Traveling can be expensive and the Netherland’s stylish capital of Amsterdam is no exception, but the city offers plenty of free things to do as well. From exploring the flower markets to voyaging to an island of recycled art here is our list of things you can do that won’t cost you any money.
Free Things to Do in Amsterdam
- Walk along the Amsterdam Canal ring which surrounds the old city center. This area has 3 rings of semicircular waterways that are bisected by smaller canals (165 in total,) that stretch out from the middle. Hundreds of bridges cross the Canal Ring’s channels, connecting the 90 islands that were created during the Dutch Golden Age. The most well known canals are the Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, Herengracht and Singel. This area has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Breathe deep on a walk through the Bloemenmarkt (floating flower market), where tulips, yellow daffodils, and purple lilies jumble against a dramatic canal backdrop. It’s always free to smell the roses!
- Discover the red light district. This area is known for its canals & narrow alleyways lined with bars, exotic nightclubs, sex shows, brothels, and coffee shops that sell cannabis, but there is a lot more to explore. Admire the architecture at Centraal Station which was designed in the 19th century. Take pictures at the awe-inspiring St. Nicolaaskerk Chuch which is a combination of Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Baroque, and traditional Dutch architecture. The Old Church which was built in the 14th century is another popular stop. We also recommend checking out the Weeping Tower (Schreierstoren,) and The Weigh House built in 1488 which was once a part of the city gates.
If you want to support the locals, young guides working on a tip-only basis will show you the Red Light District, Anne Frank House, and other top sights with a 3-hour walking tour. - Begijnhof is a secret courtyard with a humble wood door in Amsterdam’s busy center. Push it open and find an oasis of 14th-century houses and gardens, along with two clandestine, relic-filled churches. Free admission is via the door on Spui or via the Gedempte Beginensloot side street. Silence is requested.
- Don’t miss the stray cat sanctuary called Poezenboot, a quirky boat on the Singel. Today it’s home to 50 kittens looking to be adopted. Admission is free but a donation is appreciated.
- Watch street performers at Dam Square. Near the Royal Palace, you will often find a variety of talented street performers. Just make sure to be on the lookout for pickpockets. Another popular area with seating to people watch is Rembrandtplein Square. There is a large iron statue of Rembrandt himself which dates from 1852. This is surrounded by bronze figures from Rembrandt’s most famous painting The Night Watch.
- Artisplein is a public area at Royal Artis Zoo that has shady trees and a diversity of plants, a flamingo pond, a water fountain, and is a lovely place to sit.
- Enjoy a free concert. The National Operas & Ballet holds a free lunchtime concert nearly every Tuesday during the season which is September through June. These are held in the building foyer with the doors opening at 1215 and the shows running 1230-1300. Concerts are given by members of the Chorus of Dutch National Opera, the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra, or the Netherlands Chamber Orchestra
- Amsterdam’s best-loved escape is the 48-hectare Vondelpark with English-style gardens, ponds, footbridges, winding paths, and sculptures including Picasso’s “The Fish”. Other favorites are Sarphatipark and Westerpark, adjoining the post-industrial Westergasfabriek cultural complex. You can often catch free concerts at the open-air theater.
- Take a panoramic photo of Amsterdam from the Panorama Terrace at Amsterdam Central Library. Go up to the 7th floor and head to the Jo Coenen Terrace for sweeping views of the city.
- Sample Dutch cheeses! Gouda, Edam, Prima Donna and Maasdam are staples at street markets, including the Jordaan’s Lindengracht Market and De Pijp’s Albert Cuypmarket. You can also sample Dutch cheese at Trial Attic near the Bloeme, as well s the Cheese Museum. Just steps from the Anne Frank House there is a small museum dedicated exclusively to Dutch cheese. Admission is free.
If you prefer to travel in small groups but have a lot of the must-see sites and trip details planned for you in advance, there is a large selection of Holland Tours and travel packages as well as river cruises including some during Tulip season.
