Biking, Museums, & More: 5 Days in Amsterdam

Experience the charm of Amsterdam without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Bikes and Canals

  • Rent a bike and explore the city's gorgeous streets and canals
  • Stop by the Anne Frank House for a somber reminder of the city's history
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch from a local market while people-watching in Vondelpark
  • Photograph the photogenic narrow houses in the Jordaan neighborhood
  • Enjoy a delicious Dutch dinner at Moeders, a cozy restaurant with a home-style vibe
  • Stay at the Quentin Amsterdam Hotel, which offers budget-friendly rooms with a central location
Day 2

Museums and Markets

  • Start the day with a visit to the Van Gogh Museum, home to over 200 of his works
  • Check out the Rijksmuseum, home to countless masterpieces such as Rembrandt's Night Watch
  • Shop for souvenirs and trinkets at the Albert Cuyp Market, a lively outdoor market
  • Head to Foodhallen for lunch, an indoor food market featuring a wide range of international cuisine
  • Take a boat tour to see Amsterdam from the water and learn more about the city's history
  • End the night with a drink at Proeflokaal Arendsnest, a cozy and authentic Dutch pub
Day 3

Old Town Charm

  • Wander around the historic old town and take pictures of Amsterdam's iconic canal houses
  • Visit the beautiful Westerkerk church and climb to the top for fantastic views of the city
  • Stop by the Begijnhof, one of Amsterdam's oldest inner courtyards
  • Have lunch at De Laatste Kruimel, a charming little bakery with freshly baked goods
  • Relax in the serene surroundings of the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world
  • Have a traditional Dutch dinner at De Silveren Spiegel, a restaurant that serves Dutch classics with elegance and refinement
Day 4

Modern and Cool

  • Explore the creative and trendy neighborhood of De Pijp, home to numerous boutiques, cafes, and galleries
  • Check out the modern and quirky NEMO Science Museum, designed by architect Renzo Piano
  • Have lunch at Coffee & Coconuts, a stylish cafe serving a tasty brunch menu
  • Visit the fabulous Stedelijk Museum, which houses one of the largest collections of contemporary art in the world
  • Rent a paddleboat at the nearby Amstel River and float along with the city
  • Satisfy late night cravings at Febo, a famous chain of Dutch snack vending machines
Day 5

Off the Beaten Path

  • Take a trip to the nearby town of Zaandijk, known for its charming windmills and historic architecture
  • Visit the Zaanse Schans outdoor museum and see how traditional Dutch life was lived centuries ago
  • Have lunch at the nearby De Hoop Op d'Swarte Walvis, an atmospheric restaurant with a fantastic terrace overlooking the river
  • Take a ferry ride to the northern part of Amsterdam for a stroll around the edgy and trendy NDSM Wharf
  • Have dinner at Pllek, a unique bar and restaurant made out of shipping containers with a great view of the city skyline
  • Return to Quentin Amsterdam Hotel for a good night’s sleep, bidding farewell to Amsterdam with happy memories

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

Amsterdam in a Day: Biking, Art, History & More

Traveling to Amsterdam as a tourist offers a unique blend of Dutch culture and modern city life. Visitors can explore the city's rich history, from its famous museums like the Anne Frank House to scenic canal boat rides. With a vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Amsterdam is an excellent destination for any traveler looking to experience European charm.

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.

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.

Amsterdam Adventure: Family-Friendly Fun on a Budget

Amsterdam, Netherlands offers an enriching and family-friendly experience with its charming canals, iconic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Take your family on a leisurely bike ride through the city, exploring historic sites like the Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum. Discover the enchanting Vondelpark, a sprawling green oasis perfect for picnics and playtime, while indulging in delicious Dutch treats along the way.