Where to Stay in Amsterdam, Netherlands: Best Hotels & Areas

Planning a trip to Amsterdam and wondering where to stay in Amsterdam to make the most of your trip? Keep reading to find out about the best areas, hotels, and rentals in the Dutch capital.

Figuring out where to stay in a new city can be daunting. After all, there are always so many options. Amsterdam is no exception. While Amsterdam isn’t large when compared with other European capitals like London or Paris, it does have its fair share of amazing areas and accommodations.

Famous for its tulips, windmills, cheese, Red Light District, coffee shops, and a very open approach to everything, Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most visited cities.

Once you’ve decided on your Amsterdam itinerary, you’ll most probably need somewhere to stay, and with Amsterdam’s Golden Age mansions and magical canals, choosing the perfect place to stay couldn’t be more crucial.

Most tourists stay in one of the gorgeous, upbeat neighborhoods in Amsterdam City Centre, close to all the best restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and main sights and major attractions. If you’re looking to save money, it might also be a good idea to look into hotels and apartment rentals in outer neighborhoods like Amsterdam Noord or Westerpark Oud West.

Keep reading to find out all about the different areas of Amsterdam and the best hotels and rentals you can find in each. You’ll also find our personal recommendations too and our favorite design-forward and wellness-focused stays.

Read more: The Perfect Amsterdam Itinerary Guide

*This ‘where to stay in Amsterdam’ travel guide contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top-quality content for free.

How to Decide Where to Stay in Amsterdam

Choosing where to stay in Amsterdam comes down to the type of trip you’re planning. If it’s your first visit, staying in or around the city center is the easiest option. You’ll be within walking distance of many of Amsterdam’s biggest sights, museums, canals, restaurants, and nightlife, making it easy to explore without relying heavily on public transport.

If you’ve visited before or prefer a quieter, more local atmosphere, neighborhoods just outside the historic center offer a different side of the city while still being well connected by tram or bike. Cycling is one of the best ways to get around Amsterdam, so staying a little further out is rarely inconvenient.

Whether you’re looking for a luxury canal-side hotel, a stylish boutique stay, a serviced apartment, or a budget-friendly hostel, Amsterdam has accommodation to suit every style of traveller. In this guide, I’ll break down the best areas to stay, and who each one is best suited to, as well as all the best hotels in Amsterdam I love.

The Best Hotels in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has one of Europe’s best hotel scenes, with everything from grand five-star icons overlooking the canals to beautifully designed boutique hotels, stylish townhouse stays, and excellent mid-range options.

Most of the city’s standout hotels are concentrated in and around the historic center, although you’ll also find some exceptional properties in quieter neighborhoods like Oud-Zuid, De Pijp, and Amsterdam Noord.

Accommodation in Amsterdam is rarely cheap, and even three-star hotels can command surprisingly high rates, especially between spring and early autumn.

If you’re hoping to experience one of the city’s best hotels for less, consider visiting in late autumn or winter, when prices are generally lower and good deals are much easier to find.

Read More: The Best Time to Visit Amsterdam, Month by Month

Rosewood Amsterdam

Set within the former Palace of Justice on the Prinsengracht, Rosewood Amsterdam is one of the city’s most remarkable luxury hotels. After an extensive restoration, the landmark building has been transformed into a refined retreat that balances historic Dutch architecture with contemporary design.

Rooms and suites are understated yet elegant, many overlooking the canals, while the hotel also features several excellent restaurants and bars, a tranquil courtyard garden, and an impressive Asaya Spa with an indoor pool.

Its location on one of Amsterdam’s most beautiful canals, just a short walk from the Jordaan, the Nine Streets, and the Museum Quarter, makes it one of the very best hotels in Amsterdam for a memorable city break.

Pulitzer Amsterdam

Spread across 25 beautifully restored 17th and 18th-century canal houses, Pulitzer Amsterdam is one of the city’s most iconic places to stay.

The interiors strike a perfect balance between classic Dutch elegance and contemporary design, with individually styled rooms, peaceful inner gardens, and inviting lounges that make it easy to linger.

Its location between the Jordaan and the Nine Streets is hard to beat, placing many of Amsterdam’s best cafés, boutiques, restaurants, and canal walks right on your doorstep.

Mandarin Oriental Conservatorium

Now part of the Mandarin Oriental portfolio, the Conservatorium remains one of Amsterdam’s most prestigious luxury hotels. Set inside a beautifully restored former music conservatory in the Museum Quarter, it pairs striking contemporary design with soaring historic architecture.

