Amsterdam locals know the ins and outs of Amsterdam dining on the cheap. Here are our top tips for Amsterdam budget dining.

From our budget guide to Amsterdam:

• Top budget hotels in Amsterdam
• Hotel advice: Read this first
• How to avoid the crowds at Amsterdam’s biggest attractions

Amsterdam budget dining tips

1. When and where to eat

First off, lunch in Amsterdam usually runs from noon to 4 p.m. and dinner begins around 6 p.m. Between lunch and dinner, many cafes will have small fried snacks, nuts or cheese, and meat plates to nibble on. And late at night, you’ll see snacks a-plenty catering to the bar crowd.

When it comes to finding the best local eats, the more off the beaten path you hunt, the better. If your accommodation is outside the city center, that’s great — check out the nearby dining digs there first before heading into the central tourist areas. And if you’re eating in the center, keep your eyes (and ears!) open for locals. Find a place packed with Dutch diners? Check out the menu, and take a chance — even if it’s not in your guide!

Related: 8 Affordable restaurants that Amsterdam locals love

2. Lunch is cheaper than dinner. Always.

First, there are many typical Dutch “brown cafes” that double as gastropubs. Just ask to see their list of cheapo-friendly lunch sandwiches. These are usually a hearty, open-face affair with fresh, melted, or toasted toppings. Sandwiches range between €4 to €6, but come evening, the menu shifts to dinner with plates at twice the price.

Tip: To save big, consider eating bigger at lunchtime and having a more modest dinner to end your day. It’s probably healthier, too!

Related: Coffeeshop? Cafe? Understanding coffee in Amsterdam

3. Lunch at the upscale restaurants

If you’re looking to dive into a plate of fine French, Mediterranean, and Euro-fusion decadence on a budget, check your dream restaurant’s lunch menu. There are many Michelin-star restaurants, upscale set-course menus, and white tablecloth dining establishments that offer a delicious gourmet meal during lunch for a third of the dinner price, or sometimes even cheaper.

Dutch bakeries offer flaky treats for €1 to €2 a piece. Photo: uncle leo

4. Consider skipping the hotel breakfast

If breakfast isn’t included in your stay, don’t pay more than €5 for it – anything more would be overpriced, unless it’s a huge spread of hot and cold catering smorgasbord. There is always a bakery nearby to duck into for flaky croissants, savory and whole grain rolls, quiches, and coffees for cheap.

Related: Where to have a traditional Dutch breakfast | Top 10 budget hotels in Amsterdam

5. Avoid Argentinian steakhouses in the tourist center

Sure, they might seem like a good deal with their “lunch specials” of steak, fries, and salad. Plus, they’re all over the city center. However, beware of Argentinian steakhouses around Dam Square, Rembrandtplein, and Leidseplein nightlife areas — these places just serve thawed-out, packaged dinners to rooms full of tourists. If you’re looking for a steak, it’s best to splurge on a real-deal steakhouse.

6. Get thee to the grocery store

Amsterdam is overrun with Albert Heijn grocery stores, and they’re very convenient for anyone looking for a lunch “to go” or to eat al fresco in the park. Check the refrigerators around the produce sections for sandwiches, salads, and fruit smoothies, and also the cheese and meat counters for tapas-size portions of tasty take-away nibbles, including dips like guacamole, hummus, tapenade, and pesto.

Top it all off with a chilled bottle of white or a Belgian beer sold by the bottle, and you’re set for a perfect Dutch picnic!

7. Munch in the markets

The Albert Cuypmarkt (open daily 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Sunday), the weekend markets at Noordermarkt and Nieuwmarkt, and the neighborhood markets like Dappermarkt and Ten Katemarkt are all great places to pick up fresh snacks and street food on the cheap. The markets have it all, from healthy kebabs (yes, they do exist) to fresh (or fried) fish, homemade baked goods, and exotic eats.

And check out the cafes that border the outdoor markets — you’ll see a lot of budget-friendly Indonesian, Surinamese, Turkish, or Chinese eats.

Related: Our favorite Amsterdam street markets

8. Thirsty? It never hurts to ask.

Yes, Amsterdam is one of those European cities where restaurant servers are known to refuse tap water to customers. But not always. When you sit down, ask for “water van de tap” or tap water. If the server says it is “not possible”, don’t take it personally — they’ve been saying this all day to disappointed customers.

When you’re forced to order a bottle of water, you should definitely take a quick look at the drink menu first and make sure it’s worth it. Quite often a beer, house wine, or coffee is the same price… or even cheaper!

Waiters and waitresses in Amsterdam make a good wage, so you don’t have to worry about leaving too big a tip. Photo: FH

9. Tipping is NOT a big thing here

Being a super generous tipper in Amsterdam is not seen as impressive, kind, or flattering. It’s actually more likely to be perceived as ridiculous and flashy.

Why? Because servers, baristas, bartenders, and others in the hospitality industry are paid a normal and healthy wage that isn’t heavily reliant upon tips. So, bartenders serving beers do not expect tips, and when paying for a round of drinks for table service, just leave some small change if service was exceptional. For dining, 10% is the norm unless the service was out of this world.

