Amsterdam Unlocked: Top Free Experiences in the City of Canals!
Greetings, fellow travelers! Journeying Jack here, back with another exciting edition of Suitcase Stories. Today, I’m going to let you in on a little secret: exploring the vibrant city of Amsterdam doesn’t have to break the bank. That’s right, my wanderlust-filled friends, there are plenty of free things to do in Amsterdam that will leave both your wallet and your adventurous spirit satisfied. So, buckle up and join me as I unveil some of the best free things to do in Amsterdam, ensuring that your next trip to this enchanting city is not only memorable but also budget-friendly. Let’s dive into the world of canals, tulips, and hidden gems, as we discover the top free things to do in Amsterdam!
Explore the Iconic Canals
Amsterdam is famous for its picturesque canals, and exploring them is one of the best free things to do in Amsterdam. Here are some ways to experience the canals without spending a dime:
-
Take a stroll along the canals: Walking along the canals is a great way to take in the city’s beauty and charm. You can start at the famous Dam Square and make your way to the Jordaan neighborhood, where you’ll find some of the most scenic canals in the city.
-
Watch the boats go by: Find a spot along the canal and watch the boats go by. You’ll see everything from small pleasure boats to large cargo ships. It’s a great way to experience the city’s maritime culture.
-
Visit the Canal Museum: While the Canal Museum isn’t free, you can still get a glimpse of the canals from the outside. The museum is located in a beautiful 17th-century canal house, and you can see the canal from the museum’s garden.
-
Take a free canal tour: Some companies offer free canal tours, although they may ask for a small donation at the end. These tours are a great way to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its history and culture.
Exploring the canals is a must-do activity in Amsterdam, and it won’t cost you a penny. So put on your walking shoes and get ready to discover the city’s iconic waterways. Don’t forget to take some photos to capture the memories of your free things to do in Amsterdam adventure!
Unwind in Lush City Parks
Amsterdam is a city that is known for its beautiful parks and green spaces. The best part? Many of them are completely free to visit! Here are some of the best parks in Amsterdam that you can visit without spending a dime.
Vondelpark
Vondelpark is one of the most popular parks in Amsterdam and is a must-visit for anyone looking for free things to do in Amsterdam. This park is located in the heart of the city and is the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. You can take a stroll through the park, have a picnic, or even rent a bike and explore the park on two wheels.
Westerpark
Westerpark is another great park in Amsterdam that is completely free to visit. This park is located in the west of the city and is known for its beautiful green spaces, ponds, and walking trails. You can also find a variety of events and festivals taking place in the park throughout the year.
Oosterpark
Oosterpark is a beautiful park located in the east of Amsterdam. This park is known for its lush greenery, beautiful ponds, and walking trails. You can also find a variety of sculptures and monuments throughout the park, making it a great place to explore and take in some culture.
Sarphatipark
Sarphatipark is a hidden gem in Amsterdam that is often overlooked by tourists. This park is located in the De Pijp neighborhood and is known for its beautiful gardens, ponds, and walking trails. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and unwind in a peaceful setting.
Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and unwind, Amsterdam’s parks have something for everyone. And the best part? They’re all completely free to visit! So, if you’re looking for free things to do in Amsterdam, be sure to add these parks to your itinerary.
Discover Vibrant Street Art
Amsterdam is known for its vibrant street art scene, and the best part is that it’s completely free to explore. Here are some of the best spots to discover street art in Amsterdam:
-
NDSM Wharf: This former shipyard turned creative hub is home to some of the city’s most impressive street art. Take a free ferry from Amsterdam Central Station to NDSM Wharf and wander around the area to discover colorful murals and graffiti.
-
Spui: This square in the heart of Amsterdam is home to a rotating collection of street art. Keep an eye out for the “Spui Art Lending” program, where you can borrow a piece of art for free and display it in your home or office.
-
De Pijp: This trendy neighborhood is filled with street art, from large murals to small stickers. Take a stroll down the Albert Cuypstraat and Ferdinand Bolstraat to discover some of the best street art in De Pijp.
-
Wijdesteeg: This narrow alleyway in the Red Light District is home to some of Amsterdam’s most controversial street art. Keep an eye out for the “Free Art Now” project, where artists leave their work on the street for anyone to take home for free.
Whether you’re a fan of graffiti or just appreciate the creativity of street art, Amsterdam has plenty to offer. And the best part? It’s all completely free! So grab your camera and start exploring the city’s vibrant street art scene. Don’t forget to tag your photos with #freethingstodoinamsterdam to share your discoveries with other travelers.
Immerse in Local Markets
One of the best ways to experience the local culture of Amsterdam is by visiting its markets. And the good news is that many of them are free to enter! Here are some of the best markets to check out:
Albert Cuyp Market
Located in the trendy De Pijp neighborhood, the Albert Cuyp Market is the largest outdoor market in Amsterdam. Here you can find everything from fresh produce and flowers to clothing and souvenirs. It’s a great place to people-watch and soak up the lively atmosphere. And the best part? It’s completely free to enter!
