101 Free Things To Do In Amsterdam 2025 Edition

Amsterdam can be an expensive destination for travelers, with major attractions often costing upwards of 25 euros per person. For families and groups, costs can mount up quickly. However, the city offers a wide variety of free activities, ranging from cultural experiences and scenic views to unique local traditions. This guide details 101 free things to do in Amsterdam, curated to help visitors explore the city without breaking the bank. The information is based on travel guides and local tips updated for 2025.

Top 10 Free Activities

The following ten activities are widely considered the best free experiences in Amsterdam.

1. Free GVB Amsterdam Ferries: Operating from the back of Amsterdam Central Station, the blue and white GVB ferries cross the IJ river to Amsterdam-Noord. No tickets are required. The journey offers scenic views, with options to visit the EYE Film museum, the A’DAM Toren building, or the quirky NDSM-wharf area. A 15-minute trip is available to NDSM-wharf.
2. Amsterdam Central Library (OBA Oosterdok): Located east of Central Station in the docklands, Europe’s second-biggest library spans 10 levels. Visitors can browse books, international newspapers, and magazines, visit the children’s library, view exhibitions, or relax in the top-floor café and viewing terrace. The address is Oosterdokskade 143. Opening hours are 08:00-22:00 (Mon-Fri) and 10:00-20:00 (Sat-Sun).
3. NEMO Science Museum Rooftop Square: The NEMO Science Museum features a green-themed rooftop square panorama terrace at the top of the building. It includes seating, a café, and a restaurant, offering views of the city.
4. Visit the Gardens of the Rijksmuseum: Visitors can access the beautiful gardens of the Rijksmuseum for free. The gardens feature flower beds, art installations, and sculptures. They are open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM at Museumstraat 1.
5. Explore the Jordaan Neighborhood: Wandering the charming streets of the Jordaan neighborhood offers a free cultural experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in local life and architecture.
6. Vondelpark Open-Air Theatre: In summer, Vondelpark hosts an open-air theatre offering free music, dance, and theatre shows. Schedules vary, so checking local listings is recommended.
7. Civic Guards Gallery (Schuttersgalerij): Part of the Amsterdam Museum, this gallery showcases historical portraits and is completely free to visit.
8. Street Markets: Visiting street markets like the Albert Cuyp Market provides a free cultural immersion into local commerce and food.
9. Street Art at NDSM Wharf: NDSM Wharf in Amsterdam North is known for its street art. It is accessible via the free ferry from Central Station.
10. Free Cheese Tastings: Amsterdam’s cheese shops, such as Henri Willig and Old Amsterdam, offer free samples of Gouda, Edam, and specialty cheeses. Staff often explain the history of Dutch cheese-making. These shops are typically found around Dam Square.

Cultural and Historical Sites

Museums and Galleries

• Melkweg EXPO Photo Exhibition: Located near Leidseplein at Marnixstraat 409, the Melkweg venue has a gallery open to the public. It hosts approximately six contemporary photo exhibitions each year. Entrance is free, and the atmosphere is informal. Opening hours are 11:00-23:00 (Tue-Sun).
• Amsterdam City Archives and Treasure Room: Visitors can explore the city's history through documents and exhibits at the City Archives.
• De Melkweg Expositions: Beyond the photo exhibitions, Melkweg offers various expositions accessible to the public.
• Open-Air Museum: While specific details were not provided in the source data, the concept of wandering through an open-air museum is listed as a free activity.
• Hidden Courtyards (Hofjes): Amsterdam is famous for its hidden courtyards, or hofjes. These peaceful oases are often tucked away behind residential buildings and are free to visit.
• Oudemanhuispoort Book Market: This covered book market offers a unique browsing experience for visitors interested in second-hand books and prints.

Architecture and Views

• Tracking down the I amsterdam Sign: While the iconic sign was removed from Museumplein in 2018, one remains at Amsterdam Schiphol airport (arrivals). A mobile version occasionally appears around the city.
• Enjoy 360° City Views From the Biggest Rooftop in Amsterdam: Specific details regarding the location of this rooftop were not provided in the source data, but the activity is listed as a free option for panoramic views.
• Wandering Canals: Exploring the city’s famous canals is a free activity that offers architectural beauty and local atmosphere.

Outdoor and Recreational Activities

Parks and Nature

• Vondelpark: As mentioned in the top activities, the park offers free summer performances. It is also a primary location for relaxing, walking, or people-watching.
• Artisplein (Artis Zoo): Visitors can see flamingos and potentially other animals at Artisplein, the entrance area of Artis Zoo. While full zoo entry requires a ticket, the area near the entrance offers a glimpse of the zoo's inhabitants.
• Farm Visit: A farm located at Nieuwe Meerlaan 4 in Amstelveen offers free entrance. Visitors can see goats, lambs, chickens, pigs, cows, and horses, as well as watch farming activities. The farm also features a playground, an organic café, and a farm shop. It is open 10:00-17:00 (Wed-Mon) and is closed on Mondays during winter (Nov-Feb).
• Best Swimming Spots in Amsterdam City Center: The source data lists swimming spots as a free activity, though specific locations were not detailed.
• Amsterdam’s Canals: Walking along the canals provides scenic views and photo opportunities.