Related: How much should you tip in Amsterdam?

10. Going Dutch is a big thing here

Anyone going out for dinner with a local should know that splitting the bill and “going Dutch” is the norm. It’s definitely not rude to split the bill with your date (especially if your date is Dutch). If they’re not Dutch, then you might want to skip this advice and trust your own instincts.

Your Amsterdam budget dining advice

Have tips, advice or questions about dining on a budget in Amsterdam? Share with us in the comments section below!

The post Amsterdam: 10 tips for dining on a budget appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

The demand to get into the Anne Frank House found its rival in the Van Gogh Museum, and meanwhile, the Rijksmuseum has been attracting huge numbers since it reopened in 2013. The Red Light District is crammed almost every night, and the party plazas never seem to be empty of, well, party people.

Tips for visiting Amsterdam attractions

We’ve talked about alternatives to Amsterdam’s most popular sights in previous posts, but despite the growing crowds, it’s worth it to visit Amsterdam’s biggest attractions. Even in high season, when tourism is at its peak, there are still easy ways to help you enjoy the top tourist attractions.

With these simple tips and a little bit of patience, you can survive and thrive amid the crowds at Amsterdam’s most famous spots.

Lining up early outside of the Van Gogh Museum. Photo: Michael Coghlan

Get there early. Repeat: Get there early.

It seems like a no-brainer, we know, but we still can’t stress this tip enough. “Rise and shine” timing is everything when it comes to beating the crowds in Amsterdam. Don’t rely on inclement weather or hope for a slower weekday visit to minimize the lines. Plan to get up and out early, and do it. Plus, you have extra incentive with plenty of places to grab a Dutch breakfast for some early morning energy.

Get tickets online

Commit to a museum the night before, wake up early, and get there as close to opening time as you can. If it’s the Anne Frank House or the Van Gogh Museum, you have to get tickets online.

Be prepared for the day ahead

Make sure to leave your hotel prepared for the day’s adventure. Pack some rain gear if the forecast says clouds, sunscreen if it says clear skies, plus water, snacks and something to read while you wait for the doors to open.

Anne Frank House

You can’t wing it. And you can’t play it by ear. You have to come prepared if you want to see this historic house. The line used to be so long that you could literally read Anne Frank’s diary from start to finish while waiting to enter the museum. Now you can only get tickets online, so you have to plan ahead. Showing up without a plan is one of the top rookie travel mistakes in Amsterdam.

For the most comprehensive overview, read our full guide for buying Anne Frank House tickets. Here are a few highlights from the article.

Buy tickets in advance

This is the easiest way to save countless hours during a trip to Amsterdam. And you can do it online before your trip. Just commit to a time and use your credit card to purchase passes on the Anne Frank House website.

Experience every inch of the space

Once inside, it’s easy to brush over the empty rooms that Anne Frank and her family hid in for two long years. However, plan to linger a little bit here. Soak in and visualize the scene as much as possible, because this is the most unique part of the museum.

But go soon — there are already plans in motion to seal off some of these areas with glass.

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is an open and airy museum that’s easy to handle in one visit… if you can make it through the heavy crowds. Boasting one of the world’s greatest collections of Van Gogh paintings, the museum is incredibly popular, attracting more than 1.9 million guests in recent years.

You don’t need the audio guide

The layout is easy to follow with three floors exhibiting the artist’s work chronologically during his 10 years as a painter. Large text on the walls explain enough of Van Gogh’s life and style, so don’t bother paying extra for the audio guide.

Don’t waste time taking photos

In fact, don’t even think about snapping a picture, because they’re not allowed anywhere in the museum. This smart policy is to specifically avoid the problem of too many smartphones obstructing your experience of gazing upon a Van Gogh masterpiece.

Artworks by other artists are mixed in

Surprisingly, not everything you see on the wall is by Van Gogh. Paintings by other big names like Monet, Gauguin and Manet are interspersed into the museum’s Van Gogh galleries. Strange? Yes, but that’s why we’re telling you in advance. Reading those placards are more important than you think!

Rijksmuseum

With dozens of galleries on four floors exhibiting thousands of pieces of artwork, the Rijksmusuem is a labyrinth of a building for visitors to navigate. It also houses a treasure trove of relics across 900 years of history, so it’s no surprise that it can easily become an overwhelming experience. Knowing how to get to the top artworks is key to saving time and enjoying your visit.

Pick up a free museum floor plan

The Rijksmuseum floor plan is the key to your visit. You can find this free pamphlet at the information desk. (Pro tip: you can also download the museum’s app before you go, and it has floor plans, free tours and more.) It’s a perfect pocket guide that gives a general overview of where all the top hits are located.

The biggies on the second floor include “The Night Watch” (Nachtwacht) by Rembrandt and the adjoining hallway known as The Gallery of Honour, which holds several works by Vermeer, Steen and others. Another area that always proves popular is the Breitner, Gabriel and Van Gogh room on the first floor that contains several masterpieces.

