe if the glass isn't enough! And there are numerous water fountains scattered around the city; you'll certainly find them in and near the parks in Amsterdam.

Herring Stands

Is there anything more Dutch? Even for those of you who, like me, hate fish - pickled herring is surprisingly sweet. There are tons of ways you can eat it: raw, pickled, or even whole with onions on a sandwich. Whatever you choose, you will find it is ridiculous inexpensive and actually pretty tasty.

Bagels and Beans

One of my personal favorites and perfect for those of you coming from the east coast of the US who love a good bagel. Bagels and Beans makes a bagel pretty close to flavor as those back home. You can choose from tons of bread types as well as spreads, including the Dutch favorite hagelslag. One bagel with a large portion of cream cheese will only cost you €5! Added bones: their coffee is good, too.

A futuristic restaurant chain all over Amsterdam that offers fresh food from vending machines. You can expect to find simple food, such as burgers and fries or opt for something a little more Dutch such as a krokets or frikadel.  Prices start at as little as €1.20 - so fill up!

The place for cheese lovers. This Dutch cheese shop offers every kind of cheese imaginable and is open until 7pm most nights. The staff is ridiculously friendly and are happy to give samples. The best time to visit? Lunchtime.  In addition to cheese, they also serve fresh sandwiches for under €4.

Tourist trap? Maybe. But don't be alarmed by the line of people waiting to get into this tiny establishment that is home to Amsterdam's best apple pie ! The line goes quickly as the employees are used to the crowds and have apple with delicious homemade cream on hand. Pair with a tea or delicious latte for the perfect mid-day treat as you people watch the Jordaan canals. On Saturday mornings, there is a charming little market set up directly in front of Winkel 43.

Van Stapele

While this is technically an expensive restaurant, they have the most famous cookies in all of Amsterdam. Two euros will get you a scrumptious chocolate cookie with molten chocolate center, made fresh for you on the spot. It's the perfect stop after a day of walking and shopping along the Nine Streets.

Restaurant, bar, public space and studio. This is part of the area that used to belong to squatters, but now is conveniently one of the coolest places to visit on the weekend. Six euros will get you a vegetarian or vegan meal that includes a delicious soup. Be sure to make a reservation in advance! Find out more vegan eateries in this vegan Amsterdam guide.

Robin Food Volkskeuken

Another option in this same area is the Robin Food. The vibe is one of my favorite things about coming here. You always feel right at home, whether you are a native or a visitor! Ten euros will get you a 3-course vegetarian meal plus the company of people who feel like old friends. Note, Robin Food is cash only.

Bazaar Amsterdam

While strolling through the cool De Pijp area, you will come face to face with so many different food options. There, in the middle of it all, you will see this beautiful Mediterranean restaurant. One of the most interesting things about Bazar is that it is located in a former synagogue. The menu is extensive, giving you so many different options, and the prices are tough to beat. Ten euros can buy you a large meal and a drink.

A non-profit eatery and wonderful initiative to prevent food waste, InStock takes the leftovers from Albert Heijn to create entire meals (usually vegetarian) that you can buy for only €10 euros or €20 euros if you want a 3-course meal. So you can feel good about the money you spend while also enjoying the delicious offerings! Reservations are required.

Bierproeflokaal in de Wildeman  

Small bar that is often packed with locals. Vibe is very lively and drinks are cheap! Upon entering, the main room looks small, but then opens up to a side room that has large tables for shared seating. Games are also available. One of my favorite places to get a drink with friends while visiting Amsterdam.

Additional Tips for Visiting Amsterdam on a Budget

Shop at a market or supermarket for snacks or food on the go

This is the second tip I always provide. You will find supermarkets everywhere in Amsterdam, as well as several daily markets in a number of areas. The most popular supermarket is Albert Heijn (look for blue lettering) and it's fairly affordable but cheaper supermarkets are Action, Lidl and Dirk van der Broek. Another alternative supermarket is Jumbo which has prices and quality similar to Albert Heijn, and don't forget that Amsterdam has lots of daily markets which will be even cheaper to pick up produce.

Albert Heijn stores all over Amsterdam. Instead of springing out extra money at a more expensive shop, you can get inexpensive sandwiches, snacks and drinks for a fraction of the price. Additionally, you can get ingredients to make your own meals. 

Check Facebook Groups and local websites for deals, discounts and free local events

Sometimes attractions, events or places will post discounts or early bird specials for their followers only. It's always a good idea to check social media before purchasing or heading to visit a new place.

Invest in an I Amsterdam City Card or a Museumkaart.

As a budget traveller keen to do a lot but save money, there is always a bit of a debate about whether or not to get a city tourist cards. Amsterdam's I amsterdam City Card is not cheap, but if you use it to its fullest capacity, it could certainly be cheaper than buying individual travel and museum tickets.

The I amsterdam City Card is available in increments of 24, 48, 72 or 96 hours, with prices ranging from €60 to €115. The pass includes public transport, free access to several attractions and partial discounts on others. The entire list of attractions can be found on the Amsterdam tourist office website.

To find out how i t's really worth it, here is Frankie's full review and guide to when to get the I amsterdam City Card .

There is another way to potentially save money if you want to visit a lot of museums and you are staying in Amsterdam for a longer period of time to do so; the Museumkaart, which costs €59.90 for adults and €32.45 for children and teenagers up to 18. Most of Amsterdam's museums are free to enter with this card and most will also let you skip the line if you have one. Cards are sold at most museums that accept them and online. Important to note: Anne Frank Museum is included with this card!

Save money on public transport to/from Schiphol Airport

Taxis are not the cheapest mode of transport in Amsterdam by a long-shot and most journeys from Schiphol into the centre of town or even the outskirts will be at least €30,00 so you shouldn't waste your time (or money!) on trying to get one of those, especially when a one-way ticket to Centraal Station is under €5,00 and will take half or a quarter of the time.

Here are your options for getting into Amsterdam and sticking to your budget:

Trains from Schiphol Airport

Getting a train is the quickest and easiest option, taking only 15 minutes. At the time of writing (May 2019) it's €4.30 for a one-way ticket, though if you buy this at the station there's a €1 paper ticket charge, so €5.30 total. Very important to note: the ticket machines at the airport station do not accept foreign non-Dutch credit cards. Upon arrival, you will need to visit the customer service desk in order to purchase this ticket if you only have a card as a method of payment.

You can also get trains to regional Amsterdam train stations and then get a tram or bus to closer to where your staying. If you know the postcode of where you're staying use Google Maps to find the best public transport route to your destination.

Bus (Amsterdam Airport Express)

Slightly slower option, but still a solid choice. The Amsterdam Express bus takes about 30 minutes and costs €6 each way (or €10 return if you buy  online ). One benefit over the train is that it can drop you at Museumplein, Rijksmuseum or Leidseplein. The bus is number 397 and you need to follow the signs for Buses outside the Lobby area of Schiphol airport.

Bus (Public Transport Buses)

There are over 20 different bus routes that take you from Schiphol Airport to neighbourhoods in Amsterdam and other places in the region. You can use Google Maps or this Journey Planner to find the best bus route for your journey. Buses will take much longer than a train, of course, and they aren't any cheaper (a journey up to 90 minutes long will cost €6,50) but if you have a lot of luggage they could be the best option to avoid a lot of walking.

The Schiphol Hotel Shuttle

Staying in one of Amsterdam's hotels or hostels, then you can book a spot on the Schiphol Hotel Shuttle that will take you right there. They will make stops at other hotels on the way so you can't predict exactly how long it will take and it's not cheap at €17 each way (€28 return), however, per person prices will be lower the bigger your group is.

It's important to keep in mind that trains and buses also run through the night, however they run much less frequently, so you will need to plan accordingly.

And now, I'm happy to say you are ready officially ready to set off on your budget trip to Amsterdam! Enjoy!

About the Author

Maria Hedian is the founder and author of  Em Around the World , a site dedicated to simplifying travel for aspiring budget travelers and digital nomads. She is a contributing writer for Skyscanner where she creates travel guides based on her experiences around the world across 30 countries and 145 cities. Through her site, Maria's mission is to show her readers that traveling the world is absolutely possible, especially for those on a budget. You can follow Maria's travels on Instagram and Facebook .

Further Reading to Help You Plan Your Amsterdam Trip

When is the Best Time to Visit Amsterdam?

Where to Stay in Amsterdam - Neighbourhood Guide

The Best Hotels in Amsterdam for All Budgets

The Best Hotels in Central Amsterdam

The I amsterdam City Card - Is it worth getting?

Choose Your Itinerary: Best Things to do During One Day in Amsterdam

Your Guide to Visiting Amsterdam in  Spring  /  Summer  /  Autumn  /  Winter

Tips for Staying in Self-Catering Accommodation in Amsterdam

100+ Free Things to do in Amsterdam

The Best Photo Spots in Amsterdam

The Best Day Trips from Amsterdam

and  Tips for Cycling in Amsterdam

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Additional photos by Julie Fox , A World to Travel , Something of Freedom .

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Amsterdam on a budget: Insider tips for the Netherlands on a budget

February 20, 2018 by Karen Turner 1 Comment

I’ve been living in the Netherlands now for almost three years with two years living in Amsterdam.   As the Dutch capital, Amsterdam isn’t a cheap city to visit.  Keep reading insider tips  for visiting Amsterdam on a budget and surviving Amsterdam on a budget by an Amsterdam tourist turned local. 

My first trip to the Netherlands, I ran out of money after paying for my hostel.   This meant that I spent my three days in Amsterdam eating bread with hagelslag (Dutch sprinkles).   While my fellow hostel mates were busy smoking and snacking, I was counting my euros hoping to reach the end of my trip without running out of money.  Since moving to Amsterdam, I like to think that I’ve learned some things about surviving in Amsterdam on a budget.

• 1.1 Where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget: At a hostel!
• 1.2 Consider staying outside of Amsterdam, but not too far!
• 1.3 On Couchsurfing in Amsterdam…
• 2.1 Be careful with taxis at Schiphol… if you choose to.
• 3 Don’t buy the iAmsterdam without doing your research first.
• 4 You don’t need to take public transit or hop-on/hop-off buses as Amsterdam is small. Walk.
• 5.1 Eating and drinking in Amsterdam on a budget.
• 5.2 Eat a larger meal at lunch. 
• 5.3 Get takeout or Albert Heijn
• 5.4 Eat local. 
• 5.5 Tap water is free in the Netherlands
• 5.6.1 Have a little cash on you
• 6.1.1 Walk along the canals
• 6.1.2 Catspotting
• 6.1.3 Hofjes
• 6.1.4 Enjoy Amsterdam’s parks!
• 6.1.5 Take a walk through Albert Cuyp markt
• 6.1.7 Flower market (Bloemenmarkt)
• 6.1.8 Take a free self-guided walking tour of Amsterdam
• 6.2 The best Amsterdam museums on a budget (e.g. not free)
• 6.3 Check Facebook before you go!
• 6.4 If you’re in the Netherlands long-term, buy a Museumkaart
• 6.5 Have you visited Amsterdam on a budget?

BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION AHEAD

If you’ll be visiting Amsterdam in peak season, which is spring and summer, book your accommodations ahead!  This tip for visiting the Netherlands on a budget is very basic, however if you wait until the week before, you’ll find nothing available as many of my non-planner friends have discovered.  This is also true if there’s a major Dutch holiday (e.g. King’s Day ).

