t A band performs at the Vondelpark Open Air Theatre
Although Amsterdam can be an expensive city, savvy visitors can find plenty of things to see and do free of charge or at a fraction of the price.
t A band performs at the Vondelpark Open Air Theatre
In summer, the Vondelpark Open Air Theatre hosts free contemporary and modern dance, drama, classical, pop and jazz concerts, as well as stand-up comedy. Many performances are in English.
Rather than splurging on a canal boat cruise through the city centre, ride the free ferry across the IJ instead. Board the blue-and-white ferry bound for NDSM from Centraal station and enjoy the amazing views of A’DAM Toren and EYE, giving you an insight into the modern face of Amsterdam.
A 10-minute walk from Museumplein, Albert Cuypmarkt offers a bewildering choice of ready-made snacks and other picnic ingredients. From freshly baked bread and organic cheeses to fresh fruit, cured herring and pastries, you’ll find the perfect picnic elements at these stalls. Take your purchases to the nearby Sarphati Park and while away the afternoon.
The Muziekgebouw aan ‘t IJ serves up a free midday concert on a Tuesday of every month, whilst the Concertgebouw hosts one every Wednesday. Not constrained to lunchtime? The BIMHUIS offers at least one free evening concert, workshop or jam session every week.
No tickets are needed to enjoy works by Rembrandt and other masters in the Amsterdam Gallery at the Amsterdam Museum. As well as a collection of Golden Age paintings of city militiamen and prominent citizens, the world’s only free “museum street” also displays 21st-century group portraits.
food stalls can be found at Albert Cuy Markt.