40 X free things to do in Amsterdam: with these tips you won't be bored

This is what you can see and do for free in Amsterdam

Amsterdam isn't a cheap city, but there are plenty of things you can do for free. Perfect if, for whatever reason, you don't want to spend any money but still feel like getting out and about. Amsterdam is also incredibly fun even if your wallet is empty. You just have to see the city through different eyes. Appreciate things you might otherwise overlook. We've compiled the best things to do for free in Amsterdam. Completely free! Visitors to Amsterdam love these tips, but every Amsterdammer should try them too. Have fun!

Follow @yourlbb on Instagram

**Illegible text** 👀
This is the coolest new hotel for a night away! Meet @viaantwerp, Antwerp's newest boutique hotel on the border of Zurenborg and Borgerhout (yep, voted the 2nd coolest neighborhood in the world by Time Out).

I recently stayed at this gem, and it truly has it all: a lively bar with a cozy atmosphere, walls adorned with creative art, beautiful, bright rooms, and it's within walking distance of great hotspots. And I haven't even mentioned @mea.antwerp! The delightful restaurant, helmed by a chef who previously worked at The Palomar in London. If you know, you know!

And now the best news:
I can surprise one of you with a dream night away at VIA Antwerp. 💛

And in my opinion
• Overnight stay for 2 people
• Breakfast included
• Chef's Dinner at MEA

And in Flanders
• Let us know in the comments which friend you would like to stay here with
• Of course, take a look at @viaantwerp & @mea.antwerp to dream away and follow their updates

The winner will be notified personally via DM on December 10th.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you and will soon share a mini guide with more great tips for Antwerp! 🖤

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#antwerp #antwerp #zurenborg #antwerpcity #borgerhout

553 785

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18088500545504405

HAPPY ALMOST WEEKEND IN AMSTERDAM

Comment 'weekend' and I'll send you all 32 tips in the new Amsterdam Weekend Guide for December 4, 5, 6 & 7 ✖️✖️✖️

60 18

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18103088326674985

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱!

I've rounded up a complete list with the coziest and most festive Christmas markets in Amsterdam you don't want to miss this year. Think twinkling lights, mulled wine, food stalls, live music, unique gifts and lots of Christmas vibes all December long.

Whether you're planning a festive day with the fam or friends, or just want to soak up that holiday spirit. These are the markets in Amsterdam to put on your calendar now. 🎄✨

𝘿𝙧𝙤𝙥 “𝘾𝙃𝙍𝙄𝙎𝙏𝙈𝘼𝙎𝙈𝘼𝙍𝙆𝙀𝙏” 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄'𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝗮 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝙔𝙇𝘽𝘽-𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙩𝙨.

Send this list to your festive partner-in-crime, grab a hot chocolate (or mulled wine 😉), and have fun!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #christmasinamsterdam #amsterdammarkets #christmasmarkets #amsterdamguide thingstodoinamsterdam winterinthenetherlands festiveseason christmasvibes marketlovers amsterdamtips

72 36

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18161705302397001

HOME ALONE 4 INCOMING 😅 My trip to NYC ends in a bad (Christmas) movie when the hotel gives my carry-on luggage with passport to an old lady who doesn't realize this and checks the luggage on a flight to the UK!

Now I'm stuck here in NY without a passport, and I missed my flight.

I've experienced a lot in all the years I've been traveling for Your Little Black Book, but this is a first 😅.

This chat video is purely therapeutic in nature 🤣🤣🤣. Because really: HOW?! 🫢

Note to self: it's better to carry your passport all day, instead of leaving it "safely" in the hotel, apparently... and from now on, attach suitcases with cables in the storage room. Even if you're staying in a luxurious and expensive hotel, everything is still done by humans.

Now I'm stuck in one of the world's coolest cities, but of course I just want to be home with Manuel, as planned. 😔

To be continued 🧳✈️

And thanks for all the sweet DMs ❤️❤️❤️❤️

✖️✖️✖️
Anne

362 166

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18349472161204612

𝟳𝘅 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗺 𝗳𝗮𝗿𝗺𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗡𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗮𝗿 𝗷𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘀𝘂𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 ...�� 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄

How cool is this? There are places in the Netherlands where you can cut down your own Christmas tree! You don't hear about it very often, even though it's quite common in America (where I'm currently!).

