Sightseeing in Amsterdam: Budget Travel Guide

Imagine that it’s your first time in Amsterdam. Like most travelers on a trip around Europe, you’ve only penciled in a short weekend to explore the Dutch capital. While this might not be our recommended way to see the city, it is doable… or at least we can pack the weekend with enough activities to » Read more

Although a very densely-populated capital, Amsterdam is a very “parky” place. In the summertime locals flock to the city’s many green spaces to hang in the sun, picnic, and dabble in recreational games. All very Cheapo-friendly ways to spend the day, as none of them cost a euro-cent. Here are my five picks for city » Read more

The Netherlands is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Almost 17 million people live in an area about the size of the Maryland, and Amsterdam has a constant “pile up” atmosphere. Mass crowds and long lines are regular features of the most touristy spots, so here are some tips to avoid » Read more

The city of Amsterdam is abuzz with the planning of celebrations for 2013, as the year is studded with anniversaries marking great milestones in Dutch culture. From the reopening of the city’s top museums, to celebrations marking the founding of concert halls (and even canal systems), the year promises to attract visitors for a wide » Read more

Compared to the shop-til-you-drop chaos that surrounds North American come Christmas, Amsterdam’s holiday habits are easygoing, painless, and mellow. But while the Dutch stay modest with the wrapping paper, they still indulge in outdoor illuminating settings and sounds. Here are 10 ways to get into Holland’s holiday spirit, EuroCheapo-style: 1. Ice skating Through January 13, » Read more

If you want to know the true meaning of “flower power,” head to the Netherlands for tulip season. Over 900 million Dutch flowers are destined for the United States each year, and Holland is easily the world’s largest exporter of tulips. And although “Tulipmania” (yes, that’s a real term) ended in the 1600s, the craze » Read more

Amsterdam isn’t the cheapest destination in Europe, but there are ways to get around the tourist prices. In fact, it’s easy to find freebies left and right in the city. Here’s a checklist of 20 great ideas for a free day in Amsterdam: 1. Start with a free map Free maps are available at the » Read more

The Netherlands has over 400 museums – a hefty load of culture to pack into one tiny country. Locals know that museum passes are the way to go in Amsterdam, but the city offers two competing passes. Which is the best buy for you? It depends upon your length of stay and your budget. Here’s » Read more

The preferred way to travel in Amsterdam is undoubtedly by bicycle, and bike tour possibilities abound. Know your options, however, before settling for just any old group cycle through the city. From beach cruises to picnic pedaling, here are my “top five” alternative bike tours that are offered in and around Amsterdam. Culinary bike tour » Read more

As summer rolls away in Amsterdam and fall brings in cooler temps, locals still flock to the beaches for one last hurrah. Luckily, the fun cafés, clubs and bars along the beaches of Zandvoort and IJburg throw grand finale parties until the last week of September. Getting to a beach in Holland is a breeze, » Read more

In my opinion, the Magere Brug (the “Skinny Bridge” in English) is the best bridge in Amsterdam because of its beauty (by day and by night) and its ideal location on the Amstel River. It’s my favorite place to sit and dangle my feet in the sunlight. A trace from the Golden Age The Skinny » Read more

There are over 400 museums in the tiny Netherlands, but, for me, one stands out for its value and quality: Amsterdam’s Foam Photography Museum. Foam holds a roster of spectacular collections by world-famous photographers past and present, though its discreet Keizersgracht location keeps the place relatively peaceful. Its interior is modern and inventive, and the gallery size » Read more

While some folks relax by taking a leisurely stroll in the park, others unwind by sweating it out in the gym or going for a soothing swim in the pool. Accordingly, there are plenty of options for staying active when visiting Amsterdam. From golf to swimming, here are some ideas for recreation in the city. » Read more

With its vast number of museums, it is no wonder that Amsterdam is the cultural hub of the Netherlands. It is, of course, the quaint, lesser-known attractions that add color to this image. The smaller museums in Amsterdam are interesting in their own right, and they also come with a smaller price tag than the » Read more

For a lot of us, the appeal of Amsterdam lies in its diversity—be it food, culture, or the shopping experience. Tucked away from all major shopping spots, you are likely to find smaller, Dutch-specific stores that offer an interesting gift-hunting experience. Try these shops for a unique souvenir from the Netherlands: For Books: De Slegte » Read more

If you are putting together a list must-see sites of Amsterdam, the Artis Royal Zoo will definitely be on that list. And why not? An expansive ground featuring beautiful architecture and housing more than 700 weird and wonderful creatures will be fun viewing on any trip. However, Artis Zoo, with its €18 admission fee, can » Read more

You’ve walked through the charming little streets of Amsterdam, but have you explored the city’s charming waterways? Sure you can (and will!) walk them, but cruising down the canals on a boat is a fun and exciting way to soak up a bit of the Dutch culture. After all, canal cruising was the preferred means of travel for » Read more

Boat rides in Amsterdam are a must for anyone looking to experience an authentic view from the city’s romantic waterways and cozy canals. If the typical €15-euro option offered by mainstream tourism companies is off-putting, here are some low-budget alternatives offering a more personal, intimate, and customized touch. Happy cruising. Self-operated boat tours If you » Read more

Summer wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the beach. In Amsterdam, a city of canals and coffee houses, a sandy oasis can sometimes seem far away. But, with a little insider knowledge (read on, dear Cheapo!), it won’t be hard to imagine working on your tan while sipping on a beachy cocktail. Or, taking in » Read more

Amsterdam is bursting with arts and entertainment, and The Netherlands itself boasts over 400 museums to marvel at. Although viewing the work of Van Gogh and Rembrandt can often be pricey, there are still ways to satisfy a museum craving free of charge. Here are five hotspots that offer a complimentary dose of Amsterdam culture. » Read more

On June 19, 2009, the newly renovated Hermitage Amsterdam opened its doors to reveal the best of Russian culture. Located on the Amstel River, this museum is a grand venue. The Hermitage Amsterdam’s building, known as the Amstelhof, dates back to 1682, when it served as a retirement home for elderly women. Now it houses » Read more

Looking to groove to some live music in Amsterdam on a weekday? The city’s got you covered with bands performing nightly across town. And there’s no need to dish out funds from your “miscellaneous” pile: Here are some hot music venues that are free (or nearly)! Sunday: Mulligan’s Irish Bar Amstel 100 Website: www.mulligans.nl Cost: » Read more

Amsterdam’s “Brouwerij ‘t Ij” brewery has been serving up a selection of Belgian-style organic brews since 1985. Located in an eastern corner of the city, the brewery is worth the trip for those seeking flavorful, fresh beer at a surprisingly low cost. Plus, if you swing by Brouwerij ‘t Ij on Fridays, you can take a » Read more

Amsterdam is a city of frugality. So, it makes sense that indulging in the art scene or soaking up a bit of sun here doesn’t have to involve a hefty price tag.  In fact, it doesn’t involve a price at all. Here are a few of my favorite FREE things to do in Amsterdam. 1) » Read more

What’s the easiest way to soak up the culture while shopping and sightseeing? Dropping by charming street markets, of course! Amsterdam is famous for its street shopping, where both locals and tourists browse for great deals. Here is a brief list of our favorite street markets in Amsterdam. Food and more: Albert Cuyp Market Albert Cuyp » Read more