2 Days in Amsterdam: Best Things to Do on a Budget

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Oh, Amsterdam! It’s one of those cities you just have to visit in Europe. But let me guess:

You’ve been thinking about things to do and how to see some of the best spots without spending a lot in just two days in Amsterdam?

I get it, and I’ve been there! Amsterdam is full of fun things to do, but it’s easy to spend too much if you’re not careful, especially if you’re visiting for the first time.

After visiting the city twice with simple, laid-back itineraries, I’ve found the best ways to see it without feeling rushed, stressed, or spending too much money.

So, if you like slow, fun trips that don’t cost a lot, this guide is for you.

This image shows a row of colourful canal houses in Amsterdam, reflected in the calm water below. The vibrant buildings include shades of red, black, and beige, showcasing traditional Dutch architecture under a bright blue sky.

The Perfect Two Days in Amsterdam Itinerary

This Amsterdam itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors with limited time who wish to explore the city’s highlights quickly.

Bear in mind that this itinerary doesn’t include many paid activities and tours. Also, the itinerary does not include the arrival and departure days.

So, I’m going to assume you have two full days in Amsterdam. However, you can still use it as a guide if you only have a full day in the city.

You can choose what to add or not to your itinerary based on your interests.

Since this is a budget itinerary, I’ll cover how to get there, when to visit cheaply, what you can do or see on a budget, and a few general travel tips.

Best Time to Visit Amsterdam on a Budget

The best time to visit Amsterdam if you’re on a tight budget is between November and March.

This month is the off-season, so there will be fewer people, and flights and hotels will be cheaper.

We’ve visited both busy and off-peak periods, and the prices, especially accommodation, were different. During our summer trip, we stayed in Zandeem.

It’s a small city that’s only about 12 minutes by train from Amsterdam.

Beautiful view of traditional Dutch canal houses with decorative roofs in Amsterdam reflected in the water. Bicycles and a yellow scooter are parked along the canal, with a red lamppost nearby. The scene feels quiet and peaceful on an overcast day.

How to travel to Amsterdam on a budget?

That depends on where you’re travelling from. Assuming you’re already in Europe, there may be several cheap options to go to Amsterdam.

Just keep in mind that, depending on when you wish to visit Amsterdam, the following options may differ in price:

By Flight

Flying is often the fastest and occasionally the cheapest option, especially if you book early.

Budget airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air offer affordable flights to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) from major European cities.

Once you land, it’s only a 15-minute train ride to Amsterdam Centraal Station, the city’s main hub. Check out other options for how to get from Amsterdam Airport to the centre here.

Tips on How to Buy an Amsterdam Train Ticket from the Airport for First Timers

Soon after leaving the arrivals gates, you’ll be in an area with yellow Dutch railway ticket machines. These are close to the train station and the lifts that lead to the train platforms. It’s basic to purchase tickets from NS yellow machines:

Step 1: If you don’t understand Dutch, change the language on the machine to English. There are German, French and perhaps Spanish language options too

Step 2: Next, choose “I want to go to central Amsterdam“

Step 3: Select “2nd class” and “1 ticket” if you’re travelling alone

Step 4: Choose Visa/Mastercard as the payment method. The ticket will be printed and placed in the small slot beneath the machine once the payment has been completed

By Train

If you’re already in Europe, taking the train to Amsterdam is a beautiful and easy way to get there.

Travelling from London, Brussels, or Paris to Amsterdam is easy and cheap with Thalys trains and other train transport options.

Check for deals on sites like Trainline or Omio: booking in advance often gets you the best price.

Look for deals on Omio!👇🏽

By Bus

Long-distance buses are the most affordable option. FlixBus, for example, offers low-cost rides to Amsterdam from several European destinations.

Even though it takes longer, buses often drop people off at Schiphol Airport or Amsterdam Sloterdijk, which is only a short tram ride to Amsterdam’s city centre.

Just be sure to compare the costs of trains and flights. Taking the bus might cost a little more if you’re coming from London or most places in the south of Europe.

Side view of a FlixBus, showing its bright green exterior with the word bus in white branding, parked on the street.

Best area to stay for two days in Amsterdam?

If you’re a first-time visitor, the best cheap places to stay in Amsterdam will depend on when you go.

As I said at the beginning of this post, we couldn’t find affordable places to stay in Amsterdam during our second summer visit.

However, on our first visit (during the off-season), we stayed at a wonderful Hotel2Stay self-serviced apartment in Sloterdijk.

This modern accommodation is located very close to the Sloterdijk tram and bus station. It also takes five minutes to walk to the train station.

It takes less than 5 to 10 minutes to get to Amsterdam Central by train from the Sloterdijk train station.