Certain neighborhoods ( Jordaan and Red Light District ) tend to be much pricier than others, however you’ll find more hostels in the Red Light District.  Typically, the further you get from the centre, the cheaper it gets. 

That said, you’ll need to commute within the city and if you choose to stay in Zeeburg , you’ll have at least a thirty minute ride on public transit each way and you’ll need to ensure that you don’t get back too late as public transit needs to be running.  Amsterdam Noord also tends to be cheaper, but you’ll need to take a ferry across.

Where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget: At a hostel!

My friends recommend staying at ClinkNoord , Cocomama , HI Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark , and Flying Pig Downtown .

I’ve personally stayed at the Flying Pig Downtown , which is in the heart of Amsterdam’s Red Light District, but I’d recommend it only for people looking to party the entire time.  Friends of mine have stayed at all the other options and liked them a lot.

The rest of the Amsterdam hostels have a slightly calmer vibe to them although their locations are spread throughout the city.  HI Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark is very close to the museums while Cocomama is in de Pijp, one of my favorite neighborhoods in Amsterdam.  ClinkNoord is across the water in Noord Amsterdam, for those looking for a more unique experience in Amsterdam.

Check prices for hostels in Amsterdam now!

Consider staying outside of Amsterdam, but not too far!

My parents were able to stay at 4* hotel in Haarlem for the same prices as a 2* star hotel in Amsterdam with the extra cost of 5 euros per train ride to Amsterdam.   Keep in mind that as you get further out, you’ll need to pay each way and the Dutch trains add up fast.   For instance (as of 2018), Amsterdam from Utrecht costs 15 euros roundtrip.   Keep in mind that you’ll be paying this  daily .  I recommend looking in Zaandam, Hoofddorp (Schiphol), or Haarlem if you’re not seeing affordable options in Amsterdam. 

On Couchsurfing in Amsterdam…

Before you say that you’ll couchsurf in Amsterdam for free, keep in mind that there’s a lot of couch surfers looking for couches.  If you’re serious about finding a couch in Amsterdam, you need references and you need to be aware that not every host is as well intentioned.

It’s super competitive here and honestly, most people that I know who were looking for a couch never found one without having a friend here already.

As a former couchsurfing host, I can tell you that we can typically sniff out people who have zero interest in making friends—and just looking for a free place to crash/come and go as they please.   That is NOT what couchsurfing is about; it’s about the friendships that you form.

If you’re considering couchsurfing consider reserving a hostel in advance with a good cancellation policy, so if you find a host, you can stay with them.

Either way, book a hostel in advance or know that you’re going to pay more the longer that you wait for something to work out.  (You won’t find a couch for King’s Day. )

Don’t take a taxi from Schiphol to Amsterdam

A well-priced taxi from Schiphol to Amsterdam costs around 45 euros.   Beyond 55 euros is a rip-off (unless there’s traffic).   If you’re with a big group, taking a taxi might be easier, but if you’re traveling solo, you can do the journey from Schiphol to Amsterdam on the train for FIVE euros and it’s faster.   Don’t start off your trip losing money in Amsterdam!

Be careful with taxis at Schiphol… if you choose to.

Although there are some legitimate taxi companies in Amsterdam, there’s a lot of “unofficial” taxis who are known to rip tourists off and even hold them hostage unless they pay the ridiculous fare offered.

ALWAYS ask before you get in the taxi if they accept credit cards as if you don’t ask, they’ll ask for the sum in cash or claim that the machine is broken in an attempt to hide how they ripped you off (there’s proof of the transaction).

If they say no, I recommend finding another taxi.   Simply, do not go with someone who offers you a cab no matter what the price is.   Use your common sense and take the train.

Don’t buy the iAmsterdam without doing your research first.

I know you’ve probably read a million posts about how the iAmsterdam card is the greatest thing ever, however I’m not on their payroll.   I always recommend that people think ahead which museums that they’ll be visiting and just buy the tickets for them in advance (if possible).   Just total it up and decide if you’ll end up using the iAmsterdam card.

When I’ve done the calculations for myself and friends, it always tipped in favor of buying an unlimited GVB three day public transit pass and entrance to museums as needed.   It’s only worth it if you’re visiting multiple higher priced museums and most of the value is in not needing to think about buying the tickets.   If you’re willing to spend more for the convenience, go for the iAmsterdam card, but to save money, think before you choose to buy the iAmsterdam card.

You don’t need to take public transit or hop-on/hop-off buses as Amsterdam is small. Walk.

Walk as much as possible! Amsterdam is actually a very small and walkable city, so if you’re mostly staying in the city center, there’s no need for a bike as you shouldn’t be riding it on the sidewalks.   You’ll be shocked how quickly you can walk places and there’s always regular buses if it seems too far (I recommend the GVB public transit pass).

Biking seems cool, but it loses its appeal quickly

A bike isn’t necessarily the best investment and you’ll save money by not having one.   Most of my friends want to bike when they come to Amsterdam, yet most of them regret it after it one day.   Although I love biking in Amsterdam, it can be pretty dangerous between the scooters, tourist bicyclists who don’t know what they’re doing, and pedestrians who ignore the bike lane.

I think that a bike is worth having if you plan on getting pretty far off the beaten path in Amsterdam or you’re staying far enough from a station that the bus isn’t regular.   Otherwise, save your money and walk.

It’s typically 9 to 10 euros per day per bike.  Although you’ll save money on public transit in Amsterdam, it rains a lot and you’re paying 9-10 euros PLUS the cost of the deposit, which means that you’re liable for the bike if it gets stolen (it’s pretty often).  Be sure to consider the cost of insurance.    Click for more biking tips.

Eating and drinking in Amsterdam on a budget.

Avoid the expensive bars in Amsterdam Centre—and head to the neighborhoods for reasonably priced beer.   By default, don’t order a name brand beer.   Just ask for A BEER.   I know that’s weird, but you’ll get whatever is on tap, which is usually a fraction of the cost of the name brand beers.   It’s typically Heineken or something similar that tastes fine.

The bars in the Red Light District and Dam Square cater almost exclusively to tourists and they’re happy to charge you 5 euros for a crappy beer. Instead, go to a good bar (click for the best beer bars in Amsterdam) and drink good beer that’s worth five euros.   I personally don’t like to pay more than three euros for a craft beer.  Click for my beer guide to Amsterdam .

Eat a larger meal at lunch.  

Dinner in the Netherlands is always expensive and I’d say this is one of my best tips.   At lunchtime, you can often find local fish stores, informal sandwich shops, butchers, and even real cheese shops (not the ones who only sell big balls of cheese in Center) offering really cheap sandwiches for two to five euros.  

Get takeout or Albert Heijn

I recommend having a large meal to take advantage of the lunch special and doing Indonesian take-out OR Albert Heijn groceries for dinner if you’re visiting Amsterdam on a budget.

Dutchies are really into take-out places for dinner, so many Indonesian and Surinamese tokos open up close to 5pm for the take-out crowd.   Roti and whatever the special is at the Indonesian toko you’re at tend to be some of the cheapest BEST food that you’ll find in Amsterdam for dinner while eating “out.” Click for my favorite affordable restaurants.

Shop at Albert Heijn for cheap meals to go.   You’ll find Albert Heijn everywhere in Amsterdam.   Instead of springing out extra money at a more expensive shop, you can get inexpensive sandwiches, snacks, and drinks at Albert Heijn.

Eat local.  

Argentinian food is basically the opposite of eating local, so if you’re interested in learning more about Dutch culture AND staying on budget in Amsterdam, go to one of the many fantastic local restaurants where locals actually will visit.   If you don’t hear Dutch spoken where you’re eating, it’s not a good sign. Click for the best cheap eats in Amsterdam, all under ten euros .

Tap water is free in the Netherlands

You don’t need to pay for water at restaurants here if you just ask for tap water.   Some stingy restaurants refuse to give you free water as they want to charge you, however most decent restaurants will give you tap water (in a really small glass) if you ask for it.  The tap water tastes fine.  Ask for a carafe if you want more.

Tipping in the Netherlands is 10%

Before you leave a massive tip (or be a cheapskate who leaves NO tip), know that tipping culture in the Netherlands does exist, however it’s a bit different than elsewhere.

I recommend tipping around 10% at a sit-down restaurant although you won’t be expected to tip at most informal restaurants with self-service.   If you don’t tip, nothing terrible will happen, but it’s just polite.

The Dutch love Americans as they’re always too generous with tipping and they’re often heartbroken to realize that I live here/know that I don’t need to tip 30%.   Wages for wait-staff are pretty decent all considered.

Have a little cash on you

A lot of businesses that are on the cheaper side cater to Dutchies and many of them don’t accept credit cards, only Maestro cards.   The ones that do tend to be more pricey, so have some cash on you in case you want to pay for that haring.

Things to do in Amsterdam on a budget

Free things to do in amsterdam, walk along the canals.

The BEST part of Amsterdam? You can walk around the beautiful canals for free. You don’t need any kind of boat cruise to enjoy the beautiful canals or even sit by them.   My favorite canal to walk around is Herengracht, which is often overshadowed by Prinsengracht.   I prefer it as the houses are grander and it’s quieter.

Catspotting

If you’re a cat lover, be sure to stop by de Poezenboot, the world’s only floating cat shelter. This cat shelter has limited hours and suggested entry, so it’s the perfect chance to meet some friendly cats.  You can check the hours as well as other recommendations for seeing cats in this blog post about the best places to find cats in Amsterdam for free .

Hofjes are historical buildings, often dating back to the 1600-1700s, that were financed by wealthy benefactors.  Many are closed to the public, however there’s quite a few hofjes still open to the public.  You can read about hofjes in Amsterdam here .

Enjoy Amsterdam’s parks!

I absolutely love Amsterdam’s parks.  It’s hard to choose which park is my favorite although Vondelpark is a must.  In summer, it’s great to spend the day lazing out in the park with friends and a bottle of wine.  Westergasfabriek is a nice change for those interested in urban renewal.

Take a walk through Albert Cuyp markt

Albert Cuyp market is one of the best open air markets in Amsterdam.  Every weekday, you can browse the food and the stalls.  I especially recommend trying out a fresh stroopwafel.

Photo from top of A’DAM tower.

Across the IJ river, you’ll find Noord Amsterdam.  Noord Amsterdam is always fascinating to visit as it’s full of modern buildings and a side to Amsterdam that most tourists don’t see.  I particularly love NDSM, which is full of great street art and fantastic restaurants.  More about things to do in NDSM here .

Flower market (Bloemenmarkt)

Anyone looking for the perfect Dutch souvenir can look no further than the flower market.  It’s free to browse the flower market in Amsterdam, if you’re looking for a change from the Red Light District, be sure to stroll along the stalls.

Take a free self-guided walking tour of Amsterdam

Don’t pay for a tour when you can take in the city on foot.  You can download my one day itinerary here, which covers most of the Amsterdam landmarks, so if you’re not keen on going outside, you can still cover a lot of ground. Click for the self-guided walking tour of Amsterdam .

The best Amsterdam museums on a budget (e.g. not free)

If you’re paying for museum entry, try to get your Anne Frank Museum ticket ahead as it’s only nine euros for entry (2018).  The Anne Frank House is a must for visitors interested in learning more about the life of Amsterdam’s most famous resident.  The lines can be very long, especially in peak season, so be sure to book your ticket ahead.  If you forget (or you can’t get a ticket), try going around dinner time on a Friday or Saturday night.

