The Flying Pig Downtown Amsterdam: A Budget Traveler's Dream (and My 3-Night Adventure!)
Amsterdam. The name conjures images of canals, tulips, and maybe a little…green? While the city definitely lives up to its reputation, it doesn't have to break the bank. I just spent three nights exploring Amsterdam on a shoestring, and my home base was the legendary Flying Pig Downtown hostel. This isn’t just a place to crash; it's an experience. Let me give you the inside scoop on how to experience Amsterdam on a budget. I'll be reviewing The Flying Pig Downtown hostel, emphasizing my budget travel experiences!
Location, Location, Location: De Pijp is Where it's At!
The Flying Pig Downtown boasts a prime location in the De Pijp neighborhood, which is a huge win for budget travelers. De Pijp is a vibrant, multicultural area south of the city center, overflowing with street food and affordable restaurants. Forget the tourist traps around Dam Square; this is where the locals eat! It’s a short tram ride to all the major attractions, but honestly, I spent a good chunk of my time just wandering the streets of De Pijp itself. And speaking of eats, you have to check out the Albert Cuyp Market.
Stroopwafel Heaven at Albert Cuyp Market
Seriously, the Albert Cuyp Market is a game-changer for budget snacking. Forget overpriced cafes; here, you can snag a freshly made stroopwafel for just €2! That warm, gooey caramel filling between the crispy waffle layers…pure bliss. I may or may not have had one (or three) every day. Pro tip: Go early to avoid the biggest crowds, and don't be afraid to try different flavors. If you're looking for cheap eats near Flying Pig Downtown hostel, then this is your best bet.
Sleeping Arrangements and the Pig's Vibe
I booked a bed in a 6-bed mixed dorm at The Flying Pig Downtown. It was pretty standard hostel fare: bunk beds, individual reading lights, and a shared bathroom. What really made the difference was the social atmosphere. The Flying Pig is known for its lively vibe, and it definitely lived up to the hype.
Happy Hour and Hostel Security
The downstairs bar is the heart of the hostel. They have a killer happy hour from 8 PM to 10 PM, where beers are only €3. It’s the perfect place to meet fellow travelers, swap stories, and plan your Amsterdam adventures. One of the big questions people ask is, "Is Flying Pig Downtown hostel good for partying?" The answer is a resounding yes, but it comes with a caveat (more on that in a minute).
The hostel also takes security seriously, which is always a plus. You need a key card to access the rooms, and there are lockers available for rent (€5 for my entire stay – totally worth it for peace of mind). This is good to know, as Amsterdam hostel safety can be a concern for first-time visitors.
Noise Levels: The One Drawback?
Okay, let's be real: The Flying Pig Downtown can be noisy, especially at night. The bar is bustling, and the hostel's proximity to the Red Light District means there’s always something going on. If you're a light sleeper, bring earplugs. However, I found that the energy and social atmosphere more than made up for the noise. Plus, I ended up joining one of their organized pub crawls, which cost €15 and were worth every penny for getting to see the Amsterdam nightlife.
Beyond Frites: Budget Eats with a Cultural Twist
Forget the usual fries and mayo (although those are good too!). For a truly memorable and budget-friendly meal, ditch the typical tourist snacks and dive into Indonesian Rijsttafel.
Kantjil & De Tijger: A Rijsttafel Feast
I highly recommend Kantjil & De Tijger restaurant. "Rijsttafel" translates to "rice table," and it's basically a huge assortment of small Indonesian dishes served with rice. The beauty of it is that you can share a large Rijsttafel amongst a group, making it super affordable. Our group of four split a large Rijsttafel, and it came out to around €25 per person. So, if you're looking for the best cheap foods in Amsterdam, then this is a must-try. It’s a fantastic way to sample a variety of flavors and experience Indonesian cuisine without breaking the bank.
Free Fun: Jordaan Street Art Adventure
Skip the overcrowded museums (for now) and explore Amsterdam's creative side with a self-guided street art tour in the Jordaan district. You'll find a lot of the Instagrammable spots Jordaan Amsterdam has to offer by taking this tour.
DIY Jordaan Street Art Tour
Start your tour near the Anne Frank House, then stroll along the picturesque Prinsengracht canal towards the Westerstraat. The walk is lovely in itself. Turn left onto the Westerstraat, which is known for its cool independent shops. Keep walking until you reach the Tweede Egelantiersdwarsstraat. This street is a hidden gem, boasting several vibrant and impressive murals. End your tour at the Noordermarkt, which is particularly lively on Saturdays with its farmers' market and flea market. This is truly a self-guided walking tour Jordaan Amsterdam free of charge!
Ditch the Canal Cruise (Seriously!) and Visit the EYE Film Institute
Canal cruises are classic, but they can be pricey and overcrowded. For a unique and budget-friendly alternative, head to the EYE Film Institute. It's a modern film museum with a fantastic waterfront location.
Free Films and Ferry Rides
The permanent exhibition at the EYE is free and offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of Dutch cinema. But the real highlight for me was the building itself and the views. The EYE's cafe offers stunning waterfront views of the harbor, perfect for relaxing with a coffee or a beer. Plus, getting there is part of the fun: you take a free ferry from Amsterdam Centraal Station. The ferry runs every 5 minutes, and the ride only lasts about 3 minutes, offering excellent views of the harbor. So, if you are looking for an EYE Film Institute Amsterdam alternative canal cruise, then this is your best bet.
Stop-Motion Gouda Cheese Amsterdam: A Viral Video Concept
The most memorable parts of any trip are the absurd moments and the unexpected twists. One thing I love about Amsterdam is the city's rich culture and history.
Imagine a miniature Amsterdam landscape, crafted entirely from Gouda cheese. Under the heat of a lamp, this edible city begins to melt. This is the hook for a short stop-motion video that would take social media by storm. The mini-stroopwafel being dipped in coffee shows a ripple reflecting miniature Gouda canal houses. This evokes amusement and curiosity with the whimsical miniature world.
Final Thoughts: The Flying Pig Downtown - Worth the Hype?
Overall, my stay at The Flying Pig Downtown was a blast. It's not a luxury hotel, but it's a fantastic option for budget travelers who want a social, lively experience in a great location. If you're looking for the best budget hostels in Amsterdam for solo travelers, this should be at the top of your list. Sure, it can be noisy, but the friendly atmosphere, affordable prices, and convenient location make it a winner in my book. The next time I am visiting Amsterdam, I won't hesitate to come back. Ready to experience Amsterdam like a local? Book your stay at The Flying Pig Downtown now!