Where to Stay in Amsterdam, Netherlands (All the Best Spots)
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 having 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: Your Perfect Wellness-Focused Amsterdam Itinerary Guide
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Where to Stay in Amsterdam: Accommodation Options
Like many other hip European capitals, you’ll find many different types of accommodation options in Amsterdam. From luxury hotels to budget hostels, apartment rentals to houseboats, there are many options in Amsterdam for all budgets and preferences.
In general, you’ll find most tourist-focused accommodation options to be located in the city center. Most of Amsterdam’s luxury and boutique stays are here and so are many great apartment rentals. If you’re someone who wants to get the most out of Amsterdam’s sights and attractions then staying in the city center is also extremely convenient as it’s all very walkable.
For more out-of-the-way areas, renting a bicycle and getting around the city by bike is also a great option.
I would recommend anyone visiting Amsterdam for the first time to stay in the city center simply because you’ll have everything you need on your doorstep.
Hotels in Amsterdam
There are so many amazing hotels in Amsterdam from 5-star luxury hotels, both chains and stunning one-off hotels to more affordable 3-star options. Most of the best Amsterdam hotels are located all around the city center and you’ll be able to find a great selection in your favorite area.
In general hotels in Amsterdam can be quite pricey, even for 3-star options. If you’re looking to stay somewhere magical without spending too much try traveling in the low season, the autumn and winter months, to get the best deals on hotels in Amsterdam.
READ MORE: The Best Time to Visit Amsterdam, Month by Month
Apartments
Apartments on sites like VRBO, the Plum Guide, and Airbnb can be rented all over Amsterdam. You’ll find all different types of apartments from luxury apartments in the center with canal views to more budget studios in the suburbs.
Amsterdam is not a cheap city and you can save quite a bit of money on accommodation by renting an apartment, especially if you’re location flexible.
When traveling in a larger group, this is especially the case. Renting an apartment can also save you money on food as you can easily prepare your own food in a well-stocked kitchen.
I found VRBO to have some of the best apartment rentals in Amsterdam. Jump right in and check them all out here.
If you prefer better service, expert-vetted apartments and luxury make sure to check out the exclusive list of listings on The Plum Guide. They only work with the best apartment rentals in Amsterdam so your stay is nothing short of perfect. Click here for more.
Hostels
For budget travelers and backpackers hostels are a great place to stay and are located all over the city and especially in the center. Hostels are great when it comes to saving on accommodation and meeting new people. If you’re a solo traveler wanting to make some new friendships this might be the way to go.
Houseboats
Houseboats are a very unique way to experience Amsterdam. Given all its canals and waterways, this is the perfect place to take advantage of this accommodation opportunity.
Many locals live on houseboats as it tends to be cheaper than apartments and you can rent a boutique houseboat for your stay in Amsterdam. Our favorite houseboat rental is Prince Royal B&B. Check rates and availability here.
The Best Areas in Amsterdam
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.
Looking for the best fun things to do in Amsterdam? Check them all out below.
Where to Stay in Amsterdam: The Best Hotels & Rentals
For those looking for the best properties in Amsterdam look no further. The city boasts the best design-forward hotels in Europe, affordable boutique options as well as other unique stays like houseboats.
You’ll also find lovely apartments in residential areas as well as 5-star, large hotel brands- perfect for those wanting to spend travel points.
Use the map below to search the whole city for where to stay in Amsterdam:
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, Instagrammable 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.
The Hoxton, Amsterdam
Made up of 5 exquisite canal houses, the Hoxton is one of the best design-forward hotels in the area. Where modern minimalism combines beautifully with geometric shapes and masculine undertones, the Hoxton will make it hard for you to actually leave and enjoy the city.
Opt for one of their larger rooms with a canal view and make the most of this dreamy property. There’s also room service, an on-site restaurant, and pets are allowed too, in case you’ve always dreamed of coming to Amsterdam with yours.
Check rates and availability here
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.
Rooms are large and bright and during your stay, you’ll want to take advantage of their well-equipped gym, speakeasy-style bar, and seriously good breakfast. It’s located only a block away from Anne Frank House. Rooms here might start at close to €500 per night but it’s definitely worth it in our opinion.