The picture shows the simple style of the Hotel2Stay Sloterdijk reception area. This view shows an orange armchair, two green chairs, and a mustard-coloured plush sofa. — *How lovely is this Hotel2Stay Sloterdijk reception?*

2 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary for First-Timers

Day 1: Wander through the centre of Amsterdam

A good breakfast will give you energy throughout the day. You can either grab something quick or make something at your accommodation.

This is what we normally do when we go on a trip. There’s usually a local supermarket close by.

I would advise against wasting time standing in big lines simply to stop by one of the charming cafés for the well-known Dutch pancakes.

Instead, use the money to buy other delicious Dutch treats, such as stroopwafels, which you can quickly eat later.

Once you’re full and ready to start exploring the beautiful Dutch capital, you’ll want to see the most intriguing places.

So, here are my top 8 suggestions for cheap things you can do in Amsterdam as a first-time visitor.

1. Explore Amsterdam’s canals

Ahh, there’s something special about strolling along the iconic canals in Amsterdam. If you happen to stay in the Sloterdijk area, like we did on our first visit, you’re in luck!

There are several public direct transport options to Amsterdam Central from here.

Once you get to Amsterdam Central Station, just a 2-minute walk from the station, you’ll find the vibrant canal houses you’ve undoubtedly seen a lot on Instagram, standing tall like a real-life postcard.

Plus, admiring their reflection in the water is free, unless you fancy going on a nearby boat ride.

But I would advise you to postpone the boat ride journey and treat yourself later.

Wander through the Jordaan area, which has charming streets with narrow pavements and photogenic bridges.

A joyful woman adorns a white shirt, a miniskirt, and sneakers. She is standing among Amsterdam's colourful canal houses.
The bright buildings are different shades of red, black, and beige, and they show off traditional Dutch design against a blue sky. — *Don’t forget to take your Instagram Amsterdam postcard for FREE!*

2. Red Light District Walk at Midday

Explore the Red Light District for free, which is a striking cultural contrast to what many first-time visitors, including myself, may be accustomed to.

I found the subject quite fascinating when I read about it, and as you might guess, we had to walk through the Red Light District during our two days in Amsterdam.

As a traveller who was born and raised in Africa, I was struck by how open and honest people were about sex. Despite the culture shock, it reveals the Dutch’s forward-thinking perspective.

Pro Tip: Just a quick reminder to please respect sex workers and don’t take photos if you spot them on the windows. Fortunately, daytime visits have fewer extremely shocking scenes.

The image shows an exterior sign of the Red Lights Secrets in Amsterdam. — *Disclaimer: The image of a woman in the background is NOT of a real person; it’s a poster. I thought I should point that out…*

3. Afternoon: Lunch and Stroopwafels

After seeing how fascinating the Dutch society is, it’s time to eat! Check out Van Wonderen Stroopwafels to try one of Amsterdam’s well-known treats filled with chocolate.

I’m not normally a fan of sweet treats, but my first bite… Let’s just say that it was love at first crunch.

There are so many toppings to choose from, but to be honest, the classic version is just as amazing.

The best part is that you can walk in without a reservation.

You may have to wait a little (but not too long) because Van Wonderen Stroopwafel is the most famous stroopwafel shop in Amsterdam (thanks to Instagram travel influencers), but it is well worth the wait!

There is a woman in front of the Van Wonderen Stroopwafels store holding a stroopwafel with a little chocolate dripping off of it. The back of the stroopwafel almost blends into the store's glass panel's lovely design.

4. Evening: Dinner & Oud-Zuid (Old South) walk

In the evening, walk around the Oud-Zuid (Old South). It’s a beautiful, mostly quiet area with high-end restaurants and shops.

It also gives off a vibe that is both local and touristy, with a unique mix of culture, food, and fun.

Speaking of dinner, after a day of walking, you might be looking for a nice, quiet spot to unwind or jot down your thoughts in your travel journal for the day (if you’re anything like me).

You should check out the Copper Bar and Kitchen; it’s a lovely spot! We had a wonderful time at this lovely modern bar restaurant, perfect for dinner or just enjoying a glass of wine.

If you’re searching for a perfect spot for dinner, I suggest checking out Little Saigon Zeedijk.

It’s about a half-hour walk from the Copper Bar and Kitchen, and they serve out big portions of delicious food that are cheap for Amsterdam.

A picture of a woman's hand with a glass of red wine taken inside the Cooper Bar and Kitchen. A quiet place to unwind during a two-day trip to Amsterdam. — *Enjoy a glass of wine at Coopper Bar & Kitchen*

Day 2: Explore Museums and Hidden Gems

5. Morning: Take a Day Trip to Zaandam

Start off your morning by making your way to Zaandam. The charming small city of Zaandam is a hidden gem you can add to your 2-day Amsterdam trip.

This small city is charming, with its vibrant and historic buildings and a chill shopping area. It’s an ideal place for a day trip from Amsterdam!

