How much spending money do I need in Amsterdam? (2024)

There isn’t another city in Europe like Amsterdam. In fact, there isn’t another city in the world like Amsterdam. Nowhere else does art and excess go hand in hand so readily. Amsterdam is alive by day, and by night. If you are wondering ‘is Amsterdam expensive?’ Here is our spending guide for “the Dam”.

How much spending money do I need in Amsterdam? (1)
Quick Guide
Currency in AmsterdamEuro
Average Daily Spend€106
GBP to EUR£1=€1.20
Local Beer€4.50
Bottle of co*ke€2.44
Pizza€13

Average daily spend by real travellers in Amsterdam: €106 (£94)

This reflects what everyday travellers tend to spend in Amsterdam. Think mid-range – most of the major attractions, a few cab rides, maybe a big night out, and a bit of shopping on the side. It doesn’t include the cost of hotels or car hire as these are often booked in advance.

  • Eating Out: €34 per day
  • Entertainment (bars, tours & attractions):€34 per day
  • Transport: €20 per day
  • Shopping: €48 per day

Want to see where it all goes? Read on!

Money in Amsterdam

Likemany countries in the EU, the Netherlands uses the Euro.The single currency is great if you are also travellingto neighbouring countries on your trip. Cash and card are both widely accepted andyou should have no trouble with Visa or Mastercard. Some smaller shops and restaurants may not have card payment facilities so carrying cash is advised. Surprisingly ATMs, called Geldautomaats are notas widespread as in other European cities but you will still find them in touristic areas and banks. There are a few in Centraal Station, the Airport and around Dam Square. Remember to avoid the conversion charges and pick a card that gives free atm withdrawals.

Cost of Entertainment in Amsterdam

Real Traveller Average Daily Spend: €34

  • “WeSwapper Favourite” Heineken Experience –€16 (average transaction)
  • Rijksmuseum– €17.50
  • Vondel park –Free
  • The Jordaan –Free
  • Lovers (boat trip) – €10
  • “Staff Pick” Over the Edge Swing €17.50 (€12.50 to the A’DAM Lookout and €5 for the swing)

The attraction most popular with WeSwap travellers is the home of Heineken lager, the Heineken Experience. It can get very busy so we would recommend pre-booking to avoid any disappointment. You can buy a “canal trip and tour combination ticket” which kills two birds with one stone, as well as a queue jump. Triple win.

The Rijksmuseum, dedicated to Dutch art and history, is one of the most popular museums in the city and can be found in Museum Square – which is the place to head if you like a good museum! It’s at its most crowded between 11 am and 3 pm so the best strategy is to avoid the middle of the day by arriving early (it opens at 9 am) or late afternoon (last admission is at 4:30 pm). Amsterdam is very card friendly so you should have no troubleusing your WeSwap card at museums or anywhere else.

How much spending money do I need in Amsterdam? (2)

Like Hyde Park in London, Vondel Park is must visit on a hot summer’s day in the capital. Also like Hyde, on a hot day, it can get really busy so rock up early to claim a good pitch. BBQs are everywhere, as are frisbee, football and drinking! There is also a great people watching cafe terrace by the Eye Film Museum.

If you do fancy a boat trip, partake in a 1-hour boat trip by a company called Lovers for €10, it goes from American Hotel by Leidseplein. It’s much better value than the €25 hop on hop off option which you never actually hop on and off!

Amsterdam now boasts Europe’s highest over the edge swing which is our staff pick of things to do in the Dam. No prizes for guessing what the experience involves… you’ll swing over the edge of a 100m high building For those who don’t fancy the swing, the observation deck itself is still worth a lookand quite scary in its own right…

How much spending money do I need in Amsterdam? (3)

Cost of food and drink in Amsterdam

Real Traveller Average Daily Spend: €34

  • WeSwapper Favourite”The Pancake Bakery€8 (Average traveller transaction)
  • Wildschut – €30 per head
  • Rijsttafel (type of Indonesian food) – pricey vary
  • co*cktail with a view: Madam Panorama Bar – €10-€13 (average co*cktail)
  • Glass of wine/beer in the bar €4.50
  • Cup of coffee – €2.50
  • “Staff pick” Loetje – €59 (average traveller transaction)

WeSwap travellers have spent more Euros in The Pancake Factory than in any other restaurant in Amsterdam. The portions are huge and big enough to share between two, or even three depending on how hungry you are. The staff aresuper-friendly but then again, they are in most places in the Dutch capital.