Good to know: some of these places in the Netherlands are only open for a few days a year and you have to reserve a time slot.

💬 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 “𝗞𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗧𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗠” and I will send you the article with all the details and dates in your DM.

Have fun!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#christmasintheNetherlands #christmasouting #christmastree #christmasfarm #christmas2025 winterintheNetherlands Christmastips Christmasinspiration Netherlandsdiscover Decembertips winterweekend

51 30

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18412923946138734

And do you also have a nice garden?

I want to thank you for your patience and help. 𝟳-𝗷𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲!

This time we went to @williams.farmhouse, one of my favorite lunch spots in Amsterdam Oud-Zuid. But is it also fun during the day with kids?

We ordered a 'plain' version of the Farmhouse burger 🍔: yes, really just meat + cheese 🤣… and together with the fries it was a mega success.

Happy child, happy us... and it was such a cozy, rainy afternoon. I mean, this interior makes me dream of the Cotswolds again!

Do you have a favorite 𝗸𝗶𝗱 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁 in Amsterdam or the Netherlands?

Let me know in the comments, I'll collect everything for the next 𝗞𝗜𝗗𝗦𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗘𝗙!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#amsterdam #amsterdamfood #amsterdamrestaurants #amsterdamfoodie #amsterdamguide amsterdamwithkids kidsproef familyfriendly amsterdamlunch amsterdamoudzuid yourlittleblackbook kidsproofamsterdam

56 18

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18069820640457698

So happy to finally share this! @lefoodwalk is back this winter with four themed walks during the Amsterdam Light Festival, from November 27th to January 18th.

Perfect for a day out with friends, a date, colleagues, or family. From a Street Food Walk to an Oyster Walk, and from cocktails to an old-school Amsterdam drinks walk.

The Le Foodwalk team has listened to you and there is a different experience to book almost every day.

Tickets (which are even cheaper than last year 🔥) are now live! I've put a link in my bio.

I have a nice garden and a beautiful garden 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱

𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗘𝗧 𝗙𝗢𝗢𝗗 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Thurs-Sat
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁'𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗱: 4 bites + Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99)
𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ @weareedn_amsterdam ⦁ @caferestaurantdebazel ⦁ @soulkitchen_amsterdam ⦁ @blackandblue_reguliers
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €43,50

𝗢𝗬𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Thurs-Sat
Package: 4 x 2 oysters + Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99)
𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ Soulkitchen ⦁ De Bazel ⦁ @bellyofthebeastbar ⦁ @vermeerswijnkamer
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €43,50

𝗖𝗢𝗖𝗞𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗟 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Wed-Sat
Included: 3 cocktails (also 0.0%) + Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99)
𝗖𝗼𝗰𝗸𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗯𝗮𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ @feijoaamsterdam⦁ @lottisamsterdam ⦁ Belly of the Beast
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €35,50

𝗔𝗠𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗗𝗔𝗠 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Sun-Wed
Included: 3 Dutch drinks & 3 Dutch bar snacks + @amsterdamlightfestival app (worth €6,99)
𝗕𝗮𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ @hetkarbeel ⦁ @proeflokaalvanwees ⦁ @beertemple_amsterdam
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €33,50

Who do you want to do a Foodwalk with this winter?

𝙇𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙞𝙣 𝙗𝙞𝙤 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙩𝙨 𝙤𝙧 𝙫𝙞𝙖 𝙒𝙒𝙒.𝙇𝙀𝙁𝙊𝙊𝘿𝙒𝘼𝙇𝙆.𝘾𝙊𝙈.

✖️✖️✖️
@anne_de_buck

#lightfestival #lefoodwalk #amsterdamlightfestival #amsterdamfoodguide #amsterdamfood #amsterdambynight #canalview

199 16

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18087026804313018

I have a nice garden in my garden and 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 🎅🏼

The countdown to Christmas has officially begun, and I can tell you: this list will instantly get you in the holiday spirit. 🎄

📍In this new video, I've listed the most beautiful Christmas markets and winter fairs in the Netherlands, from Maastricht to The Hague.

