We value your privacy
We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking "Accept All" you accept this and consent that we share this information with third parties and that your data may be processed in the USA. For more information, please read our .
You can adjust your preferences at any time. If you deny, we will use only the essential cookies and unfortunately, you will not receive any personalized content. To deny, .
- Home
- Pirate Tips
- Amsterdam for Free
What to Do in Amsterdam for FREE 🇳🇱💰
Hey Pirates! If you're thinking of exploring Amsterdam's charming canals, historic streets, and vibrant culture but you're afraid it's too expensive, fear not! This Dutch gem hides many treasures and delights at no cost, ready to be discovered. So let's lift anchor to Amsterdam to discover the best of this city for free.
What to Do for Free in Amsterdam
Dear Pirates, although Amsterdam is well known for its very expensive museums, it also offers many opportunities to explore the city without spending a fortune. In fact, with a little craftiness, you can enjoy this fascinating city without spending a dime! Here are ten free activities to do in Amsterdam; here we go!
Free concerts for Lunch at Het Concertgebouw
If you are a music lover, the Royal Concertgebouw often hosts free lunchtime concerts, as well as on Wednesdays. Check their calendar for special performances and cultural events for all budgets!
Free Walking Tour: Explore with a Local Touch
Several companies offer free walking tours in Amsterdam. Your local guide will share his or her personal knowledge and hidden secrets of the city. Don't forget to leave a tip, in case you can, and enjoy the tour!
Waterlooplein Flea Market
The Waterlooplein Flea Market is a fascinating experience in itself. Even if you don't buy anything, you will enjoy exploring the stalls filled with vintage items, retro clothing, and more, letting yourself be transported to a different era, imagining this city in the past.
Vondelpark: a Green Oasis Perfect for Picnics
If you visit Amsterdam during summer or spring, don't miss the Vondelpark, a lush and free urban oasis to explore. Stroll along its winding paths, enjoy the local flora, or simply sit back and observe your surroundings for a rejuvenating break.
Begijnhof: a Hidden Sanctuary
In the heart of the city, the Begijnhof is a serene courtyard surrounded by historic Dutch houses. It is a hidden treasure where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Don't forget to be respectful: it is a residential area.
Free Ferry to NDSM Wharf
Looking for something out of the box? Board a free ferry to NDSM Wharf in Noord. This thriving arts district is home to street art, creative spaces, and unique architecture. Don't miss it to discover a completely different shade of the city!
Albert Cuyp Market to Taste the Original Stroopwafels
Stopping by the Albert Cuyp Market is a must for any traveler in Amsterdam. This market sits in the lively De Pijp district and offers a wide range of Dutch products and delicacies. Among the many stalls, you must look for a Dutch specialty that is a real treat for the palate: the original stroopwafels. These traditional Dutch sweets consist of two thin, crispy waffles and a layer of soft caramel in the center, and their unique texture and flavor make them an irresistible delicacy!
Molen Van Sloten: an Adventure among the Windmills
Get in touch with Dutch history at Molen van Sloten, a working windmill near the airport. Guided tours are free and will teach you the ancient art of operating windmills.
The 9 Streets: Magical, Especially at Christmas Time
The 9 streets of Amsterdam are truly fascinating, especially during the Christmas season. This area is famous for its boutiques, cafes, and enchanting atmosphere. Take a stroll to admire the Christmas decorations and shop for unique gifts.
Oudemanhuispoort Book Market
Book lovers, this is for you! Visit the Oudemanhuispoort Book Market, held on Fridays. You'll find an eclectic collection of used books, from rare gems to beloved novels.
Blumenmarkt (Flower Market)
Finally, you cannot miss the Blumenmarkt, the famous floating flower market. It is a unique place where you can buy flowers, bulbs, and floral souvenirs. Even if you are not planning to buy, it is a picturesque stop for a stroll.
Rooftop of the NEMO Science Museum
You can visit the rooftop of this magnificent museum for free, enjoying priceless views of the city from one of the coolest vantage points in town! We recommend going there at sunset to enjoy the play of light...
Street Art Tour: a Different Experience
Why not venture out on a tour of Amsterdam's Street Art, using this free guide offered by the Street Art Museum Amsterdam? Perfect for fans (and even those who are not!) to explore the city from a different point of view than usual.
Amsterdam Light Festival (11.30 - 01.21)
Thanks to the fantastic idea of some artists who, over the years, have experimented with the use of light in their works, today, so many organizations and companies participate in the Amsterdam Light Festival and create a fantastic spectacle not to be missed by anyone who wants to visit the city at this time. The Amsterdam Light Festival aims to showcase light works in the traditional spaces where we spend most of our days: a museum or gallery.
Exploring Amsterdam on a budget is not that complicated: the city is filled with free attractions, hidden treasures, and cultural delights ready to be discovered.
Looking for further inspiration? Follow us on Instagram @travelpirates
Digging our deals? Sign up for our newsletter to get more delivered straight to your inbox, and sign up for our app for a bespoke mobile experience, with all the latest deals sent to you if you so desire.