Amsterdam on a budget – €50 a Day (Yes, Really) – Here’s how

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Amsterdam on a budget – €50 a Day (Yes, Really) – Here’s how

You can visit Amsterdam on a budget, even on €50 a day in 2025, but it requires careful budgeting and prioritizing free or low-cost experiences.

Here are fact-checked numbers and updated examples for each category, plus notes on our audio guides and guided tours.

Accommodation

  • Hostel dorm beds typically cost €20–€35/night in 2025, with prices at the lower end in shoulder season and higher in summer
  • Hostels in Noord or outside the city center can be found for €22–€25/night, sometimes with breakfast included

Breakfast

  • Many hostels offer free breakfast.
  • Local bakeries charge €3–€8 for coffee and a pastry; for example, Bakkerij Neef or similar spots

Getting Around

  • Bike rental averages €7–€15/day in 2025, with some deals as low as €7–€10/day if booked online or through local shops
  • Public transport: A single ride is €3.20–€4, but a GVB day pass offers unlimited travel for under €9/day
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Amsterdam on a budget - €50 a Day (Yes, Really) - Here's how 4

Free Activities

  • Walking audio tours: Our current promo gives you up to 3 audio tours for FREE!
  • Vondelpark: Always free for strolling and people-watching
  • NDSM Wharf: Free to explore the street art and creative spaces
  • Albert Cuyp Market: Browsing is free; snacks and treats cost extra

Museum Hack

  • Rijksmuseum: Entry is €20; evening hours may offer a quieter experience, but discounts are rare
  • Museum passes: The I Amsterdam Card or Go City Pass can offer value if you plan to visit multiple museums, but for a single visit, pay-as-you-go is cheaper
  • Many museums offer free or discounted entry on certain days or evenings, but always check ahead.

Cheap Eats

  • Maoz Falafel: €5–€7 for a filling pita
  • FEBO vending wall: Snacks from €2–€4
  • Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx: Fries for €3–€4
  • Grocery store picnic: Supplies for €8–€12 for a simple meal
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Amsterdam on a budget - €50 a Day (Yes, Really) - Here's how 5

Evening Fun

  • Café ‘t Spui-tje: Happy hour beers for €3–€4.
  • Jordaan brown cafés: Local music and atmosphere, drinks for €3–€5

Sample Amsterdam on a Budget costs (2025)

ItemCost (€)Notes
Accommodation22–25Hostel dorm, breakfast included
Breakfast0–4Hostel or bakery
Bike rental7–10Per day
Lunch6–8Falafel or sandwich
Snack2–4FEBO or fries
Museum0–20Optional, Rijksmuseum
Dinner8–12Cheap eatery or groceries
Evening drink3–4Beer at local café
  • Total: €48–67 (skip museum to stay under €50)

Audio Guides and Tours

  • First 3 Wingman audio guides are free: a great way to explore museums or neighborhoods without extra cost.
  • Guided tours: Group walking tours are tip-based (€5–€10/person), but private tours can cost up to €150 for three people, especially for specialized or private experiences.

Key Tips for 2025

  • Book hostels early for best rates, especially outside peak season
  • Use GVB day passes or rent a bike for cheap, flexible transport
  • Prioritize free activities and local markets for authentic experiences.
  • Take advantage of free audio guides and only splurge on one museum if needed.
  • Avoid taxis and rideshares; public transport and cycling are much cheaper

Amsterdam rewards slow exploration and local connections, making a €50/day budget realistic if you focus on essentials and free pleasures