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Author John Green once wrote, “some tourists think Amsterdam is a city of sin, but in truth is a city of freedom.” However, freedom may also mean lessening your expenses as Amsterdam offers free and budget-friendly things to do. Consider this list for your money-saving trip to Amsterdam!
1. Discover Amsterdam’s charm by foot via a free walking tour with Sandeman’s New Amsterdam Tour. Departure is 11:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. daily from the Nationaal Monument at Dam Square. Tipping is highly appreciated.
2. Roam around the Canal Ring which boasts more canals than Venice.
3. Stop and smell the roses… or tulips… among other colorful flowers at the Bloemenmarkt, a flower market located between Muntplein and Koningsplein.
4. Be like a local and rent a bike as you explore through Amsterdam’s cobblestone streets. The average price is 9.95 euros for a one-day bike rental.
5. Devour the famous Dutch pancakes at The Happy Pig Pancake Shop where everything on the menu is less than 9 euros.
6. Take your loved one by hand as you stroll through Vondelpark, a scenic city park located in the heart of Amsterdam.
7. Peruse through the store windows at the Nine Streets, a network of streets that provide charming boutiques, trendy restaurants, cafes and bars. Herengracht, Keizersgracht, Prinsengracht and Singel are the popular cobbled streets that make this city worth coming back to.
8. Get your selfie stick out for a selfie with the “I Amsterdam” sign located in the front of the Rijksmuseum. Don’t forget to sit on or in one of the letters for a free and memorable souvenir!
9. Get lost in books at the Centrale Bibilotheek, or Central library. While you’re there, soak in the view at the top floor cafeteria that overlooks Amsterdam’s beautiful vista.
10. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and push open the wooden door in Begijnhof where an oasis of 14th-century houses and gardens await you. Amsterdam’s oldest house can be found here which dates back to 1475.
11. Cruise around the waterfront via ferry which is located behind the Central Station. Take the Amsterdam public transport ferry to the North of Amsterdam where admission is free.
12. Relive a part of history at the famous Anne Frank House. Tickets are 9 euros for adults and 4.50 euros for children ages 10 to 17. It is recommended to buy your tickets online well in advance.
13. Experience the “real” Amsterdam by leisurely walking through the Albert Cuypt Markt, the largest street market in the Netherlands. This market sells almost everything from cheese to fresh seafood, and even jewelry.
14. After all the walking, sit back and relax as you marvel this city from the canals with the Amsterdam Canal Cruise. Tickets are 17 euros for adults and 10 euros for children ages 4 to 13.
15. Step into a mystic world that is the Red Light District, a lustful escape that truly makes Amsterdam the city of sin. Note: This part of the city is not recommended for children.
16. Let loose with some beer and cocktails at Sound Garden, a popular dive in bar where they house inexpensive drinks and a relaxing atmosphere.
A big city trip does not have to break your bank! A visit to Amsterdam can be fun and memorable even with an affordable itinerary.
