Netherlands Travel Budget - Visit Netherlands on a Budget or Travel in Style

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The Netherlands is a very popular country known for the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, the Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse, and the Dom Tower in Utrecht. We've got the ultimate travel cost guide to help you plan your adventure which includes average costs from fellow travelers, hotel rates, food prices, entertainment and sightseeing costs, and transportation, too. It's everything you need to budget wisely and still have an unforgettable time.

How much does it cost to travel to the Netherlands?

A typical traveler spends $249 (€212) per day on a trip to the Netherlands. This is the average daily price for a vacation in the Netherlands based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $89 (€76) on meals
  • $31 (€27) on local transportation
  • $233 (€199) on hotels

A one-week trip to the Netherlands for two people costs, on average, $3,482 (€2,968). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $249
    €212
  • One Week Per person
    $1,741
    €1,484
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $3,482
    €2,968
  • One Month Per person
    $7,461
    €6,360
  • One Week For a couple
    $3,482
    €2,968
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $6,964
    €5,936
  • One Month For a couple
    $14,923
    €12,720
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to the Netherlands cost?

A one week trip to the Netherlands usually costs around $1,741 (€1,484) for one person and $3,482 (€2,968) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to the Netherlands on average costs around $3,482 (€2,968) for one person and $6,964 (€5,936) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in the Netherlands will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to the Netherlands on average costs around $7,461 (€6,360) for one person and $14,923 (€12,720) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




How much do package tours cost in the Netherlands?

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in the Netherlands is $377 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.



Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Is the Netherlands expensive to visit?

The Netherlands is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, the Netherlands is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Denmark or Greece.

In the Netherlands, budget travelers spend $100 (€85) per person per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $249 (€212) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $615 (€526) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to the Netherlands.

With a wide selection of accommodation and activities, the Netherlands makes it easy for any traveler to find something that fits their budget. You can find budget-friendly hostels in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, while luxury hotels cater to those seeking opulence, with mid-range hotels also available for families and couples.

the Netherlands can cost as much as you want, but eating at less expensive restaurants, taking public transit, and enjoying free activities can save you money.

For more details, see Is the Netherlands Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to the Netherlands?

The average Netherlands trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Netherlands travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to the Netherlands cost?

the Netherlands on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$45
(€39) 		$116
(€99) 		$307
(€261)
Local Transportation1 $12
(€10) 		$31
(€27) 		$82
(€70)
Food2 $37
(€31) 		$89
(€76) 		$201
(€171)
Entertainment1 $13
(€11) 		$31
(€27) 		$73
(€62)
Alcohol2 $5-16
(€5-14) 		$13-39
(€11-33) 		$29-88
(€25-75)
From real travelers - How these numbers are calculated
Amsterdam Amsterdam

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people think they can visit the Netherlands on a tight budget, but most travelers aren't comfortable with a low "shoestring" budget. Think about what you enjoy during your vacations and how you typically travel. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you want to visit museums, sights, and participate in activities? Is dining out a priority? These factors will shape both your budget and your itinerary.

What is a budget traveler, anyway?

Many people might hear that you can explore the Netherlands for just $100 a day, but if you're not ready to sacrifice some comforts, be prepared to spend quite a bit more.

Backpackers often manage to stick to this tight budget, but it usually means sleeping in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest eateries or grabbing fast food, relying on public transport or walking everywhere, and limiting themselves to free attractions.

Fortunately, the Netherlands has a large number of hostels. You'll find the greatest concentration in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. Some destinations offer excellent public transportation, allowing budget travelers to skip costly taxi or Uber fares.

So, are you average?

Mid-range hotels, well-known restaurants, and visits to museums and attractions with entry fees are common choices for families or couples traveling on vacation. Most visitors are not going to want to miss the Peace Palace in The Hague, the Hortus Botanicus in Leiden, or the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) in Delft. Most of these activities cost money, after all, so it's wise to plan for a budget closer to $249 per person each day.

In the Netherlands, you'll find plenty of hotels and vacation rentals to suit your needs. If you're traveling with a partner, friends, or your kids, then hotel costs will be divided, making it easier on your budget. Family-friendly destinations like Leiden and Rotterdam offer hotels and restaurants with options tailored for kids. Some good places to stay are Hof in Eindhoven or B&B De Kamer Hiernaast in Gouda. For more family- and couple-friendly places to stay, check out our hotel guide for the Netherlands here.

