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Are you looking to visit Amsterdam on a budget but worried it will be nothing but dull grey skies and bland overpriced cheese? Fear not, my budget-savvy friend! Amsterdam is a city full of color and culture, and there are plenty of ways of experiencing it without breaking the bank. In this blog post we will show you how to make the most of your trip without spending all your hard-earned money on overpriced souvenirs and tourist traps. So, pack your bags and grab your wallet and let’s get ready to explore Amsterdam on a budget!
What to do in Amsterdam on a Budget
Cheese Cruise
Address: Prinsengracht 263, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands
Admission Cost: $33 per person
A cheese cruise in Amsterdam is a unique and delicious way to explore the city by boat. This one-of-a-kind tour takes you on a boat ride through the picturesque canals of Amsterdam while sampling some of the best Dutch cheese and wines Amsterdam has to offer. You will learn a little about the history of Dutch cheese along with many fun facts! Your tour guide will also teach you a bit about Amsterdam and a lot about the canals. There is no shortage of good laughs and friendly staff on this tour. This is the perfect way to explore Amsterdam from a different perspective while also combining your love of cheese, cruising, and sightseeing all in one activity!
Ice Bar
Address: Amstel 194-196, 1017 AG Amsterdam, Netherlands
Admission Cost: $30 per person
If you are tired of the same old boring bar experiences when you travel then look no further than the Ice Bar, where the drinks are cold, and the atmosphere is even colder (literally). From the walls to the glasses, this super cool (no pun intended) bar is made of nearly nothing but ice. And no worries about the entrance fee, it also includes 3 drinks. If you don’t know anything about the price of cocktails in Amsterdam, you can rest assured this is a deal!
Upon arrival you will be greeted with warm coats and gloves so you can enjoy your drinks without freezing your fingers off. Inside you will find intricate ice sculptures and a selection of cold cocktails, beers and shots all served in glasses made of ice. The temperature inside is kept at a brisk -10c. So, if you are truly looking for a cool spot to grab a drink and make some memories, the Ice Bar is the place to be. But don’t forget to bring your warmest attitude, a sense of humor and maybe a couple extra pairs of socks, its going to be colder than a witch’s tit in there!
Pro Tip: Bring your own gloves. They do provide gloves, but in our opinion, they were far from warm.
Heineken Experience
Address: Stadhouderskade 78, 1072 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands
Admission Cost: $33.50 per person
Are you ready to raise a glass and toast to one of Amsterdam’s most iconic exports? Look no further than the Heineken experience where you can learn all about the history and brewing process of one of the world’s most beloved beers.
Take a tour of the Heineken brewery, which dates back to 1864, and discover the secrets behind the recipe that has kept the world thirsty for over 150 years. Along the Heineken experience you will walk from room to room where around each corner fun awaits! From interactive exhibits, full emersion experiences, photo booths, beer pouring challenges to becoming a master brewer yourself, the Heineken experience has something for everyone!
Near the end of the tour, you will be led to a tasting room where you will raise a glass to your newfound knowledge of Heineken beer. Here you will have the opportunity to sample a variety of Heineken beers. The tasting room is the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a couple of nice cold beers and local snacks provided by the staff. Don’t miss out on this unique and fun experience and make sure to stop by the Heineken Museum on your next trip to Amsterdam.
Pro Tip: Your entry fee includes two beers at the end of the tour. During the beer pouring challenge in the tasting room, a staff member must show each new group of participants how to properly pour a Heineken beer. They are on the job, so they can’t finish off this pint, right? If you stand near this activity, you will get more than your fare share of free beers!
Cheese Museum
Address: Prinsengracht 112, 1015 EA Amsterdam, Netherlands
Admission Cost: Free
If you are in the mood for a fun and cheesy adventure, then look no further than the Amsterdam cheese museum. Although small, you will immediately be greeted by the mouth-watering aroma of various types of Dutch cheese. The smell of Gouda, Edam, and other traditional Dutch cheeses will fill the air tempting your taste buds and making your stomach growl. The aroma alone will make you appreciate the art of cheese making and the expertise that goes into creating such delicious treats.
When you first arrive, you will have the opportunity to try many of these delicious cheeses and even take your favorite home! You will then follow the signs down into the basement where a tiny cheese museum has been put together by the cheese shop. Here you can go on a self-guided tour and learn a bit about the history, tradition, and variety of Dutch cheeses.
The Amsterdam cheese museum is not only a treat for the taste buds, but also for the nose and it’s a unique and fun way to experience Amsterdam’s delicious and traditional culture!
Sex Museum
Address: Damrak 18, 1012 LH Amsterdam, Netherlands
Admission Cost: 9€
Are you ready to explore the sultry side of Amsterdam? Look no further than the Amsterdam Sex Museum, where you can learn about the history and evolution of human sexuality in a fun and unique way.
Take a tour of the museum and discover the secrets behind the evolution of human sexuality, from ancient civilizations to modern times. The museum features interactive exhibits, including a variety of erotic art and artifacts as well as a collection of antique erotic objects like photographs, posters, and more!
You will also get to see some unique and unusual items such as an interactive display that shows how sexual technology has evolved over time, from the first dildos to the latest sex toys. It’s a great way to learn about the history of human sexuality in a fun and unique way. Just keep in mind that the content of the museum may not be suitable for all audiences.