Whether you're in the mood for mulled wine, raclette, Christmas carols, ice skating with your besties, or planning a cozy weekend getaway in December, now's the time to block your calendar.

Send the tips to your Christmas date ❤️ and comment "CHRISTMAS MARKET" to receive a link to ALL the Christmas market shortlists on Your Little Black Book.

Let the Christmas fun begin!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #kerstmarktnederland #kerstuitje #winterfair #kerst2025 #weekendtips #thingstodointhenetherlands #magischmaastricht #royalchristmasfair #kerstmarktamsterdam #winterinthenetherlands #kerstvibes #yourlbb #kerstmarkt #christmasmarket

171 36

Open post by yourlbb with ID 17960624778007897

I have a nice garden – I have a nice garden in my garden

Did you know Bangkok holds a special place in my heart? 💛 If I were ever to live anywhere other than Amsterdam, it would be there. Right now, I'm seriously homesick, and I even have a ticket option open on another screen ☺️. Fun fact: I even got married in Thailand!

Bangkok is one of those cities where you can return so many times and still discover something new every time.

In this mini-guide, I share some of my favorite neighborhood hotspots—from fun neighborhoods and coffee spots to ultimate hotels, street food, and night markets.

The list could easily have 200 tips, but this is a good start!

📍 Prepare your next trip to Thailand with our travel guide & luxury travel planner for your next trip to Thailand.

𝗡𝗘𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗕𝗢𝗨𝗥𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗗𝗦
⦁ Talad Noi – creative, raw & surprising
⦁ Songwat & Chinatown – street food heaven
⦁ Ekkamai – laid-back & trendy
⦁ Ari – boutiques & brunch
⦁ Bang Rak – culture meets cool

𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗦 & 𝗖𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗘
⦁ Charmkrung – trendy restaurant in an old shophouse
⦁ Hong Sieng Kong – riverside coffee spot
⦁ Potong – fine dining in Chinatown
⦁ Baan Rim Naam – cocktails during sundown
⦁ Ann Guay Tiew Kua Gai – comfort noodles, Bangkok style

**Illegible**
⦁ Four Seasons – ultimate luxury
⦁ Mustang Blue – unique & arty
⦁ ASAI – affordable boutique
⦁ The Standard – design & rooftop pool
⦁ Anantara Riverside – riverside resort vibes

I & I
⦁ Sundown on the Chao Phraya River = magical
⦁ Cycle through the city with Co van Kessel
⦁ Big Buddha – new must-see
⦁ Eat street on Banthat Thong Road – local favorite
⦁ What Saket at golden hour – view!

(𝗡𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧) 𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗞𝗘𝗧𝗦
⦁ Yaowarat – food, food, food
⦁ Sampheng Market – for your best finds
⦁ ChangChui – creative chaos
⦁ Asiatique – family fun night market on the river
⦁ Train Night Market – vintage & food

📌 Save this guide so you have it with you when you go to Bangkok
💌 Send it to that friend you're making Thailand plans with

Have you ever been to Bangkok?

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

212 33

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18083871092287539

Amsterdam, get your skates ready — ice skating season has officially begun! ⛸️

The first rinks, like @skabaanmuseumplein, are opening this weekend and we are so ready for it.

I already planned a mom & son date — that's how excited we are to hit the ice. 💙

This year, there are some new links to discover across the city too. And who knows... maybe we'll even get lucky with natural ice again. Until then, these are the 7 best ice skating rinks in Amsterdam you don't want to miss.

Whether you're planning a festive date, a day with friends, or skating with the kids — this guide has you covered.

📍All details are in the Amsterdam Ice Skating Listicle on Your Little Black Book (link in bio).

Send this to your skating buddy and start planning your first winter weekend on ice! ❄️

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #yourlbb #amsterdamwinter #iceskatinginamsterdam #amsterdamchristmas #thingstodoinamsterdam #amsterdamguide #winterinthenetherlands #amsterdamlife #cityguide #amsterdamcheck #wintervibes #travelamsterdam #weekendinams #holidayseason #skating

39 5

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18107597638616976

𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗧𝗼 𝗗𝗼 (𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟯, 𝟭𝟰, 𝟭𝟱 & 𝟭𝟲)

Another cozy November weekend in Amsterdam is here — and the city's buzzing with festive fun, winter vibes, and new openings.