Wildschut:practically next door to College Hotel is a big traditional Dutch Cafe with a lovely terrace. It’s simple but good quality food (ie great for burgers, chicken satay – which you get everywhere due to the heavy Indonesianinfluence in Amsterdam.

Bitterballenis a great place to enjoy a pint of Heineken and indulge in delicious Dutch bar snack like croquettes!

As briefly mentioend before, the Netherlands’ colonial history means that Indonesian cuisine is as interesting, if not more interesting than traditional dutch cooking. There are lots of great Indonesian restaurants and we’re not going to tip up one but rather, one thing that you should order. One word you need to remember. That word is “Rijsttafel” which translates as “rice table”. It’s a great option for anyone who likes to try a little bit of everything as loads and loads of small dishes come out, affording you that lovely feeling of knowing you ordered well (and thus avoiding any food envy).

Our staff pick is Cafe Loetje, which is,according to Rob, isthebest steak &frites in town”. This is super-popular with the locals which is never a bad sign. If the weather is nice then go enjoy the terrace out the front and be sure to book on the weekend to avoid a lengthy queue.

Cost of Transport inAmsterdam

Real Traveller Average Daily Spend: €20

  • Taxi from airport to the centre: €45
  • Train from airport to city centre:€4.20
  • Bus to Venice dock from the airport: €9
  • 24hr waterbus pass:€20

Firstly, when you arrive, make sure you don’t get a cab into town – it’s a pointless exercise. The train takes you right, slap bang into the middle of the action and takes much less time.

Amsterdam is compact, so walking everywhere is perfectly feasible (maybe with the odd train or metro trip).

To travel like a local and make use of the excellent cycle lanes though, you should rent a bike! Amsterdam is a flat city so you can take it easy and not work up a sweat if you don’t want to. For public transport (trams, metros, and buses), buy a chip card at a ticket vending machine or counter, or ask the driver for a tourist pass (there are one-to seven-day cards starting at $8).

How much spending money do I need in Amsterdam? (4)

Cost of a Shopping Trip inAmsterdam

Real Traveller Average Daily Spend: €48

9 Straajtes (Nine Streets) – is a lovely trendy boutique shopping area, a grid of 3 streets crossing 3 canals, one-off and vintage shops but also Paul Smith and other big names including Amsterdam Scotch & Soda (local version of Hollister / A&F, v good )- good for browsing and a wonder, everywhere has lovely cafes to stop.

PC Hoofstraat– the designer street like old Bond St, massive G Star Raw shop at the top of the road, and Victor & Rolf – the most famous Dutch brands, also Tiffany etc.

Kalverstraat – is the Oxford St, big versions of all the high street style shops, it crosses Dam Square – not somewhere I would spend too much time on a weekend.

Cornelius Schutstraat, lovelyup-market shopping street in Oud Zuid is a small but lovely place to wander.

Last checked and updated: 03.07.2018. All travel, accommodation and entertainment costs are taken from the provider’s official website – but don’t forget to double check yourself first before you head off.

_

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam, then you might consider WeSwap for your Euros. Our peer-to-peer platform makes travel money up to 90% cheaper for travellers. You’ll also join a 200,000+ community swapping travelling tips and wisdom as well as their travel money!

How much spending money do I need in Amsterdam? (2024)

FAQs

How much spending money do I need in Amsterdam? ›

The average daily budget for a trip to Amsterdam can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. However, a rough estimate for a budget traveler would be around €60-80 per day, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend around €100-150 per day.

How much money do I need for 1 week in Amsterdam? ›

The average price of a 7-day trip to Amsterdam is $2,118 for a solo traveler, $3,804 for a couple, and $7,131 for a family of 4. Amsterdam hotels range from $109 to $347 per night with an average of $153, while most vacation rentals will cost $280 to $590 per night for the entire home.