Use the gallery cards to quickly find the highlights

Don’t know what to focus on upon entering a gallery area? Look for the handheld laminated info cards that describe each room’s particular artworks in detail.

Special treat

We highly recommend ducking into the 19^th-century Rijksmuseum library (bibliotheek) on the second floor to admire the preserved architecture and book collection stacking up to four floors high.

Book in advance

Want to pre-purchase your ticket and skip the ticket line entirely? You can do that here.

The Red Light District glows every night with a sea of fun-loving tourists. Photo: qiou87

Red Light District

Despite its sultry and shady reputation, Amsterdam’s Red Light District is actually quite safe. There is always a big police presence in the neighborhood, and there are many hidden cameras keeping extra eyes on the streets. You also don’t have to worry about finding yourself alone on an empty street, because, for better or worse, rarely is the quarter ever quiet.

Watch out for boozers

The biggest concerns for visitors are usually from intoxicated tourists, like bachelor parties on a weekend bender. While most of these roaming groups are just out for a good time, they can also occasionally be a little intimidating and out of control. Just be aware of your surroundings, and you will be fine.

When to visit for a more mellow experience

To avoid the more rocking side of the Red Light District, it’s best to stroll around midday and early evening (before 8 p.m.). If you’re looking for a less sexy time to visit, with fewer ladies in the windows, visit from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. when many shift changes take place. During this dinner break, many windows are empty and the curtains are drawn.

The fun heats up in the evening

After 8 p.m. is usually the best time to see the Red Light District alive, a little rowdy, and glowing its dim shade of crimson. If you can handle (or are looking for) drunk tourists and big crowds, come here in the evening to find the big party atmosphere. Keep your wallet close and your purse zipped at all times, and expect most of the bars and coffeeshops in this district to be very touristy.

Related: 5 tips for surviving the Amsterdam party scene

A fun choice for budget hotels

Surprisingly, it’s also a really affordable place to stay. Just note, we only recommend staying here if the Red Light District scene is your idea of fun. If so, then you can find many rates around $100 at cheapo picks like Hotel International and Winston Hotel.

Otherwise, check out all of our budget hotels in Amsterdam. We have plenty of other choices far from the fun chaos of the Red Light District.

The post Tips for saving time and money at Amsterdam’s top attractions appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

But how do you do it on the cheap?

Here are some suggestions to let the good times roll… without rolling out too much dough.

Related:

•  8 Affordable Amsterdam restaurants that locals love
• 10 Simple ways to save in Amsterdam
• 5 Tips for navigating Amsterdam’s party scene

1. Brown bars are your best friend

The brown bars, or bruin cafés, are classic hang out spots in Amsterdam. Much like an old-school pub, they’re dark, dusty, and seeping with historic charm. This is where the locals drink refreshing biertjes, small Pilsner beers on tap like Heineken, Amstel, or Grolsch with a frothy head in tall, skinny glasses. They’re a perfect spot to order round after round and watch the world go by. House wines are also cheap, with choices of beers and wines starting around €2 or €3 per glass.

These pubs are a cozy choice for an evening out, but they’re also open all day starting at 10 am until well after midnight.

2.  Clubbing? Buy tickets online in advance

If you’re headed to one of the country’s well known electronic DJ gigs or even a special club night in the city, buy your tickets online for the best prices. Even with a Ticketmaster or credit card charge, tickets at the door can jump up 30%.

An even better tip is to download the app TicketSwap if you’re looking for a safe way to buy sold-out tickets in the second-hand market by concertgoers who have to cancel or are selling extras.

3. Coffeeshops: Get local

Smokers should steer clear of coffeeshops located in the Red Light District, Rembrandtplein, and Leidseplein. These shops are usually run by not-so-savvy clerks who are selling overpriced bud. Instead, do your research and find the ones who’ve been “Cannibis Cup” winners in the past and have a reputation for truly loving and knowing their products.

Some tops choices for Coffeeshops are Barney’s, De Dampkring, Greenhouse, Grey Area, Kadinsky, and Katsu.

Related: Coffee Confusion in Amsterdam: Cafes, coffee and coffeeshops

4. Festivals deal with “muntjes” as money

Did you score a ticket to a summer festival? Most events and major clubs did away with money handling ages ago. Now patrons change in their currency for something called “muntjes”, little plastic chips that act as festival money. The catch is that one chip always is more expensive than one euro, so figuring how much you’re spending on food and drinks gets confusing, fast. It’s annoying for everyone, but something you should be prepared for.5. Cocktails can add up fast

Whether it’s a fashionable Negroni or a simple gin and tonic, liquor drinks are expensive in Amsterdam and rarely will you find a happy hour to take the pricey edge off. Long drinks start around €6 because you’re being charged for a shot and a mixer separately, and classy cocktail bars are a trending ordeal, so it’s impossible to escape an order without putting down €12 to start.

What to do? If you want to cut the cost of a rum and Coke in half, for example, pour half of the Coke in your first round and save the rest for your second. And for the cheapest cocktails in town, the laidback Café Cuba on Nieuwmarkt usually has the best deals.