Think: the return of ice skating at Museumplein, vintage treasure hunting in Noord, Sinterklaas magic at Muiderslot, and cocktail week collabs between top chefs and bartenders.

From fondue nights, film festivals, and Sunday markets — I've listed 31+ tips on Your Little Black Book.

Here's your WEEKEND shortlist:

MARKETS & CULTURE
– Nov 15 & 16: IJ-hallen – Europe's biggest flea market in Amsterdam-Noord @ijhallen
– Nov 16: Sunday Museum Market on Museumplein (grab a bite from Mr Brasa!)
– Nov 13–23: IDFA 2025 – hundreds of documentaries across the city's best cinemas @idfafestival

DRINKS & EVENTS
– Every Thursday this winter: Cheese fondue night at Badhuis Javaplein (€26 pp with unlimited crudités & bread). @badhuis.ams
– Save the date! Nov 17–23: Woodford Old Fashioned Week — 10+ cocktail bars, 3 top chef x bartender collabs @woodfordreserve @sidney_schutte @florisvstraalen @dirkmooren

NEW SPOTS
– Café Bica on Weesperzijde – coffee hotspot from the Bam Boa team @cafebica.ams
– Petit Charcuterie on Singel – perfect for bites, drinks & brioche sandwiches @petit.charcuterie.singel

FAMILY & FESTIVE FUN
– Nov 15: Ice skating season officially opens at Museumplein ⛸️ @iceamsterdam
– Nov 16: Sinterklaas parade sails into Amsterdam via the Amstel 🎁
– Nov 16 – Dec 5: Sinterklaas at Muiderslot (meet the Sint in person on Nov 22–23 & 29–30) @muiderslot

Want all 31 tips?

Comment 'WEEKEND' and I'll DM you the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide — or check the link in bio.

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #AmsterdamWeekendGuide #AmsterdamTips #ThingstoDoAmsterdam #AmsterdamEvents #AmsterdamMarkets #AmsterdamRestaurants #WinterInAmsterdam #SinterklaasAmsterdam #IDFA2025 #WoodfordOldFashionedWeek

98 16

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18090736165920878

𝟱 𝘅𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘂𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝘂𝘁 𝗵𝗲𝗯𝗯𝗲𝗻.

From new hotspots to low spots and from hand-pulled noodles to an intimate Mediterranean bistro, I've listed 5 new favorite restaurants for you that you definitely want to try.

Save this guide for your next dinner date 🍽️

📍 Orchid House (East)
Vibe: all-day dining at Oosterpark, family-friendly and good vibes.
Must orders: ceviche, angel hair pasta with sea urchin and picanha.
@orchidhouse.ams

📍 Omri (The Pipe)
Vibe: Small and cozy corner space with a warm interior and dimmed lighting. Perfect for a date night.
Must orders: the dolmas and lamb shawarma tostada with watermelon.
@omri_amsterdam

📍 Chingu (The Pipe)
Vibe: Mainly focused on takeaway, but trust me: you'll want to go out of your way for these Taiwanese rice balls.
Must orders: Jumeok Bap with king crab or mayak egg, so delicious.
@chinguamsterdam

📍 Leonardo's Ravioli Bar (De Pijp)
Vibe: Italian bistro full of cozy nooks in the always lively Pijp neighborhood. Now also open for lunch on weekends.
Must-have orders: as many as possible. And share everything. I can be brief about that.
@leonardosraviolibar

📍 Yellow River Handpulled Noodles (Center)
Vibe: like stepping into a Chinese canteen. You order at the kiosk and wait for your number to be called.
Must-try orders: choose your favorite thickness of noodles + the minced meat noodles. The dumplings are also definitely worth trying.
@yellowrivernoodles

Please let us know where you're going first.

