Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, full of life and energy. Culturally there are thousands of great museums, art galleries and sights to see and a famous nightlife which is sure to keep you up until the break of dawn. Furthermore it is one of the best shopping destinations in the world. Does all this sound expensive?
Here are some tips of how to get the most out of this fantastic city without breaking the bank.
Getting there
Getting to Amsterdam is easy – flights from the UK only take 45 minutes to an hour, and you can fly there from as little as £15 depending on what time of the day you fly at. Compare prices on flights to Amsterdam at Cheapflights to find the best deals.
Rent or buy a bike
Bicycles are the only way to travel in Amsterdam. Even if you’re a billionaire who rides taxis all the time, you should still rent or buy a bike. The city is just set up for cycling, boasting one of the best networks of cycle pathways in the world and as the cycle paths generally follow the roads and river canals, cycling is one of the best ways to explore this beautiful city and its amazing architecture. Everyone who lives in Amsterdam rides a bike and the millions of cycles scattered all over the city bear testament to this.
There are plenty of places offering a bicycle rental service, providing high quality bikes at a cheap price. If you are really on the lookout for a bargain, why not test your bartering skills and buy a bike at a local market. A decent bike can be bought for around 50-100 Euros and you always have the option to try and sell it at the end of your trip. Make sure to test ride it and buy a decent lock.
Look for cheap accommodation
There are plenty of budget hotels and cheap hostels dotted around Amsterdam. Or why not look at a rent share sight and try and let someone’s apartment for a week. In busy periods such as the summer and during school and university holidays, the cheap places tend to go quickly so make sure you book early if you want to avoid the rush.
Choose your museums visiting times
Amsterdam hosts some of the best museums and art galleries in Europe such as the Anne Frank Museum and the Van Gogh Museum. However paying entry into all these places can be expensive. Keep an eye out on museum websites as most have times and dates available when the museum is free or cut price. If making an extended visit to the Netherlands a Museumkaart may be a great investment. For fewer than 50 Euros this card gives you access to over 400 museums. If looking to party and go to museums at the same time, a ticket to Amsterdam’s world famous Museumnacht may be for you. For one night a year, Amsterdam’s museums open up their doors for one great educational party.
Steer clear of the city centre and the red light district The city centre and the red light district are the main tourist traps in Amsterdam and therefore prices are high and there are plenty of temptations trying to get you to hand over money. If you want to save money and hang out like a local, trendy neighbourhoods such as Amsterdam’s De Pijp, have an equally vibrant nightlife, great bars and cafes, offering a great value and fun night out.