Spacious rooms, exceptional service, one of the city’s best hotel spas, and an unbeatable location opposite the city’s major museums make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a refined stay in Amsterdam.

De L’Europe

Occupying a prime position where the Amstel River meets the historic canal belt, De L’Europe is one of Amsterdam’s true grand dames.

Opened in 1896, the hotel is known for its rich heritage, museum-worthy collection of Dutch art, and classically elegant rooms, many with sweeping river views.

Dining is another highlight, with several excellent restaurants and bars on site, including the two Michelin-starred Flore, making this an ideal choice for travellers looking to combine old-world luxury with one of the city’s finest culinary experiences.

Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky

Overlooking Dam Square, Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky has welcomed guests for more than 150 years and remains one of Amsterdam’s landmark luxury hotels.

Despite its central location, the hotel feels surprisingly refined, with elegant rooms, attentive service, and easy access to many of the city’s biggest attractions.

Don’t miss breakfast in the spectacular Wintergarden, a soaring glass-roofed space that has become one of the hotel’s defining features.

The Dylan

Hidden behind an unassuming canal-side façade on the Keizersgracht, The Dylan is one of Amsterdam’s most intimate luxury hotels. With fewer than 50 individually designed rooms and suites, it feels far more like a private residence than a traditional hotel.

Its peaceful courtyard, impeccable service, and acclaimed restaurant, Vinkeles, make it a favourite for anyone seeking a quieter, more discreet stay while remaining just moments from the Nine Streets and the city’s best shopping and dining. This is one of my favorite hotels in Amsterdam.

The Hoxton

If you’re after a stylish boutique stay with plenty of character, The Hoxton is one of the best hotels in Amsterdam. Set across a row of canal houses on the Herengracht, it combines original period features with the brand’s signature laid-back design, lively social spaces, and excellent all-day dining.

Its location, just steps from the Nine Streets, puts some of Amsterdam’s best independent boutiques, cafés, and restaurants within easy walking distance.

Sir Albert Hotel

For design-conscious travellers who don’t want to splurge on a five-star stay, Sir Albert Hotel is one of the best value boutique hotels in Amsterdam.

Part of the Sircle Collection, the hotel occupies a former diamond factory in the heart of De Pijp, pairing industrial architecture with warm, contemporary interiors.

With the Museum Quarter, Albert Cuyp Market, and countless cafés and wine bars on its doorstep, it’s an excellent base for experiencing one of Amsterdam’s liveliest neighbourhoods without compromising on style.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam by Area

Unless you already have your eye on an amazing Amsterdam property, you might want to first decide on the area you want to stay in before embarking on the all-important accommodation search.

There are so many amazing neighborhoods in Amsterdam with different feels and energy. There’s no doubt that you’ll be able to find that perfect area to suit your travel style, needs, and budget.

Here’s a little summary of the best areas in Amsterdam to consider for your stay.

Amsterdam Center

The center of Amsterdam has many lovely neighborhoods to stay all with the canal belt.

The Jordaan – cool, hip, and beautiful, this is one of the best areas to stay. Jordaan is the perfect area to stroll through and take it all in slowly. Concentrated around Bloemgracht, an exceptionally pretty canal, you’ll find a crisscrossing network of small streets and bridges flanked by beautiful boutiques and cafes.

The area is adorable and makes a great base for your time in Amsterdam.

Negan Strattjes (9 Streets) – Nine picture-perfect streets, crossing three gorgeous canals, this neighborhood is where I’d live forever if I had the chance. Incredibly trendy and chic, 9 Straatjes is where you’ll find some of the most perfect canal scenes, Instagrammable cafes, vintage stores, and pretty boutiques.

De Wallen (Red Light District) – the center of Amsterdam’s nightlife. The Red Light District is the center of Amsterdam’s more seedy side. There are also many coffee shops and clubs in the area. Many come here to buy and smoke marijuana and have a good time.

Leidsebuurt (Theatre District) – a lovely, laid-back area home to Amsterdam’s theatres. If you’re heading to Amsterdam for a show or concert this might be the most convenient place to stay to be close to the action.

De Plantage – a lovely, small, green part of the city in the eastern part of Central Amsterdam. Here you’ll find Hortus Botanicus, one of Europe’s oldest Botanical Gardens. Above De Plantage is the Old Jewish quarter which has some great outdoor thrift markets, the Dutch National Opera and Ballet, and the Rembrandthuis Museum.

