TOP 5 BEST THINGS TO DO IN AMSTERDAM FOR FREE

Can you actually enjoy Amsterdam for free?

You probably already know that Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but it’s also one of the most expensive ones. That’s not really surprising since the city is one of the most popular tourist destinations ever, so the Dutch are making the most of it (as would I).

If you don’t have a huge budget but still want to experience the city as best as you can, you’re in the right place! We spent our last trip to Amsterdam on a very tight budget, and these are some of the most fun things you can do to experience Amsterdam in the best and cheapest way!

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WHERE IS AMSTERDAM?

Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands and its the home to many wonderful canals which are under UNESCO’s Heritage Site protection. The city, situated in the north of Holland, yearly welcomes over 5 million tourists.

Some of Amsterdam’s most famous attractions are the Red Light District and cannabis coffee houses – the former offering legal prostitution and the latter legal marijuana. Although the city attracts the most people because it’s beautiful and liberal, it has many other amazing activities and landmarks to offer like museums, galleries, and a beer factory.

RELATED: AMSTERDAM: ITINERARY & BUDGET TIPS

WHAT TO DO IN AMSTERDAM FOR FREE:

If you think you can’t have fun in Amsterdam on a budget, that’s totally not true. Yes, the city is expensive, especially if you’re coming from a country that does not have the same living standard as the other western European countries. The thing is, you can do many things in Amsterdam which are completely free, and here is my perfect list of free things you must do when you visit Amsterdam!

1. Have a picnic in The Vondelpark

The Vondelpark is one of the most beautiful parks I’ve ever seen and its size will give you privacy even with a ton of people around. You can find this park west of the Leidseplein and the Museumplein and it’s absolutely massive.

There, you can ride a bike, walk around the pond, sit down for lunch, and do many other things. My favorite thing is to get some takeaway and sit on the lovely grass and have a picnic. Although we did do some more exciting things, the picnic in the Vondelpark is one of my most treasured memories today!

2. Visit Albert Cyuptmarkt

If you want to see how the locals spend their time, you must visit the Albert Cyuptmarkt. Albert Cyuptmarkt is the biggest and also most popular outdoor market, not only in Amsterdam but in the Netherlands. Opened in 1905, Albert Cyuptmarkt has been one of the favorite Amsterdam locations for both locals and tourists for the past 100 years.

As the market has over 200 stands, the opportunities are endless there. No matter if you want some local delicacy or try an ethnic meal, buy a leather bag or fresh meat, you can do everything right there 6 days of the week!

3. Experience NDSM

NDSM is a place you must visit if you’re young (or at least feel that way!). It’s an incredible place much different from all other parts of Amsterdam.

This graffiti-covered corner of Amsterdam is the prime spot for many different festivals, flea markets, and different groups of people, from ladies thrifting clothes to artists painting murals all around the Wharf. You can come here for a drink or some food, for an exhibition, or even for a party!

4. Explore the streets of Amsterdam

The unique canals make Amsterdam one of the most beautiful cities in the world. If there is one thing you can do for ABSOLUTELY no money, it’s to explore the streets of the city on foot. If you’re able to take longer walks, the most perfect way to see Amsterdam is by getting lost in it! Another great option is to rent a bike if you can afford it.

If you’re into fashion, make sure you visit the stylish Javastraat and if you’re into fancy, instagrammable brunches, you’ll find them in Jan Pieter Heijestraat. Nieuwe Hoogstraat is another VERY loved street by both locals and tourists who like to shop. If you’re here for a bit of excitement, visit Oudezijds Voorburgwal where you’ll find the famous Red Light District, sex shops, and various coffee shops.

You also must visit Dam Square – the most popular square in Amsterdam where the Royal Palace and the New Church are situated, as well as Leidseplein for the lively nightlife of Amsterdam.

5. Walk through the Red Light District

Red Light District is Amsterdam’s most famous location. Why? Because you won’t find it anywhere else and it’s unique to Amsterdam. The Red Light District is a street famous for its big windows with red lights around them  – the symbol of legal prostitution. In those windows, you can see the working girls at all times of the day (except 6 a.m. – 8 a.m.).

Keep in mind that you cannot take pictures of the ladies behind the glass, so just take a walk through the district, or pay for their services if you want more! The Red Light District is perfectly safe but make sure to watch your things as it’s very crowded so it can be a lovely spot for pickpocketers.

+ 6. Visit Zaanse Schans

There is one additional thing I must recommend but it’s a bonus as it’s not completely free. The entrance to Zaanse Schans is free but you need to find a way of transportation to get there which you must pay.

Zaanse Schans is a location you really shouldn’t miss if you ever visit the Netherlands. The village houses many of the historical windmills and museums from 1961 to 1974 and each year welcomes over a million tourists.

If you want to come by car, it’s going to be very quick and easy but the parking is at least 5-10 euros. The comfortable train ride is 5.8 euros and the cheapest (and longest) option is the bus, which is only 1 euro!

Read the complete guide to Zaanse Schans and make the most out of your cheap day trip!

I hope you loved these tips and tell me your favorite thing you’d like to do off this list!