How to Budget for Amsterdam in 2026
Amsterdam combines steep hotel taxes with effortless public transit and very affordable street snacks. Here is a realistic overview of daily costs.
Daily Expense Overview
| Category |
Backpacker Tier |
Value / Mid-Range |
Smart Comfort |
| Dorm / Private |
€32 to €55 (Hostel dorm) |
€110 to €165 (Oud-West private) |
€220 to €340 (Canal boutique) |
| Food & Dining |
€22 to €28 (Markets & snacks) |
€45 to €60 (Casual dinners) |
€85 to €130 (Fine dining) |
| Local Transit |
€3.40 (1-2 tram rides) |
€6.80 (2-3 tram rides) |
€18.00 (Taxis / Uber) |
| Attractions |
€12.00 (Amortized entry) |
€22.50 (Rijksmuseum) |
€45.00 (Multiple museums) |
| Total Daily Cost |
€69 to €98 / Day |
€184 to €254 / Day |
€368 to €533 / Day |
Where to Save Money in Amsterdam
- Base in Amsterdam-Noord: High-rated hostels and boutique hotels across the IJ river cost 35% less than canal belt rooms. The municipal public ferries running between Amsterdam Centraal and Noord operate 24 hours a day and are completely 100% free.
- Use Contactless OVpay: Paper tickets carry a €1 surcharge. Tap your bank card or mobile phone directly at station gates and bus card readers.
- Street Food Over Cafes: Albert Cuyp Market serves hot stroopwafels for €3.50, fresh herring with pickles for €4.00, and surinamese roti for €8.00.