Four Days in Amsterdam: Bikes, Brews & Beyond

Experience Amsterdam's charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Amsterdam, Netherlands offers a lot of value for budget travelers. With cheap flights, hostels, and food options, you can easily explore the city without breaking the bank. Visiting free attractions such as the world-famous Rijksmuseum and strolling through local parks can also provide a fun experience.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Get Lost in the Canals

  • Check in at Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark, a quirky hostel with cozy rooms and a pancake breakfast.
  • Take a free walking tour to see the hidden gems of Amsterdam's canals, bridges, and houseboats.
  • Eat lunch at Café de Prins, a local favorite for Dutch beer and bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs).
  • Visit the Anne Frank House for a poignant and intimate look at WWII history and the Frank family's life in hiding.
  • Catch the sunset from the top of the A'DAM tower, with panoramic views of the city and a rooftop swing for thrill-seekers.
Day 2

Art and Markets

  • Start your day at the Rijksmuseum, a grand art museum with masterpieces by Dutch artists like Rembrandt and Vermeer.
  • Head to the Albert Cuyp Market for a taste of Dutch street food, from stroopwafels to herring sandwiches.
  • Explore the trendy neighborhood of De Pijp, with its colorful street art, cozy cafes, and vintage shops.
  • Visit the Van Gogh Museum for a stunning collection of the painter's iconic works, from sunflowers to self-portraits.
  • Relax in Vondelpark, a green oasis in the heart of the city, with bike rentals, picnics, and people-watching.
Day 3

Windmills and Cheese

  • Take a day trip to Zaanse Schans, a charming village with traditional windmills, clogs, and cheese-making.
  • Sample Dutch cheeses at De Cacaotoren, a cheese shop and museum showcasing the country's cheese-making history.
  • Watch how the famous Dutch wooden shoes are made at the Klompenmakerij, or try them on for yourself.
  • Climb to the top of the windmill for panoramic views of the countryside and the nearby river.
  • End your day with a hearty Dutch meal at Café 't Smalle, a cozy canal-side restaurant with local beers and stews.
Day 4

Bikes and Brews

  • Rent a bike from the hostel and explore the city like a local, cycling through colorful neighborhoods and hidden streets.
  • Visit the Heineken Experience, a brewery museum with interactive exhibits, tastings, and a rooftop bar.
  • Try a Dutch beer flight at Brouwerij 't IJ, a brewery hidden under a windmill in the trendy east neighborhood.
  • Relax by the waterfront at Pllek, a cool restaurant and bar made of shipping containers, with live music and a beach vibe.
  • End your trip on a high note with a scenic sunset canal tour, admiring the city's architecture and romantic atmosphere.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Amsterdam by plane is to fly into Amsterdam Schiphol Airport from major cities around the world.

Car

Driving to Amsterdam is relatively easy, with major highways connecting the city to cities in neighboring countries.

Train

Traveling to Amsterdam by train is convenient from major European cities, with the Amsterdam Centraal station being the main hub.

Boat

Traveling to Amsterdam by boat is possible with various river cruises and private yachts docking at the city's ports along the River IJ.

Bus

Taking a bus to Amsterdam is affordable and comfortable, with various coach companies offering services from nearby cities such as Berlin or Paris.

More travel plans

Three Days in Amsterdam: Canals, Art, and Cheese

As a visitor on a limited budget, Amsterdam has plenty of wallet-friendly options to offer. With a bit of research, one can find affordable accommodation in hostels, as well as cheap food and drink at local markets and street vendors. The city's many attractions, such as the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House, offer discounted admission prices for students and young adults.

Amsterdam Delights: A 5-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

A family-friendly trip to Amsterdam offers a unique blend of culture, history, and entertainment for all ages. Explore the picturesque canals by taking a boat tour or renting bikes, and visit the world-renowned museums like the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum. End the day by savoring delicious Dutch pancakes and stroopwafels or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll in the beautiful Vondelpark.

Biking, Museums, & More: 5 Days in Amsterdam

A trip to Amsterdam on a limited budget can still offer plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and leisure. Visitors can explore the city's iconic canals, historic museums, and world-renowned coffee shops. Staying in affordable hostels or Airbnbs and utilizing public transportation can help keep costs down.

Discover Amsterdam on a Budget: 2-Day Guide

A budget trip to Amsterdam can still be full of fun and adventure. Visiting the city during the off-season, staying in a hostel or budget hotel, and using public transportation can save a lot of money. Enjoying the city's free attractions such as walking tours, museums, and the beautiful parks and canals can also make for a memorable and budget-friendly experience.