Free Activities to Enjoy in Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam, Netherlands. Photo by Gaurav Jain on Unsplash

With its canals, endless bike lanes, and nonstop parties, Amsterdam offers an atmosphere that cannot be replicated elsewhere. Even for budget travelers, there are plenty of low-cost activities to enjoy, some of which are even free of charge. Here are some free activities in Amsterdam that are sure to be worth your while.

Amsterdam City Archives

The home of an endless treasure trove of historical documents, the Amsterdam City Archives is an ideal place to immerse yourself in the history of Amsterdam and the Netherlands as a whole. This site regularly offers a range of free exhibitions and is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday until Friday and 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Amsterdam’s Canal Ring

While it may not be an official museum, Amsterdam’s Canal Ring is a fascinating area to explore the city’s unique architecture. By roaming around this waterway network, you’ll immerse yourself in the Dutch Golden Age, catching glimpses of charming canal houses and its signature hump-back bridges.

Rijksmuseum Gardens

This site is ideal for foodies and nature lovers alike. Free to enter unlike the Rijksmuseum itself, these gardens are the perfect place to explore, breathe in the fresh air, admire the plant life, and enjoy a tranquil picnic with our loved ones.