6. Live music can be free

Amsterdam has a lot of live music options every night, and some of it’s free. Jazz spots like Café Alto and the Bimhuis have free entrance nights (check online), and other boozy and bluesy jam and rock bars have covers for €5 or less like Bourbon Street, The Last Waterhole, and metal bar The Cave. Café Mulligans is an Irish pub with free gigs nightly, also spots like Skek, Pacific Park, Roest, Nieuwe Anita and Graceland host live music by bands passing through, or open mic nights, or events at donations price.

One of the best perks about nightlife in Amsterdam is that many of the usual dive bars and pubs bring in DJs to spin fun tunes into the late hours, from disco to funk and soul.

7. Hotel bars are expensive (but not hostel bars!)

Some hotel bars offer happy hours, but it’s probably better for Cheapos to look elsewhere for a drink. Our solution? Hostels! They have some of the best drink deals in town. Quite a few have their own bar and cater to backpacker budgets with 2-for-1 deals and pints for half price.

Some hostels require that you be a guest to enjoy their bars, like the Flying Pig and StayOkay, but others open their doors like St. Christopher’s at the Winston and Hans Brinker.

8. Skip the main square bars

Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein are the party squares of the city, but don’t settle for a round at the first bar you see. Most of the cafes and pubs around these squares are tourist traps.

However, there are authentic and affordable choices that are usually only a block or alley away. Check out some of EuroCheapo’s favorite affordable bars and online review sites like Yelp, Spotted By Locals, and TripAdvisor for a quick overview to see where the locals go. If you like beer, check out these Amsterdam bars pouring great pints.

9. Buy half-priced last minute tickets for concerts and performing arts

If you want to catch a performing arts act but don’t want to pay the €20 or more ticket to see it, LastMinuteTicketShop.nl is your go to for half-off tickets to acts that haven’t fully sold out the day of show. Listings for available tickets go live around noon, and buyers can purchase deals on the website. You can either print your ticket or save it as PDF so it is scannable on your smartphone. From theater to classical and jazz, event listings change daily so there’s something for every taste.

10. Get home, sans taxi

It’s late, the bars are closing, and public transportation looks like it is shut down. Or is it? There are a few things to know before hopping in a cab that can’t wait to cash in on a late-night weekend fare. First, there are a dozen late-night bus routes that leave from Amsterdam Centraal Station and pickup/drop off at Rembrandtplein, Leidseplein, and many other neighborhoods in the city. The trip costs about €4.50.  Here is a PDF map of the night routes.

Alternatively, the European headquarters for Uber is in Amsterdam, so finding a driver is never an issue and is still usually cheaper than a cab.

The post How to save on nightlife in Amsterdam appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

The city is very walkable, so don’t stress about spending money on transport around town. Another bonus is that most of the city’s attractions are free, and wandering the city itself is probably first on the to-do list.

Related: 5 Easy and affordable day trips from Amsterdam | A budget guide to Haarlem, Netherlands

Here are some of our best tips for saving on your trip to Utrecht.

Getting there

A roundtrip ticket from Amsterdam Central Station is €14.80 and takes about a half hour each way. And prepare yourself for a busy scene upon arrival: Utrecht Central Station is the busiest and largest station in the country, because it’s a giant train hub.

The station is also connected to a large and somewhat confusing shopping center (parts of which seem to always be under construction), Hooog Catharijne. With more than 200 food joints and stores, however, it’s certainly convenient. Leaving your train, you’ll probably pass through the maze of a mall — stay calm and follow the signs that say “Centrum”. You’ll escape in no time.

Free attractions in Utrecht

Domkerk
Achter de Dom 1
Mon. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. high season, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. low season

Once you’ve exited the mall madness, spot the giant church tower against the skyline and head that direction to get to the heart of Utrecht. The Domkerk is a mammoth cathedral with grand lancet windows, among other crowning achievements of Gothic architecture.

The 14^th Century tower, located across from the cathedral’s front door, reaches more than 350 feet into the sky. Entry to the church is free, but you’ll need to pay €9 to climb the 465 steps to the top of the tower (reserve at the information center next to the tower). A massive storm destroyed much of the church’s middle section in the 17^th Century, and today it stands in two parts with a well-kept courtyard to wander through. The church is really the landmark of Utrecht, so don’t miss it.

Willibrordkerk
Minrebroederstraat 21
Tues. – Sat. 11 a.m.-  5 p.m.

Willibrordkerk is a hidden gem of a church in the heart of Utrecht. Once you locate its unassuming entrance, head inside, as it’s much bigger and impressive than its exterior might lead you to believe. The Neo-Gothic architecture is complimented by a wrapping of colorful and glittering painted patterns on its arched walls, columns, brilliant ceiling, and floor.

Bloemenmarkt
Janskerkhof
Saturdays 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

If visiting Utrecht on a Saturday, you’ll have the fortune of experiencing the town’s flower market (Bloemenmarkt). While Amsterdam’s flower market is dominated by tourists and tulip bulbs, the selections in Utrecht have space to show off their blooming, brilliant colors and sweet scents. Free and fabulous for photo ops, it’s worth tiptoeing through these tulips.

