Best Budget Amsterdam Stops

Our Local Expert Says:

You may notice that not all the windows are red. The blue windows on Barndesteeg are windows for women who are women only from the waist up.

Description:

Quite possibly Amsterdam's most defining feature, the Red Light District is the place to see some truly unique things. If prostitutes in windows aren't enough, you can also find an Erotic Museum, which takes you through the history of prostitution, the Hash Marijuana and Hemp Museum, which tells you all you need to know about weed, and the Banana Bar, a bar where waitresses are highly skilled in the various ways of eating a banana. If you want to learn more about prostitution in the Netherlands, visit the Prostitute Information Centre, located next to the Oude Kerk. If this doesn't excite you, the Warmoestraat, which runs along the Red Light District, is full of coffeeshops, bars, hostels and gay S&M clubs. Walking through the Red Light District today you may notice that some windows contain out of place fashion exhibitions. This is a result of the city's efforts to "clean up" the streets.

Our Local Expert Says:

Best meal under 10 euros.

Description:

Situated in a lofty and spacious former church, Bazar captures the atmosphere of a North-African market place with its décor and fusion of foods from Arabic countries. Located along the city's largest outdoor market, which is also a popular nightlife area, you will find couples as well as rowdy groups of friends starting their night out here. While the service is average for the Netherlands, the inexpensive and varied menu of delicious foods more than makes up for it.

Our Local Expert Says:

Best view in Chinatown

Description:

Bird first opened its snackbar at Zeedijk 77 in 1993, part of a new influx of Asian eateries taking over the formerly shady area of Amsterdam which is now known as the city's "China town." In 1998 they opened this restaurant across the street. Popular with locals and tourists alike, visitors can enjoy a Thai atmosphere and staff to acompany their traditional Thai dishes.

Description:

At this popular local restaurant, guests enjoy a traditional French/Belgian meal in one of the nicest historical industrial buildings in Netherlands. The building was once a water pumping station and the wonderful but simple atmosphere is enhanced by 22 original floodlights from the old Ajax and Olympic stadiums - both legendary soccer stadiums. The food is straightforward but very good, whilst prices remain relatively low. Salads, oysters, fish, soups and steaks all feature on the menu. The wine list comprises a thoughtfully selected cluster of (mostly French) wines. As this is a popular dining spot, it is advisable to reserve a table.

Description:

Winston Kingdom is an old hotel located in the Red Light District. Winston organizes a variety of performances from poetry readings on Monday to obscure underground-bands on other weekdays. On the weekends there are (house) parties with resident DJs who all have their own style and followers. Examples are Nova, Superfly, Polak and DR Wackenstein. The music they play varies from 70s disco to the latest underground house. The ambience is hot and steamy and appeals to musicians, groupies and artists as well as to locals and visitors.

Our Local Expert Says:

Quirkiest Church

Description:

During the Reformation, Catholics weren't allowed to openly practice their religion, so a hidden church in the attic of a house was established. Now known as "Our Lord in the Attic" Museum, it is the second oldest museum in Amsterdam. Guided tours are available. Every first Sunday of the month between October and April, you can join in an "attic celebration." The museum is open 10:00 to 17:00 Monday through Saturday, and 13:00 to 17:00 on Sunday and public holidays. Adults cost €8.00 and children ages 6 to 18 cost €4.00.

- Jessica E. Lipowski, Amsterdam Local Expert

Description:

The Bloemenmarkt, or Flower Market, is one of Amsterdam's most famous attractions. In the summer, the market is full of bouquets of the country's tulips, but beautiful flower arrangements of other varieties can be found year-long. It is here that you can also buy bulbs for all sorts of varieties of unique tulips, including certified bulbs that can be exported. But aside from flowers, the flower market is lined with souvenir shops containing every typical souvenir from Holland you can imagine.

Description:

Experience the life of world-renowned artist Rembrandt van Rijn by visiting his home and studio. See where he lived, gathered inspiration, produced his work and taught pupils. From paintings and drawings to etchings and copper plates, the museum owns almost all of his work and rotates the displays. Demonstrations of paint preparation and etchings, as well as children's activities, are offered daily. The museum is open from 10:00 to 17:00, charging €10 for adults and €3 for children ages 6 to 17. Tours are available upon request.

- Jessica E. Lipowski, Amsterdam Local Expert