Ons lieve heer op solder  is one of my favorite museums in Amsterdam on a budget and it’s also only nine euros for entry.  This museum is actually three canal houses combined into one house with a stunning secret church in the attic. I think that it’s a solid choice as you get to enjoy history, architecture, and stunning views from a canal house.

Some museums, not including the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh museum, will accept student identification for a discount, so check ahead as many of the smaller museums give discounts. Click to read about my favorite museums.

Check Facebook before you go!

If you’re planning on going out to a club or performance, check online for Facebook events and Meetup events.   Often, there’s an early-bird ticket OR free admission if you put your name on a list, so it’s often worth just checking the event one to two days beforehand.

If you’re in the Netherlands long-term, buy a Museumkaart

If you’re in the Netherlands for a while (e.g. 2+ weeks) and you’re planning on visiting a lot of museums during this time, I recommend buying a Museumkaart.

A museumkaart is an unlimited museum pass intended for residents of the Netherlands although tourists can purchase it for 60 euros (cheaper for kids).   If you live in the Netherlands, your museumkaart is valid (with a photo) for one year after you register it, make it 1000% worth it as most museums in the Netherlands accept the museumkaart.

If you’re staying in the Netherlands for over two weeks, I recommend buying a museumkaart and seeing if you can get your money’s worth (you need to visit 3-4 expensive museums).   Your museumkaart will expire within 30 days without being registered.

I bought two museumkaarten for my parents-in-law when they visited me in Amsterdam for a month and it was definitely worth it for them.   My parents-in-law visited at least 3 museums a week, so within one week, they made their money back.

If you’re entrepreneurial, you might be able to sell your museumkaart prior to leaving to someone else to register although it’s not easy.   Until the point that you register the museumkaart, it’s just a piece of paper with a name and a birthdate.   For registration you just register the museumkaart number online, so if you have a friend who lives in the Netherlands, talk to them about buying it for a discounted price if they don’t have one already. You can visit any of these beautiful Dutch castles with your museumkaart for FREE! (How awesome is that?)

Have you visited Amsterdam on a budget?

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About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

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Amsterdam on a budget: 6 travel hacks to save on your trip

Amsterdam is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, let alone in Western Europe . There are so many amazing things that draw visitors. Wonderful museums, beautiful canals, eclectic restaurants, and some less wholesome activities all make Amsterdam a go-to travel destination for younger tourists. But Amsterdam isn’t the cheapest city on the planet, but fortunately, there are ways for visiting students and twenty-somethings to save money while visiting. 

Planning your trip ahead of time is crucial if you want to save money on things like lodging and travel. One of the best ways to cut costs is by visiting during the off-season when flights and lodging are cheaper. There are also plenty of free walking tours, public parks, and less expensive museums you can tour to get the full experience. You can also find affordable luggage storage in Amsterdam to make your trip all the more convenient. One of Amsterdam’s best attributes is that you can enjoy a trip while not breaking the bank. 

Here are some travel tips for visiting Amsterdam on a budget: 

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Cheap places to stay in Amsterdam 

Perhaps the best way to save money on a trip to Amsterdam is by finding the most affordable lodging. While this can be difficult in any city, Amsterdam seems almost designed to accommodate budget travelers. There are hostels and budget hotels in several neighborhoods, and not just on the outskirts of the city. 

While you might not be able to afford the ones around Dam Square or the Red Light District, there are options in trendy areas like De Pijp and Jordaan. If you’re younger and are interested in nightlife, these are great places to stay, and because Amsterdam is so accessible, you won’t be far from all the best landmarks and attractions. If you do find yourself a little further out from all the action, looking into renting a bike or using the fantastic public transport network is a great way to get around quickly and conveniently. 

For a room or bed at a hostel, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $34 per night. A budget hotel for two, without a bathroom, will cost anywhere between $65 and $80 per night. A hotel room with a bathroom will generally cost between $100 and $150 per night. During the summer, prices will be higher. Traveling with friends is the best way to incur these costs collectively, not to mention being much more fun. 

Here are a few of the most popular hotels and hostels for budget travelers: 

Located in a quiet residential neighborhood near the Vondelpark, this trendy hotel costs around $90 for a twin bedroom. It’s surprisingly stylish, given the price, but the hotel proprietors know they’re catering to hip travelers. WiFi and breakfast are included, and most rooms are equipped with an in-room TV, not that you should be watching any while you’re visiting Amsterdam.

Flying Pig Hostel 

Just a few minutes on foot from Amsterdam Central Train Station, this inexpensive hotel is perfect for students and travelers who are really on a budget. A stay in a shared dorm room will cost as little as $20 per night. This one is ideal for groups of backpackers because the value quickly shoots up for a shared bedroom that will include a fridge. This is huge if you are looking to prepare a few of your own meals. 

Bicycle Hotel

De Pijp is one of the coolest neighborhoods in Amsterdam , and this trendy hostel is the perfect place for camping out while you explore all the best art galleries and nightlife in the area. It’s a little more expensive, at about $130 for a double bedroom, or $80 for a single, all with a shared bathroom, but the location and vibe are great for the money. 

Hotel La Boheme

If you’re looking to party it up while you visit Europe AND save money, you’ll want to stay at this budget hostel near the Rijksmuseum. A double bedroom will cost around $100 with a shared bathroom. It may not be the Ritz Carlton, but it is inches away from the best nightlife in Amsterdam.

Cheap Things to do in Amsterdam 

Finding cheap and free things to do is the best way to save money while having fun. Gorgeous public parks and culture are one of the best reasons for visiting Europe, and Amsterdam has some of the best options in the world that are all free to enjoy. 

Explore the Canal Ring (for free) 

The main advantage of visiting Amsterdam is that the city, itself, is delightful. With such an interesting cityscape and beautiful buildings, just walking around is fun. This is most definitely the case in Amsterdam’s Canal Ring in the city center. When the canals were first made 400 years ago, it was an architectural wonder and is now known as the crowning achievement of the Dutch Golden Age. 

The gabled canal houses and buildings are as quaint and charming as they get. The arching bridges connecting the city are beautiful to behold as well. The canal system in Amsterdam is known as an “open-air museum.” It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and entirely free to explore. The inner rings also host the informal “Red Light District,” which is an infamous but curious part of Amsterdam’s culture and economy. If you’re interested in saving money, you certainly don't want to partake in some of the less wholesome services on offer in this part of the city.

Visit the Rijksmuseum

While more of an ornate public garden than a proper museum, the Rijksmuseum is one of Amsterdam’s best-kept secrets. This Renaissance-style garden features gorgeous hedges, rose bushes, statues, and perfectly manicured green spaces. Entry to the grounds is completely free. Look into their calendar to find special events such as garden-sculpture exhibitions. 

Look into a (mostly) free walking tour

Most “free walking tours” certainly come with the expectation that the tour guide will be compensated via tips for their knowledge and efforts. Still, going on an informative and entertaining stroll through historic parts of Amsterdam is a great way to save money. Look into various tour listings before your trip, you won’t always need to buy tickets or book ahead, but you’ll want to know when and where to meet your tour guide.

The Van Gogh Museum

Any visit to Amsterdam should involve some appreciation of its most famous artist. The Van Gogh museum is popular for a reason. It features the largest collection of the legendary Dutch painter’s work in the world. There are informative audio tours in multiple languages telling the fascinating story of this complicated artistic figure. Admission is €19, which you can book ahead of time to make your visit to the museum easier. 

The Anne Frank House Museum 

With admission starting at only €10.50, this museum is not particularly expensive, but it’s truly one of the most vital parts of the Amsterdam travel experience. It’s the home of the Jewish-Dutch Frank family, where daughter and author Anne hid during the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam during World War II. 

While the cost is not the issue, the museum’s understandable popularity means there will be a lengthy line any day of the week. Planning an early morning visit will help, and it’s worth the wait.

Vondelpark 

With over a hundred acres of gorgeous green space, Vobdekpark is the largest park in Amsterdam. It’s a popular place for locals and travelers to set up picnics on the expansive and remarkably well-kept fields and lawns. There are also playgrounds for the little ones as well as trails for cyclists and runners. In classic Amsterdam fashion, there are even canals.

Cheap places to eat in Amsterdam 

One of the best features of Amsterdam is its budget-friendly restaurant scene. Sure, you can find splashy fine-dining establishments in every neighborhood of the Dutch capital. But Amsterdam’s culinary strengths lie in its stellar street food scene. Like Berlin, the most common meal for an average Amsterdammer is the dependable döner kebab. This Amsterdam street food has become the go-to thanks to the prominent North African and Middle Eastern immigrant populations. You’ll find a kebab stand everywhere you look, and they are all extremely inexpensive meals you can eat on the go. 

There are also plenty of delis and markets where you can grab ingredients to prepare your own food. It may not be the most exciting option, but sustaining yourself at little to no cost while saving money for an indulgent meal isn’t the worst thing in the world! Even better, there are so many green spaces where you can put together a picnic. 

Cheap bars in Amsterdam 

In terms of European cities, Amsterdam is nowhere near the most expensive to drink. London, Paris, Milan, and Copenhagen are all widely regarded as the most expensive cities to grab a pint or cocktail. If you’re trying to save money, it absolutely makes sense to drink Dutch beers. While there are plenty of renowned bars in Amsterdam serving delicious but pricey Belgian ales, plenty of pubs in the city center and Red Light District serve a pint of Amstel or Heineken for €4.50 or less. 

There are also pubs serving the Dutch liquor Jenever which won’t cost too much money. It’s a bitter spirit similar to gin, and any celebratory Amsterdam experience will involve a taste. Proeflokaal Arendsnest, Kriterion , Flying Pig Downtown Bar , Cafe Belgique, Hannekes Boom, and De Pilsener Club are all good examples of both good and cheap places near the city center to grab a drink.  

That brings us to the matter of cannabis, which is legal in Amsterdam. If you’d like to partake, you’ll have to find special coffee shops near the Red Light District that serve pre-rolled joints and baked edibles. This can get expensive, so plan with travel buddies and try to split the cost.

Bonus budget tips for Amsterdam 

Whether it's booking train fares on the cheap or making free phone calls, we can all use a few tips and tricks for navigating a city. Here are a few recommendations for visiting Amsterdam:

Travel around Amsterdam by bike or free public transportation

The most fun way to save money on your trip to Amsterdam is by eschewing cabs and ride-share cars in favor of getting around by bicycle. Amsterdam happens to be one of the most bike-friendly cities on the planet. The streets along the canals are designed to accommodate bicycles, so it’s an incredibly safe way to get around. There are bike rental shops all over Amsterdam, and finding one in the city center will be incredibly easy. Hotels can also provide these as well, sometimes for free. It can cost less than $5 a day to rent a bike in some cases, and many of these rentals come with a lock, so you can safely use it all day. 

Depending on how far you’re traveling, look into the free public transportation provided by the city. There are buses that will take you almost everywhere. 

Avoid peak times and book in the off-season

Whether it’s finding favorable flight deals or booking accommodation, traveling to Western Europe (or anywhere popular) is always more expensive during peak season. This means late spring, all of summer, and early fall. This is partly due to school being out, meaning families will travel. But Amsterdam, specifically, sees a massive surge in students backpacking through Europe. The largest city in the Netherlands is one of the top destinations for these travelers. 