Noordermarkt
If you’re looking for a more intimate market experience, head to the Noordermarkt in the Jordaan neighborhood. This market takes place on Saturdays and features organic produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts. It’s a great place to mingle with locals and get a taste of Amsterdam’s bohemian side. And yes, it’s free to enter!
Nieuwmarkt
The Nieuwmarkt is a bustling square in the heart of Amsterdam’s Chinatown. On Saturdays, it’s home to a lively flea market where you can find vintage clothing, antiques, and other treasures. And if you’re feeling hungry, there are plenty of food stalls selling delicious snacks from around the world. Admission to the market is free, but you’ll need to bring some cash if you want to do some shopping.
By visiting these local markets, you can experience the vibrant culture of Amsterdam without spending a dime. So put on your walking shoes and get ready to explore! And don’t forget to check out my other recommendations for free things to do in Amsterdam on Suitcase Stories.
Visit Free Museums and Galleries
Amsterdam is home to some of the world’s most famous museums and galleries, and the best part is that many of them offer free admission. Here are some of the top free museums and galleries to visit in Amsterdam:
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is one of the most famous museums in Amsterdam and is home to a vast collection of Dutch art and history. The museum offers free admission to visitors under the age of 18 and also offers free entry to everyone on the first Sunday of every month.
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is another must-visit museum in Amsterdam, and it houses the largest collection of Van Gogh’s paintings in the world. The museum offers free admission to visitors under the age of 18 and also offers free entry to everyone on the first Friday of every month.
Stedelijk Museum
The Stedelijk Museum is a modern and contemporary art museum that features works by some of the world’s most famous artists. The museum offers free admission to visitors under the age of 18 and also offers free entry to everyone on the first Thursday of every month.
Foam Photography Museum
The Foam Photography Museum is a unique museum that showcases contemporary photography from around the world. The museum offers free admission to visitors under the age of 18 and also offers free entry to everyone on the first Wednesday of every month.
Amsterdam City Archives
The Amsterdam City Archives is a fascinating museum that showcases the history of Amsterdam through documents, photographs, and other artifacts. The museum offers free admission to everyone and is a great place to learn more about the city’s rich history.
Visiting these free museums and galleries is a great way to experience the culture and history of Amsterdam without breaking the bank. Don’t forget to add these free things to do in Amsterdam to your itinerary!
Attend Free Events and Festivals
Amsterdam is a city that loves to celebrate, and luckily, many of its events and festivals are free to attend. Here are some of the best free things to do in Amsterdam:
King’s Day
King’s Day is one of the biggest and most popular events in Amsterdam. Celebrated on April 27th, the entire city turns orange to celebrate the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. The streets are filled with music, food, and drinks, and there are plenty of free events and activities to enjoy.
Amsterdam Light Festival
The Amsterdam Light Festival is a free annual event that takes place from late November to mid-January. The festival features light installations and sculptures by artists from around the world, which are displayed throughout the city. You can take a free walking tour or a boat tour to see the installations up close.
Open Garden Days
During the Open Garden Days, which take place in June, many of Amsterdam’s private gardens are open to the public for free. This is a great opportunity to explore some of the city’s hidden green spaces and admire the beautiful flowers and plants.
Vondelpark Open-Air Theatre
In the summer months, the Vondelpark Open-Air Theatre hosts free concerts, dance performances, and theatre shows. Bring a picnic blanket and some snacks, and enjoy a relaxing evening in the park.
Amsterdam Gay Pride
Amsterdam Gay Pride is a free event that takes place in August. The highlight of the festival is the Canal Parade, where boats decorated in rainbow colors sail through the city’s canals. There are also free concerts, parties, and other events throughout the week.
Attending free events and festivals is one of the best ways to experience Amsterdam without breaking the bank. So, make sure to add these free things to do in Amsterdam to your itinerary and enjoy the city’s vibrant culture and atmosphere.
In conclusion, Amsterdam is a treasure trove of experiences that won’t break the bank. As Journeying Jack, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring this vibrant city and discovering a plethora of free things to do in Amsterdam. From wandering through the picturesque streets and canals to exploring the city’s rich history and culture, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained without spending a dime.
So, whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or simply looking to make the most of your time in this enchanting city, I hope my Suitcase Stories have inspired you to take advantage of the many free things to do in Amsterdam. Remember, the best experiences in life often come without a price tag, and Amsterdam is no exception. So, pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in this beautiful city, all while keeping your wallet happy.
Until next time, fellow travelers, keep journeying and discovering the world’s hidden gems, like the free things to do in Amsterdam. Safe travels and happy adventures!
-Journeying Jack, Suitcase Stories
