Amsterdam on a Budget: How to Experience the City Without Breaking the Bank

Are you ready to experience all the Dutch-y goodness that Amsterdam has to offer, but don’t want to sell your first-born child to do so? Fret not, my frugal friend!

With a little bit of planning and some clever thinking, you can experience all the beauty and culture of Amsterdam without breaking the bank. Here are some tips and tricks for exploring Amsterdam on a budget:

Bike like a local

photo of a girl on a bike by a canal in amsterdam netherlands

Amsterdam is a bike-friendly city, and renting a bike is a cheap and fun way to see the city.

Plus, you’ll blend in with the locals and avoid the high cost of public transportation.

But remember to watch out for those pesky canals, trams, and tourists who think they’re bike experts but really aren’t.

Those guys are lame.

Get the lay of the land

photo of a canal in amsterdam netherlands

Take a free walking tour to learn about the history and culture of Amsterdam. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also get a local’s perspective on the city.

And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good history lesson while walking around in the rain, which is most of the time in Amsterdam.

Also you can never co wrong with a boat tour. Those things are great.

Skip the fancy restaurants

photo of a plate of traditional dutch herring

Amsterdam is known for its delicious street food, from stroopwafels to bitterballen.

Save money by trying these tasty treats instead of splurging on a fancy restaurant. Plus, street food is way more Instagram-worthy.

You’ll thank us later when your followers are drooling over your street-side stroopwafel pic.

OR!

Try the traditional Dutch dish of herring with chopped onions and pickles. It’s an experience to eat.

Putting it nicely.

Embrace the outdoors

photo of a fountain in a lake in a green forest in amsterdam netherlands

Amsterdam has many beautiful parks and canals, so pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day outside.

Not only is it free, but it’s also a great way to enjoy the city’s natural beauty.

Just remember to keep an eye out for those pesky pigeons and seagulls, they might steal your sandwich.

Go off the beaten path

photo of a tourist boat on a canal in amsterdam netherlands

Amsterdam’s famous tourist areas can be expensive, so explore the lesser-known neighborhoods for a more budget-friendly experience.

Who knows, you might even stumble upon the secret underground speakeasy where all the cool kids hang out and you’ll finally know what it feels like to be in the ‘in-crowd’.

I wish.

Get a museum card

photo of people looking at a piece of art in a museum in amsterdam netherlands

Amsterdam is home to many world-famous museums, but the entry fees can add up quickly.

Invest in a museum card to gain access to multiple museums for a discounted price.

Now you can finally understand why that painting of a potato is worth so much money and you can brag about it to your friends.

Don't forget the nightlife

photo of the outside of a bar at night in amsterdam netherlands

Amsterdam’s nightlife doesn’t have to be expensive.

Many bars and clubs offer happy hour specials and discounted drinks.

Just remember to pace yourself, we don’t want you ending up on the wrong side of the canal, or the wrong side of sobriety.

With these budget-friendly tips, you’ll be able to experience all that Amsterdam has to offer without worrying about your bank account.

So grab your bike, pack a picnic, and get ready for an unforgettable trip to the Dutch capital!

And don’t forget to bring your raincoat, it is Amsterdam after all. And also bring your sense of humor, because you’ll need it.

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