Other factors you have to consider for  “peak travel season” are seasonal holidays and events. That doesn’t just mean Easter or Christmas, but ones specific to those locations. For Amsterdam, it’s tulip season. Every April, millions upon millions of tulips take bloom in fields across Holland. It’s a breathtakingly gorgeous sight. But it’s one that draws thousands of visitors every spring. While this would be an ideal time to go to Amsterdam, it also means higher prices for flights and hotels. 

Because of this, late fall, winter, and early spring are the best times to visit Amsterdam. While the weather will be far from ideal, it’s hardly as cold in the Netherlands as it is in places like New York or Chicago. 

Amsterdam is known as one of Europe’s coolest major cities for a reason. The nightlife, the magnificent canals, the lush public parks (and other completely free things to do in Amsterdam ), and the healthy lifestyle are all major draws for younger travelers who want to have incredible travel experiences while saving money. While it’s not always possible to find cheap flights, and budget lodging can be unreliable, there are so many ways to experience this city on a tight budget. 

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A few of the best things to do in Amsterdam on a budget

Amsterdam is one of Europe’s coolest cities but did you know it’s also possible to visit Amsterdam on a budget? There’s not only so much to do in Amsterdam for free, but getting to Amsterdam from the UK can be very, very cheap.

Plus once you’re there it’s possible to find cheap Amsterdam hotels, cheap places to eat and drink!

If you’re planning a weekend break to Amsterdam but don’t have a whole lotta cash to splash then check out this Amsterdam travel guide for an Amsterdam break on a budget.

About Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and is known for its art scene, canals, cyclists and narrow houses. There is a tonne of brilliant museums such as the Van Gogh Museum , the Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank’s House among others. There’s delicious food from all over the world and it makes the perfect city break from the UK.

Where is Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is in the Netherlands in Europe. More specifically it’s in the south of the province of North Holland.

Useful Resources for your trip to Amsterdam

• I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals

Cheap flights to Amsterdam

• Buses from the UK to Amsterdam
• Cheap Hostels in Amsterdam & Budget hotels

How to get to Amsterdam from the UK

Amsterdam is relatively close to the UK and there are several easy ways to get from the UK to Amsterdam. You can fly, drive, take the train or take a bus.

I’ve been to Amsterdam a couple of times, the first time we drove as a family and the second time I took an overnight bus. I’ve outlined the different ways to get to Amsterdam below so you can choose what works for you.

Flights to Amsterdam are usually very cheap. You can find return flights to Amsterdam for under £50! The flight takes just over one hour and there are lots of direct flights leaving throughout the day every day.

Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.

Bus from London to Amsterdam on a budget

While this isn’t the most comfortable method of transport it is usually the best method of cheap travel to Amsterdam. If you’re on a tight budget but still want a trip to Amsterdam then look into getting the bus to Amsterdam.

I’ve previously taken a trip to Amsterdam on the overnight bus which also saves you money on a night’s accommodation too – win, win!

However, you should bear in mind that a lot of people go to Amsterdam to party so chances are there’ll be some partying going on on the bus.

Also, the bus we took didn’t have reclining seats and legroom was minimal, to say the least.

BUT if you’re looking for a cheap, easy way to get to Amsterdam then don’t rule this out.

Omio is a great platform for booking European and UK travel on. You can check train and bus prices and schedules and book super easily!

A round trip on the bus costs about £41 (making it the cheapest way to Amsterdam) and takes about 11 hours.

The buses usually leave from London’s Victoria bus station.

Getting an overnight bus on a Friday and then returning on a Sunday makes it easy to plan a cheap weekend to Amsterdam.

The cost of a bus ticket to Amsterdam isn’t hugely different from flying to Amsterdam but getting the bus means you don’t have to hang around at the airport for a few hours on either side.

Eurostar to Amsterdam

Another way to get to Amsterdam from the UK is to take the Eurostar. This is probably my favourite way to travel to Amsterdam but it is more expensive than either flying with a budget airline or getting the bus. However, it’s super comfortable and you get a nice view.

I suggest signing up for the Eurostar mailing list to be notified of sales. They usually have sales a couple of times throughout the year and it’s a great way to get some cheaper tickets to Amsterdam.

Driving to Amsterdam

Alternatively, you could do a road trip from the UK to Amsterdam. This is great if you’ve got a bit more time. You’ll need to choose whether to get a ferry from Dover, or whether to take the Eurotunnel from Folkestone.

Depending on your car and traffic petrol will cost somewhere between £50-100 and can take as little as 6 hours.

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

Getting around Amsterdam

Travel in Amsterdam is easy and most of the places you’ll want to visit aren’t far apart from each other. Here are a few different ways of travelling around Amsterdam on a budget.

Amsterdam by bike

Amsterdam is a fantastic city for cyclists. Most locals cycle in the city and the city is really designed to make cycling easy. Renting a bike in Amsterdam tends to cost about 9€75 per day but this usually drops if you’re renting for multiple days. There’s usually a deposit put against a credit card too.

The three main bicycle rental companies in Amsterdam are MacBike.nl , Bikecity.nl and RentaBike.nl with the latter being one of the cheapest bike rentals in Amsterdam.

Some hotels (listed below) also include free bike rentals.

Getting around Amsterdam by public transport

Amsterdam also has a good bus, tram and subway network. The cheapest way to use public transport in Amsterdam is to buy a multi-day transportation ticket.

These give you unlimited use of the trams, buses and subway from 6 am to 12:30 am. A one-day public transport pass in Amsterdam costs €8.

Get a public transport pass for the duration of your stay here

Hop on, hop off buses are also a good way of getting around the main sights and attractions in Amsterdam.

You can buy tickets here for the hop on, hop off bus & boat tour here.

Where to stay in Amsterdam: cheap hotels in Amsterdam

With such a big choice when it comes to places to stay in Amsterdam, you’ll easily find an Amsterdam hostel or Amsterdam budget hotel for your trip to Amsterdam.

Cheap accommodation in Amsterdam usually means staying in a hostel but if your budget isn’t super tight you can also find cheap places to stay in Amsterdam hotels.

I’ve picked out some of the top-rated Amsterdam accommodation, including hostels and hotels, that are great if you’re travelling on a budget and looking for where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget!

Cheap hostels in Amsterdam

There are plenty of hostels in Amsterdam with some being far more popular than others. Here are a few of the top cheap hostels in Amsterdam Central.

Generator Hostel, Amsterdam

Generator is a very popular brand of hostels across the world. One bed in a dorm costs about £20. This Amsterdam budget hostel also has cool events like meditation sessions and your bed comes with access to free bikes to get around Amsterdam for free.

Flying Pig Hostel, Amsterdam

The Flying Pig, Amsterdam gets great reviews. It has a bar, a 24-hour reception desk and is just 3 minute’s walk away from Amsterdam Central Station with some of the cheapest rooms in Amsterdam.

A dorm room will cost as little as £19 and if you book a private room you get the luxury of a TV, fridge and private bathroom. The price also includes a continental buffet breakfast too!

ClinkNOORD hostel, Amsterdam

Clink hostels are great, I previously stayed at one in an old prison in London, and this one is no exception.

This hostel is complete with original laboratory features, a spacious atrium and a lively bar plus it’s just across the IJ river and only 10 minutes from Amsterdam Centraal Station. Each bed comes with a USB charging port which is super useful when staying in a dorm.

A bed in a dorm here costs about £30 which is a little more expensive than the other two on the list, but it is the top rated hostel in Amsterdam on Hostelworld.com!

Best budget hotels in Amsterdam

If a hotel is more your scene make sure to check out these affordable hotels in Amsterdam. These are some of the best hotels in Amsterdam on a budget!

Amsterdam Teleport Hotel

The Amsterdam Teleport Hotel is one of the best cheap hotels in Amsterdam city centre. It has great reviews and is 400 m from the Amsterdam Sloterdijk railway station. You can also rent bikes here. The cost of your room also includes a continental breakfast which is great for a budget hotel in Amsterdam.

Budget Amsterdam Teleport hotels 

Bed in Boat, Amsterdam

This cool Amsterdam budget hotel allows you to sleep on a boat in Amsterdam! Here you’re a little out of the main centre of Amsterdam but still in a great location and it’s easy to get to Amsterdam’s top attractions. Plus you get incredible views!

Book & see the Amsterdam hotel prices here

Cheap places to eat in Amsterdam

You can even find cheap food to keep your visit to Amsterdam cheap and the best thing is that the food doesn’t need to be a McDonald’s or equivalent. It can be good!

Thrill Grill

There are two Thrill Grills and they’re one of the best cheap restaurants in Amsterdam. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a gourmet burger or the best cheap eats in Amsterdam.

Most of their burgers are under 10€ and are made with locally sourced, natural ingredients.

Skek is near Amsterdam’s Red Light District and features traditional Dutch food fused with the newest eating trends. The fact that it’s popular with students just goes to show that it’s one of the best cheap restaurants in Amsterdam – students know how to sniff out a bargain!

Dishes cost about 13€ on average so if you’re looking for the best places to go eating out in Amsterdam then check out Skek!

In the heart of Amsterdam’s shopping area is Goodies which does some of the best cheap food in Amsterdam.  Here you’ll find fish, burgers, lamb and even cheese fondue which is a Dutch favourite.

Main courses start at 8€ and everything on the menu is fresh and organic. See, it’s easy to find nice places to eat in Amsterdam on a budget!

La Perla is an authentic Italian restaurant that imports ingredients from Italy every week. If you’re looking for one of the best places to eat in Amsterdam on a budget then you just found it! You can’t go wrong with pizza, especially when it’s this good. Their pizzas are cooked in a huge, wood-filled brick oven and start at under 9€!

Other cheap eats in Amsterdam

If you’re looking for what to eat in Amsterdam then check out these good places to eat in Amsterdam that also happen to be super cheap!

• Turkish pizza : €2-5
• Falafel sandwich: €4.95
• Meal of the day at MKZ Eetcafé (3 cours es & all veggie): €5
• Cheap beer in Amsterdam at one of the best cheap bars in Amsterdam!

Best things to do in Amsterdam on a budget

Plan your cheap holidays to Amsterdam with this list of budget-friendly things to do in Amsterdam.

There’s so much to do in Amsterdam that you don’t have to spend much, it’s incredibly easy to have a cheap Amsterdam break. Consider this your Amsterdam guide for a budget trip!

Awesome Amsterdam tours

If you’re staying in Amsterdam a little bit longer then these day trips will help you see more of The Netherlands.

• Half Day Tour of Zaanse Schans Windmills from Amsterdam
• Geithoorn (super cute town!)  tour & Amsterdam canal cruise
• Day trip to Bruges from Amsterdam

Breakfast at Cafe de Prins

When Thom and I visited Amsterdam for King’s Day we stayed with his friend who happened to live very close to this great little breakfast spot.

We dined on pancakes and coffee which set us up perfectly for a day’s exploring in Amsterdam and it was also a pretty cheap breakfast in Amsterdam too!

Attend King’s Day

King’s Day in Amsterdam is a huge party all across Holland. In Amsterdam, the streets are full of people dressed in orange, sound stages, flea markets and general fun.

The best part? It’s all free and one of the best cheap things to do in Amsterdam.

Eat an Ethiopian Feast at Walia Ibex

This was the first time I’d tried Ethiopian food and it was delicious. I’d highly recommend checking out Walia Ibex in Amsterdam for some delicious and unique flavours.