Looking to Travel in Luxury?

For those seeking an all-inclusive experience with top-tier service, be prepared for a daily price around $615. Staying in luxury hotels, dining at fine restaurants, indulging in high-end excursions, and hiring private drivers will push you into the "luxury" bracket. You'll find yourself vacationing among the elite in destinations like The Hague and Utrecht. Another option would be to splurge on a multi-day high-end tour that takes care of everything for you, such as Rhine Highlights with Switzerland 2026|2027 - 12 Days - offered by Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours.



Accommodation Budget in the Netherlands

The wide range of prices for hotels and accommodation in the Netherlands can be very surprising. Some destinations have much higher price tags than others, and even within the same areas you can find a big difference between the budget-friendly and higher-end hotels. Also, during peak season, prices are much higher. You can save a good bit of money if you travel during the low season or shoulder seasons, as room prices adjust according to the overall demand. Booking in advance can often save you money, too.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in the Netherlands for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $233 (€199). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $116 (€99) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.


  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $116
    €99
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $233
    €199

Hotels in the Netherlands

Looking for a hotel in the Netherlands? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in the Netherlands

The average hotel room price in the Netherlands based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $116 in the low season and $216 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Amsterdam
In Amsterdam, which is a large city, expect a fairly wide range of choices and prices for accommodation. Hotel prices here can range from $76 in the low season to $455 during the peak season. Bed Breakfast Boat ($118) is one of the best hotel options here, and Ambassade Hotel is also good, and starts at $229. You can expect to pay around $27 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel. Since many travelers spend up to seven days, it's important to find a cozy spot in a prime location if you're planning to explore for an extended time.

Rotterdam
Rotterdam is a big port city that is a hidden gem in the Netherlands. During the peak summer months hotels can fill up early, so plan to book well in advance. In Rotterdam, the average hotel price is $96 in the low season and $179 in the busy season. Four star hotels cost on average $97 to $181. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $30 for a dorm bed. For hotels, a few of the best options here include Suitehotel Pincoffs for $111 and citizenM Rotterdam starting at $101.

The Hague
There's a wide range of hotel prices in The Hague. You can expect to spend anywhere from $82 to $291 depending on your budget and needs. Also, a great hotel option is 't Goude Hooft that runs about $190 per night. You can expect to pay around $31 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel.


Recommended Properties


Local Transportation Budget in the Netherlands

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $31 (€27) per person, per day, on local transportation in the Netherlands. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in the Netherlands is significantly more than public transportation.


  • Local Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $31
    €27
Local Transportation Tips

With an excellent train system, the Netherlands provides access to nearly every part of the country. Train fares are quite reasonable, and the rides are both fast and comfortable. When the train lines don't reach your destination, long-distance and regional buses are a great alternative.

For those looking to save money, utilizing public transit is an excellent option. Many areas offer dependable public transportation systems, with some of the best found in Amsterdam and Utrecht. Additionally, many travelers prefer to explore on foot, allowing for a more personal experience wandering through the neighborhoods and seeing the local culture. If walking is your preference, you'll love your time in Amsterdam and Utrecht.

In bigger cities such as Amsterdam and Utrecht, it's wise to purchase a multi-day pass if you intend to use public transit regularly. Depending on your travel frequency, you might save a considerable amount instead of buying individual tickets.

If you're considering a visit to the countryside, you'll want to rent a car. Note that in Europe, most cars feature a manual transmission, and if you prefer an automatic, you might have to pay a premium. It's important to book ahead of time, as the lower-priced rentals tend to go quickly.

Navigating larger cities with a car, such as Amsterdam, can be quite challenging due to their busy and crowded nature. Parking often comes with a hefty price tag, and traffic can be a hassle. By skipping the rental car and opting for public transit or walking, you can save money and enjoy the city more easily.

If you're driving in a larger city, it's a good idea to ask your hotel about parking options ahead of time. You might need to pay for parking either at the hotel or in a nearby public garage. It could save you money to find a parking spot further away from the city center.


Recommended Services

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Below, you'll find common transit prices in the Netherlands, gathered from real traveler experiences. These numbers offer a general sense of transportation expenses. It's important to note that your costs may vary depending on your transportation choice, with taxis and other hired vehicles usually costing significantly more than public transit.


