Amsterdam is a wonderful city to visit, even if you don’t want to spend a lot of money. If you are a lover of architecture, history or just someone who likes free things, there is something for everyone. With these 25 recommendations, you will discover the entire city, from hip North to chic Old South. You can see and do all these things for free in Amsterdam!
1. Get on the ferry
From Amsterdam Central Station, take the ferry to Amsterdam Noord. Enjoy views over the water and landmark buildings such as the EYE Film Museum and the A’DAM Tower. All ferries are free and run all day. Within a few minutes you’ll be across the water.
2. Check out the graffiti outside the Straatmuseum
The ferry to the NDSM wharf brings you to the Straatmuseum. The former warehouse is full of impressive street art and graffiti for artists from all over the world. Even the outside of the building is part of the collection, with a giant colourful portrait of Anne Frank. Worth a visit for that reason alone.
3. Spot the flamingos at Artisplein
A hidden gem in the city is Artisplein, next to the zoo. On this small public square, you can hear sounds of animals and look out on the flamingos of Artis..
4. Relax on NEMO’s roof terrace
On sunny days, enjoy the view from the roof terrace of science museum NEMO. 120 steps lead up to this free-access terrace, where you can relax in the sun.
5. Walk across the Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug)
Perhaps the most photographed bridge in Amsterdam, the Skinny Bridge. The wooden drawbridge crosses the Amstel River and connects Kerkstraat and Nieuwe Kerkstraat. In the winter months, the bridge is illuminated with more than a thousand lights. With the reflection in the water, this creates a romantic ambiance in the evening..
6. Have a look at the Seven Country Houses on Roemer Visscherstraat
Seven residential houses in a row, each inspired by the architectural style of a European country. This is one of Dutch architect Tjeerd Kuipers’ best-known works from 1894. The Italian house looks like a palace and stands next to a Spanish villa. Each house has its completely unique style. A must-see for lovers of architecture!
7. Relax in the Rijksmuseum gardens
The beautiful gardens surrounding the museum are a popular place to enjoy nature in the middle of the city. In the gardens, you can discover statues, ponds and lawns, and challenge each other at the life-size chess game.
8. Taste some cheese at one of the many cheese shops
In every cheese shop they will be happy to advise you on the best cheeses. And that, of course, includes tasting. Taste for more? Treat yourself to a good piece of real Dutch cheese.
9. Visit the Book Market at the Oudemanhuispoort
This passage with book stalls is over four hundred years old. The building is now part of the University of Amsterdam. Visit this special place and discover its history and the wide range of books on offer.
10. Stroll through the Vondelpark
The city park in Amsterdam Zuid is an oasis of tranquillity. With green fields, winding paths, ponds and pieces of art, this is a perfect place to walk, cycle or jog. In the summer months, this is the ideal place to go for a picnic. There are also several places to grab a coffee-to-go or have lunch on a terrace.
11. Wander the streets of the Jordaan
There is always plenty to discover in the Jordaan. Stroll along the canals, through cosy streets and past historical sights.
12. Explore the Begijnhof – 14th-century courtyard
Hidden behind an inconspicuous door on the Spui, you will find the 14th-century Begijnhof. A visit to this courtyard will take you back to the Middle Ages.
13. Visit the Amsterdam City Archives
The city’s archive has preserved documents, personal data, images and stories for almost 750 years. The exhibition Treasury of Amsterdam, the film room and the information centre are free to visit.
14. Sit on the bench from the film The Fault in Our Stars
Fans of this film will immediately recognise this location on Leidsegracht. The main characters Gus and Hazel sit here in one of the most famous scenes. Other recognisable locations also feature in the film. Watch The Fault in Our Stars via Disney Plus.
15. Spot the seven bridges of Reguliersgracht
From the right angle, Reguliersgracht offers a unique view of seven bridges in a row.
16. See the VOC ship in the Scheepvaartmuseum
This impressive ship has been recreated in detail from the VOC era. It was used to transport spices, porcelain, tea and textiles from Asia to Europe. From the outside, it is already a beauty to see and photograph. With a ticket to the museum, you can also board the ship.
17. Visit the Sint-Jozefkerk
Be sure to visit the Sint-Jozefkerk, a free-to-attend national monument in the heart of Amsterdam! Enjoy the colourful stained-glass windows and impressive neo-Gothic architecture..
18. Take a look at the garden of Willet-Holthuyzen
The beautiful garden of Museum Willet-Holthuysen is a hidden gem on Amstelstraat. Even from the street, the classic French-style garden is a feast for the eyes.
19. Stroll around Oud-Zuid
Escape the crowds and stroll through the upmarket streets of Oud-Zuid, including P.C. Hooftstraat and Cornelis Schuytstraat.
20. Enjoy a free lunch concert
Did you know that every Wednesday at 12:30pm you can enjoy a free lunch concert at the Royal Concertgebouw? Unwind with classical music in one of the most beautiful concert halls in the world.
21. Come explore one of Amsterdam’s local markets
Discover the real Amsterdam at markets such as the famous Albert Cuyp or Waterlooplein. From fresh flowers to second-hand treasures, there is always something to find here!
22. Take the Gassan Diamond Experience Tour
The free diamond factory tour takes you into the world of diamonds. Learn all about the history and craftsmanship behind these magnificent gemstones.
23. Take in the view from the OBA public library
The highlight of the library is on the seventh floor. Here you will find the summer terrace with breathtaking views over Amsterdam’s historic city centre.
24. Stroll across the floating Flower Market
The world-famous Flower Market on the Singel is a quintessential Amsterdam experience. Enjoy the floral splendour and cosy market vibe.
25. Join a free event or festival
Every year, Amsterdam hosts free festivals and events. Perfect for culture lovers without expensive tickets! For example, Amsterdam Light Festival, Koningsdag, Pride, Uitmarkt, Open Monumentendag, Grachtenfestival and the Vondelpark concerts.
Plan your city trip
Fancy exploring on your own? The 4-star Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Centre is located just a five-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station. From here, the entire city is at your feet and all the highlights can be reached in no time.
Book your room via the button below.