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.
Not only that, but the hotel also has a unique collection of up to 800 works of art which can be seen in each room as well as in the common areas around the hotel. Art lovers will also want to visit their new art gallery which hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the year.
All in all, the perfect place to be in Amsterdam.
Check rates and availability here.
Hotel Estheréa
One of the most unique stays in Amsterdam, Hotel Estheréa is a stunning, mid-century style property that’s quite honestly, just swoon-worthy. With several, carefully chosen century pieces throughout the property, and light, airy and colorful rooms, this property certainly pays attention to detail.
With an unbeatable central location in one of the best neighborhoods in Amsterdam, stylish and romantic rooms, a brilliant breakfast, professional service, and a fitness center, Hotel Estheréa is definitely one of our top picks in Amsterdam.
Check rates and availability here
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.
Mr. Jordaan
Modern, clean and very budget-friendly, Mr. Jordan 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.
The buffet breakfast is also worth opting for to make sure you’ve started the day in the best possible way before heading out to explore the highlights of Amsterdam.
Mr. Jordaan is the perfect place to stay in Amsterdam for those looking for the perfect location while also staying within budget.
Check rates and availability here
Villa360
For those really looking to make the most of Amsterdam on their trip, make sure not to miss a stay at Villa360. This amazing property only has two guest rooms. The Canal Room which is a stunning double room facing right out onto the canals of Amsterdam and the Garden Room, which provides guests access to nature through a stunning private garden- a real rarity in Amsterdam.
Each room is tastefully decorated and has all the amenities you need for a great stay. Service is outstanding and so are the beds- some of the most comfortable in the city.
Villa360 is a real gem in Amsterdam but be quick, the two rooms book up super fast.
Residences Jordan 9 Streets
For those looking for the perfect apartment rental in the Jordaan then Residences Jordan 9 Streets is the perfect spot. With three different apartment locations, two in De Jordaan and one in Negen Straatjes, these two and three-bedroom apartments are the perfect spot for groups or families.
The apartments are equipped with everything you’ll need for a self-catered stay; a fully equipped and functioning modern kitchen, large, airy bedrooms, and a modern bathroom. The large living area is also the perfect place to gather in the evening and catch up on your day.
For larger groups, this amazing apartment rental is one of the best places to stay in Amsterdam.
Check rates and availability here
Leidsebuurt
The neighborhood of Leidsebuurt is still fairly central and also quite budget friendly. If you’re after a good place to stay on a budget, consider staying in Leidsebuurt.
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.
Hotel La Bohème
La Bohème has to be my favorite budget stay in all of Leidsebuurt. 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 and we personally love their eco-friendly approach. This is also the place to stay for cat lovers- there are a few roaming around!
Check rates and availability here
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 but the rooms are also bright and super comfortable. The service here is second to none and the all-marble bathrooms are simply stunning.
Make sure to also opt for breakfast here too- it’s one of the best in Amsterdam to set you up for a day of exploring.
Check rates and availability here
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.
For those looking for a stay that’s truly great value for money, this is it.
Check rates and availability here
Weber Studios
Small and cozy studios in a great Amsterdam location. Combining great design and practicality, Weber Studios offers a practical, designer option for your stay in Amsterdam.
Each studio comes with a large double bed, table, and chairs, fridge, microwave, kettle, and coffee machine for ultimate comfort. For those wanting access to kitchen basics to prepare or plate basic meals then this is a fantastic option.
The beds here are also super comfortable and the staff and helpful and on hand when you need them. At under €150 per night, it won’t break the bank either.
Check rates and availability here
Amsterdam Oud Zuid and Museum Quarter
As it’s just outside of the city center Amsterdam Oud Zuid and the Museum Quarter doesn’t have too many amazing hotels or rentals but there are two that do stick out that are worth looking into.
In general, accommodation here is cheaper as it’s outside the main tourist center but it is only a little further from most of Amsterdam’s top attractions like the Van Gogh Museum. You’ll be able to find a great deal here, especially in the low season.
