Value for money is almost always an important consideration for holidaymakers, and those thinking about a visit to Amsterdam needn’t worry about breaking the bank. With a wide array of affordable attractions and a great choice of cheap flights to Amsterdam, it’s relatively easy to do Amsterdam on a budget. Some of the city’s best hidden gems are in fact free. If you’re thinking of heading to Amsterdam, here’s a brief introduction to some of the city’s reassuringly inexpensive attractions:
Catch a free lunchtime performance
See world-class orchestras practising for their evening show at the steel and glass Muziekgebouw concert hall, located to the east of Amsterdam Centraal station. These free sessions take place on Wednesdays at 12.30pm from September till May. Or, take a trip to the Stopera complex on Waterlooplein Square, where it’s possible to enjoy free musical or dance performances at the Boekmanzaal. Performed by the choir of De Nederlandse Opera and Het Nationale Ballet, the concerts and shows take place on Tuesdays at 12.30pm between October and June. These concerts alone make it well worth paying for cheap flights to Amsterdam.
Admire innovative architecture
The Amsterdam Centre for Architecture (ARCAM) is just one of many architectural gems to be found in the Dutch capital, many of which can be enjoyed by simply strolling around the city centre. Take photos of the futuristic exterior before heading inside (entry’s free) to browse information on other architectural wonders. Delve into the encyclopaedic collection of architecture books or catch a temporary exhibition on Dutch and international building design.
Fill up on Dutch cuisine for under €10
The wooden tables at cosy restaurant De Keuken van 1870 buzz with diners tucking into home-cooked Dutch fare. But the main selling point for this place is its unbeatable value for money: diners can tuck in to a three-course menu for as little as €9.50. Dishes change seasonally, so in winter months warm up on hearty stamppot, a truly comforting meal of smoked sausage or pork served with a vegetable and potato mash.
Sample organic local brews
On Fridays and Sundays at 4pm, take a free tour of Brouwerij ‘t IJ to see how the Eastern Docklands brewery ferments and processes its popular organic beer. End your visit at the on-site pub with a tasting palette of beers. For just €5 you get to sample five different brews, like their sturdy, hoppy Plzen and the dark and robust seasonal winter favourite, IJBok.
If you’re interested in a short break to the Dutch capital, check out some of the great online deals on cheap flights to Amsterdam.

