Step back in time at Anne Frank’s House

If this is your first visit to Amsterdam then make sure you book tickets to Anne Frank’s House . Everyone knows the story of Anne Frank and the chance to visit her house will take you back in time.

It’s thought-provoking and can be upsetting but it’s important to remember what happened.

Visit the Amsterdam CatBoat

The Amsterdam CatBoat is the only cat sanctuary that floats on water. It’s home to many cats that are looking for their forever home. In the meantime, you can go brighten their day by paying them a visit and entrance is free!

Beer tasting at a windmill

There are 8 remaining windmills in Amsterdam and the easiest to visit is de Gooyer in the east. This isn’t just any windmill either! Underneath the sails of this windmill is Brouwerij‘t Ij .

This is an award-winning artisan microbrewery with a large outdoor drinking terrace and guided tasting tours. Sounds good, hey?

Smell the tulips

Sure seeing or buying tulips in Amsterdam may be cliche but they’re also pretty so can you blame us?

The most famous place to buy tulips and bulbs in Amsterdam is the Bloemenmarkt. It’s the world’s only floating flower market and it lines the Singel with colourful flower stalls.

If you’re visiting Amsterdam in the spring, then take the 20-minute trip to the world-famous tulip fields (Bollenstreek). Here tulips stretch out for miles and miles!

Visit the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam

Even non-art fans have heard of Van Gogh and what better place to learn more about his life and art than by visiting a museum in the country he’s from?!

When in Amsterdam, get a ticket to the Van Gogh Museum and enjoy immersing yourself in this artist’s work.

Skip the line by getting your ticket in advance here.

Eat at the 30 food stalls found in a former tram depot

Located in the hipster Oud-West neighbourhood is De Hallen; a cool artsy and foodie area in a refurbished industrial building dating from 1902. Dine on pizzas, Vietnamese food and more.

It’s a bit like a Dutch Brixton Market!

Bike to Ouderkerk aan de Amstel

Head out of Amsterdam on a bicycle for 30 minutes towards the picturesque village of Ouderkerk aan de Amstel. Here there are great restaurants and bars and plenty of open space to relax in on a nice summer’s day.

Skate the canal

Visiting Amsterdam in winter? If the temperatures drop low enough then you could head out onto the canal and go ice skating! The canals in winter may be full of ice skaters who race around the canals but make sure you’ve checked it’s safe before you lace up your skates!

The best way to skate on the canals is to join the group who leave Vondelpark from 9 pm every Friday night for a three hour/20km skate!

Take a ride down the canals

If it’s not winter when you visit then hit the canals by boat. Either try and befriend a boat owner (tricky!) or buy a ticket for a canal cruise for a different view of the city.

Amsterdam boat tours

Take an Amsterdam boat tour with bubbly just the two of you for something romantic, or check out one of these other tours below.

Hire a bicycle

Amsterdam is the city of cyclists. With over 800,000 bicycles in Amsterdam, cycling is very much a way of life. There are cycle routes and flat land all over the city which makes it a great place to explore on two wheels.

You can hire a bike from many places across the city and also book cycling tours in Amsterdam if you don’t feel confident about going it alone.

Get lost in the arty Jordaan

The Jordaan area of Amsterdam is charming and made up of narrow streets and quaint buildings. There are art galleries, independent shops and courtyard gardens too.

Forget your GPS and wander aimlessly and see what you come across.

Catch the ferry to Amsterdam North

Most people who visit Amsterdam don’t venture north of the central station but they’re missing out! Take a short, free ferry trip and head over to Amsterdam North where food, drink and culture await.

Walk around Vondelpark

Amsterdam’s most loved park, Vondelpark, is a great place to wander after a leisurely brunch in Amsterdam . It’s a huge green space with ponds, an open-air theatre and is super close to the best museums in Amsterdam.

Snap a selfie with the iAmsterdam sign

Chances are you’ve seen friends and friends of friends posing with the iAmsterdam sign on their holiday to Amsterdam. It’d almost be rude not for you to snap a selfie with the sign when you go too!

And visit the Rijksmuseum while you’re there

The iAmsterdam sign is just outside the Rijksmuseum which houses the art of many famous artists called Rembrandt and Vermeer. It’s recently been renovated so it’s even more impressive than ever before!

You can get a ticket to skip the queue here

Also known as the Latin Quarter, De Pjip, is full of ethnic restaurants and eclectic shops You’ll also find the famous street market, Albert Cuyp Market, here every week from Monday to Saturday.

Take an Amsterdam walking tour

One of the best budget-friendly Amsterdam activities is to take a walking tour. You can make up your own route, or leave the route planning to the experts and book on to a walking tour where you’ll see and learn about Amsterdam from locals.

This one gets great reviews and is under £20 for a couple of hours.

De Negen Straatjes (Nine Little Streets)

De Negen Straatjes, or the Nine Little Streets, are nine little streets that run between the Prinsengracht and Singel canals. They’re lined with boutiques that sell vintage clothing, beautiful home decor and more. It’s a great place to go window shopping (or real shopping) during your visit to Amsterdam.

FAQs about the best cheap things to do in Amsterdam

Is amsterdam cheap.

In general, most wouldn’t say you can have a cheap trip to Amsterdam but I personally think you can do it cheaply. If you eat street food or from cheaper restaurants and stay in hostels you can have a budget weekend.

What is the cheapest way to get to Amsterdam?

The cheapest way to travel to Amsterdam from the UK is by bus. Though this takes around 10-14 hours it’s super cheap and advance return tickets can cost around £40. I book my bus tickets through Omio.

Final thoughts on things to do during a weekend in Amsterdam

If you’re wondering what to do in Amsterdam and what places to visit in Amsterdam, this guide should help!

Amsterdam is one of my favourite European city breaks and I highly recommend adding it to your Europe itinerary.

From the best museums to places to see, where to stay and what to eat, all on a budget, this guide has plenty of ideas for 2 days in Amsterdam (or slightly longer!). As well as tips on how to do Amsterdam cheap.

If you’re looking for more fun things to do in Amsterdam, check out my guide to the annual Kings Day in Amsterdam party!

Last Updated on December 6, 2023 by Hannah

Hannah started That Adventurer after graduating back in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to city breaks in Europe , a 3 month road trip across the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years living in Canada , you’ll find posts on all of this.

Hannah specialises in active travel and on That Adventurer you’ll find hiking, walking, biking, skiing and all sorts of active travel guides to allow you to see a destination in an adventurous way.

Now back in Europe, you’ll find new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the next year ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and places in between.

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I’ve only been to Amsterdam once, and only for a couple of days, but I’m super keen to visit again! I’ll definitely keep your tips in mind when I make it back there. The Ethiopian restaurant sounds brilliant, as does the breakfast cafe. And I still need to do the obligatory tulip field and/or windmill exploring in the Netherlands!

It was the first time I’d tried Ethiopian food but I LOVE it now!

How To Visit Amsterdam On A Budget?

Amsterdam is an expensive city and if you want to spend a lot you can easily do this. On the other hand, you can plan your visit to Amsterdam wisely and save a lot of money. I write this article because I found a lot of guides which don’t really give you specific tips and tricks on how to save money while in Amsterdam. There is a lot of general advice on the internet, but that’s not what most people are looking for. In this complete guide, I offer you very specific information that will allow you to plan your Amsterdam holiday on a budget.

You need €40-€80 a day to visit Amsterdam on a budget. Accommodation can cost as little as €10 if you sleep on a campsite, € 12-14 if you stay in a hostel and hotel rooms start from €40. Couchsurfers can survive even on 20 Euros per day.

Above prices are the cheapest you can find. Keep in mind that in high season prices may be much higher. Especially when big events take place, prices can go up even 2-3 times. Amsterdam is very pricey and to visit this beautiful city on a budget it’s a challenge. I am living in Amsterdam so I will give you some tips and tricks on how to save some money. In this article, you will learn about free things to do in Amsterdam, some budget places to stay in. I will also share with you my favorite affordable restaurants.

Your biggest expense is accommodation, so choose something affordable. At the end of this article, you’ll find a list of budget hotels and hostels that I recommend. I would say that up to 100 euros a day it’s budget in Amsterdam.

There are people who can survive in Amsterdam for as little as 20 Euros a day. These are people who go for hospitality exchange such as Couchsurfing, they cook their own food and don’t do too much touring. Another group of people can visit Amsterdam for 50-60 Euros a day . They stay in hostels, eat out, party and see a lot of museums. The next budget range is about 100 Euros . Yes, I think it’s still budget because the prices of hotels in Amsterdam are insane. The difference between this budget and 50 Euros budget is that you stay in a higher quality hotel or Airbnb. Accommodation is the biggest expense in Amsterdam.

Where To Eat On A Budget

You can get some cheap food in Maoz (cheap vegetarian restaurant) Febo (cheap burgers, fries, and hotdogs). There is also HEMA or Ikea , where you can eat affordable meals. You don’t have to eat always in restaurants. The most affordable way to eat when you travel is to prepare food on your own. Bring some silverware with you and make sandwiches and buy a salad. The cheapest supermarkets in the Netherlands are Lidl and Aldi . Then there are Vomar and Jumbo and among the most expensive Albert Heijn and Deka Markt. I often buy in markets because they have also very good prices, but not everywhere.

When To Visit Amsterdam On Budget?

Prices of accommodation in Amsterdam vary a lot. The high season start in May and ends in September. In this period of time prices are very high. Then tend to fall during wintertime, but keep in mind that they skyrocket during Christmas and new years eve.

The best time to visit Amsterdam on a budget is October and November. Prices of accommodation are the lowest and often the weather is still very good.

There are many events and big conferences happening in Amsterdam. During this time prices can be even 3 times higher than normal. In the time of big events, it’s possible that almost all hotels in Amsterdam are fully booked.

Museumkaart vs IAmsterdam Card vs Holland Pass 

There are many different discount cards in Amsterdam. The most popular ones are Museumkaart, IAmsterdam Card and Holland Pass. There are all worth buying but each of them is suitable for someone else. For example, Museumkaart is a great choice if you stay in Amsterdam for a longer time. To save you a headache I can tell you straight away that the best city card for a tourist is I Amsterdam Card. But before you get I Amsterdam Card, you should do some calculations . Maybe it’s better to get a public transport day pass and buy museum tickets for a specific museum. 3-day public transport ticket cost 19 Euro. You can get it here . Ticket to Rijksmuseum cost 21 Euro. You can buy it here . Search for other tickets here -> LINK

I Amsterdam City Card

What is I Amsterdam City Card? It’s an official Amsterdam card which gives you access to many different attractions in Amsterdam. Is it worth it? If you want to make the most out of your tour to Amsterdam it’s definitely worth it. 5 day I Amsterdam card cost 115Euros but you can actually spend this amount in one day by visiting museums, using public transport and going for example on a canal cruise.

I Amsterdam City Card includes:

• Public Transport in Amsterdam – bus, tram, and metro
• Free canal cruise
• Entrance to the most museums in Amsterdam and other attractions
• Ticket to Zaanse Schans and free ferry from Volendam to Marken
• Free entrance to museums in Muiden, Naarden and Laren
• Ferry to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam

You can get I Amsterdam card here -> Link . The biggest benefits of this card are free transportation and entrances to major museums in the city. I can definitely recommend it. You’ll also get discounts to restaurants and cafes, for renting a bike. It works also in other towns such as Haarlem, Zaanse Schans, Volendam and more.