How much spending money do I need for 3 nights in Amsterdam? ›

Euro100/day/person can be enough if you just stay, eat, visit regular places. Or if you are looking to do some luxury shopping like at many popular diamonds shops in Amsterdam and stay & eat at luxury establishments Euro10,000/day/person would be enough.

Is 200 enough for Amsterdam? ›

The city itself is small enough for walking between most highlights. 200-300 Pounds should last your whole trip, seeing as how you won't be able to spend them anywhere in Amsterdam.

What money do you need for Amsterdam? ›

In Amsterdam (and in the rest of Netherlands) we use the Euro currency. There are 8 coins; 1, 2 and 5 cent, 10, 20 and 50 cent, 1 and 2 Euro coins.

Is 100 Euros a day enough in Amsterdam? ›

The average daily budget for a trip to Amsterdam can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. However, a rough estimate for a budget traveler would be around €60-80 per day, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend around €100-150 per day.

Do you need cash for Amsterdam? ›

Money and currency

Credit cards are widely accepted too, though in some small shops or hotels, there might an extra charge (2-6%) if you pay by a credit card, passport may be required. Generally, the most preferred payment method is Euro cash with the banknotes up to 50 Euro bill.

Do I need cash or card for Amsterdam? ›

The Netherlands is a very modern country. You can pay with cash or a debit card, and often with your phone via NFC, Apple Pay, or Google Wallet.

Can I use my debit card in Amsterdam? ›

Cards are accepted in most places

Major credit cards and debit cards, such as Visa, MasterCard and American Express are widely accepted in the Netherlands at restaurants, hotels, and tourist destinations. Although some small shops may charge a fee of anywhere from 2-6% if you use them.

How many Euros should I take for 3 days in Amsterdam? ›

Re: How many Euros should i bring to Amsterdam for 3 whole days. A 100 a day for the two of you should be ok. Most places will let you pay by credit card so you can easily get away with bringing much less cash than that.

Can I use USD at Amsterdam airport? ›

With this in mind, in the Netherlands as well as many other European countries, the accepted currency is Euro (EUR, €). This means that if you travel to the vibrant city of Amsterdam from a country that uses a different currency, you will have to change your dollars, pounds, sterling, yens, rupees, etc. to Euros.

Do you tip in Amsterdam? ›

That's because, in the Netherlands, there is no social or written requirement to tip a restaurant worker. However, if you received good service or thoroughly enjoyed the food, it's customary to give a small tip — around 5-10% of the bill.

Is Amsterdam mostly cashless? ›

The Netherlands is one of the countries in Europe leading in the adoption of a cashless payment environment.

Do they speak English in Amsterdam? ›

Language spoken in Amsterdam: English

Although it is not an official language, in Amsterdam - and in the Netherlands more generally - there are many Dutch people who speak English (90% of the population) at a level practically equal to that of a native speaker.

Does Amsterdam have Uber? ›

Complete your plans today by reserving a ride with Uber in Amsterdam. Request a ride up to 30 days in advance, at any time and on any day of the year.

How much money should I bring to Amsterdam for 7 days? ›

My research estimates approximately $2,255 per person for one week including flights, accommodation, food, transportation and attractions, and some extra spending money.

Can you do Europe on $100 a day? ›

While your exact expenses depend on a lot of factors, here is the short answer to the question: how much do I need to budget for backpacking Europe? Backpackers should expect to spend between $40 – $70 USD/day in Eastern Europe, $70 – $100/day in Western Europe, and $150 – $200/day in the Nordic countries.

How much cash should I bring to Europe? ›

Consider carrying between $50 and $100 a day on average, but remember that cash can bring fees and thieves along with it. Payment cards often have lower fees and are far easier to carry with you while travelling.

How many euros to bring to Amsterdam? ›

If you are entering or leaving the EU and carrying cash worth €10,000 or more, you must declare it. Cash can be banknotes and/or coins. Declare your cash with customs in the country where you are entering or leaving the EU.

Can I use my US credit card in Amsterdam? ›

Mastercard and Visa are the most widely accepted credit cards in the Dutch retail space; American Express tends to be accepted only by major retailers in the Netherlands who have an international client base – although Amex acceptance is growing.