Museums

We wouldn’t put any of Utrecht’s museums on the must-see list, especially if you’ll be spending time at the biggies in Amsterdam. However, if your cultural cranium is hungry for a little bit of arts and history, the Centraal Museum is a mish-mash of old and modern art, with a focus on iconic Rietveld contemporary design and passing exhibitions.

Music buffs and historians shouldn’t miss the impressive collection of antique organs, squeeze boxes, and more at the National Musical Box and Street Organ Museum (Nationaal museum van Speelklok tot Pierement).

And the Railway Museum (Het Spoorwegmuseum) is always a hit with kids or any amateur conductors.

Food, nightlife and entertainment

Grabbing a drink along the canal is an Utrecht tradition. Photo: mikecogh

Oudegracht Canal wharfs
Wijnlokaal Aal (Oudegracht 159D)
Chez Willy (Oudegracht 73)
Den Draeck (Oudegracht 114-122)

Much like in Amsterdam, canals wind through Utrecht, creating a city of small bridges and photo ops. However, unlike in Amsterdam, along Utrecht’s central Oudegracht canal the old wharves (and cellars of canal-side factories and mansions) have been transformed into cafes and restaurants with picturesque waterside terraces. Wander the canals and find a terrace that makes you thirsty.

Café Olivier
Achter Clarenburg 6

A great and unique place for a few beer rounds with the locals is Café Olivier. This Belgian beer bar is housed inside a former hidden Catholic church, and its interior is impressively preserved from the 1800s. You’ll find high ceilings, old wooden décor, and a full lunch and dinner menu. Look for it just outside the train station (the entrance is to the left).

Stadskasteel Oudean
Oudegracht 99

Looking for another interesting dinner and drinks option? How about inside a 13th-century medieval castle? The Stadskasteel Oudean is located in the city center, so it’s got it all: canal views, outside terrace, its own brewery, and massive Medieval dining areas.

Cheapo food favorites

The great news for budget travels in Utrecht is that this college town offers an endless supply of food outlets catering to student budgets. While the options are seemingly endless, check out:

• Grand Café Lebowski (Domplein 17 ) has great hearty food and snacks in a restaurant resembling an American hunting club.

• Kimmade (Mariastraat 2) gets great ratings because their Vietnamese food is cheap, fresh and flavorful.

• Meneer Smakers (Nobelstraat 143) is a trendy favorite for towering New York-style burgers served with crispy fries.

Live entertainment

Tivoli is an independent music business that books most of the concerts in town at one of their two locations. From pop to classical and family friendly events, check the site to see what’s on when planning a night out in Utrecht. Depending on the program, admission can be very budget friendly.

Otherwise the Stadsschouwburg theater is where locals go for performance and dance.

Hotel Admiraal is a 10-minute walk from the city center with balcony rooms and modern touches. Photo: Booking.com

Affordable lodging

Generally speaking, the hotels in Utrecht are quite a bit more affordable than those in Amsterdam. This not only makes it a great overnight option for travelers looking to trim their budgets a bit, bit it also makes it an attractive alternative to Amsterdam’s hotel scene. As it’s only 30 minutes by train to Amsterdam’s Central Station, you could easily sleep in Utrecht and “commute in” every day to visit Amsterdam. (The same can be said for Haarlem.)

Search hotels in Utrecht.

Your Utrecht budget tips?

Have a tip for ways to save in Utrecht? Share with us below in the comments section!

The post A budget guide to Utrecht, Netherlands appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

In Belgium, it is Brussels that pulls the crowds, and we certainly find the city a great spot to while away a day or two. It can be pricey, so it’s good to remember that rates for the more business-orientated hotels in Brussels plummet on weekend nights.

Beyond the capitals

But there’s more to the Low Countries than merely Brussels and Amsterdam, and we find that the smaller cities in this region better capture the flavor of their respective countries.

Here’s a handful of smaller cities in the Netherlands, any or all of which make a great overnight stay:

+ Middelburg
+ Delft
+ Gouda
+ Utrecht
+ Maastricht

Hop over the border into Belgium, and the following trio really deserves a day or two:

+ Bruges
+ Ostend
+ Spa

Creative travelers can devise smart itineraries, hopping from one small town to the next through the Low Countries. Flanders, Zeeland and Holland are much too good to just speed through on the fast train. These regions boast gentle landscapes of delicate beauty which powerfully influenced local artists from Pieter Bruegel the Elder to James Ensor.

An Amsterdam-bound alternative

European Rail News this week published our preferred route for Amsterdam-bound travelers coming from Paris and London. With a few days to spare, travelers with a zest for adventure can ride from Lille to Amsterdam by local train, bus and ferry, stopping off along the way at three of the small towns mentioned in our list above: Bruges, Middelburg and Delft. Indeed, with only modest detours off that route, one can also take in Ostend (a real heaven for fish lovers) and Gouda (good for more than merely cheese).