Or where you recently had the best meal, I'm curious!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#amsterdamfood #amsterdam #amsterdamrestaurant #amsterdamlife #amsterdamtravel #amsterdamrestaurants #hotspots

129 14

Open post by yourlbb with ID 17952664892899505

40 X free in Amsterdam, because not everything always has to cost money

Free cinema at 't Zonnehuis

't Zonnehuis in Noord occasionally organizes free film nights and afternoons. You can find the dates and films on their Instagram.
Zonneplein 30, Amsterdam – Instagram

View and make art for free at Pexpo

At Pexpo in Amsterdam-Noord, you can visit for free to view art. They also regularly organize free workshops to spark your own creativity.
Van der Pekstraat 47, Amsterdam – pexpo.nl

Beautiful Distress

The Beautiful Distress House focuses on making people with mental illnesses, who are still too often excluded from society, visible. The art at Beautiful Distress (North) aims to increase understanding and break taboos.
Ms. van Riemsdijkweg 41a, Amsterdam – beautifuldistress.org

The morning service in Carré

On the last Sunday of the month, Carré hosts the Morning Service, which is free to attend. Every month, musicians Xander Vrienten and Daniel von Piekartz invite a third artist, but it's always a surprise who you'll find. The concert starts at 11:00 AM, and no registration is required.
Amstel 115-125, Amsterdam – carre.nl

© ROYAL THEATRE CARRÉ

Rijksmuseum gardens

If you're not interested in viewing art or waiting in endless lines, the Rijksmuseum gardens are a great place to enjoy. Right next to the museum itself, you can enjoy the lush greenery and perfectly trimmed hedges.
Museum Promenade 1, Amsterdam

Theater of Deyssel

On the border of Geuzeveld and Slotermeer, you'll find Theater van Deyssel – a tiny theater run by and for the neighborhood. Admission is free, but registration is required.
Lodewijk van Deysselstraat 91, Amsterdam – frascatitheater.nl

Farmer Framed

Every year, the Farmer Framed platform organizes various exhibitions, cultural and educational programs, and displays in Amsterdam North and East, free for everyone to attend. The themes are inspiring, educational, and contemporary, such as "Art and Knowledge in Times of Crisis."
framerframed.nl

© Farmer Framed, @farmerframed

Spui25

At Spui25, you can attend interesting lectures on a wide variety of topics—from psychiatry to history and literature. Registration is required.
Spui 21, Amsterdam – spui25.nl

Secret Garden

Want to discover Amsterdam's secret garden? You'll find it between Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal and Nieuwendijk. Not only is the garden itself impressive, but so is the work done with it. Every few months, a new artist curates the garden, making it worth visiting several times a year. Enter the garden via Sint Nicolaasstraat 19.

Free art exhibitions at MILK

Melkweg is, of course, a cultural hotspot in Amsterdam, but have you heard of its associated venue, MILK? Various artists exhibit here, with identity as the main theme.
Marnixstraat 409, Amsterdam – melkweg.nl/en/milk

Puppet show on Dam Square

Did you know there's a puppet show in the heart of Amsterdam every Sunday? From May to October, puppeteer Egon Adel performs two shows on Dam Square every Sunday, at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Contributions are voluntary.

Lunch concert Buiksloterkerk

The Buiksloterkerk hosts a free lunchtime concert every month. On Sundays, they begin at 1:00 PM and last about half an hour. Registration is required.
Buiksloterkerkpad 10, Amsterdam – buiksloterkerk.nl

Audio tour Vliegenbos Amsterdam

On the edge of Amsterdam's famous Vliegenbos (Flying Forest) you'll find a lush sculpture garden. It's free to visit, with a complimentary audio tour, which is handy for spotting birds.
vliegenbosamsterdam.nl

© Vliegenbos Amsterdam, @vliegenbosamsterdam

Play forest café

Every Wednesday, it's playtime in Noorderpark! It's a treat for the little ones every Wednesday between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM, when the Play Forest opens for kids. Imagine climbing and swinging through the woods while parents enjoy a snack or drink in the café (although there is a fee, it's not mandatory).
North Park, Amsterdam – noorderpark.nl

