Your honest guide to exploring Amsterdam without emptying your wallet.
✈️ Can You Really Do Amsterdam on a Budget?
Everyone told me the same thing before my trip:
“Amsterdam is beautiful… but so expensive.”
They weren’t wrong. But with a little planning and a solid budget, I found that you can enjoy Amsterdam without spending a fortune.
So if you’re a student, solo traveler, or budget-conscious adventurer with a soft spot for canal views, stroopwafels, and cozy bikes—you’re in the right place.
Here’s exactly how much I spent, where I stayed, what I ate, and the smartest ways to stretch your euros over a 3-day weekend in Amsterdam.
📊 What I Spent in 3 Days
| Category | Estimated Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | €75–120 |
| Food & Drinks | €45–60 |
| Transport | €15–25 |
| Attractions | €20–40 |
| Extras | €10–20 |
| Total | €165–265 |
💸 For one of Europe’s most famous cities, this budget felt totally doable—and even left room for a few indulgences.
🛏️ Budget Hostels That Don’t Suck
Accommodation in Amsterdam gets snatched up quickly (especially on weekends), so I always book at least 2–3 weeks ahead. These are top picks for budget travelers:
🛏️ ClinkNOORD Hostel
Across the river from Centraal Station—just a free 5-min ferry away. Trendy, social, and ideal for solo travelers.
🛏️ Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark
Peaceful location right by Vondelpark. Cozy, clean, and popular among backpackers.
🛏️ Hans Brinker Hostel
Famously “the worst hostel in the world” (ironically)—but in truth, it’s central, clean, and fun.
🛏️ Via Amsterdam
Slightly outside the center = cheaper rates + super modern vibes.
🛏️ The Flying Pig Downtown
Legendary backpacker spot near the Red Light District. Great bar, cozy bunks, and lively atmosphere.
💡 Expect to pay €25–40 per night for a dorm bed. More for weekends or private rooms.
🍟 What I Ate (and Loved) on a Budget
Amsterdam is secretly a foodie paradise—but you don’t have to splurge to eat well.
🥐 Breakfast & Snacks
- Fresh croissants or stroopwafels from Albert Heijn: €2–3
- Coffee: €2–3 from local cafés or to-go kiosks
- Bonus: Too Good To Go app = surprise leftover meals for €3–5!
🥙 Lunch
- Street food like fries with mayo, herring sandwiches, or wok-to-go boxes: €5–8
- Sit-down meal at local cafés: €10–12
🍝 Dinner
- Budget-friendly dinner at ethnic restaurants (Turkish, Indonesian, Surinamese) for €10–15
- Grab noodles or pizza from takeaways if you’re on the go
✨ Total food spend: ~€15–20/day if you mix supermarket bites with one proper meal
🚲 Getting Around Without Burning Cash
🚲 Rent a Bike (€10–15/day)
The best way to explore Amsterdam like a local! Most hostels offer rentals or you can book online.
🚋 Public Transport (GVB)
- 1-hour ticket: €3.40
- 24-hour pass: €9
- 3-day pass: ~€20 (great if you plan to use trams/buses a lot)
👟 Walk It Out
Most central neighborhoods are walkable, and strolling the canals is half the magic anyway.
💡 Pro tip: If you’re staying at ClinkNOORD, the free ferry to Centraal Station runs 24/7!
🎟️ Free & Cheap Things to Do in Amsterdam
You don’t need to spend much to fall in love with this city. Here’s what I loved doing on a budget:
🆓 Free Must-Dos:
- Strolling through Jordaan or De Negen Straatjes
- Relaxing in Vondelpark
- Visiting the Begijnhof courtyard
- Street art spotting in NDSM Wharf
- Window-shopping (or just people-watching) in the Red Light District
💸 Low-Cost Activities:
- Van Gogh Museum: €19
- Rijksmuseum: €20 (free gardens outside)
- Canal Cruise: €10–15 with a student discount
- Anne Frank House: €14 (book at least 2–3 weeks in advance!)
🎫 Consider the I Amsterdam City Card if you want to hit several attractions + get free transport.
🧾 My Real 3-Day Amsterdam Itinerary
Here’s how I spent my 3 days on a budget:
Day 1: Classic Amsterdam
- Arrive, check in at hostel
- Walk the canals + explore Jordaan
- Dinner at Wok to Walk (~€8)
- Drinks at hostel bar or chill evening walk
Day 2: Museums + Park Life
- Van Gogh Museum (pre-book!)
- Vondelpark picnic or café stop
- Explore De Negen Straatjes shops
- Canal cruise at sunset (~€13)
- Dinner at Indonesian restaurant (€12)
Day 3: Markets + Memories
- Visit Albert Cuyp Market
- Souvenirs, snacks, and photos
- Quick lunch + chill time before your flight/train
🧠 Total spent: ~€180 for 3 days, including dorm, food, attractions, and transport.
💡 Extra Tips to Save More
- Use a student ID for discounts
- Download Too Good To Go for food deals
- Share costs (like bike rentals or museum passes) if traveling with friends
- Book weekday flights + avoid holidays
- Stay in hostels with kitchens and cook one or two meals
💬 Final Thoughts: Worth Every Euro
Amsterdam is full of magic—cobblestone alleys, canal sunsets, cozy cafés—and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune to enjoy it all.
If you’re smart, flexible, and just a little adventurous, you can soak up the best of the city. You can do this in just 3 days for under €200!
So… what are you waiting for? Book the flight, grab the bike, and enjoy the ride 🚲🌷
📣 Your Turn!
Planning a trip to Amsterdam soon?
Let me know your budget or travel dates in the comments—I’d love to help you build a plan that fits your coin purse!
Also check out:
👉 How I Plan a Budget Trip From Scratch
👉 Hidden Gems: 8 Thrilling Budget Destinations Most Travelers Overlook
Little Coin Traveler 
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