Conscious Hotel Museum Square
For those that love minimal, boutique hotel design, this one is for you. With beautifully designed rooms that are pretty and comfortable, a great breakfast, and a garden terrace to relax in on a sunny day, Conscious Hotel Museum Square is a lovely option.
Not only that, this environmentally friendly hotel uses as many recycled materials as possible in their design, eco-cotton towels, and water-saving shower heads. Even more conveniently, they also offer bicycle hire, so you needn’t go far to get into the city center.
Check rates and availability here
Hotel Aalders
With lovely, tasteful rooms in a three-star property, Hotel Aalders is a great option when it comes to where to stay in Amsterdam. Located on a quiet road, away from the traffic, this is a great option for budget travelers. The basic double rooms are small, yet cozy and have everything you need for a lovely stay.
It’s also great for solo travelers as they also offer, small, budget single rooms.
Check rates and availability here
De Pijp
Located right next to Amsterdam Oud-Zuid you’ll find De Pijp, a trendy, creative area of Amsterdam full of great markets, vintage stores, and fantastic plant-based restaurants. De Pijp doesn’t have too many hotels but there are several great apartment rentals to take advantage of- especially if you’re traveling in a larger group.
In De Pijp you’ll also find one of our favorite wellness-focused hotels in Amsterdam.
Pestana Amsterdam Riverside
The ultimate, 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.
Check rates and availability here
Studio Jan Steen
The perfect little studio rental in De Pijp, only a few minutes’ walk from Albert Cuyp Market. The studio is equipped with everything you need from an apartment rental including a fully equipped kitchen and espresso machine. The small studio can easily sleep four thanks to the split-level mezzanine.
Check rates and availability here
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.
The apartment is warm, comfortable, and perfect for a couple wanting to enjoy Amsterdam to the fullest.
Check rates and availability here
Hotel Okura Amsterdam
A 5-star hotel and member of The Leading Hotels of the World, Hotel Okura is an outstanding gem of luxury in Amsterdam. With modern decor combined with Japanese accents, suites here are large, airy, and comfortable.
There’s also a fully equipped onsite gym, four top-rated Michelin-starred restaurants, an indoor pool, and of course a wellness center and spa with Japanese-inspired treatments so you can take care of yourself during our stay in Amsterdam.
Check rates and availability here
Amsterdam Noord
Amsterdam Noord and Ijplein is another fantastic option for where to stay in Amsterdam. The area has recently seen quite a lot of development but it’s now a cool and trendy area to go. Quiet and residential, this area fully allows you to relax and enjoy your stay.
Amsterdam Noord has some really cool hotels and apartment rentals that you can normally get for a little cheaper than in the center. This is more the case the further north you go from the IJ.
It’s also super close to the city center, accessed by an easy and free 5-minute ferry ride across the canal or the tram.
The Panorama Suite
For one of the most unique rentals in Amsterdam don’t miss the Panorama Suite. Sitting on a tiny peninsula, jutting out into IJ main canal, this rental gives you access to an almost-360 view of Amsterdam’s waterway.
With a dreamy circular bed in the center and side bathroom, this greenhouse-style room is large and as you might have guessed, the walls are entirely made of glass giving you the best views possible. Don’t worry- there are curtains too for privacy.
Relax after a day of exploring and watch the boats go by as the sun sets in Amsterdam Noord.
Check rates and availability here
Holiday Inn Express Amsterdam
For a modern, no-frills yet reliable stay, the Holiday Inn Express is a great option in Amsterdam Noord. Beds here are super comfortable, rooms are spotless and with great views of Amsterdam’s main canal and a great, Dutch-style breakfast buffet also helps to set you up for the day.
The bar here is also a lovely place for a few drinks to end your night in Amsterdam.
Check rates and availability here
Westerpark Oud-West
Just West of the Jordaan neighborhood in Amsterdam’s Center, Oud-West is a large area of calm canals and lovely old mansions.
Here you also find lots of restaurants, cafes, and shops with a more down-to-earth vibe. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be a little further away from the bustle of the center, especially during the high, summer season.
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.
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.
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