How to save money on a trip to Amsterdam: 6 proven methods

Amsterdam, with its long canals, smiling cyclists, and charming architecture, can scare any tourist with its unbelievable prices. However, if you start preparing for your trip early, you'll be surprised at the number of ways you can save money on your trip. You just need to spend a little time and read our life hacks.

Book everything in advance

A hotel room, a plane ticket, or even a museum. Everything needs to be chosen and booked in advance, but be smart about it.

Let's start with choosing a vacation period. There are many festivals in Amsterdam, and prices are highest at this time. It is also unprofitable to travel on holidays such as Easter, New Year, Dutch Day, or Christmas.

The peak tourist season is in May-September. However, thousands of foreigners come to this city as early as March, when tulips bloom. It is logical that businesses at this time try to capitalize on the guests as much as possible.

October and February are traditionally considered the cheapest months to travel. The cold season in the Netherlands is not so cold, but it is quite humid and rainy. So bring an umbrella and warm boots. Nevertheless, even in autumn and winter, this city will enchant you with its atmosphere (and will also allow you to stay with money).

Book your tickets and hotel room at least 3 months in advance. This way, you'll be able to grab the best and cheapest options. But you have to think it through carefully so that you don't change your plans at the last minute and lose your money.

Arrive in Amsterdam on Monday

This tip does not work with all tourist cities in the world, but in this case it is relevant. Amsterdam is a small city that is ideal for a weekend getaway. It's easy to get here from anywhere in Europe, which is what people from neighboring countries take advantage of. So these days the prices are the highest.

Try visiting the capital of the Netherlands in the middle of the week or even on Monday. You will be surprised by the almost empty streets, reduced hotel prices, and many entertainment options for a penny. But even so, stick to the first point and plan ahead. Impromptu and economy are incompatible.

Don't try to find a hotel as far away from the center as possible

At first glance, it seems that the farther away from the historical center you choose to stay, the more profitable it will be. But this is not the case. You will have to constantly spend money on transportation, and the connection can be quite inconvenient. And here you will get additional expenses for ferries, taxis, subways... It is better to settle in areas that are close to the sights, but also have adequate prices.

The best value for money and convenience can be found in Jordan, Plantation, the Eastern Isles, and south of Vondelpark.

Purchase a subscription

There are several types of them, so choose the one that suits you. First of all, think about a travel pass. This is a very convenient thing if you plan to travel around the city. It will save you several tens of euros.

The next step is to determine whether you are eligible for discounts in museums and other cultural institutions. Discounted tickets are available for the elderly, students, and representatives of various professions, including teachers, cultural experts, journalists, etc.

If you are under 30, be sure to get a youth card. It gives you a lot of different benefits, such as discounts on travel, accommodation, health insurance, access to attractions, etc. It costs about 14 euros (the cost may vary slightly depending on the country where you buy it). This system is valid in 36 EU countries and needs to be updated once a year. It is quite convenient and profitable if you travel often.

The Netherlands also has a museum card. This is a subscription that covers the cost of entrance tickets to 450 cultural sites in the country. This pleasure costs about 65 euros, so it is suitable only for those who are going to visit many exhibitions and expositions.

Get around on foot or by bike

Walking is the best way to explore the center of Amsterdam. There are no steep hills or uncomfortable paths, so you won't have a hard time getting around.

But if you want to get involved in the local culture, then get on a bike. Two-wheeled transport is preferred by the vast majority of people in this city. And the rental prices will pleasantly surprise you.

Avoid tourist restaurants

Amsterdam, like any other tourist city, has many expensive restaurants. But there are also a lot of budget cafes and bistros. So don't shy away from asking the locals where you can have a good meal without spending all the money in the world. They will show you restaurants that will surprise you.

You can also make your own dinner. To do this, visit one of the local markets where you can buy food inexpensively. But then take care of accommodation with a kitchen, otherwise this plan will fail.

In general, there is only one rule you should follow when traveling: always plan ahead. And don't be upset if something doesn't work out as you wanted. It's your vacation and you can always make some adjustments. Don't be afraid of changes, they are all for the better.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL told you how to have a budget vacation in Greece.

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