Free Walking Tour

Free walking tours get lately more and more popular. This sightseeing concept spread around the world in the last decade. Are you familiar with the concept of a free walking tour? FWT tour is a donation-based tour. Basically, you take a part in it for free but in the end, you are asked for some donations. I like this form of a tour because you know what you pay for. In fact, you don’t have to pay. You donate only if you enjoy this experience. I can already tell you that you will enjoy. Free Walking Tour guides do their best because they know that they work for their salary. Based on their performance they are tipped. The naming of these tours can be confusing but as they get popular people to know what they are about. If you wonder how much you should tip, here you can find a video that I posted on my youtube channel. I answer there a question: “How Much To Tip A Free Walking Tour?”

Money-Saving Amsterdam Tips & Tricks

Most of the people save money all year long to go for one trip. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Traveling doesn’t have to be that expensive and because of that, I write this guide. I would like to show you how you can save money while visiting Amsterdam. Of course, Amsterdam is pricey, very pricey. I live in Amsterdam and I know tips and tricks that will allow you to visit this city on a budget.

1. Drink in Hostels

Here you can find a list of my favorite cheap hostels in Amsterdam –> LINK . Hostels serve the most affordable drinks and beer and in most cases, there are other travelers chilling around. Many hostels are a hybrid of a bar and a hostel.

2. Save Money on Transportation

You’ll have to spend some money on transportation if you want to enjoy traveling. If you like walking it’s fine but you can’t visit too many places just walking around. I would suggest you buy a public transport day ticket. It cost only 8 euro and for 24 hours you can use any mean of public transport in Amsterdam. Here you can get it . Another solution is to rent a bike and you can rent a bike for the whole day for as little as 9 euros. The cheapest place to rent a bike in Amsterdam is DiscountBikeRental

If you are a couchsurfer you know that the best way to save some money on food is to cook your own food. Most hostels or campsites also have some sort of kitchen. If the kitchen isn’t available you can take silverware with you and prepare sandwiches. When in traveling mode your stomach will understand, don’t worry. You can also make a salad.

4. Work and Get a Free Bed

When I was working in one of the hostels in Amsterdam there was an Italian guy who earned his bed by working for this hostel. He was sleeping in the hostel for free but the deal was that he must work there. It’s a great deal especially because you can get to know interesting people.

5. Couchsurfing

I don’t know if you are familiar with couchsurfing idea but you should. It’s a cool way to save some money and get to know interesting people. The concept is to rent your couch to other travelers, so you can also sleep in someone’s place. I would suggest visiting only people who have good reviews.

I told you before to rent a bike or buy a public transport day ticket. That’s what I would do, but I have to tell you something. Amsterdam isn’t a big city if you compare it for example to London. Within half an hour you can get to most of the places in the City center, so if you really want to save some money that’s a way to go.

Prices in Amsterdam

To give you a general overview of prices in Amsterdam I put together a list with some average prices of common goods.

Parking in Amsterdam is Super Expensive

If you would like to visit Amsterdam with your car this can be quite challenging. Parking fees in the city center of Amsterdam go up to 7,5 Euro per hour. But don’t worry, there are some ways to park your car in Amsterdam on a budget. If you come here only for 1 day I would go for P+R parking. There are few of them along the ring of Amsterdam. You can park there for 1 euro per day and get to the city center by tram in less than 20 minutes. P+R system can be a little confusing. That’s why I recorded this video explaining how it works. Here you can watch a P+R tutorial on my channel.

For those who travel to Amsterdam for a few days, there is a better option. I would recommend you to rent a hotel with a free parking space. There are only a few of them in Amsterdam and I put them together in this article .

Free Things To Do In Amsterdam

It’s one of my favorite spots in Amsterdam. Mezrab is a house of storytelling and stand-up. Entrance is most of the time free, donation based. There are only a few events when they charge for an entrance and it cost as little as 5 euros. mezrab.nl Here you can find a current agenda.

2. Walk Along Canals

Amsterdam is called the “Venice of the North”. Nothing surprising as there are even more bridges and canals than in Venice. In Amsterdam, there are 1281 bridges and over 100 km of canals. If you want to see the most beautiful canals in Amsterdam you should go to the Jordaan area and follow the Canal Belt. The most beautiful canals in Amsterdam are Prinsengracht, Singel, Herengracht, and Keizersgracht.

3. Visit Parks

There are many cool parks in Amsterdam. Among them, there is a famous Vondelpark, which is a green heart of Amsterdam. I advise you to visit this spot when coming to Amsterdam in summer. There are a lot of people doing cool things. You’ll see a lot of people jogging, cycling, skating, lying on the grass, playing football. You can also get some food there. If you visit Amsterdam with kids you should go to Amstelpark . There are a zoo and playground for kids. If you have a dog there the best choice for you is the Sarphati park. There is a little pond in the middle of the park, bikes aren’t allowed, and it’s in general dog-friendly. You’ll meet there other dog owners.

4. Free Walking Tour

I love the idea of free walking tours. You may wonder why are they free. So to make it clear, they are donation based. If you enjoy a tour you can donate a 5 or 10 euros at the end. I like these tours because they aren’t prepaid and tour guide do their best. They take place daily at 10:00, 13:30 and 16:00. The meeting point is next to the national monument. You can find more information on this site –> Freewalkingtours

Meetup offers some cool events. There is something cool happening daily in Amsterdam. I like Friday drinks in Bar Jones. It’s a meeting for travelers and locals. In general, you can meet people from all over the world and it’s fun. On some meetups, there are way too many people. I like this one because it feels cozy, relaxed. Bar Jones is a little bar. I’ve been there a few times and I always enjoyed it.

6. Free Ferry To Amsterdam Noord

That’s actually fun. There is a ferry on the backside of the Centraal Station and it brings you to Amsterdam Noord for free. A ride itself is fun. Amsterdam Noord is also a cool, industrial, hippie area.

7. Visit Goat Farm

In the Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest) there is a goat farm. It’s a cool spot with goats, cows, and chickens. You can feed goats and then walk around in Amsterdam forest. It’s one of the spots I really like. There is also an eco restaurant, where you can get dinner. You can also buy eggs, goat milk, and goat cheese.

8. Floating Flower Market

This is one and only floating flower market in the world. If you want to see tulips in Amsterdam read this article . This spot is close to Rembrandtplein and Dam Square. It’s cool, but nothing extraordinary. If you visit Amsterdam only for one day, do something else.

9. Free Concert in Het Concertgebouw

Every Wednesday at 12:30 a free concert takes places at Concertgebouw. You can learn more on this website –> Link Tickets are available from 11:30 and because there is a high interest in this event, you want to come even a little bit earlier to make sure that you’ll get tickets.

10. Narrowest House in Amsterdam

Houses in Amsterdam used to be taxed by the width of the front elevation. Because of that, there are some very narrow houses, they can be only 2 meters wide. If you want to see the narrowest houses in Amsterdam they are situated here:

Singel 7 Oude Hoogstraat 22 Kloveniersburgwal 26

11. Visit Hofjes

There are many beautiful Hofjes(medieval courtyards surrounded by houses) in Amsterdam. They are often hidden and not visible from the street. Hofjes are the part of Dutch cities since the middle age. They used to be houses for elderly people as a form of social security.

Things To Do in Amsterdam On The Budget

1.Rent a bike

This is a cool budget thing to do. You can rent a bike for as little as 9 euros a day. This is the price for the basic bike in rental companies such as a yellow bike or mac bike. I always recommend renting a bike because you can see much more, but on the other hand, if you are not really sure about your cycling skills then don’t do this. Riding a bike in the city center is wild west and if you have no idea about traffic rules you should be cycling in the center of Amsterdam. Keep in mind that most of the people treat a bike as a mean of transportation and they cycle fast.

Bike theft is the most common crime in Amsterdam. It’s important to always lock your bike properly. Dutch bikes have two locks. It’s chain locks and back wheel lock. Always lock both of them.

2. Visit Ijhallen

That’s the biggest flea market in Europe. You can find there many cool things for a little price. For entrace, you have to pay 5 euros and for children 2 euros. It’s definitely worth it and it takes place once a month. You can check agenda of upcoming events here –>  Ijhallen website . There are 750 stands and anyone can rent a stand and sell their things. That’s why you can find there so many cool stuff.

3. Friday Night Skate

Another cool thing to do in Amsterdam is Friday Night Skate. I put it in a budget section because you have to rent skates. Skating event itself is for free. Below you can watch a video from one of Friday Night Skates I took a part in. The meeting point is in Amsterdam at 20:00 every Friday. Feel free to join.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kf0UBoXmjOQ&t=46s

4.Visit Coffeeshops

Coffeeshop culture in Amsterdam is very interesting. Some of them are extraordinary. If you would like to learn more about coffee shops and Red Light District you should go for an alternative free walking tour. During the tour, Otto will tell you some interesting facts about the Red Light District and weed. Here you can learn more about these tours – Link .

Where To Stay in Amsterdam On The Budget?

When it comes to budget accommodation in Amsterdam, you can find something in 10 – 75 euro range . Beds in hostels start from €10 in a shared dorm. But the price depends on the location and in the city center, you’ll pay more. Most hostels offer free breakfast and coffee. Airbnb rooms cost € 70-80. For a double hotel room, you’ll pay at least €65. That are 2-3 stars hotels and you should expect that room will be pretty small. Rooms in Amsterdam are small in general. Prices in the city center are much higher. During the high season and events taking place in Amsterdam, you can see even triple raise in prices. For example, during the Dance event or some conferences in RAI, you won’t find a room in Amsterdam, even though prices skyrocket. That’s why the best way to visit Amsterdam on a budget is to come in offseason.

Home Stay or Hospitality Exchange

There are some websites which let you find locals offering their house space to other fellow travelers. That kind of accommodation can tremendously lower your traveling costs. Especially in expesive destinations such as Amsterdam this is a great opportunity. It’s also a chance to meet interesting people, that often give you some insights about the city. The most popular hospitality exchange website is couchsurfing.com but there are more sites like this. I can recommend a few of them:

• Hospitality Club
• Global Freeloaders

Cheap Hotels In Amsterdam

New we s t inn amsterdam.

???? Prices start at €49 per bed. ????  Reimerswaalstraat 5, 1069 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands ☎ Phone: +31 20 410 8000 This hotel is located 15 minutes away from the city center. You have to get to the city center by bus. This is the most affordable hotel I have found but you must add a price of the tram ticket to the center. You can also rent a bike and in 25 minutes you’ll get to the Leidseplein. New West Inn is located in Amsterdam West, it’s a peaceful area and you can find large shopping centers nearby. The tram stop is just in front of the hotel. Rooms are comfortable and there is a free gym. Some rooms may have shared bathrooms.

Best Western Amsterdam

???? Prices start at €51 per bed. ???? Voorburgstraat 250, 1059 VD Amsterdam, Netherlands Netherlands ☎ Phone: +31 85 273 3568 Best Western Amsterdam is 3 km from the city center. You’ll need 20 minutes to get to the city center by bike. I like this hotel because it’s smoking-free. It’s also modern and clean. The front desk is friendly, helpful and you can get public transport tickets at good prices. Tram stop is only a few steps from the hotel. If you book a room here you should definitely get a breakfast. They serve a good breakfast and great coffee.