Outer Areas

Westerpark Oud West – A fantastic, young, trendy neighborhood with lots of undiscovered restaurants, concept stores, and boutiques.

De Pijp – The student area of Amsterdam with lots of cool cafes, dining options, and shopping. It’s full of creatives and colorful markets like Albert Cuypmarkt.

Amsterdam Oud Zuid – A little south of the center but still very central and close to Amsterdam’s main attractions. You’ll find the beautiful Vondelpark here as well as the city’s Museum Quarter, which as you might expect, is where Amsterdam’s main museums are such as the Stedelijk Museum and the Rijksmuseum.

Amsterdam Oost – Just south of De Plantage, Amsterdam Oost has cheaper accommodations, and good vibes, and is a great area for those interested in dining, drinking, and nightlife.

Amsterdam Noord – A very cool, up-and-coming area yet serene and residential, Amsterdam Noord is a quiet area just a short (and free) ferry ride away from Amsterdam Central station.

Amsterdam City Center

Amsterdam’s city center is where you’ll find most of the city’s hotels, main sights, and entertainment. If you’re a first-time visitor to Amsterdam, you’ll want to stay in the center to make the most of all the attractions. Staying in the center will mean you’ll be close to the canals, Dam Square, Oude Kerk, Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank’s House, and all the best Amsterdam tours.

Here are some of the best hotels and rentals in the different neighborhoods of Amsterdam City Center.

Negen Straatjes

The Nine Streets area of Amsterdam is my personal favorite and best area in the city. It’s full of narrow canals, winding streets, boutiques, chic cafes, and many unique vintage stores.

You’ll also find some pretty awesome Dutch brands here as well as a variety of concept stores that’ll keep even the fussiest shopper busy for hours.

Negan Straatjes is also where you’ll find the best boutique hotels in the city. Housed in the pretty, narrow, traditional, canal-side houses that are oh-so-typical to Amsterdam, these stays are a must for any traveler looking for a design-forward property. 

9 Straatjes is also just a short walk from pretty much anywhere of interest in Amsterdam.

Best Hotels in Negen Straatjes

The Hoxton – Set across five historic canal houses, The Hoxton is one of Amsterdam’s best design-led hotels, pairing contemporary interiors with plenty of character. Book a canal-view room if you can, and take advantage of the lively restaurant, room service, and pet-friendly policy.

Pulitzer Amsterdam – Located along one of Amsterdam’s most scenic canals, Pulitzer is one of Amsterdam’s most stunning boutique hotels. It’s located in a lovely, historic building and on the inside has a beautiful mix of modern combined with mid-century furniture and art pieces. The Pulitzer is contemporary, comfortable, and chic.

Ambassade Hotel – Another beautiful, boutique hotel in the heart of Negen Straatjes, Ambassade is full of character and charm. It’s a modern luxury hotel in Amsterdam’s famous canal-facing gingerbread houses. The hotel has beautiful, luxurious rooms with a royal feel, a library bar where you can choose from over 5,000 books, a gym, and access to fourteen different types of massage in their wellness center.

Hotel Estheréa – One of Amsterdam’s most distinctive boutique hotels, Hotel Estheréa stands out for its colourful, design-led interiors and beautifully curated vintage furnishings. Set along the Singel canal, it pairs an unbeatable central location with stylish rooms, an excellent breakfast, and warm, attentive service.

The Jordaan

The Jordaan is another extremely scenic and vibey neighborhood in Amsterdam. Just a stone’s throw away from Negen Straatjes, Jordaan also boasts beautiful, gingerbread canal houses, some of the prettiest canals in the city, and sights like Anne Frank’s House.

Staying in Jordaan will make sure that the best restaurants and cafes in the city are close by. All other museums and attractions are within walking distance so you’ll find that you barely need to rent a bicycle or use public transport.

Best Hotels in Jordaan

Hotel Mercier – Set in the heart of the Jordaan, Hotel Mercier is one of Amsterdam’s most characterful boutique hotels. Housed in a historic Art Nouveau building, it pairs bold, theatrical interiors with comfortable rooms and an excellent location just a short walk from the Nine Streets, Anne Frank House, and some of the city’s best cafés and restaurants.