Can I pay cash for Uber in Amsterdam? ›

Yes, you can pay with cash.

What plugs are used in Amsterdam? ›

The Netherlands uses the Type F electrical plug. This plug has two round pins, spaced about 2 cm apart, and is the same as those used in many countries in Continental Europe. The standard voltage is 230-volts, but some hotels have special plugs for 110 or 120-volt shavers.

Do restaurants in Amsterdam take cash? ›

Dutch currency

Many shops and restaurants in Amsterdam accept credit cards, but not all. It is therefore recommended to either ask before you order or ensure you have a sufficient amount in cash to cover the bill. Most shops and restaurants do not accept €200 or €500 notes.

What is the best way to pay for things in the Netherlands? ›

Debit cards are the top payment method across the entire retail sector in the Netherlands, despite the high number of iDEAL transactions online. Around 60% of all retail transactions in the country (averaged across online and offline) are paid with debit cards. The most common cards in the country are Maestro and Vpay.

Should I bring cash to Netherlands? ›

Cash. If you are travelling to the Netherlands from outside the EU with € 10,000 or more in cash, you need to declare it. This also applies if you are carrying € 10,000 worth of foreign currency, gold or gold coins.

Should I tell my bank I'm going abroad? ›

Yes! It's hugely important for customers to inform their bank of their travel plans in advance. This helps to protect against fraudulent activity and ensures that you have access to your funds while you are away. Be aware of any limits on the amount of money that can be withdrawn or spent while you are abroad.

Do I need to notify my bank when I travel? ›

Generally, you should tell your bank the locations you are traveling to and the dates/duration of your travels. This will allow you to continue using your credit cards and debit cards without the fraud detection on your accounts being triggered, preventing you from using your cards.

Are ATMs free in Amsterdam? ›

Most bank ATMs in the Netherlands don't actually charge per withdrawal. However, there's no law against withdrawal fees.

Is 3 nights too long in Amsterdam? ›

How many nights should I stay in Amsterdam? As a general rule, most travelers can plan on spending between 2-4 days in Amsterdam, depending on whether or not they take any day trips, and how long they plan to spend in the Netherlands overall.

Is 1 hour transfer in Amsterdam enough? ›

The minimum required transfer time at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is 40 minutes for Schengen flights and 50 minutes for non-Schengen flights. Please note, though, that if you travel to a non-Schengen country, you'll need to go through additional security and passport checks.

How much is the average meal in Amsterdam? ›

Prices in restaurants in Amsterdam.
Meal in a cheap restaurant15 EUR (9.50-25)
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course68 EUR (50-120)
McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal)10.00 EUR (8.80-12)
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught)5.00 EUR (3.50-7.00)
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)4.50 EUR (4.00-6.00)
5 more rows

How much is $1 in Amsterdam? ›

1 USD = 1.802634 ANG Jun 12, 2023 14:53 UTC

The currency converter below is easy to use and the currency rates are updated frequently.

Where is the best place to exchange currency in Amsterdam? ›

The best currency exchange service in Amsterdam is not a widespread chain, but a business with just one conveniently located office: Pott Change, at Damrak 95. Just steps from Dam Square and minutes on foot from Amsterdam Central Station, Pott Change consistently offers the best exchange rates in town.

Can you use American money in the Netherlands? ›

People visiting the Netherlands should not expect to use their US dollars in the country since the official currency there is the Euro. This is why they should be exchanging their dollars for euros. People are advised to do so by seeking out the best conversion rate.

Can you drink tap water in Amsterdam? ›

Can you drink tap water in Amsterdam? The answer is yes! Drinking water from taps in the city is very safe to drink and even has a great taste! We tell you were to find the spots and why the water is so special.

What is the etiquette in Amsterdam? ›

Basic Etiquette

Be punctual when you can and always give a fair warning of your tardiness if you anticipate delays. It is considered rude to keep people waiting. It is polite to cover your mouth when yawning. It is rude to speak whilst chewing gum.

How do you say hello in the Netherlands? ›

When meeting someone in a casual setting, it is common for people to say “Hoi” ('Hi') or “Hoe gaat het?” ('How are you? ') Meanwhile in formal settings, the most common greeting is “Hoe gaat het met u?” ('How are you? ').