Drawing walk

Discover Amsterdam-Noord in a whole new way and see this unique district through the eyes of an artist. Liesje van den Berk organizes a free monthly drawing walk, and it's exactly what the name suggests: you'll draw your way through Noord. The walk starts at Boekhandel van Noord (Buikslotermeerplein), and all supplies are provided. Registration is required.
Buikslotermeerplein 70, Amsterdam – liesjeberk.nl

Museum of Unintentional Art

The Museum of Unintentional Art (MOK) has been collecting objects and installations from the public world for some time now that were never intended as art, but suddenly seem to be when you place them in a museum.
tt neveritaweg 61 beach, Amsterdam – hetmok.nl

Warehouse the Silent

Every year, Pakhuis de Zwijger organizes hundreds of free events – from lectures to high-profile panel discussions. You can find a place to enjoy a night out almost every day. Free reservations are available online.
Piet Heinkade 179, Amsterdam – dezwijger.nl

Porsche exhibition

At Move Amsterdam (the building that also houses Wils and Wils Bakery Café) you can visit a free exhibition about Porsches – the dream of many a car enthusiast.
Stadionplein 28, Amsterdam – move.amsterdam

Soundwalk Oosterpark

Want to experience Oosterpark in a new way? Then try the Soundwalk, an initiative by Echoes. All you need is a phone, earphones, and the Echoes app. It maps the route, which takes about forty minutes, and as you stand beneath the various trees, they come to life with sound.
Echoes app

Oosterpark

Free Comedy/Kafé at Studio/K

On the second Tuesday of the month, Studio/K hosts a free evening to train your funny bone. During Comedy/Kafé, Studio/K offers the stage to inexperienced comedians—and it often works out surprisingly well. If you're feeling brave, you can even take the stage yourself.
Timorplein 62, Amsterdam – studio-k.nu

Free meditation and exercise at Verbroederij

Verbroederij in Amsterdam-Noord regularly organizes free events, such as meditation and exercise classes. For example, there's De Bewegerij (free outdoor exercise) and meditation classes with Tessa. No registration or experience is required.
Johan van Hasseltweg 21, Amsterdam – deverbroederij.nl

Wrong Track – Naughty Rabbit

Every Saturday is a party at Tolhuistuin! Pick up a free map at the Reading House between 12:00 and 18:00. The map contains clues for a treasure hunt that leads you through the vast network of tunnels that Stout Konijn has dug beneath the Tolhuistuin building. In short: a fun event for all ages.
Tolhuisweg 3, Amsterdam – stoutkonijn.nl

Salad gardens of West

In Amsterdam-West, you'll find the Slatuinen van West – a relatively unknown part of Amsterdam. Here, you'll feel like you're outside the city for a moment, nestled in some 4000 square meters of green space.
Slatuinen 45, Amsterdam – natuurtuinslatuinen.nl

Walking routes through the city

Fancy stretching your legs with a leisurely stroll through the city? We've mapped out several fun routes for you that'll take you past Amsterdam's classics, but you might even discover some new spots.
► Amsterdam Jordaan / Westerpark walk
► Amsterdam-North Walk
► Amsterdam East / Center East Walk

Nice playgrounds in Amsterdam

Fancy a fun day at the playground with the kids? Amsterdam has plenty of fun playgrounds that are free to visit. Discover our list of the 4 best playgrounds in Amsterdam City Center and the Jordaan here >>

Children's farms

Did you know that Amsterdam boasts 18 petting zoos? They're fun to visit with the kids. Some petting zoos have special feeding times where children can feed the animals. For example, at the Goat Farm in the Amsterdamse Bos, you can pick up bottles of milk to feed the goats.

The Beguinage

This courtyard is hidden behind a door near the busy Spui in the center of AmsterdamOnce inside, it's like stepping into another world. The courtyard is so peaceful and beautiful! Standing there, you wouldn't guess it's so old; it dates back to the 14th century! A society of religious women (Beginners) once lived here, and single (Catholic) women live here to this day. A perfect place to escape the bustle of the city. Free lunchtime concerts are also held there during the summer months.

Roof terrace of NEMO

On sunny days, you can soak up the sun on NEMO's rooftop terrace. It's free to access via the 120 steps. So pack your sunscreen and enjoy the sunshine and the view from NEMO's rooftop terrace.

