Amsterdam is one of the most famous cities in the world. It is known for its artistic heritage and open-mindedness. Unfortunately, Amsterdam is not the cheapest tourist destination. In fact, it can be costly to see all that the city has to offer. If you are working on a budget and still want to visit the place, here are some affordable experiences you can enjoy:
The Singel Canal Floating Flower Market
This beautiful flower market is conveniently located on one side of the Singel Canal. Here, you can find all types of tulips, flowers and even cacti from the Netherlands. You can visit this market for a relaxing stroll. Alternatively, hire a bike and ride through the floating flower market.
Vondelpark
Vondelpark is the most famous city park in the Netherlands. More than 10 million people visit this park every year. You can enjoy a quick escape from the city’s hustle and bustle by spending some time lazing about in the grass in Vondelpark. Tourists and locals also visit the park for activities such as skating, jogging, dog walking and even people-watching. Occasionally, free concerts are organized in the park’s open theatre.
Bridge of 15 Bridges
You can head out to the bridge in the central canal belt to get a breath-taking view of 15 well-lit bridges. You will have to find the crossing of the Reguliersgracht and the Herengracht as this is where all these bridges are visible. When you get there, face away from the Thorbeckeplein and ahead of you should be a total of 6 bridges. Six more bridges will be visible on your left, and another two can be seen on your right. The final one is the bridge you will be standing on. Understandably, many people have trouble finding this spot. If you are unable to locate the exact place, you can choose to rent a boat and watch the bridges from the water level.
The Cat Boat
If you ask around for what to do in Amsterdam, not many people will recommend visiting a the Cat Boat (De Poezenboot). Simply because this floating cat shelter isn’t that familiar amongst tourist. A house boot is completely redesigned as cat shelter since 1966. Back in the days in all started when Henriette van Weelde found a stray cat underneath a tree. She brought the poor thing with her to her home at the Herengracht. This process continued, to the point that Henriette’s home was filled with cats. At a certain point even people in the neighbourhood started to bring lost cats to Henriette. At a certain moment her house was so full, she started to look for more space. She simply looked out of her window: at that’s how the idea of the Cat Boot was born. Nowadays you can visit this asylum for free. But a small gift is highly appreciated, since volunteers run the entire project.
Conclusion
Amsterdam is one of the few places everyone should visit at least once. The city is highly tolerant of different cultures, and this is what makes it one of the best tourist destinations in the world. If you don’t have a lot of money to spend in the city, you should make sure you visit the places listed above. If your up for more tips, take a look at one of our previous blogs to be well prepared.