Taking time for smaller communities always makes sense. Accommodation is often cheaper than in the bigger cities favored by most tourists, and the chances are that in a smaller place you’ll get a warmer welcome from the locals.

And just now there is very good reason to by-pass the main tourist trail from Brussels to Amsterdam. The posh new train service called FYRA, launched last month to bring high-speed style to that route, has ground unceremoniously to a halt. Apart from the premium Thalys service (which carries hefty supplements for rail pass holders) there are at present simply no direct trains from Brussels to the Netherlands. Good reason, therefore, to think about inventive alternatives.

The post Holland and Belgium: Consider smaller destinations beyond the capitals appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Here are 10 ways to get into Holland’s holiday spirit, EuroCheapo-style:

1. Ice skating
Through January 13, 2013

Head to Leidseplein and Museumplein and glide around the real ice rink set up until January 13, 2013. The best time to go is at night, as the holiday lights swirl around as you skate, or hold on to the railing and try not to slip on the little ones (or the locals; Dutch are great ice skaters!). Afterwards, head to the cafes or Christmas stands nearby for powdered sugar poffertjes and hot chocolate.

2. Christmas markets

Unlike Germany, Christmas markets in Amsterdam are a one-day thing. Here are some dates that might coincide with your Holland holiday:

• December 22 and 23: Funky Christmas Market: Everything Christmas to help spread the season spirit at Westergasfabriek.

• December 23: Pure markt again at Park Frankendael.

• Until end of December: Maastricht and Valkenburg are home to ongoing Christmas markets where you can indulge in chestnuts, spiced wine, and Christmas entertainment à la Dutch style.

The big old tree in Dam Square. Photo: martin_vmorris

3. Oh, Christmas trees

Love standing under the glow of a gorgeous holiday tree? Dam Square holds an impressive, merry monster tree that’s great for photos. And the floating flower market will be packed with pretty, peculiar, petite or paunchy pines from start to finish. Shopping streets that surround the “Bloemenmarkt” are Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat – two safe bets for those looking for apparel.

4. Apres Amsterdam

Rembrandtplein hosts a maze of Austrian “apres-ski”-style huts blasting cheerful tunes and offering all the delicious seasonal staples with a Bavarian twist. Warm waffles, sausages, spiced wine and apple cider with a shot of schnapps. It’s got what you need for a fun night fill downtown.

5. Pink Christmas
December 19-31

Throughout Holland, Pink Christmas is the official program for events collectively known as the Winter Gay Pride. Anything and everything is on the agenda, from theater to clubs and ice skating, naked bars to Christmas bingo, erotic exhibitions to a winter Olmypics in drag. Get involved from December 19 to 31.

6. Winter Parade Dinner
December 22 to 26

Amsterdam’s Winter Parade in the Red Light District’s Oude Kerk hosts poets, musicians, actors and dancers who perform literally on a large and long dining table (while you eat!). The show is a three-hour interactive performance where guests get involved with the show as they dine, before leaving the church to begin the winter parade through Amsterdam. It wont’ be the cheapest night out, but for €35 per person you can be a part of a traditional Dutch experience.

7. Winter Parade Watching
December 22 to 26

Don’t want to dish out the dough? Grab some hot drinks to go and watch the parade from the sidelines. The parade itself can be viewed around the perimeter of the Red Light District and Old Center, on the southern end of Dam Square beginning around 8pm. (More information in Dutch, and the route in Dutch.)

All lit up for the Amsterdam Light Festival. Photo: Udo Geisler

8. More saving while shopping
December 23 (and ongoing)

Amsterdam has over 20 outdoor markets, and all hang up festive lights and shift to seasonal offerings of sweet almonds, gingerbread cakes and sugar raisin breads to name a few.

On Sunday, December 23, the popular Albert Cuypmarkt will host the one-day holiday market, but throughout the month you can find small ornaments and Christmas trinkets for a low price and that are easy to pack in your suitcase.

Aside from Albert, Dappermarkt in the East and Ten Katemarkt in the Old West neighborhoods will be your hidden gems for cheapo gifts, from clothes to cute souvenirs.

9. Classic Christmas
December 26

Churches like St. Nicolaas, Nieuwe Kerk and a dozen others offer classical music ensembles and performances throughout the holidays season. Paradiso, one of Amsterdam’s most famous concert venues, will host a holiday hangover cure December 26 with Christmas classics, sing-a-longs, and original music by Paradiso Orchestra.

10. Amsterdam Light Festival
Through January 20, 2013

No Amsterdam Christmas is complete without the Amsterdam Light Festival. Running until January 20, the Amstel River and it’s beautiful houseboats, bridges and canal cruises team up and deck the waterways with a glorious glow. The Boulevard of Light is an enchanting walk along historic buildings between Muntplein and Amstel Hotel.

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However, Artis Zoo, with its €18 admission fee, can be tough on the wallet, so visiting this spot might require a bit of planning ahead. Follow these tips:

Visiting the zoo

The price might be a bit out of the budget range but, on the plus side, it grants access to a vast number of places. Artis Zoo encompasses a variety of attractions which range from colorful fish species to creatures from all over the globe. There are also informational sites like the Zoological and Geological museum as well as the fancy Planetarium included in your admission. Exploring all the spots will take one full day and might be well worth the effort.