Mr. Jordaan – Modern, clean and very budget-friendly, Mr. Jordaan is a lovely hotel in the heart of Jordaan. While rooms are on the small side, they are light, bright, and fresh with everything you need for a great stay. The modern, earthy decor is practical and easy on the eyes at the same time.

hotel calisto – Between the Jordaan and Amsterdam Centraal, Hotel Calisto is a charming boutique stay with just a handful of individually designed rooms. Expect eclectic interiors, plenty of character, and a peaceful atmosphere, all within easy walking distance of the city’s canals, cafés, and major sights.

Leidseplein

The neighborhood of Leidseplein is still fairly central and also quite budget-friendly. If you’re after a good place to stay on a budget, consider staying in Leidseplein.

The theatre district has many cafes and restaurants around, is within minutes of the best museums in Amsterdam such as the Rijksmuseum, and is just a stone’s throw away from Vondelpark. It’s the perfect place to stay for those looking for long evening strolls in the park or early mornings of culture.

Be aware however that the area is famous for nightlife (not in a Red Light District way) so if you’re planning a relaxing stay in the city, or you’re traveling with small children, this area might not be for you.

Best Hotels in Leidseplein

Hotel 717 – A beautiful, modern, and sophisticated hotel, Hotel 717 is one of my favourite Amsterdam stays. It’s located in a traditional canal-side mansion just 600m from the Rijksmuseum. With swoon-worthy, contemporary decor that’s not only pretty but also practical and airy, the rooms are also bright and super comfortable.

Hotel La Bohème – La Bohème has to be my favorite budget stay in all of Leidseplein. Rooms here are brightly colored, clean, and modern with comfortable facilities and a great common area to meet new travelers. The buffet breakfast is also good.

Modern Hideout – Another great budget stay in the center of Amsterdam, Modern Hideout is a small B&B offering modern and comfortable accommodation at affordable prices. Rooms all come with a flat-screen TV, modern, private bathroom as well as a coffee machine for your morning caffeine hit. Rooms also have a balcony, allowing you to enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of Amsterdam throughout the day.

Weber Hotel 397 – Small and cozy studios in a great Amsterdam location. Combining great design and practicality, Weber Hotel 397 offers a practical, designer option for your stay in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam Oud Zuid and Museum Quarter

If you’re looking for a quieter, more refined base, Oud-Zuid and the Museum Quarter are among the best areas to stay in Amsterdam.

Home to the city’s world-famous museums, elegant shopping streets, leafy parks, and some of Amsterdam’s finest luxury hotels, this neighbourhood has a more residential feel than the canal belt while remaining just a short tram ride or pleasant walk from the historic centre.

It’s an excellent choice for couples, culture lovers, and anyone seeking a more relaxed stay.

Best Hotels in Amsterdam Oud Zuid and Museum Quarter

Mandarin Oriental the Conservatorium – For art lovers and anyone planning to spend time in Amsterdam’s museum district, the Conservatorium is hard to beat. Occupying a striking heritage building beside the city’s cultural highlights, the hotel is known for its expansive rooms, light-filled atrium, destination restaurants, and one of Amsterdam’s finest spas. It’s an elegant retreat that feels removed from the crowds while remaining within easy reach of the canal belt.

Jan Luyken Amsterdam – Housed in a row of elegant townhouses, it combines contemporary design with a relaxed, residential atmosphere, while thoughtful extras like complimentary snacks, bikes, and cosy communal spaces make it feel more like staying in a stylish Amsterdam home than a traditional hotel.

Park Centraal Amsterdam – Overlooking the edge of Vondelpark, Park Centraal Amsterdam is a polished, contemporary hotel that’s perfectly positioned between the Museum Quarter and the canal belt. Part of the Sircle Collection, it offers stylish rooms, excellent dining, and easy access to Amsterdam’s top museums.

Maison ELLE Amsterdam – Maison ELLE Amsterdam brings the effortless Parisian style of the ELLE brand to a quiet corner of Oud-Zuid. Expect elegant, fashion-inspired interiors, beautifully appointed rooms, and a relaxed, residential setting just a short walk from Vondelpark and the Museum Quarter.

De Pijp

If you’re after a more local side of Amsterdam, De Pijp is one of the best neighbourhoods to stay. Once a working-class district, it’s now one of the city’s liveliest areas, filled with independent cafés, wine bars, excellent restaurants, and boutique shops.

You’ll also find the famous Albert Cuyp Market here, while both the Museum Quarter and the canal belt are within easy walking or cycling distance. It’s a great choice for food lovers, younger travellers, and anyone who prefers neighbourhood charm over tourist crowds.

