Famous for coffee shops, the red light district, canals and art museums, Amsterdam can be tempting in so many ways. But, what if you could experience every bit of Amsterdam without spending a penny? Here is a list of top 10 free things to do in Amsterdam.
1. Vondelpark
Escape from the neon and noise of the city by heading to the leafy expanse of Vondelpark. Immensely popular, the park receives over 10 million visitors every year. Home to a rose garden, an open-air theatre and a network of ponds, time runs fast in the park. Visit Vondelpark during summer and you will be lucky to witness the free concerts & theatre performances.
2. I Amsterdam sign
Visiting Amsterdam for the first time? Then you would be surely excited to click photographs in front of the iconic I Amsterdam sign. The much sought-after photo spot is set in the buzzing Museumplein square and you will be in a lot of competition with the other tourists who will also be frantically clicking pictures. A great souvenir to take back home.
3. Markets
Stretching from the Ferdinand Bolstraat to Van Woustraat, the Albert Cuyp street market is a collection of 300+ stalls that sells things from food to spices to cosmetics to clothes to bedding. Not interested in shelling out a penny? Window shop. A trendy alternative is the Noodermarkt, which operates every Monday. Time in the markets will give you a chance to experience the real aura of Amsterdam.
4. Canals
Canals are an irreplaceable part of Amsterdam and they run for over 100 kilometers inside the city. Mind you, Amsterdam has more canals than Vienna and you can’t get enough of them. Over 400 years old, the canal belt is a part of UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk, bike or roam along the canals stopping by once in a while to click photos.
5. Begijnhof
Founded during the middle age, Begijnhof is a secluded courtyard in Amsterdam. A collection of historic houses along with two churches make up this courtyard. Cut off from the rest of the city, the tranquil oasis of Begijnhof is a much-needed respite from the everyday mundanity. Spend time in the tranquil atmosphere of Begijnhof and you will find peace.
6. Bloemenmarkt
Adorning the city’s southern canal belt is the world’s only floating market of Bloemenmarkt. Take a stroll across Bloemenmarkt inhaling the fresh fragrance of the flowers and you will be literally flying in the air. Painted in bright colours of all kind, a visit to Bloemenmarkt will put you in the right mood. Spending on the flowers in secondary.
7. EYE Film Institute
Don’t mistake EYE Film Institute to be an alien ship from the outer space. It isn’t. Housing over 60,000 posters, 37,000 film titles, 20,000 books and 700,000 photographs, EYE Film Institute is a museum you shouldn’t miss out during your visit. The permanent Dutch film displays in the basement are free to see. The museum’s terrace also offers splendid views of Amsterdam.
8. Cannabis College
Yes, this does exist in reality. Cannabis College is a non-profit information centre in the Red Light District. Go on a tour of the Cannabis Garden learning about Amsterdam’s favourite herb. The organization provides free advice on how to use the recreational herb and teaches you with coffee shop etiquette. This for sure must be the most beloved college.
9. Music
Amsterdam has a strong connection with music and it is easily evident from the huge number of music concerts in the city. Wondering if you can experience it without paying? Of course, you can. Check out the live music venue of Bimhuis on Tuesdays for a free jamming session or enjoy the lunchtime concert in the acoustically sound venue of Dutch National Opera & Ballet on Tuesdays or try out Concertgebouw on Wednesdays.
10. Ride a ferry
While there are plenty of daytime boat tours available, the ideal way to explore Amsterdam is by going on a free ferry ride. Hop on to the public transport ferry which is immediately behind the Central Station and drift away to the North of Amsterdam along River IJ. To make the most of your ride, get down at the cultural hotspot of NDSM Wharf which is lively 24*7 with plenty restaurants and bars.
Really excited to see that there are so many amazing free things to do in Amsterdam? Check out our list of Amsterdam packages and Netherlands vacation packages choose the one that suits you best or customise your own Amsterdam itinerary and we will perfect it to ensure you have a great vacation!
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