One of the most well-known attractions in Zaandam is the Inntel Hotel Amsterdam, which is known for its stunning exterior.

Enjoy the vibrant streets or wander through the lovely streets; this quaint town will leave you with wonderful memories.

Best of all, you don’t have to spend much to enjoy yourself here. Most of its best parts are free to see.

Pro Tip: You don't have to spend much time here. Two to three hours will be enough.
From Amsterdam Central Station, you can take a short 13-minute train ride to Zaandam.
If you are looking for a more affordable option, you might consider taking a direct bus from Amsterdam Central Bus Station.

A woman is standing in front of the famous spot of the Inntel Hotel in Zaandam. An ideal place for a day trip from Amsterdam. — *Zaandam is a charming city with quirky buildings.*

6. Midday: Visit a Museum (Optional)

When you return to Amsterdam, spend the afternoon around Museumplein, where most of the city’s museums are.

Explore Dutch art at the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh’s life at the Van Gogh Museum. If you’re not into museums, the park is a wonderful place to stroll through for free.

The outside view of the garden entrance to the Rijksmuseum. People are coming and going from the museum.

If you are considering visiting the museums, I would recommend booking your ticket in advance and checking the availability for your visit. 👇🏽

7. Afternoon: Launch at Blue Amsterdam

Grab lunch at Blue Amsterdam, one of Amsterdam’s budget-friendly rooftop restaurants. Getting to the top is truly an experience.

The restaurant’s wonderful layout, which offers stunning views of Amsterdam’s houses, will greet you once you arrive.

This picture shows the inside of the Blue Amsterdam restaurant. For sitting, there is a counter with bar stools and lights hanging from the top of the counter. The scene has simple furniture and decor, like tables and chairs. — *Inside Blue Amsterdam*

8. Evening: Explore Amsterdam’s Canals on a Cruise

End your trip by taking a budget canal cruise for a unique view of the city and sunsets. It is simple to make a booking directly on the site or online.

I appreciated that the boats were covered with glass, as it allowed for a pleasant experience even during the winter season—there was no need to be concerned about feeling cold.

This picture shows a canal tour boat in Amsterdam. In the background, you can see an old building with two towers and a few houses.

FAQs

These are some frequently asked questions about visiting Amsterdam, especially on a budget, and my honest answers based on our experience visiting here:

Is two Days Enough to See Amsterdam?

Yes, two days is enough to see many of the top places in Amsterdam. You can walk along the canals, visit a museum or two, and enjoy local food without rushing.

Just plan your time well and pick the things you really want to see. Think of it as a teaser for future trips.

Even though I’ve visited Amsterdam twice, I still want to go back to do things I haven’t done on our earlier trips, like see a tulip garden and hidden gems in the city or nearby villages.

So, for your first visit, I think you should really focus on the city’s unique vibe, the canals, and its nine streets.

Is Amsterdam easy to walk around?

Yes, Amsterdam is a very walkable city! Most sights are close together, and the streets are safe and easy to follow. Walking is also a wonderful way to save money and enjoy the lovely views.

Such an approach also makes travelling to Amsterdam on a budget considerably easier, even though it’s one of the most expensive cities in the world.

The canals are lovely, the streets are charming, and it’s intriguing to stroll around the cobblestone streets. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes.

There are also many signs and friendly people—yes, the Dutch are renowned for being blunt!

But that shouldn’t stop you from asking for help. Some people will be glad to show you the way.

A woman dressed in a white coat, scarf, and pants stands smiling on a canal-side walkway in Amsterdam. She has a black crossbody bag and is wearing black boots, with a backdrop of historic Dutch buildings and a canal featuring a docked tour boat. The sky is cloudy but bright, which makes the skyline even more interesting. — *I visited Amsterdam for the first time during the off-season.*

Final Thoughts: Is it worth visiting Amsterdam for just 2 days?

Yes, it really is! Even if you only have two days in Amsterdam, you can still see some of the best spots without spending a lot. From walking along lovely canals to trying tasty local snacks, there’s so much to enjoy on a budget.

Many people may think that Amsterdam is a sinful city because it is allowed to use cannabis (weed), people are carefree, and the laws aren’t too strict.

And I lean towards agreeing, to some degree, that it is indeed a unique city in Europe.

But to be honest, the city has a lot more to offer than just CoffeeShops (also known as cannabis shops).

I don’t remember seeing any strange behaviours during either of our trips. If you plan it right, you don’t have to rush or miss out. Two days is just enough time to fall in love with this wonderful city.

Want more ideas for fun, budget-friendly trips in Europe? Check out my best Europe travel guides below:

2 Days in Amsterdam: 8 Best Things to Do on a Budget (A First-timer’s Guide)

The Perfect Two Days in Amsterdam Itinerary

Best Time to Visit Amsterdam on a Budget