Can I use Apple pay in Amsterdam? ›

You can now pay with Apple Pay wherever you can pay contactless with your debit card. Using Apple Pay to make contactless payments is relatively secure. Each POS transaction generates a new security key. This key is transmitted to the card issuer.

Do Amsterdam coffee shops take cards? ›

if you want cash, you can always use a ATM. Coffeeshops don't take cards.

Can I use my Visa debit card in the Netherlands? ›

Visa Debit is now also widely accepted in the Netherlands. Dutch cardholders and foreign visitors can pay with the new Visa Debit payment cards in most shops in the Netherlands.

Can you spend 7 days in Amsterdam? ›

A seven-day holiday gives you the opportunity to really experience the beauty of Amsterdam. The city has so much to offer in terms of art, shopping, culture, history and entertainment. It would be such a pity to only plan a hurry-up weekend city trip.

Is Amsterdam expensive to eat and drink? ›

Prices for meals out vary considerably in Amsterdam and range from the budget fast-food places, cheap eetcafé-style restaurants to the more upscale establishments. Drinks prices are generally consistent overall although higher prices can be found at either “tourist traps” or trendier bars and clubs.

What is the cheapest month to go to Amsterdam? ›

Generally, the cheapest time to visit Amsterdam is in the winter – usually between November and March. It's important to bear in mind that it can get quite cold in Amsterdam at this time of year. Most holidaymakers want to travel when the weather is at its warmest and this means summer for Amsterdam.

How many days is ideal in Amsterdam? ›

How many nights should I stay in Amsterdam? As a general rule, most travelers can plan on spending between 2-4 days in Amsterdam, depending on whether or not they take any day trips, and how long they plan to spend in the Netherlands overall.

Can you walk around Amsterdam in a day? ›

Bicycles outnumber the human population and the long history of beer is being revolutionized by craft brewers. The city is robust, but it is possible to get a vibe of Amsterdam in one day – and an Amsterdam walking tour is a fantastic way to do it.

Is 5 days in Amsterdam too long? ›

This 5 day Amsterdam itinerary includes all best things to do for first-time visitors, as well as all the most popular hotspots and hidden gems. Five days is actually an ideal amount of time to spend in Amsterdam, as you have a chance to explore the city's best attractions and even enjoy a day trip in the countryside.

What is a Dutch breakfast? ›

A typical Dutch breakfast consists of bread, whether or not toasted, with cheesemeat butter and sweet toppingslike chocolate spread, sprinkles and flakes. In addition to a sandwich, Dutch people also often eat rusks, gingerbread, currant bread or a plate of porridge.

How much is a pizza in Amsterdam? ›

Takeaway meals (like kebabs with fries) or similar dishes from a takeaway shop will cost about €4-€6. A cheap pizza will cost about €5-€6.

How much is the toilet fee in Amsterdam? ›

THE RESTROOM

Our public toilets are open 7 days a week. The costs of a toilet visit are € 1,-. You can pay with coins as well as with pin.

Do I need a visa for Amsterdam? ›

If you want to stay in the Netherlands for less than 90 days, you may need a short-stay Schengen visa.

What time of year is best for Amsterdam? ›

The best time to visit Amsterdam is during the summer months when you can make the most temperatures around 20 - 22 °C and 7 daily hours of sunshine. Earlier summer is likely to see drier weather with August actually the wettest month of the year.

What time of year is best to visit Amsterdam? ›

June to August is best for great weather and festivals

With warm weather, lots of daylight and amazing outdoor events, summer is one of the best times to visit Amsterdam.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Corie Satterfield

Last Updated:

Views: 5623

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (62 voted)

Reviews: 85% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Corie Satterfield

Birthday: 1992-08-19

Address: 850 Benjamin Bridge, Dickinsonchester, CO 68572-0542

Phone: +26813599986666

Job: Sales Manager

Hobby: Table tennis, Soapmaking, Flower arranging, amateur radio, Rock climbing, scrapbook, Horseback riding

Introduction: My name is Corie Satterfield, I am a fancy, perfect, spotless, quaint, fantastic, funny, lucky person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.