Active and Events

• Friday Night Skate: This activity involves joining a group skate through the city on Friday nights.
• Free Festivals in Amsterdam: Various free festivals take place in the city, though specific names or dates were not provided in the source data.
• Musical Swings at Bimhuis: Bimhuis is a venue associated with musical swings and live music.
• Free Concert at Bimhuis: Bimhuis offers free concerts, contributing to the city's vibrant music scene.
• Lotti’s Sunday Live: This venue hosts live music on Sundays.
• Join a Free Walking Tour: Several organizations offer free walking tours of Amsterdam, allowing visitors to explore with a guide.

Unique and Quirky Experiences

• The Cat Boat (Poezenboot): A floating sanctuary for stray and abandoned cats located on a houseboat at Singel 38.G. Entrance is free, though donations are welcome. It is open only 13:00-15:00 (Tue/Fri/Sat). Note: The boat has a small capacity, and visitors may have to wait to board.
• Free Street Bookshelves: Amsterdam features street bookshelves where visitors can take or leave books.
• Explore Street Art at NDSM Wharf – Amsterdam North: Beyond the general exploration, specific focus on the street art at NDSM Wharf is a recommended free activity. Access is via free ferry.

Dining and Shopping Experiences

• Free Cheese Tastings: As detailed in the top activities, cheese shops offer samples of Dutch cheeses. Visitors can try smoked and herb-infused varieties and learn about cheese-making history.
• Dam Square: While not an activity itself, Dam Square is a central hub where visitors can observe the Royal Palace (exterior), the National Monument, and street performers. It is also a location for nearby cheese shops.

Transportation and Logistics

• GVB Ferries: The free ferries behind Central Station are the primary method of cost-free transportation across the IJ river to Amsterdam-Noord. They are distinct from the paid trams and buses.
• Walking: Much of central Amsterdam is walkable, allowing visitors to explore neighborhoods and canals without cost.

Visitor FAQs

Is it possible to visit museums in Amsterdam for free? Yes, some museums offer free entry or have free sections. Examples include the Civic Guards Gallery (Schuttersgalerij) and the gardens of the Rijksmuseum. Additionally, the Melkweg EXPO offers free photo exhibitions.

Are there free ferry services in Amsterdam? Yes, free ferries operate behind Central Station, crossing the IJ River to Amsterdam-Noord. These ferries provide a scenic way to explore areas like NDSM Wharf and the A’DAM Lookout.

What are some free cultural experiences in Amsterdam? Amsterdam offers a variety of free cultural experiences, such as exploring the Jordaan neighborhood, visiting street markets like the Albert Cuyp Market, and admiring street art at NDSM Wharf.

Are there free activities for children? Yes, the farm in Amstelveen (Nieuwe Meerlaan 4) offers free entrance, playground areas, and the chance to see farm animals. The Amsterdam Central Library also has a children's library.

Do I need tickets for the ferries? No tickets are required for the GVB ferries operating from the back of Amsterdam Central Station.

What are the operating hours for the Amsterdam Central Library? The library is open daily: 08:00-22:00 (Mon-Fri) and 10:00-20:00 (Sat-Sun).

Can I really visit a cat sanctuary for free? Yes, The Cat Boat (Poezenboot) is free to enter, though donations are appreciated. It is open limited hours (Tue/Fri/Sat, 13:00-15:00) and has a small capacity.

Are there free cheese tastings available? Yes, shops like Henri Willig and Old Amsterdam offer free samples of Dutch cheeses, often accompanied by explanations of cheese-making history.

Conclusion

Amsterdam remains a city that rewards exploration with a vast array of free activities. From the scenic free ferries and panoramic library views to unique cultural spots like the Cat Boat and hidden courtyards, visitors can fill their itineraries without significant expense. The 2025 edition of free things highlights the city's commitment to accessibility, allowing tourists to experience its art, history, and local life through public spaces, markets, and walking tours. By utilizing the free ferry system, visiting public gardens, and taking advantage of free samples in local shops, travelers can enjoy a rich Amsterdam experience on a budget.

Sources

1. AmsterdamTips.com - Free Things to Do in Amsterdam
2. AmsterdamTravelTips.com - Free Things to Do in Amsterdam
3. Alle.travel - Free Things to Do in Amsterdam
4. WeLikeAmsterdam.com - Best Free Things to Do in Amsterdam