Plenty of museums have sections which are free to visit.
For example, the Civic Guards Gallery, which is part of the Amsterdam Museum. It offers an impressive collection of both historic and contemporary portraits of the Dutch nobility.
Or take a look at the Treasury (the vault of the former Dutch Trading Company) in the City Archives of Amsterdam. It was declared by The Guardian as one of the ten best free museums (sections) in Europe.
Also the gardens of the Rijksmuseum are freely accessible to the public every day. This sculpture garden is a new city park, and an extension of the museum where visitors can relax.
Furthermore, you can get a free tour of the Gassan diamond factory. You can see how diamonds are cut from their raw form into beautiful jewelry.
One of the most beautiful attractions in Amsterdam is a canal cruise. If you don't want to spend any money, but still want to take a boat, you can take the free ferry behind the Central Station so you can briefly go through the old harbor. From the ferries you have a beautiful view of the skyline of Amsterdam, and the modern buildings.
The Music theater features a free concert every Tuesday at 12:30 pm.
Jazz lovers can indulge themselves for free in the Badcuyp every Sunday during Sunday Night Jazz sessions.
The Bimhuis organizes at least one free concert, workshop or jam session a week.
In the summer time, the city comes to life with culture and entertainment. On the Leidseplein and the Dam Square you'll often encounter a street theater. It is no surprise that Amsterdam is a magnet for buskers and street performers, some of whom are surprisingly good. While you are walking in the streets of the old town, you often see street musicians, small bands or even small orchestras. The Vondelpark during the weekend, and the Leidseplein during the evenings are the places to be for many of these concerts.
The festival season starts in April and ends around January, which means that there is always something to do in every month of that period.
The largest annual free street party is on King's Day in April, with live performances all over the city and many orange square celebrations.
Below are three different free audio tours to listen in the open air and watching at sights in the center of Amsterdam
Dam audiotour; takes ca. 2 hours. During this free audiotour you'll find out about the origins of the Dam square, but also about its architecture through the centuries – from the Royal Palace to Hotel Krasnapolsky.
Rokin audiotour; takes ca. 2 hours. An architecture guide takes you on a trip along Rokin and tells you the stories behind 15 remarkable buildings and projects – from the Royal Industrieele Groote Club to Hotel De L'Europe.
Nes audiotour; takes ca. 1,5 hours. On this free audiotour, you'll hear a lot about convents, theatres and tobacco, but also about the neverending transformation of one of the oldest streets in Amsterdam.
Western canal route (1600 - 1660) The area counts many atmospheric streets. The Golden Age intertwines with the Middle Ages.
Southern canal route (1660 - 1700) The southern canal belt offers a magnificent view of the Amstel on the east side. From the quay you have a beautiful view of the H'ART Museum and the Magere Brug(Skinny Bridge).
Hidden behind an unassuming door on Spui lies the Begijnhof, a serene oasis of peace and beauty in the bustling heart of Amsterdam. This historic courtyard, dating back to the 14th century, was once the home of a group of religious women known as the Begijnen, who had taken vows of chastity. What to Expect at the Begijnhof? - A Slice of Medieval History: Discover ...
Visit the Skylounge at the DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton and experience breathtaking panoramic views of the city. This exclusive lounge offers a unique experience with its stylish decor and unparalleled vistas. What to Expect at the Skylounge? - Spectacular Views: Enjoy stunning views of Amsterdam, including iconic landmarks such as Central Station, the historic city ...
The Rijksmuseum Gardens, a 'green outdoor hall' of over 14,500 m², are an oasis of calm and beauty. These beautiful gardens, surrounding the famous Rijksmuseum, offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. What to Expect in the Rijksmuseum Gardens? - Diverse Historical Garden Styles: Discover a variety of historical garden styles with beautiful ...
Civic Guards Gallery Hidden in the heart of Amsterdam, the Civic Guards Gallery offers a fascinating glimpse into Dutch history and art. This historic gallery showcases impressive civic guards pieces from the Golden Age. What to Expect at the Civic Guards Gallery? - A Step Back in Time: Stroll through the gallery and experience what life was like in Amsterdam ...
Experience the enchantment of diamonds at Gassan Diamonds, one of the most prestigious diamond polishing factories in the heart of Amsterdam. This historic location offers a unique insight into ...
The impressive Treasury: the permanent and free exhibition of the Amsterdam City Archives. Explore the collection of historical documents and artifacts that are essential to the history of ...
The Public Library Amsterdam at Oosterdok offers one of the most beautiful views of the center of Amsterdam. With an area of 28,000 square meters, it is also the largest library in the ...
Blue°Amsterdam is a café and restaurant with an amazing 360-degree view of the city. Located in a futuristic glass tower in the middle of the city centre, Blue offers a a view of Amsterdam ...
Enjoy a unique and cost-free experience in Amsterdam with the freeferry across the IJ. These ferries offer not just a practical mode of transport but also stunning views of the city and its ...
The Westerkerk in Amsterdam is one of the city's most famous churches, built in the Dutch Renaissance style and filled with historical highlights. Located on the edge of the Jordaan, along the ...
