48 Hours In Amsterdam: Top Things To See And Do

Muziektheater Amsterdam Photo by: FaceMePLS

Amsterdam may not be the cheapest choice for a budget city break; however, if you are planning a weekend in the city, we have got some great ideas for things to see and do on a budget.

Get around cheaply

Forget public transport − one of the best ways to see Amsterdam is by bike. Rent a genuine old Dutch bike from Recycled Rentals, near Central Station, for just a few euros. Make sure you stay on the right and don't cycle on the pavement to ensure you fit right in with the locals.

Have a free day

There are plenty of free things to do in Amsterdam if you know where to look. Wander around the free art galleries at Spiegelstraat, stroll through the free gardens of the Rijksmuseum with its 17th-century gates, or take a free brewery tour. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday the ‘t IJ brewery hosts free tours that include a tasting.

Alternatively, why not enjoy a free concert at the Muziektheater at the Waterlooplein, which take place every lunchtime, or take a guided tour of an Amsterdam diamond company factory?

Eat for less

Snack bars across the city serve affordable fast food and chips, served in paper cones with various sauces. Alternatively, head for Maoz, a chain selling falafels and pitta bread − you can enjoy unlimited salad here! There are also plenty of coffee houses in Amsterdam where you can enjoy sandwiches or a light meal.

Spot some architecture

Visit Roemer Visscherstraat, known as Seven Countries Houses, where you can see a range of different styles of architecture. The buildings, which were designed in 1894 by the Dutch architect Tjeerd Kuipers, include a Renaissance-inspired Dutch house and Moorish-style villa.

Join in the festivities

There is plenty going on in Amsterdam throughout the year. Visit the city in April and you can enjoy the King's Day celebrations on the 27th, when a free market and street party take place. Come in August for Gay Pride, or head for Vondelpark throughout the summer months for the Vondelpark Festival, with a programme of free concerts and theatre performances every weekend.

There is something for the whole family. It is possible to enjoy Amsterdam on a budget − it just takes a bit of planning to organise your city break. Don't forget to pack some comfortable shoes, as walking and cycling are the best ways to see the city.