If you’re wondering whether Amsterdam in January is worth visiting, I’m here to tell you it absolutely is. It’s a fantastic destination for A Budget Day Trip to Amsterdam in January, especially if you’re staying nearby, like we did in the charming town of Alkmaar. Just a 30-minute drive or around 40 minutes by train, Amsterdam is easily accessible and perfect for a winter getaway.

* If you’re short on time, we’ve added a quick guide at the end of this blog post, summarising all the key points covered.
A Budget Day Trip to Amsterdam in January: What You Can Expect from the Weather
In January, Amsterdam experiences cold weather with average temperatures around 3°C (37°F). You can expect a mix of rain, wind, and occasionally snow, so dressing warmly is essential. A heavy winter coat, scarves, gloves, and sturdy shoes are perfect for strolling along the Amsterdam canal and exploring the city’s iconic landmarks.

Why January is a Great Time for a Budget Trip to Amsterdam
Visiting Amsterdam city centre in January offers a much quieter experience. With fewer tourists and less bustling bike traffic, it’s the perfect time for a Budget Day Trip to Amsterdam or even a longer stay. January is an ideal month for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and want to explore Amsterdam in January without the usual crowds.
Best Places to Visit in Amsterdam in January
A trip to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without visiting its world-class museums and scenic canals. The Rijksmuseum is one of the top attractions, offering art lovers a chance to admire masterpieces by Rembrandt and other Dutch artists. Don’t forget to stroll along the Amsterdam canal to take in the city’s charm from the water. The canals, especially Herengracht, Prinsengracht, and Keizersgracht, are lined with beautiful buildings and provide a quintessential Amsterdam experience.
Booking Tickets for the Rijksmuseum
To make your visit as smooth as possible, it’s advisable to book your tickets to the Rijksmuseum in advance. You can easily reserve tickets via the official Rijksmuseum website. There are different options available, including general admission and audio tours for an additional €6.50. If you’re planning to visit more museums throughout the year, consider getting the Museumkaart, which grants you unlimited access to over 30 museums, including the Rijksmuseum. Book tickets here

How to Get to the Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is conveniently located in the city center. To get there, you can take tram lines 2, 5, or 12 to the Rijksmuseum stop or metro line 52 to Van Baerlestraat. From Amsterdam Central Station, it’s a 10-minute tram ride to the museum.

Lunch at The Pantry: A Taste of Traditional Dutch Cuisine
After exploring the museum, head to The Pantry, a cozy restaurant offering traditional Dutch cuisine. It’s located at Leidsekruisstraat 21, a short walk from the Leidseplein tram stop (lines 1, 2, and 5) or Rokin metro station. To avoid waiting, I recommend reserving ahead via Google Maps.
At The Pantry, we tried their special menu, starting at €24.50. I ordered menu number 3 of 4, which included a starter, a savoury beef and onion stew for the main, served with red cabbage and mashed potatoes—perfect for a chilly day. Dessert was also included, and I had poffertjes—small, fluffy Dutch pancakes typically served with powdered sugar and butter. To make your own Dutch poffertjes at home, you’ll need a special poffertjes pan.

A Budget Day Trip to Amsterdam in January: Exploring the 9 Straatjes and Iconic Canals
After your meal at The Pantry, head north on Leidsekruisstraat, turn right on Prinsengracht, and walk straight for about 10 minutes until you reach the 9 Straatjes (Nine Streets), a collection of picturesque lanes known for boutique shops, cafes, and galleries. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of the Amsterdam canal and take a few moments to snap some pictures.
The canals in this area are a must-see, especially Herengracht, Prinsengracht, and Keizersgracht, which are the three main canals that form a scenic loop around Amsterdam’s central area.
Coffee & Cake
To wrap up your budget Amsterdam day, visit Coffee & Cakes Amsterdam for a relaxing coffee and slice of cake. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a quiet moment in the heart of the city. They have several locations, and the one I visited is at Singel 369.
Other locations include:


Places to Stay in Amsterdam: Budget-Friendly Options
If you’re planning a longer stay or need a place to rest during your short break to Amsterdam, here are six great places to stay in Amsterdam that offer good value for money without compromising on quality:
- Numa Amsterdam offer stylish, affordable accommodations in central locations, perfect for easy access to the city’s top sights. Numa Amsterdam The Crane, Numa Amsterdam Docklands, Numa Amsterdam Oosterpark & YAYS Amsterdam Salthouse Canal by Numa.
- Meininger Hotel in Amsterdam City West or Amsterdam Amstel offer budget-friendly, modern stays near major transport hubs, with easy access to the city’s top attractions.
- Boutique Hotel Notting Hill located in the heart of Amsterdam, this hotel offers stylish, modern rooms at reasonable prices, ideal for those wanting a chic but affordable stay.
- Bob W Amsterdam Noord a modern, sustainable 4-star aparthotel located in Amsterdam Noord.
- The Hoxton, Amsterdam a boutique hotel offering a great balance between style and affordability. It’s located near some of the best cafes, restaurants, and shopping in Amsterdam.
- The Student Hotel Amsterdam City (now known as The Social Hub) – a trendy, budget-friendly option with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those who want to be close to the city’s top attractions. Great for solo travelers or groups.

Conclusion: Why a Budget Trip to Amsterdam is Worth It
Even on a budget trip, Amsterdam in January has so much to offer. From world-class museums to scenic Amsterdam canal strolls and cosy cafes, this city can be explored without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re planning a budget day trip to Amsterdam or a longer stay, January offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere perfect for taking your time and enjoying the best Amsterdam has to offer.
The Full Walking Itinerary for Your Day Trip to Amsterdam
For your convenience, here’s a complete guide to exploring Amsterdam on foot, summarising everything we’ve covered in this post.
Start at the Rijksmuseum
Begin your day at the iconic Rijksmuseum. Explore its incredible collection of Dutch art and history. Be sure to book your tickets online in advance for a smooth visit.
Walk to The Pantry for Lunch
From the Rijksmuseum, take a short walk to The Pantry for a delicious lunch of traditional Dutch cuisine.
Explore the 9 Straatjes District
After your meal at The Pantry, head toward the iconic area of 9 Straatjes (Nine Streets) district for a charming shopping experience. Walk along Prinsengracht until you reach Herengracht, where the 9 Straatjes begins.
Take in the Canals
Wander around the Amsterdam canals, particularly Herengracht, Prinsengracht, and Keizersgracht. These three canals form the heart of Amsterdam’s historic canal belt and are perfect for a leisurely stroll with scenic views.
End at Coffee & Cakes
Finish your day with a relaxing coffee at Coffee & Cakes Amsterdam.

Europe Travel Inspiration
Planning more budget adventures across Europe? Check out our guide on the Best Winter Destinations in Europe on a Budget for top picks to explore during the colder months. If you’re short on time, our post on 24 Hours in Amsterdam is perfect for discovering the city’s highlights in just 24 hours. For general tips to save money while travelling, don’t miss Europe on a Budget: Travel Hacks You Need to Know. If road trips are more your style, we’ve got you covered with 9 Road Trip Tips: Plan a Road Trip Around Europe for stress-free planning and memorable journeys.

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