Money-Saving Tips
Amsterdam doesn't have to be expensive. The best strategies:
- I amsterdam City Card: From €65 for 24 hours. Free entry to 70+ museums and attractions, free use of GVB public transport, and a canal cruise included. Worth it if you visit 3+ museums a day.
- Museumkaart: €65 for a year — access to 400+ museums throughout the Netherlands. Worth it after just 4 museum visits in Amsterdam. Available at museum ticket counters (often with a short wait).
- Bicycle instead of public transport: A day ticket for the GVB costs €8.50, a bike rental €12–18. The bike is faster, more flexible, and more fun. For several days: weekly rental from €50.
- Food at Albert Cuyp Market: Stroopwafels (€2), kibbeling (fried fish, €5), Surinamese roti (€6), falafel (€5) — a complete lunch for under €10.
- Albert Heijn To Go: The supermarket chain offers ready-made sandwiches, salads, and snacks from €2. Perfect for a quick, cheap lunch.
- Free attractions: Vondelpark, canal walks, the Bloemenmarkt (flower market), Begijnhof (historic courtyard), NDSM wharfs in Noord, the EYE Film Museum foyer.
- Ferries in Noord: The GVB ferries across the IJ (Centraal Station–Noord) are free and offer the best view of the city.
- Happy Hours: Many bars offer discounted drinks between 5 and 7 PM. There are numerous offers in the Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein areas.