The Netherlands might pop into your mind as Amsterdam + canals + museums + coffee shops… and yes, that’s all real. But it’s also cozy little towns, flower fields, breezy beaches, and a country that’s basically built for easy (and pretty) day trips. Let’s plan it in a simple, budget-friendly way.

When to Go

• Peak season: July–August (busy, pricier, lots of energy)
• Main travel season: mid-April to mid-October (best overall variety)
• Tulip time: usually mid-April to mid-May (storybook vibes)
• Winter: chilly and damp, but very cozy—cities sparkle around the holidays

Tiny note from your future self: no matter the season, bring a light rain jacket. The Netherlands loves a surprise drizzle.

Accommodation (per night)

• Hostel dorm: €15–€50
• Hostel private room: €65–€115
• Budget hotel: €55–€105
• Airbnb private room: €50–€80
• Airbnb apartment: €100–€150
• Campsite: €10–€15

Food & drinks (typical prices)

• Street food / quick bite: €10–€15
• Casual takeaway: €10–€15
• Sit-down restaurant: €15–€35
• Fast food: €10–€15
• Beer: ~€5
• Cappuccino/latte: ~€3
• Bottled water: ~€2
• Groceries for a week: €40–€65

Suggested Daily Budgets

Backpacker: ~€65/day

• Hostel dorm
• Cooking most meals
• Mostly free activities (walks, parks, free walking tours)
• Public transport as needed

Midrange: ~€160/day

• Private room (hostel/Airbnb)
• Cheap eats + a few sit-down meals
• A couple of paid attractions/tours
• Bike rental or occasional taxi

Upscale: ~€280/day and up

• Hotel stays
• Restaurants and more nightlife
• More museums/tours
• Maximum convenience (car rental if you want it)

How to Get Around (Easy Mode)

Bikes

• The Netherlands is made for cycling (and it shows).
• Rentals often sit around €10–€15/day (sometimes lower).

Public transport in cities

• Convenient and reliable.
• Uses the OV-chipkaart (reloadable card).

Trains (the best way to hop between cities)

• Fast, clean, frequent—honestly a joy.
• Most major places are within about 2.5 hours from Amsterdam by train.
• Official rail site: NS

Buses

• Often the cheapest option for certain routes (especially booked early).
• A popular operator is FlixBus.

Ridesharing

• Good for medium/long distances if you want a local vibe (and lower cost).

Car rental

• Possible, but not usually necessary if you’re sticking to cities + trains.

The Essentials: Can’t-Miss Highlights in the Netherlands

1) Amsterdam (yes—just don’t stop there)

Canals, museums, parks, cafés, and neighborhoods that feel like little worlds of their own. It’s gorgeous and lively, and best explored slowly (and ideally by bike).

2) Rotterdam (modern, bold, underrated)

If Amsterdam is classic, Rotterdam is contemporary: striking architecture, creative spaces, and a “cool port city” energy.

3) A canal experience (tour or DIY boat)

Seeing the canals from the water makes everything click. A tour is easy, but renting a small boat can feel extra sweet and intimate if your budget allows.

4) Leiden (historic and quietly charming)

Pretty streets, 17th‑century vibes, museums, and a relaxed, youthful atmosphere. Perfect for a gentle day trip.

5) The Hague (culture + seaside breathing room)

Royal buildings, great museums, and—when the weather cooperates—the simple happiness of ending your day at the beach.

Whatever you choose to do, remember to take a sweet memory from this lovely country in your trip back!