Budget Backpacking in Holland

Budget Travel in Holland

For anyone travelling on a budget, you’ll be glad to hear that there’s plenty of accommodation to cater for backpackers. You can find hostels along the coast, in the centre of bustling cities and even in the small, picturesque villages. This means travellers should feel safe in the knowledge that they can find budget accommodation throughout Holland.

Hostels might be cheap – ranging from €15pppn for a dorm or €20pppn in a private room – but they don’t hold back on freebies and facilities. Most places offer a free breakfast and free Wi-Fi. Don’t assume you’ll have to cart a sleeping bag or pillow around with you. Nowadays most places supply guests with bed linen. Even if you are saving money on accommodation, eating out three times a day can get expensive so guests should make use of the kitchen facilities to prepare the odd meal. Similarly, you might not fancy a night on the town every evening so why not relax in the hostel’s games room or pick a DVD to watch in the common area. A number of hostels plan events throughout the week including pub crawls, pasta nights, karaoke or even free city tours. These are perfect if you’re travelling solo and want some company for a few evenings. Do a bit of research before your trip and read reviews which will help you to decide if you want your hostel to have a lively atmosphere, host events, be in a central location or out in the countryside. 

Amsterdam Hostels

Amsterdam is top of most people’s lists when they visit Holland. Plenty come for the museums, galleries and arty boutiques but a lot come to party too. The unique waterways meandering through the city mean you’ll have no trouble finding an Amsterdam hostel close to a canal.  The Bulldog hostel is located beside the lovely Oudezijds Voorburgwal and guests can enjoy a coffee or beer relaxing on the rooftop terrace. There are plenty of places to stay right in the heart of the bustling red light district but it’s also possible to get out on the water and stay on a barge. Close to the train station the Friesland offers cheap cabins and a pleasant sundeck for guests to relax on.

Other Holland hostels

Outside of the capital travellers might enjoy visiting the coastal towns. Haarlem is close to the popular Bloemendaal aan Zee, a favourite seaside spot of trendy Amsterdammers who visit the beach for sunbathing and extreme sports by day and party at the lively beach bars and clubs at night. You can crash at the nearby Stayokay Haarlem Hostel which has a picturesque spot on the banks of a canal.