Budget Hotel Tourist Inn

???? Prices start at €40 per bed. ???? Spuistraat 52, 1012 TV Amsterdam, Netherlands Netherlands ☎ Phone: +31 20 421 5841 This hotel is modern, clean and it’s located in the city center. This is one of the best choices when you consider low price and high-quality service. Budget Hotel Tourist Inn is located next to the Centraal Station and just a few minutes from the Red Light District. If you plan to visit Anne Frank House it’s 5 minutes away from this historic attraction. Rooms have airconditioning. Breakfast is very good and there is a lot to choose from. This hotel is a great value for the money. Staff is friendly and helpful. I recommend this hotel.

XO Hotels Blue Square

???? Prices start at €45 per bed. ????Voorburgstraat 250, 1059 VD Amsterdam, Netherlands Netherlands ☎ Phone: +31 85 273 3568 Rooms are modern, clean and comfortable. Each room is airconditioned and keep in mind that when you visit in Amsterdam in the summertime you should check this in advance. Many hotels do not have airconditioned rooms. They serve good international breakfast and great coffee. Hotel is 30 minutes from Schiphol airport. There is lighting fast WiFi, private parking and they offer room service. You’ll find a coffee machine in the room and this is what makes me smile 🙂

Rembrandt Square Hotel

???? Prices start at €59 per bed. ????Voorburgstraat 250, 1059 VD Amsterdam, Netherlands Netherlands ☎ Phone: +31 85 273 3568 This is a pick for people who want to party. It’s located on Rembrandtplein, just next to the parties, bars, and coffeeshops. They offer a very good, fresh breakfast. It’s a few steps from the floating flower market. It’s a noisy area but if you plan to party it’s your best choice. The hotel provides earplugs. You can count on kind and helpful receptionist. It can smell like weed in the room because at the bottom of the hotel there is a coffeeshop.

Budget Hotel Hortus

???? Prices start at €60 per bed. ????Voorburgstraat 250, 1059 VD Amsterdam, Netherlands Netherlands ☎ Phone: +31 85 273 3568 The price is perfect for what you get. Staff is kind and helpful. Breakfast is good. Rooms are clean and the bed is comfortable. If you fly in the evening they will let you leave your luggage in the hotel, so you can still enjoy your last day in Amsterdam. They have free WiFi and 24 hours front desk. There is a designated smoking area. Budget Hotel Hortus is located just next to the Hortus Botanicus and ARTIS Zoo.

Cheap Hostels In Amsterdam

St. christopher’s at the winston.

???? Prices start at €25 per bed. ????Warmoesstraat 129, 1012 JA Amsterdam, Netherlands ☎ Phone: +31 20 623 1380 This is one of my favorite hostels in Amsterdam. Location is excellent, just next to Dam Square, in the heart of Amsterdam. They serve a very good breakfast and you can count on helpful staff. Beds are comfortable and rooms are clean. There is a nice terrace, it’s even a cool place to go if you don’t stay there. There are a restaurant and bar. When it comes to price, it’s very competitive when you consider the location. It’s one of the best spots to stay in the city center and they have 24 hours

The Flying Pig Hostels

???? Prices start at € 39 per bed. ???? Vossiusstraat 46/47, 1071 AJ Amsterdam, Netherlands ☎ Phone: +31 20 400 4187 Flying Pig is my favorite hostel in Amsterdam. They own two locations and both of them are cool. They offer free breakfast and lightning-fast WiFi. This hostel is popular among travelers who like a weed. If you like parties this is a place to be in Amsterdam. In the evening Flying Pig is full of chilled people willing to get to know each other. They have a fully equipped kitchen, so you can easily prepare some food and keep your travel on a budget.

StayOkay Amsterdam Vondelpark

???? Prices start at €20 per bed. ????Zandpad 5, 1054 GA Amsterdam, Netherlands ☎ Phone: +31 20 589 8996 StayOkay is a cool hostel situated in the Vondelpark, just next to the Leidseplein. This location is excellent. You are close to many cool spots in Amsterdam. Rooms are cozy and clean. I like its design, it creates an amazing atmosphere. Staff is helpful and knowledgable. There are a restaurant and bar, they serve great breakfast and good coffee. Hostel offer lockers and you need 20 cents to use it. This hostel is close to museums, shopping street, and West part of the city. It’s one of my favorite parts of Amsterdam.

???? Prices start at €34 per bed. ????Valkenburgerstraat 124, 1011 NA Amsterdam, Netherlands ☎ Phone: +31 20 770 9529 The atmosphere in Ecomama is exceptional. You can count on very friendly, helpful staff. Rooms are comfy and clean. Beds are fine. Even though this hostel is situated in the city center, it’s quiet. I really like the style of Ecomama, it creates a cozy atmosphere. In places like this, you can find open, like-minded, passionate people who enjoy their life. Definitely worth visiting.

Via Amsterdam

???? Prices start at €18 per bed. ????Valkenburgerstraat 124, 1011 NA Amsterdam, Netherlands ☎ Phone: +31 20 770 9529 Via Amsterdam offers affordable rooms. It’s clean and comfortable. They serve a great breakfast and there is plenty to choose from. It’s quite a popular location, 10 minutes away from Metro station. During the night you can get there by night bus from Dam Square. For a price, you pay it is a great place.

Campsites are a good solution because they are comfortable and affordable. There are toilets, showers and often little shops with food. In the Netherlands, there are many campsites.

????️ Het Amsterdamse Bos

Campsite close to the Amsterdam that I can recommend you is Camping Het Amsterdamse Bos. It’s the clostest camping to Amsterdam city center and prices start from ????16,60 euro per night.

????️ Campspace

This website is just like Airbnb of campsites. You can find there private people offering a piece of their land where you can put your tent. Prices start from 10 euros per night

Can I Sleep In a Tent?

You can sleep in your tent on the campsites. Sleeping in a tent in public it’s illegal. That’s the general rule so you can’t put your rent anywhere you want. But there are few spots where you can put your tent and you can find these locations on the website below. This is free and legal. Wildcamping Locations You are also allowed to sleep in your tent if you have a Dutch Fishing Card.

Do It Like A Real Traveller

Another way to find a location where you can sleep in your tent is just to ask a farmer or someone who has a garden. There are many of them around Amsterdam. If you go out of the city, for example in the direction of Haarlem you can find many of them. The best would be to look for locations like this in small villages such as Vijfhuizen, Uithoorn.

Sleep In Woods

You can just sleep somewhere in the woods. It’s illegal, but… Keep in mind a few important things if you decide to do this. 1. Find some green locations upfront, so you know in advance where you’ll sleep. 2. Go there just before sunset, so no one sees you. 3. Do not make a campfire. You don’t want any problems. 4. Keep it tidy and clean. Do not leave any human traces behind. The disadvantage of sleeping in the woods is that you can get a fine.

Is It Legal To Sleep In My Car?

If you go to the campsite you can sleep there in your car, because this is private property. But be aware that campsite can have their own rules which don’t allow people sleeping in the car. Unfortunately, it’s not allowed to sleep in a car in public.

I wouldn’t say that you’ll get a fine while sleeping on the highway rest stops. It’s because when you get tired and you take a short nap it’s for the safety reasons. But if they see you the next day on the same parking lot you may have problems.

Amsterdam On Budget For Vegetarians

Vegetarianism and Veganism get more and more popular nowadays. I am happy to tell you that if you are a greens lover Amsterdam is an amazing destination for you. There are plenty of spots where you can get some affordable vegan or vegetarian dishes. Here you can read my another article about cheap vegan restaurants in Amsterdam – link . If you don’t want to read a full article I can recommend you especially two spots – Mr. Stacks and Vegan Junk Food Bar.

How To Find Cheap Flight Tickets to Amsterdam?

• Search for tickets in incognito mode. Be aware that airline websites save your cookies and they increase the price for repeated searches. Try to search for the same flight from another PC with another IP address or ask someone from abroad to check the price on their end.
• I use Google Flights to compare flight prices and possible routes and then I search for the particular flight on the airline website. Then compare prices on Skyscanner. It seems to have the lowest prices on the web.
• Compare prices on other dates. Sometimes 1 day earlier or later makes a big difference in price. If you don’t mind that little difference in dates that is a great way to find cheap tickets.
• Choose budget airlines.
• Check prices in other currencies. I often fly from Amsterdam to Poland and sometimes prices in a Polish search engine are lower than Dutch ones.
• Cheap Airlines flying to Amsterdam are EasyJet, Wizzair and Ryanair. The best airport for budget flight to the Netherlands is the airport in Eindhoven. It’s 1,5 hour away from Amsterdam, and if you want to get to Amsterdam with public transport it costs 25 Euros.

Tips and Tricks

• Don’t take a taxi from the airport to the city center. Price of this trip is about 50 euros, while the price of the train ticket is 5 euro. Some hotels offer a free shuttle. If you really want to get to your hotel by car, it’s better to order Uber.
• Eat in TakeAway places. There are many little shops with a great food. They are very little and there is no place to sit but you can take away a warm food. Look for Surinamese and Indonesian spots. They have great food.
• Don’t buy water! In the whole Netherlands, you can drink tap water. It’s very clean and safe. In bars, you can just ask for a glass of water and they will give you a glass of tap water for free. In fact, according to Dutch law, they must give you a free glass of water when you ask for it.
• Always have some cash with you. Little vendors often don’t offer a card payment. Only Cash!
• Join Amsterdam Hangout Facebook group This is a group where you can ask people from Amsterdam about things happening in the city. You can also ask others to go out together. LINK
• See a Canal Belt Canal belt is one of the most beautiful free attractions in Amsterdam. It’s a part of UNESCO Heritage. I would advise you also to visit Jordaan district.

I think that the worst thing you can do is to rush your stay in Amsterdam. From my experience, it’s great to have a plan for what to do. I mean to plan multiple different things and depending on your mood choose one of the planned activities. But don’t rush anything, enjoy tour holiday slowly. Amsterdam is such a beautiful place and you don’t really have to plan anything extraordinary, just walk along Canal Belt or Jordaan district, grab a cup of coffee or go for a free walking tour. You’ll be more happy with this then running from one museum to another all day long.

Amsterdam is a very expensive travel destination, that’s for sure. But, with a little effort, you can explore the capital of the Netherlands on a budget. I hope that the information that I put together in this guide is helpful for you. If you have any question feel free to ask in the comment section below the article.

Rafal Sulowski

I am a creator, blogger, vlogger, always curious mind with endless energy. I love people and having fun. Sport and healthy lifestyle is my passion. Currently living in Amsterdam.

List Of 13 Amsterdam Hotels For Large Groups

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Amsterdam was flooded with tourists in 2023, so it won’t allow any more hotels

Tens of thousands of people watched as dozens of colorfully decorated boats toured the Dutch capital's historic canals Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023, in the most popular event of a six-day Pride Amsterdam festival that attracts tens of thousands of visitors to the city.

Peter Dejong / AP

Amsterdam's local government is cracking down on local over-tourism by putting a ban on new hotels, it said Wednesday .

New hotels can only be built if another closes down, and the city is urging developers to choose a site outside of the city center.

If a new hotel is built in place of an old one, it must be more modern or more sustainable. Twenty-six hotels that have already been issued permits will not be affected by the ban, the city said.

The move was triggered by Amsterdam's "Tourism in balance" policy, which was created in 2021 after a public initiative in which 30,000 residents called for more control of the tourism industry.

Under "tourism in balance," aims to limit overnight stays in hotels by tourists to 20 million a year. In 2023 tourists spent about 20.7 million nights in Amsterdam, a number that doesn't include vacation rentals, bed and breakfast stays or cruise trips. That means "the municipal executive is obliged to take action," the city says.