  • Taxi Ride
    €10
  • Single Day Transit Pass
    €2.60
  • Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport
    €3.40
  • One Hour Canal Cruise
    €10
  • Ride on Tram
    €3.20
  • Renting a Bike
    €15


Food Budget in the Netherlands

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in the Netherlands can vary significantly, the average cost of food in the Netherlands is $89 (€76) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.


  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $89
    €76

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in the Netherlands is about $88 (€76) per person. Previous travelers have typically spent from $37 to $200 per day. Generally, breakfast and lunch will cost less than dinner, but that will vary based on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in the Netherlands are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $16 to $27
  • Lunch: $13 to $44
  • Dinner: $31 to $71
  • Coffee: $8
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $14

Kibbeling: Once a delicacy, this dish is now available everywhere. It's made from battered and fried fish and is typically served as a fast food dish. It comes with a dipping sauce that is very similar to tarter sauce.

Waterzooi: This is a traditional stew made with beef, onions and gravy that takes several hours to prepare. it was originally prepared with fish but today's version most often uses either beef or chicken and is made with creams, eggs and other vegetables.

Bossche Bol: This is a large desert pastry filled with whipped cream and covered in dark chocolate. It's often served as a side that is paired with coffee.

Popular Culinary Destinations

The Netherlands is well-known for its vibrant food scene, with numerous excellent dining options. Travelers frequently take the opportunity to savor the regional flavors. Among the best cities for eating out are Leiden, The Hague, and Rotterdam.

Leiden
Leiden is well known for its food scene. There's a diverse food scene with many international flavors such as Japanese, Chinese, and French. The cafe culture influences the culinary scene and you'll find many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a bite to eat.

The Hague
Many visitors enjoy sampling the different restaurants in The Hague. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

Rotterdam
If you're a traveling foodie, you'll enjoy your time in Rotterdam. The city's restaurant scene is diverse. There are ethnic restaurants, vegan restaurants, local restaurants, and some popular chains. The city is also known for its food halls, which provide a variety of gourmet flavors from around the globe.

Lisse
Lisse is one of the best culinary destinations in the Netherlands. The town has a variety of food options, from traditional Dutch snacks to international cuisine. Local cafes and restaurants often serve classic Dutch dishes, such as poffertjes (mini pancakes) and bitterballen (fried meatballs), perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. In Keukenhof Gardens you'll find food stalls, trucks, and a cafe, but they can get crowded during peak times.

Utrecht
One of the best culinary spots in the Netherlands is Utrecht. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Food & Dining Tips

If you're in larger cities like Amsterdam, The Hague, or Rotterdam, eating at upscale restaurants for lunch instead of dinner can be a budget-friendly choice. Numerous restaurants in touristy locations or business centers offer lunch specials that are just smaller, more affordable versions of their dinner menus. You might stumble upon a full multi-course gourmet meal at a great price if you explore your options. Afterward, keep your dinner light.

If you're on a trip with children, keep an eye out for restaurants that have a childrens' menu. This can be a great money saver since those dishes are usually priced lower. Some restaurants may not include kids' options on their menus, so it's best to ask the waiter beforehand.

While a lot of hotels come with breakfast included in the price, others might charge extra. The quality and price can vary significantly between hotels. Understanding this beforehand can guide your decision on whether to splurge on the hotel buffet or seek a cheaper meal at a local bakery or café.

Bring a water bottle along instead of purchasing drinks all the time. It's also a great choice for the planet.

If you're thinking about taking a tour, make it a point to check which meals are included. You might have to pay for some food yourself, which can add to your total expenses.

Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in the Netherlands. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

  • Small-Group Guided Sunset Canoe Tour in Waterland with Dinner for $94 details
  • Utrecht Food Tour on a Bicycle with local guide for $81 details
  • Amsterdam Food Tour with Full Meal & Drinks by Do Eat Better for $119 details
  • Amsterdam-West Food Tour with local guide for $102 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Food?

Typical prices for food in the Netherlands are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the food prices in the Netherlands. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, selected restaurants, and the items that you order.


  • Afternoon Tea
    €6.00


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in the Netherlands

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in the Netherlands typically cost an average of $31 (€27) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.


  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $31
    €27
The Best Sightseeing Destinations

The Netherlands attracts a large number of travelers and offers plenty of chances to see world-famous locations. Some of the most visited sites in the Netherlands are Amsterdam, Lisse, and Utrecht.

Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands and it is filled with canals and narrow row houses. The city is famous for its party-hard atmosphere, but it's also rich in history and culture. There are many famous museums, including the world renowned Rijksmuseum. Cycling is a huge part of the Dutch culture and you'll see bikers commuting everywhere in the city.

Lisse
Lisse is a world-class destination for its famous tulip fields, which transform the town into a vibrant sea of color every spring. Visitors flock to the iconic Keukenhof Gardens, which is a beautiful floral park that showcases millions of blooming flowers. This is an iconic destination in the Netherlands and it will take your breath away.

Utrecht
Utrecht is a historic city that is filled with character and personality. The old town is surprisingly large with beautiful canals and a very livable atmosphere. Locals often outnumber tourists here, which is a nice change from nearby Amsterdam. You'll also find a huge number of bikers, as this is often listed as one of the world's best cities for biking. On the south side of the old town you'll find great thrift stores, and in the northern side you'll find restaurants and more retail shopping.

Leiden
Leiden is a charming and historic city that offers a perfect blend of culture, education, and scenic beauty. It is a student city and it has an intellectual atmosphere, with many museums and historical landmarks to explore. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque canals, visit the famous Hortus Botanicus, or enjoy the vibrant cafes and restaurants scattered throughout the city.

Delft
Delft is a beautiful and historic city in the Netherlands that has a rich cultural and art history. Many visitors enjoy walking through its picturesque Old Town, with its lovely shops, cafes, and landmarks like the New Church and Old Church. Delft is also home to a vibrant student population, adding youthful energy to the city's mix of tradition and modernity.

Sightseeing Tips

When visiting the Netherlands, you won't want to miss the beauty of Amsterdam, Lisse, and Utrecht. These must-see places will leave a lasting impression, making your trip unforgettable.

A nice way to explore destinations in the Netherlands is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Amsterdam: 60-Minute Guided Private Canal Cruise with Drinks for $100 details
  • Rijksmuseum Amsterdam Private Guided Tour for $207 details
  • Explore Amsterdam in 1 Hour - Pedicab Tour - Rickshaw tour for $144 details
  • Amsterdam Sightseeing Tour + Hidden Gems + Tastings + PDF guide for $30 details

Recommended Activities

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Outlined below are some typical prices for entry fees and activities in the Netherlands. They have been reported from the expenses of previous travelers. These costs provide an idea of what you might need to spend, though your individual expenses will depend on the activities you participate in, the places you visit, and how often you choose budget-friendly or free activities.


  • Two tickets to the Houseboat Museum
    €6.00
  • Entry for two to the Anne Frank House
    €17


Nightlife Budget in the Netherlands

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $26 (€22) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in the Netherlands per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.


  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $26
    €22
Popular Nightlife Destinations

With an abundance of music, dance, and bars, the Netherlands stands out as a favorite nightlife destination. Many travelers take advantage of the lively evening activities and party culture. Some of the best places for a night out include Amsterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague.

Amsterdam
The nightlife scene is a highlight for many young visitors in Amsterdam. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

Utrecht
Nightlife in Utrecht is not to be missed. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

The Hague
If partying is a priority while you're traveling, then you'll want to visit The Hague. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

Rotterdam
Rotterdam is one of the best nightlife destinations in the Netherlands. It is a trendy city with an active nightlife. You can relax with a beer or hit up one of the clubs around town. Popular options are Club Vibes, Toffler, and Club Vie.

Lisse
Visitors love the nightlife in Lisse. Most people don't think about nightlife when they visit town but there's a surprising number of thinks to do like cozy bars and charming cafes. Visitors can enjoy live music, great drinks, and a friendly atmosphere, especially in the town's central areas.

Nightlife Tips

Hitting up the nightlife is exciting, but if you limit your alcohol intake, it can make a big difference in your travel savings.

Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in the Netherlands. A few favorites from other travelers include:

  • Amsterdam Craft Beer Brewery Tour by Bus with Tastings for $78 details
  • New Year's Eve Pub Crawl With Optional Club Entrance for $84 details
  • Amsterdam: City Centre Bar Crawl and Nightlife Experience for $30 details
  • Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl for $29 details

Recommended


Travel Costs Last Updated: Aug 8, 2025
The Hague, Netherlands The Hague, Netherlands