© Nemo

More fun things to do in Amsterdam that are free

Museums

{temporarily closed} Amsterdam has many museums and yes, some are free! Near the Beguinage is the Schuttersgalerij, which is part of the Amsterdam MuseumImpressive portraits of the Dutch nobility can be seen here. Curious about the treasures of Amsterdam? The Amsterdam City Archives offers free access to the treasury. See? No need to buy expensive museum tickets because these museums are free! |Tip: With a museum pass, you get access to over 500 museums throughout the Netherlands. A great investment, allowing you to visit museums for free for a year.

pontje

Another nice day out: take the ferry to Amsterdam NorthWhile sailing, enjoy the view over the IJ and get a breath of fresh air. Be sure to take the ferry to the NDSM wharf, where you can see a lot of street art. Afterwards, shop at one of the nice addresses like Blom & Blom en Cousin Louis, or have a drink / have a bite to eat plek, de Ceuvel.

churches

Perhaps not the most trendy, but Amsterdam has beautiful churches worth a visit! Many churches, such as the Old and New Churches, are used for exhibitions. Want to visit a church that still holds services? The Noorderkerk and the Westerkerk are in the Jordan are freely accessible.

Markets

There's nothing more fun than strolling through the market! Besides the many (food) markets Held in Amsterdam, there are a few classics that locals love to attend. Curious about which markets you can visit? Check out our lists of the best ones here. weekend markets, flea markets en organic markets in Amsterdam.

More free activities in Amsterdam

Amsterdam festivals

Every year, Amsterdam hosts free festivals and events. A welcome addition to all those festivals that often require very expensive tickets. Think of the Amsterdam Light Festival, King's Day, Gay Pride, Uitmarkt, Open Monument Day, the Canal Festival, and the Vondelpark Concerts.

The narrowest house

In Amsterdam you will find the narrowest house in the world! It is only 1 meter wide and can be found at Singel 7 in the at the center Amsterdam. Or rather, the facade is only 1 meter wide... The narrowest house in Europe can also be found in our city. A tiny house, 2 meters wide and 6 meters deep, it stands at Oude Hoogstraat 22. Now a tea and ceramics boutique! It's fun to visit and completely free!

Street art

Are you also a fan of street art? It's always so cool to spot new, cool artworks, and there's plenty to see in Amsterdam. We've put together the best ones. street art routes mapped out for you, from North to South, in the Jordan, Wide alley and the at the center.

Spotting artworks by StreetArt Franky

Besides the abundance of street art in Amsterdam, you can also spot the artworks of StreetArt Franky. The artist is known for his humorous street art, each with its own unique story. Every week, new artworks can be discovered in the most unexpected places throughout the city.

More fun things to do in Amsterdam that are free

Parking

Amsterdam's parks definitely shouldn't be missing from this list of free things to do in Amsterdam. Ideal for picnics and barbecues in the summer (for those, head to Westerpark or Rembrandtpark), but wonderful for walking and exercising in any season. For Amsterdammers, these are places to unwind. What always makes me so happy are the green parrots in Vondelpark! They once escaped from the zoo and have been in Vondelpark for years. Westerpark, Amstelpark, Oosterpark, and Sarphatipark are also very nice.

Walking and cycling

There's no better way to explore the city than by bike or simply by foot! Even after all these years, I still discover new, fun places when I'm cycling or taking a side street on foot. In the narrow streets of the Jordan There's still so much to discover! Take a stroll through all the hidden courtyards. Cycle through one of Amsterdam's parks. Or stroll along the beautiful canals or through the woods. The Amsterdamse Bos is a wonderful place for a walk. You can also visit the goat farm, where you can have a great time. 

Movie nights

In the summer, open-air movie nights are organized at various locations throughout the city. Curious where you can watch a movie? Keep an eye on the open-air cinemas Keep an eye on things. For most movie nights, you won't need to bring anything except a chair!

Vondelpark Open Air Theater

The same goes for the open-air theater in Vondelpark. From May to September, the theater is open and hosts music concerts, theater performances, lectures, and even cabaret shows that you can attend for free.

Have fun during your day out in Amsterdam!

more Amsterdam tips