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

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

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)
Item | Cost (€) | Notes |
---|---|---|
Accommodation | 22–25 | Hostel dorm, breakfast included |
Breakfast | 0–4 | Hostel or bakery |
Bike rental | 7–10 | Per day |
Lunch | 6–8 | Falafel or sandwich |
Snack | 2–4 | FEBO or fries |
Museum | 0–20 | Optional, Rijksmuseum |
Dinner | 8–12 | Cheap eatery or groceries |
Evening drink | 3–4 | Beer 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