Travel

Amsterdam has many rings of canals. (Photo: amsterdam houses image by Patrik Stedrak from Fotolia.com )

The Dutch capital of Amsterdam consists of elegant Renaissance architecture, cozy cafes and world-class museums, all wrapped into a web of 160 man-made canals. Amsterdam might not be a typical paradise for budget-minded traveler s, but the city does offer a relatively affordable collection of attractions and accommodations. Add in the compact layout of the city center and the efficient public transit system, and it s easy to see the possibilities for a thrifty vacation in Holland s largest metropolis.

Flights go into Amsterdam via Schiphol Airport, but finding cheap direct flights can be tricky. Use sites like Skyscanner and Kayak to track special deals, or consider flying into an alternate city in Europe before completing the trip to Amsterdam. Gadling recommends destinations such as Brussels, London, Paris and Dusseldorf as cheap hubs to fly into. Budget airlines like Ryanair offer inexpensive connecting flights to Amsterdam, or there s the option of long-distance trains and buses.

Visitors that do fly into Schiphol Airport can save money by taking the public train into downtown Amsterdam rather than hiring a taxi or shuttle bus. The ride lasts only 20 minutes and costs far less than cab fare.

Amsterdam s compact city center makes walking a cheap and simple option for getting around. Longer commutes are better suited for Amsterdam s trams and buses, which offer several ticket options. The Enkele Reis (single-ride ticket) is valid for one hour and can be purchased from tram and bus drivers when boarding. The more practical option for sightseeing is the Strippenkaart (strip ticket) that allows tourists to buy credit for anywhere from two to 45 rides at a time. Fodor s recommends the 15-strip ticket for short-term visits. Travelers also can purchase the Dagkaart (day card), which is valid for periods of one, two or three days, and includes access to all urban bus and streetcar routes. Taking it one step further is the slightly more expensive All Amsterdam Transport Pass, featuring unlimited rides on trams, buses, metro rail and designated canal boats, plus coupon discounts for some of the city s major attractions. Purchase tickets and passes at any rail station, bus stop kiosk or postal office.

Amsterdam s taxis rank among the most expensive in all of Europe, according to Lonely Planet. Consider alternatives such as bicycle hire. Many locals commute along well-marked bike lanes, and myriad agencies will rent bicycles to tourists with a cash deposit and passport ID.

Gadling suggests buying the I Amsterdam Card from the Amsterdam Tourist Agency. This pass provides access to more than 30 sites, including famous museums like the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. The card pays for itself if used at multiple attractions throughout the day. Passes are available for one-, two- and three-day periods with exponential price breaks. The pass also includes free public transportation, making it an even better value.

As for free attractions, although most exhibits and facilities charge, scenic Vondelpark features beautiful landscaping and free concerts in the summer. Also in the park is the free Filmmuseum, a collection of rare film archives and memorabilia.

Budget hotels and cheap hostels abound in Amsterdam. Hostels typically rent dorm beds for very little, while mid-range hotels offer rooms for only a little more.