Best Hotels in De Pijp

Hotel Okura Amsterdam – A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, Hotel Okura is one of Amsterdam’s finest luxury hotels. Expect spacious, contemporary rooms with subtle Japanese influences, an outstanding spa, an indoor pool, and an exceptional dining scene, including several Michelin-starred restaurants.

Pestana Amsterdam Riverside – Modern, wellness hotel in the neighborhood of De Pijp. Located in a former town hall, this hotel has splendid, luxury rooms and a wellness area with a relaxing pool, two saunas, and spa treatments. The perfect place to relax after a day of exploring.

The Market Retreat – One of my favorite spaces in De Pijp, this beautiful apartment is right above Albert Cuypmarkt so you’re never too far from the hustle and bustle of De Pijp. The apartment is beautifully decorated with modern art and has a desk- ideal for digital nomads and entrepreneurs.

Studio Jan Steen – The perfect little studio rental in De Pijp, only a few minutes’ walk from Albert Cuyp Market.

Amsterdam Noord

If you’re looking for a stay that feels a little more local, Amsterdam Noord is an excellent choice. Once an industrial district, it’s become one of the city’s most creative neighbourhoods, home to waterside cafés, innovative restaurants, galleries, and striking modern architecture, while still retaining a quieter, residential atmosphere.

Accommodation here is often better value than in the historic centre, with a great mix of stylish boutique hotels and contemporary apartment stays. Best of all, Amsterdam Centraal is just a free five-minute ferry ride across the IJ, making it easy to enjoy the city while escaping the crowds at the end of the day.

Best Hotels in Amsterdam Noord

Sir Adam Hotel – Occupying the landmark A’DAM Tower in Amsterdam Noord, Sir Adam Hotel is one of the city’s coolest design hotels. Rooms pair industrial-inspired interiors with sweeping views over the IJ and the historic centre, while the lively bar, music-focused atmosphere, and unbeatable ferry connection to Amsterdam Centraal make it a great choice for a stylish city break.

NH Amsterdam Noord – a solid mid-range option for travellers looking to keep costs down without sacrificing comfort. While it lacks the design credentials of many of Amsterdam’s boutique hotels, it offers spacious rooms, reliable service, and good transport links to the city centre. A good option to book on points.

Westerpark Oud-West

For a more local experience, Westerpark and Oud-West are two of Amsterdam’s best neighbourhoods to stay.

Less touristy than the canal belt, these adjoining districts are packed with excellent cafés, natural wine bars, creative restaurants, independent boutiques, and green spaces. Westerpark itself hosts markets, festivals, and cultural events throughout the year, while the city centre remains within easy cycling distance or a short tram ride.

It’s an ideal base for return visitors and anyone wanting to experience Amsterdam beyond the main sights.

Morgan & Mees – One of the best boutique stays in Amsterdam West, this spot is just over the canal from Jordaan. With beautiful and cozy, monochrome suites with wooden touches, the hotel also has a great onsite restaurant and bar to make the most of in the evening.

As you can see Amsterdam has its fair share of amazing accommodation options.

If you’re a first-time visitor to Amsterdam I highly recommend staying in the center to make the most of being close to all the major sights. Then again if you’re prepared to rent a bicycle or work out the public transport system staying further out of the center also has its benefits.

Use the map below to search the whole city for where to stay in Amsterdam:

Have you discovered where to stay in Amsterdam and booked your perfect stay in Amsterdam? Let me know your comments and questions in the box, below, I’d love to hear from you.

---

Now more than ever, make sure not to leave home without travel insurance. For the last few years, I’ve been using Safetywing Nomad Insurance for all my individual trips and digital nomad lifestyle and there’s no better company for all my insurance needs. Cover starts from as little as $56 per month. Get your quote below now.

Planning a trip right now? These are just some of my favourite websites I use to book everything from hotels to rental cars!

Discover Cars for quick and easy car rentals worldwide

Booking.com for great deals on hotels

Agoda also for great deals on hotels

Viator for tours and adventures around the world

Related posts you might like:

The Perfect 3 Day Amsterdam Itinerary Guide

The Best Time to Visit Amsterdam, Month by Month

Where to Stay in Rotterdam: Best Areas & Hotels

19 Best Things to Do in Rotterdam, Netherlands

The Best Restaurants in Rotterdam, Netherlands

Kinderdijk Windmills Travel Guide: Planning the Perfect Trip

One Day in Brussels: An Expert’s Guide to Brussels in a Day

FOUND THIS POST USEFUL? PIN IT AND SHARE