Keep in mind that since the zoo is one of the most popular places in Amsterdam, it can get packed easily. If you want to avoid the crowds, skip Saturdays and show up close to the opening time during a weekday.

Noteworthy attractions

There are, of course, a lot of animal habitats sprinkled across the zoo grounds. For something exotic, check out the African Savannah section. It features towering giraffes, springboks and even the gemboks, to name a few. Maybe drop by the Minangkabauan House for a glimpse of tiny, cute creatures. This location boasts famous animals like the world’s smallest deer as well as the doe deer. Then check out the different bird houses which are home to magnificent feathered beings like the black vultures.

The penguin section of the Artis Zoo. Photo by Marco Raaphorst.

If you have a soft spot for underwater creatures, come by the Aquarium. This impressive building is home to a number of diverse habitats including striking fish specimens from the Amazon as well as endangered fish from the tropics. For something truly bizarre, check out the tank that is a window into the underwater life of Amsterdam’s canals!

And for something more cerebral, hop over to the informational spots like the Planetarium, Geological Museum, and the Zoological Museum. At these different locations, you will find fun facts about our cosmos and quirky mother nature.

Cheap eats at the zoo

Artis Zoo does have plenty of eateries scattered throughout its premises. They include the Two Cheetahs Restaurant as well as smaller vendors like Het Friet and Swirls. Most of them are overpriced especially when compared to street food you can pick up as a quick lunch from outside.

However, since you can bring in your own packed lunch, maybe you can pick a few snacks from Febo or grab a pre-packed sandwich from a supermart like Albert Heijn before heading off to the zoo.

Admission and discounts

First, look into the various discounts offered for the zoo. The zoo offers a 25% discount that comes with using an I amsterdam card, which is certainly welcome, especially if there are quite a few in your group. Bigger groups can look into the €1.50 (per person) reduction offered by the zoo for groups of more than 20 people. It might be worth hooking up with other tourists at your hotel etc. and opt for this discount.

Here are the 2009 admission prices:
Adults: € 18.50
Seniors (65+): € 17.00
Children (3-9 years): € 15.00

Practical info

Address: Plantage Kerklaan 38-40 1018 CZ Amsterdam
(Artis, P.O. Box 20164, 1000 HD Amsterdam, The Netherlands)

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM
Summer: 9 AM to 6 PM (open longer on Saturdays in June, July and August)
Tel. : 0900-2784796
Fax : +31-20-5233481
Website:http://www.artis.nl/international/index.html
E-mail: info@artis.nl

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Sunday: Mulligan’s Irish Bar
Amstel 100
Website: www.mulligans.nl
Cost: Free

This authentic Irish bar draws in locals and tourists alike for pints in a social atmosphere. Traditional Irish tunes mixed with foot-tapping bluegrass makes for a friendly vibe all night long. Stop by after 7 PM any night of the week for free entertainment. On Sundays, however, Mulligan’s hosts open jam sessions.

Tuesday: Jazz Cafe Alto
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 115
Website: www.jazz-cafe-alto.nl
Cost: Free

The historic Jazz Cafe Alto dates back to the 1950s and stirs up smooth Latin vibes on Tuesday nights (though this cozy, swingin’ bar offers live music every night). Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays are especially popular nights, and thus have a €5 entry fee (although it includes a fresh Amstel at the bar). If you crave a scene full of jazz cats and sax solos, this is your place.

Wednesday: Maloe Melo
Lijnbaansgracht 163
Website: www.maloemelo.nl

Never too packed and always relaxed, Malo Melo offers a nightly session of blues and soulful rock that’s impossible to find elsewhere. The crowd ranges from students to seniors, but shares a common passion for acoustic slides and electric tears. It’s a groovy scene for all, offering a true taste of Amsterdam’s chilled-out style.

Thursday: The Last Waterhole
Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 49
Website: www.waterhole.nl
Cost: €1

The Last Waterhole is known for smoking rock covers by local music regulars and a great, rockin’ vibe. The lively and sociable setting makes it irresistible for patrons, who sing along and boogie down. The central location makes the Waterhole a perfect place to start or end an evening out on Leidseplein. Music performed nightly.

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Does Amsterdam offer a fast, cheap, and yummy snack? Yes, and it is called “Febo.”

Febo is a fast-food franchise that serves up its snacks in “automat”-style vending machines. It’s a simple process: You walk up to the window of the tastiest-looking treat, drop the correct amount in the slot, open the door, and take out your snack.

Eat on the spot at Febo.

History of Febo

This famous fast-food eatery had its humble beginnings during the rough, wartime year of 1941. Febo actually started out as a small pastry shop, run by a baker named J.I. Borst. According to Febo historians, Borst learned many of his skills from a boss who was based along the “Ferdinand Bolstraat,” a street in central Amsterdam. The snack shack’s name is thus a tribute to his experiences there.

