5 tips how to navigate Amsterdam for free
Is Amsterdam too expensive for you? It needn’t be! Here are 5 ways to get the most out of the city for free.
1. For free accommodation
You might be able to live rent-free if you apply to the Vooruit organisation. In exchange for organising and helping run activities and spending time with local families, students receive free accommodation, only paying utility and service costs. UvA student Dennis Rood has been doing this for three years. His verdict? You have to get used to it, but then it’s a fine deal. ‘It’s not too bad for your resume either. Better than working at a grocery store!’
2. For free groceries (and fighting food waste!)
UvA student Jaap Söntjens and Job van der Linden are the initiators of the Voedselkringloop (food circle), which collects food that grocery stores would otherwise throw away. Collect your free bread, vegetables, fruit, coffee, cookies, eggs and more every Friday from 16:00-18:00 at their store or donate food you don’t need yourself.
3. For free concerts
Enjoy live music during lunch! From September 19, the Concertgebouw will hold free lunchtime concerts at 12:30. This is a great opportunity to spot young talent and take a relaxing break from studying. And keep an eye to the Muziekgebouw as it too holds free concerts every so often).
4. For free cinema
Until September 21 you can watch movies free of charge at either the Ketelhuis, in the Amsterdamse Bos or on the roof of the Nemo museum. No tickets necessary but remember to bring a sweater for when the sun goes down!
5. For free beer
Fill a Ijtje-voor-Karweitje bag with any garbage you find in the Vondelpark in exchange for a free glass of beer at ’t Blauwe Theehuis. Offer only on until the beginning of September.
Share you own advice in the comment section below!