Walk around the Red Light District
Price: Free
Visiting the Red Light District in Amsterdam is an experience like no other. The famous neighborhood, also known as De Wallen, is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Amsterdam. It is a place with a rich history, vibrant culture, and a unique atmosphere that will leave you both fascinated and intrigued.
As soon as you step into the Red Light District, you’ll be greeted by the bright red lights illuminating the streets, giving the area its name. The streets are lined with brothels, sex shops, and strip clubs, making the neighborhood a melting pot of different cultures and lifestyles.
One of the most striking things about the Red Light District is the diversity of people you’ll encounter. From curious tourists to local Amsterdam residents, the neighborhood attracts a wide range of visitors. The area is also home to some of Amsterdam’s most historic buildings, such as the Oude Kerk, the oldest church in Amsterdam, which dates back to the 14th century.
One of the must-see attractions in the Red Light District is the window brothels. These are the famous red-lit windows where women solicit clients for sexual services. Although it may seem unusual, the window brothels have been a staple of the neighborhood for centuries and are an integral part of its culture and history.
The Red Light District is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a casual drink or a wild night out, you’ll find it here. From traditional Dutch pubs to cutting-edge clubs, the neighborhood caters to all tastes.
Visiting the Red Light District in Amsterdam is an experience that should not be missed. The area is a melting pot of different cultures, lifestyles, and history, making it a unique and fascinating destination. Just keep in mind that the content of the area may not be suitable for all audiences.
Pro Tip: You can find an exciting, guided tour of the Red Light District here.
Walk around the Jordaan Neighborhood
Price: Free
The Jordaan neighborhood in Amsterdam is a hidden gem that should not be missed. This charming neighborhood is located in the heart of Amsterdam and is known for its picturesque streets, charming canals, and beautiful architecture.
One of the best ways to explore the Jordaan is by taking a leisurely stroll through its streets. As you wander, you’ll come across charming brick houses, beautiful gabled facades, and colorful flowers hanging from windows. The Jordaan is also home to many small, independent shops and boutiques, where you can find unique souvenirs and gifts.
One of the most iconic landmarks in the Jordaan is the Westertoren, a 17th-century tower that offers panoramic views of the city. The tower is open to visitors and is a great place to get your bearings and take in the sights and sounds of the neighborhood (There is no admission fee).
The Jordaan is also home to many art galleries, museums and cultural institutions, such as the Museum of the Canals, which tells the story of Amsterdam’s famous canals, and the Museum van Loon, a grand canal house that offers a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy merchants who once lived there.
Another must-see attraction in the Jordaan is the Noordermarkt, a bustling market that takes place on Saturdays. Here you can find fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and other local delicacies. The market is also a great place to sample traditional Dutch street food, like stroopwafels or bitterballen.
The Jordaan neighborhood in Amsterdam is a charming and picturesque destination that offers a glimpse into the traditional Dutch way of life. With its charming canals, beautiful architecture, and rich cultural heritage, it’s an ideal place to explore on foot and discover the hidden gems of Amsterdam.
Pro Tip: You can find an exciting, guided tour of the Jordaan neighborhood here.
Anne Frank House
Address: Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands
Admission Cost: $32/ guided tour
The Anne Frank House in Amsterdam is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city. This moving and powerful museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Anne Frank, a young Jewish girl who wrote a diary during her family’s hiding from the Nazis during World War II.
When you arrive at the Anne Frank House, you’ll be struck by the unassuming building that hides such an important piece of history. The museum is located in the house where Anne and her family hid for over two years, and it has been preserved and restored to look much as it did during their time there.
The tour of the Anne Frank House begins in the restored annex where Anne and her family hid. You’ll see the small rooms where they lived, the hiding place behind the bookcase, and the original diary pages written by Anne. The museum also features photographs, film footage, and personal items that bring Anne’s story to life.
As you make your way through the museum, you’ll learn about the Frank family’s experiences during their time in hiding, as well as the broader historical context of the Holocaust. You’ll also see the secret annex through the eyes of Anne, as her diary entries are read aloud in various languages.
The museum also features a bookstore and a library where you can learn more about Anne Frank and the Holocaust. The visit will leave an impression on you, it’s a powerful reminder of the atrocities of the past and the importance of tolerance and acceptance today.
The Anne Frank House is a powerful and moving experience that should not be missed. It’s an unforgettable reminder of one of the darkest times in human history and a powerful tribute to the resilience of the human spirit.
Pro Tip: The Anne Frank House is a popular destination, so it’s best to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines and waiting times. You can book your tickets here.
Getting Around Amsterdam
If you ready to explore Amsterdam like a true local, then you’ll want to get your hands on an Amsterdam public transportation card. This handy little card is your ticket to seamless travel on all of Amsterdam’s buses, trams, and metro trains.
First things first, you’ll need to locate a sales point for the GVB tourist ticket. These can be found at various locations throughout the city, including train stations, ticket vending machines at metro stations, and service desks at GVB (Amsterdam’s public transportation company) offices.
With your GVB tourist ticket in hand, you’re ready to hit the streets and explore Amsterdam like a true local. No more fumbling for change at the bus stop or trying to figure out the tram schedule. Just flash your card and hop on board, it’s that easy!
Amsterdam’s public transportation card is a must-have for any visitor looking to see the city like a true local. With it, you’ll be able to effortlessly navigate Amsterdam’s streets, canals, and neighborhoods, making the most of your time in this beautiful city.
Where to stay on a budget?
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