Before long, people were lining up for Borst’s tasty “kroketten” (potato and meat croquettes). Eventually the quaint bakery was transformed into an automat-style restaurant where eager customers queued up to pull out their favorite fried snacks.

On the menu

Krazy for kroketten! Photo by Febo.

Febo is still best known for its croquettes. Here are a few, yummy meaty recommendations: “kalfsvleeskroket” for those who love beef (€ 1.40), or “kipcorn” for those who crave a bit of chicken (€ 1.40). For the Eastern touch, check out “bami” or “nasi,” (€ 1.40) both kroketten come packed with rice or noodles, as well as vegetables and herbs. If you’re looking for a non-meat option, check out the delicious “kaassouffle,” a fried cheese nugget (€ 1.40).

Febo has also expanded its menu to include other non-croquette offerings, including some Asian-inspired dishes, “pataats” (chips), and a few sweet snacks. They also grill up hamburgers and sandwiches.

Check out the full menu on their website.

Here’s a list of Febo locations in Amsterdam:

– Ferdinand Bolstraat 89B

– Damrak 6

– Stadionplein 20A

– Leidsestraat 94

– Reguliersbreestraat 38

– Oudezijdsvoorburgwal 33

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Plus, if you swing by Brouwerij ‘t Ij on Fridays, you can take a free guided tour!

History a-brewin’

The Brouwerij ‘t Ij stands beside an enormous, classic Dutch windmill once used for grinding oats. (Now a private residence, the windmill serves as a helpful landmark for those looking for the brewery.) As for the brewery, it was once a large bathhouse, yet the only remains of its soapy past are the old tiled walls inside.

The brewery was founded by Kasper Peterson, a Dutch citizen who spent years as a “beer engineer” in Belgium. Peterson’s first beer creation was the floral, blonde tripel named Zatte, a Dutch term for being “a bit drunk” — and still available on tap.

While the Brouwerij ‘t Ij’s logo is a humorous cartoon ostrich standing in a desert with a windmill in the background, the name “Brouwerij ‘t Ij” literally translates to “brewery on the Ij” due to its location near the Ij River.

The brewery produces only about 200,000 liters per year, a small amount compared to Heineken’s massive 220 million liters.

Cozy and beer buzzy

An assortment of beer enthusiasts flock to the “‘t Ij” brewery on sunny, warm weekends to sample the beers, snack away, and chill out. Tourists, locals, and families brew up a chatty environment, and the staff is a friendly bunch of connoisseurs who honestly enjoy their job. It’s a relaxed and pleasing setting for even the quietest of introverts: everyone has a new best friend after a few rounds at Brouwerij ‘t Ij.

Inside, the decor includes a sizable collection of beer bottles from around the world. Old photos of windmills, ostriches, random faces, and news clippings are pinned above the beer-logged tables. (There will never be enough coasters to keep the counters clean, so stay outside if you can’t handle the scent of stale beer!)

A pure and simple beer recipe

Regardless of beer type, the Brouwerij ‘t Ij’s recipes strictly adhere to just three organic ingredients: water, hops, and malted barley. Yeast acts as a natural preservative and filtering system, making additives unnecessary, and giving the beer a cloudy, smooth, and frothy body.

Following the introduction of “Zatte,” Brouwerij ‘t Ij has added six Belgian-style beers available on tap year-round, plus a few seasonal specials. The list includes:

So many choices…

Plzen:  A light Czech pilsner. Cost: €1.90. (ABV: 5%)
Natte:  Dubbel and mildly bitter. Cost: €2.20. (ABV: 6.5%)
Ijwit:  Citrusy wheat beer. Cost: €2.20. (ABV: 7%)
Zatte:  Tripel with a floral aroma. Cost: €2.20. (ABV: 8%)
Columbus:  Bittersweet amber. Cost: €2.40. (ABV: 9%)
Struis:  Dark stout-like ale. Cost: €2.70. (ABV: 9%)

The Brouwerij ‘t Ij will be interesting to anyone who considers themselves a beer devotee. It will be enjoyed by anyone who wants to sample the Dutch tradition of sipping something bubbly while relaxing in the sun with friends.

Free tours every Friday

Guided tours revealing the ins and outs of the brewery are offered for free on Fridays by the current brewmaster. Tours start at 4 PM.

And don’t worry–you won’t go hungry. Trappist cheeses dipped in beer, sliced salami meats, and local sheep cheeses are a few of the snacks served while sipping the aromatic brews.

Brouwerij ‘t Ij
Funenkade 7
Transportation: Tram 10 and 14
Phone +(31)(0) 20 6228325
Open daily: 3 PM – 8 PM

More information is available on the brewery’s website.

Also consider:

Heineken Experience (The Official Tour)
Stadhouderskade 78
Trams: 7, 10, 16, 24 and 25
Phone +(31)(0) 20 5239222
Hours: 11 AM – 7 PM, daily

Tour prices: €15 (no discounts given, except for groups, in advance)
Website: www.heinekenexperience.com

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