Budgeting and Travel Tips

  • the Netherlands is a hot spot for travelers, and as a result, prices can skyrocket when peak season rolls around. Typically, the biggest crowds flock to the Netherlands during the summer months, and that's when hotels book up fast and accommodation costs shoot through the roof. If you're looking to save some cash, consider planning your trip during the shoulder or off-peak seasons when things are a bit quieter and easier on the wallet.
  • Tourist hotspots such as Amsterdam, Lisse, and Utrecht tend to attract many visitors, so get ready for more people and higher prices during the peak season. You can expect large crowds and popular sites to have extensive wait times, sold-out tickets, and premium rates. In all areas, but especially in these destinations, it's smart to make reservations months in advance whenever possible.
  • Certain travel spots, like Amsterdam, often see visitors sticking around for a week or more, making the most of their vacation time. Families, especially those traveling with little ones, often go for vacation rentals or apartments. You'll get more space to relax in, and with features like a kitchen, you can whip up meals and save some money during your stay.

Budgeting Challenges

  • If you're on the move with young children, a private car or taxi might be your best bet. It can save you from the headaches of public transport, but expect to pay a bit more for the convenience.

  • For families visiting cities such as Amsterdam, hotel rooms can be a bit small for a family of four, or even not be able to accommodate that many people in one room. Be prepared to either find a larger hotel or book two rooms to fit everyone comfortably.



Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about the Netherlands.

Why would you recommend the Netherlands to budget travelers? Or, why not?

Amsterdam's crazy expensive but if you get out and explore the rest of the country, prices are a fraction of the cost. You'll also see some really charming towns.

wong
-
Jan 20 2024

What makes the Netherlands a budget-friendly destination? Or not?

Some things are really expensive, like hotels in Amsterdam, but we found the great train system to be very affordable. We explored by train and had no problems. It's a really reliable system.

alyssa35715
-
Mar 23 2024

How can you save money during your time in the Netherlands?

We ended up picking just a few museums to visit while we were in town. Everything was so expensive we realized we just couldn't afford to do it all. Most of the museums are amazing though, so we spent tons of time in the ones we did visit.

Raj
-
Apr 13 2024

We had a lot of trouble keeping are prices down in the Netherlands, but we did manage to find some affordable restaurants.

jada16948
-
Dec 15 2023
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The Netherlands is an incredibly welcoming, beautiful, and open minded country, making it appealing to travelers from all over the world. It is a small, but very densely packed country, and has held tight to many traditions including it's fascination with flowers, clogs, and windmills. It's also well known for its use of bicycles. In large cities and throughout the countryside you'll find everybody travels by bicycle. This adds to the charm and quaintness of the country. Many people visit Amsterdam, the country's most popular destination, during a whirlwind tour of Europe. If you have more time there are many other cities and towns worth a visit during your time in this fascinating country.

The Netherlands has a strong history as a leading naval power. It's position on the water has strategically influenced its past and evidence can still be seen today. The Netherlands has a unique cultural history and is a founding member of the European Union. It is a very low lying country, and it's most famous city, Amsterdam, makes use of its ties to the ocean by integrating beautiful canals that crisscross the city.

The Netherlands is traditionally liberal in character and is well known for its "red light districts" and lenient stance on drugs. Do make note that recent changes in laws have allowed for stricter enforcement of violators. Make sure you use common sense during your time here. The country's progressive character has also put the Netherlands at the front line of the environmental movement. It's has very liberal policies and is an important influence throughout Europe. It is also one of the more expensive countries to visit in Europe. Particularly in Amsterdam, you'll find restaurants to be very expensive and hotels higher than in most larger cities. To cut down on costs consider buying food at a market and enjoying a picnic beside a canal. Also make sure you make hotel reservations well in advance as price generally go up as the date approaches. Although it's definitely an expensive destination, this country's unique character make it well worth the splurge.

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Top Tourist Attractions

Amsterdam Canal Ring: The canals in Amsterdam are some of the most famous in the world and give the city much of its character. They're lined with houseboats and townhouses that lean precariously do to the shifting ground. It's probably the most visited an photographed part of the Netherlands and is well worth a visit.

Rijksmuseum: This is the largest museum in the Netherlands and is located in Amsterdam. It has artwork, crafts, and dollhouses on display and has devoted much of its space to the area's history. There is also a very thorough area on Asian art and history in the museum.

Aalsmeer Flower Auction: In the heart of Holland's floral trade, here you can see the frenzy that surrounds buying and selling Dutch flowers. Auctions take place daily but are at their peak on holidays such as Mother's Day and Valentine's Day.



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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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