Amsterdam also has been attempting to curb other behaviors by tourists, including banning cannabis smoking in certain parts of the city , closing some clubs and bars earlier, placing new limits on canal cruises and converting some hotels into homes or offices.

Copyright 2024 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.

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Amsterdam was flooded with tourists in 2023, so it won't allow any more hotels

Ayana Archie

Tens of thousands of people watched as dozens of colorfully decorated boats toured the Dutch capital's historic canals Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023, in the most popular event of a six-day Pride Amsterdam festival that attracts tens of thousands of visitors to the city. Peter Dejong/AP hide caption

Tens of thousands of people watched as dozens of colorfully decorated boats toured the Dutch capital's historic canals Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023, in the most popular event of a six-day Pride Amsterdam festival that attracts tens of thousands of visitors to the city.

Amsterdam's local government is cracking down on local over-tourism by putting a ban on new hotels, it said Wednesday .

New hotels can only be built if another closes down, and the city is urging developers to choose a site outside of the city center.

If a new hotel is built in place of an old one, it must be more modern or more sustainable. Twenty-six hotels that have already been issued permits will not be affected by the ban, the city said.

In Amsterdam, even the tourists say there are too many tourists

The move was triggered by Amsterdam's "Tourism in balance" policy, which was created in 2021 after a public initiative in which 30,000 residents called for more control of the tourism industry.

Under "tourism in balance," aims to limit overnight stays in hotels by tourists to 20 million a year. In 2023 tourists spent about 20.7 million nights in Amsterdam, a number that doesn't include vacation rentals, bed and breakfast stays or cruise trips. That means "the municipal executive is obliged to take action," the city says.

Amsterdam also has been attempting to curb other behaviors by tourists, including banning cannabis smoking in certain parts of the city , closing some clubs and bars earlier, placing new limits on canal cruises and converting some hotels into homes or offices.

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$1.1 Million Homes in Amsterdam

A three-bedroom houseboat, a duplex in a 19th-century brick building and a renovated townhouse with a roof terrace.

By Alison Gregor

• Honders/Alting

IJburg | €995,000 ($1.05 million)

A three-bedroom houseboat in a floating gated community on amsterdam’s waterfront.

This three-bedroom houseboat is moored in a gated community in IJburg, an archipelago of several artificial islands with contemporary mixed-use developments on the Amsterdam waterfront. An enclosed-entrance house with a bicycle shed and mailboxes serves as a gateway to the houseboat community, where dinghies can be moored and launched onto the waterways to explore the city center and areas beyond.

IJburg has a sandy beach, about 12 minutes away by bike, which is a destination for water sports, including windsurfing. The area offers plenty of restaurants, cafes, shops, hotels and markets. There is a shopping center a few minutes away by foot, along with many schools and parking garages.

The trip to Amsterdam-Centrum can take about half an hour using various forms of public transportation, such as nearby Tram 26. By car or taxi, the trip takes less than 20 minutes.

Size: 2,303 square feet

Price per square foot: €432 ($463)

Indoors: This houseboat, built in 1962 and formerly used to transport cement, has a primary residence and an apartment with a separate entrance. It has a biomass boiler, underfloor heating and solar panels. Electricity, water, sewer and fiber-optic internet are available.

A walkway leads to the entrance of the cabin, which still has the captain’s chair, helm and instrument panel. Stairs descend to the dining room with wood floors and original windows. More stairs descend to the living room, full of natural light from portholes and skylights in the barrel ceiling, with a full open kitchen with breakfast bar. A Bullerjan wood stove provides warmth.

Off the kitchen, a door opens to a hallway that leads to two bedrooms, a half bathroom and laundry equipment. There is a beamed ceiling and porthole windows. The main bedroom has an en suite bath with a large tub and shower.

A separate entrance from the deck opens to a spiral staircase that descends into the apartment, which has a sleeping loft, a living room with a kitchen bar, and a bathroom with a shower and a sauna.

Outdoor space: The 4,263-square-foot plot includes a floating garden on the port side that is shared with the neighbors. A sloop, speedboat or yacht can be moored. The houseboat has ample lounging space on deck.

Costs: €462 ($492) a year. The leasehold is paid off through 2065.

Contact: Leon Rinsma, Honders/Alting, 031-85-330-1060, hondersalting.nl

Oosterpark | €1 million ($1.06 million)

A two-bedroom apartment in a 19th-century brick building overlooking oosterpark.

This two-bedroom apartment, on the top two floors of a four-story brick building, is adjacent to Oosterpark, just outside the central district in Amsterdam’s Oost borough. The apartment has north-facing views of the park — a lush urban respite laid out like an English garden and frequented by wild parakeets and herons — and south-facing views of the garden area of Tweede Oosterparkstraat.

Formerly part of an artists’ enclave, the 19th-century building sits next to the historic home of the painter and photographer Willem Arnold Witsen, who was friendly with members of the Tachtigers literary movement. The Wereldmuseum Amsterdam is around the corner, while the Artis Zoo and the Hortus Botanicus are a little over a mile away.

The neighborhood has plenty of cafes, restaurants, delicatessens and supermarkets. Nearby tram and bus lines make frequent trips to Amsterdam’s center. From Muiderpoort Station, a short walk away, trains can reach the central station in six minutes.

Size: 1,206 square feet

Price per square foot: €829 ($890)

Indoors: The two-bedroom apartment was thoroughly renovated in 2000, but retains historic details including original stained-glass windows, support beams, maple floors and ceiling heights of almost 10 feet.

A private entrance on the ground floor opens to a staircase ascending to the apartment’s hallway. Off the hallway are a large kitchen and dining area, a spacious living room and a half bathroom. The dining area has stained-glass windows and Juliet balconies overlooking Oosterpark. The kitchen with island is by Bulthaup. Ornate leaded glass doors open to the living room, which has large windows and a wood-burning stove.

The staircase continues to the top floor, which has two bedrooms and a bathroom with a tub and underfloor heating. One bedroom has views of Oosterpark; the other has folding doors along one side that open to a terrace. There is a tiled laundry room and a kitchenette on this floor.

Outdoor space: This home is situated on freehold land and has a 43-square-foot terrace with Tweede Oosterparkstraat views.

Costs: About €500 ($532) a year, including heat

Contact: Yvette Peters, DSTRCT Real Estate, 031-20-330-9454, dstrct.com

• Amsterdam Sotheby's International Realty

Jordaan | €995,000 ($1.05 million)

A renovated townhouse with three bedrooms and a roof terrace in jordaan.

This three-bedroom townhouse is situated in the centrally located Jordaan neighborhood. Historically a working-class area, the now upscale neighborhood is known for its pretty houses, petite cafes, galleries, bars and boutiques. Quaint canals bordered by elms slice through the district.

One of the primary attractions is the Anne Frank House, where the Frank family hid during World War II and Anne wrote her diary. There are other museums dedicated to such topics as houseboats, tulips, cheese and pianolas. Other sights include centuries-old churches, local gardens and traditional food markets, such as the Noordermarkt.

The tram is the easiest way to get around central Amsterdam, and sights including the Rijksmuseum, the Royal Palace and the Van Gogh Museum are easy to reach from Jordaan. The Nw. Willemsstraat tram and bus stop is about a five-minute walk from the house.

Size: 980 square feet

Price per square foot: €1,015 ($1,089)

Indoors: The townhouse was completely rebuilt from the foundation up in 2003, renovated in 2018 and upgraded in 2021 with a new kitchen and other features, such as custom wardrobes. Besides high-end finishes, the home is equipped with USB/TV/UTP connections, a modern intercom, touch dimmers and hotel switches.

The front door opens to a landing, with one staircase descending to a basement level with the kitchen and another staircase ascending to a mezzanine floor with the living area. Both floors are bathed in natural light from the double-height windows. The kitchen has brick floors, tiled walls, Leicht custom cabinetry, Bosch appliances and white marble countertops. There is a breakfast bar and a bathroom.

The second-floor living area has wood floors, built-in shelving and stairs going up to the next three levels of the home, each of which has a bedroom with en suite bath off a short hallway. The bathrooms have glass-walled showers, and each has its own boiler. All rooms are equipped with individual air-conditioning and heating.

Outdoor space: The townhouse sits on freehold land and has a 97-square-foot roof terrace with 360-degree views of the neighborhood.

Costs: About €390 ($419) a year in taxes

Contact: Sanne van der Zaag, Amsterdam Sotheby’s International Realty, 031-88-374-7000, sothebysrealty.com

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The State of Real Estate

Whether you’re renting, buying or selling, here’s a look at real estate trends..

Hiring a local to keep an eye on your weekend house  can give you peace of mind and keep small problems from becoming big headaches.

Are you a second-home person? A place outside the city might sound like heaven , but here are some things you should consider first.

The pandemic upset a delicate balance of part-time and full-time residents in a community in the Poconos, sparking a debate over short-term rentals .

After a lifetime of seeking out tiny spaces, she finally found a keeper : a former barbershop in an old mill village in North Carolina.

A lot of change is happening in the housing market. Here’s the outlook .

With a landmark legal settlement  poised to upend a decades-old norm that has dictated who pays real estate agents and how much, economists, agents and lenders are beginning to worry that the burden could now be on first-time home buyers .

Amsterdam blocks construction of new hotels to fight overtourism

Dutch officials are trying to limit the number of tourists flooding amsterdam.

In another attempt to crack down on overtourism, officials in Amsterdam are banning the construction of new hotels in the Dutch capital.

The policy, announced Wednesday, only permits new hotels in a one-in, one-out system; a new hotel can be built only if another closes. New hotels may not exceed the bed count of the previous hotels and must be “better,” per the city’s release, with more modern and sustainable features.

“Amsterdam says ‘no’ to new hotels,” reads a translated statement from city officials. “We want to make and keep the city livable for residents and visitors.”

The effort follows initiatives in Amsterdam to limit the influx of tourists into the city, a destination known for its tolerant drug policies, sex industry and liberated party scene.

In Amsterdam, people are not prosecuted for buying up to 5 grams of cannabis, which can be purchased in coffee shops. For years, city officials have been trying to rein in hordes of “nuisance” tourists, or those who are attracted to the city by the promise of a night of debauchery.

In June 2023, the city council passed the “ tourism balance in Amsterdam ” policy, which set a maximum number of overnight stays and day visits in the city, capping the annual visitor count at 20 million people per year. Wednesday’s guidance re-ups that regulation; the number of hotel nights in 2023 was 20,665,000, according to the city.

“We are now taking more measures to ensure that the number of hotel nights does not increase even further,” the city’s statement read.

That same year, seeking to curb the rowdy crowds of the Red Light District and offer residents a better night’s sleep, the city cracked down on public pot smoking in the streets and limited the hours of operation for certain restaurants and sex establishments.

Amsterdam also launched a “ Stay Away ” campaign, directly targeting British men between the ages of 18 to 35. The demographic group frequents the city for “stag” or bachelor parties, which residents say are disruptive .

Also in 2023, city officials adopted a proposal to relocate a cruise ship terminal . In addition to addressing pollution concerns, the move sought to prevent crowds of tourists from flooding the city’s center upon docking.

It’s unclear how the city plans to enforce the new hotel construction policy; according to the release, new hotels already under construction may continue. That includes 26 hotels with existing permits.

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