Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Known for its beautiful architecture, picturesque canals, world-class museums, and delicious food, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in the city. It’s also conveniently located to some of Europe’s other major attractions. It’s only a few hours by train from Paris, Brussels, and several major cities in Germany.
If you’re looking to save money on your upcoming trip to Amsterdam, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading to learn about Amsterdam’s best budget-friendly attractions, restaurants and hotel accomodations that won’t break the bank, and more.
Top Things to do in Amsterdam on a Budget
Let’s take a look at some of the top-rated budget friendly activities you can do in Amsterdam.
- Explore the Canal Ring: The Canal Ring is a network of canals, bridges, and walkways that dates back to the 1600s. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and is completely free to explore. If you pick up some food beforehand at one of the nearby grocery stores, you could easily spend a half-day exploring the canal ring without spending any money.
- Take a City Canal Cruise: If you’d like a guided tour of the city from the water, you might want to take a city canal cruise. You’ll have to chalk up somewhere around $16. But, for that price, you’ll get a 75-minute Blue Boat ride that includes a personal audio system with descriptions of the main sites. It’s a great way to soak up the city.
- Visit the Floating Flower Market: Check out Amsterdam’s famous tulips on display in the floating flower market (which is called Bloemenmarkt in Dutch). It’s free to enter the market and smell the flowers, but you’ll have to pay if you want to take a bouquet back to your hotel!
- Go on a Free Walking Tour: Sandemans New Amsterdam tour is Amsterdam’s original three-hour walking tour. The tour guides make a living on tips, so while you won’t have to pay upfront to join in on the fun, you may want to offer a few bucks on the backend if they did a good job. Who knows? You might even get a glimpse of the infamous Red Light District or find a well-rated coffee shop while you’re at it.
Top Hotels to Stay at in Amsterdam on a Budget
Let’s take a look at some of the top-rated budget friendly hotels in Amsterdam. Did you know that the team at Dollar Flight Club also helps you find great hotels?
- Meininger Hotel Amsterdam Amstel: The Meininger Hotel Amsterdam Amstel is just a two-minute walk from the Amstel train station. If you don’t mind sharing a bathroom or a dorm room, rooms can go for as cheap as $40 each night.
- Hotel Van Gogh: Located across from the famous Van Gogh Museum, Hotel Van Gogh is a contemporary hotel and hostel that has dorm room beds starting at $20 and private rooms starting at $60 each night. Keep in mind that if you want to book a bunk bed, you’ll have to be between 18 and 40 years old.
- Alfred Hotel: The Alfred Hotel is located in Amsterdam’s south district and features a picturesque courtyard and recently renovated rooms. This three-star property has double rooms starting at $50 each night, depending on what time of year you visit.
Affordable Flights to Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s main airport is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), which is the third-largest airport in all of Europe.
If you’re hoping to visit Amsterdam on a budget, you might consider contracting the services of a travel budget agent.
But if you really want to get the best deal on your flight, you might not want part of your fare going to the agent’s commission. Problem solved: Save up to $500 today on Amsterdam airfare by booking with Dollar Flight Club.
Top Affordable Places to Eat in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is famous for traditional Dutch food, waffles, and international street food. Here are some of our favorite places to eat in Amsterdam on a budget.
- Moeders has been serving up affordable classic Dutch dishes for over 30 years. Find them at Rozengracht 251.
- Benny’s Chicken, which is located at Musicalstraat 10, is famous for—you guessed it—all types of delicious chicken.
- Goodies specializes in locally sourced organic eats (for under eight bucks per meal!). They are located at Huidenstraat 9.
- Crepes and Waffles makes traditional stroopwafels, Belgian waffles, crepes, and more. They’re open late and are located at Warmoesstraat 75.
- Leeman Doner is a top-rated doner shop in Amsterdam which can be found at Van Woustraat 160.
It’s Time to Book Your Trip to Amsterdam
As you can see, you don’t have to spend tons of money to enjoy all that Amsterdam has to offer. Thanks to this budget travel blog, your affordable trip to the city of canals and tulips is closer to happening than ever before.
All that’s left to do is book your flight—which you should do sooner than later. Next thing you know, you’ll be enjoying the scenery, culture, and cuisine of one of the world’s most amazing cities. Gelukkige reizen!
