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Where to Stay in Amsterdam: Choosing the Best Hotel for Your Trip

Updated: Jan 27

Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, offering world-class museums, picturesque canals, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it a perfect city-break destination. Choosing the right hotel can make all the difference in your travel experience—especially if you value comfort, location, and cultural immersion.

In this guide, I’ll share what to consider when booking a hotel in Amsterdam, highlight the best areas of the city, and give you tips on selecting accommodations that match your style.

Amstel hotel in Amsterdam, view from the Amstel river
The luxurious Amstel Hotel in Amsterdam  |  Photo: © Inbal Tur-Shalom

What to Consider When Booking a Hotel in Amsterdam

When choosing your Amsterdam hotel, think beyond the star rating. A few key points can help you make the best decision:

  • Location matters most: Staying in the right neighborhood saves you time on transport and enhances your overall experience.

  • Accessibility: Some historic canal houses lack elevators—important to note if you prefer step-free access.

  • Room size: Dutch hotel rooms can be smaller than American standards, so check square footage before booking.

  • Breakfast options: A hearty Dutch breakfast at your hotel can save you time before starting your day.

  • Canal views: Many hotels advertise canal views, but not all are created equal—read reviews and check photos before booking.

💡 Planning an accessible stay? My dedicated blog post on accessibility in Amsterdam shares super tips on transport, sidewalks, and choosing the right area to stay.


Amsterdam map divided to areas
Amsterdam (Google) Map divided to areas | © Inbal Tur-Shalom

Best Areas to Stay in Amsterdam

Choosing where to stay in Amsterdam can shape your entire visit. The city is compact, walkable, and well connected by public transport, but each neighborhood has its own pace, character, and appeal. Whether you want canals outside your window, easy access to museums, or a quieter base away from the crowds, Amsterdam offers excellent options.

Below are the best areas to stay in Amsterdam, with clear descriptions and carefully selected accommodation types and booking links to suit different travel styles and budgets.

1. The Canal Belt (Grachtengordel)

Best for: First-time visitors, classic Amsterdam atmosphere

Staying in the Canal Belt places you in the heart of Amsterdam’s UNESCO World Heritage area. Elegant canal houses, tree-lined streets, and historic bridges define this part of the city. Most major sights are within walking distance, and the area is full of restaurants, cafés, and small shops.

👉 Recommended hotels:

2. Museum Quarter (Museumplein)

Best for: Culture lovers, quieter evenings, upscale stays


The Museum Quarter is home to Amsterdam’s most famous museums, including the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and the concert building Het Concertgebouw. The area feels spacious and refined, with wide streets and green spaces, making it a good choice if you prefer a calmer atmosphere close to major attractions.


👉 Recommended hotels:

  • Best High End hotel: Book Conservatorium Hotel – a striking mix of historic architecture and contemporary design.

  • Best Special Stay: Book Exclusive Design Loft Downtown – a two-bedroom apartment with balcony, modern amenities, and on-site parking.

  • Best Mid-range hotel: Book Park Centraal Amsterdam – elegantly decorated rooms near the museums.

  • Best Budget Hotel: Book Owl Hotel – located in a monumental building with good reviews and good transport links.

  • Best Hostel: Book Stayokay Hostel Amsterdam – shared dormitories and private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and secure storage.

3. Jordaan District

Best for: Couples, repeat visitors, local charm


The Jordaan is one of Amsterdam’s most loved neighborhoods. Expect narrow streets, independent boutiques, cozy cafés, and a village-like feel. It’s lively during the day yet pleasantly relaxed in the evenings.


👉 Recommended hotels:

  • Best Mid-range hotel: Book Mr. Jordaan – comfortable rooms with modern amenities in a prime location.

  • Best Different hotel: Book Woonboot Josja – a houseboat with outdoor seating, canal views, and family-friendly features.

  • Best Budget Hotel: Book Hotel de Looier – traditional hotel rooms in a quiet part of the district.

4. De Pijp

Best for: Food lovers, lively neighborhoods, local energy


De Pijp is a vibrant, multicultural area known for the Albert Cuyp Market and some of the city’s best dining. The atmosphere is energetic without feeling overwhelming, and it offers excellent tram connections to the rest of Amsterdam.


👉 Recommended hotels:

  • Best High End hotel: Book Hotel Okura Amsterdam – spacious luxury rooms with renowned Japanese service and dining.

  • Best for Families: Book Beautiful Quiet Apartment – two bedrooms, balcony with garden views, and a fully equipped kitchen.

  • Best Mid-range hotel: Book Sir Albert Hotel – stylish boutique hotel with an artistic edge.

  • Best Budget Hotel: Book ibis Styles Amsterdam Amstel – modern, comfortable rooms in a renovated historic building.

5. Amsterdam North (Noord)

Best for: Modern design, creative scene, value for money


Amsterdam North is just a short, free ferry ride from Central Station. Once an industrial area, it’s now known for bold architecture, cultural venues, and waterfront views. It feels more open and less touristy than the historic center.


👉 Recommended hotels:

  • Best High End Special hotel: Book Lightship Amsterdam – adults-only accommodation on a stylish boat.

  • Best High End Unique hotel: Book Crane Hotel Faralda – dramatic design suites inside a former harbor crane, high above the IJ.

  • Best Mid-range hotel: Book Sir Adam Hotel – located in the A’DAM Tower with impressive city views.

  • Best Budget Hotel: Book NH Amsterdam Noord – comfortable rooms with air conditioning and easy transport links.

  • Best Hostel: Book ClinkNOORD – modern design, private rooms, family rooms, and dormitories.

6. Amsterdam Old South (Oud Zuid)

Best for: Quiet elegance, families, longer stays


Oud Zuid is a refined residential area bordering the Museum Quarter. It offers wide streets, local shops, and a relaxed pace, making it ideal for travelers who want comfort and space while staying close to the center.


👉 Recommended hotels:

  • Best High End hotel: Book Central Zuyd by Museum & Centrum – a stylish one-bedroom apartment with a fully equipped kitchen and on-site parking.

  • Best Mid-range hotel: Book Jan Luyken – thoughtfully designed rooms with air conditioning near the museums.

  • Best for Families: Book Canal Holiday Apartment – self-catering accommodation with everything needed for longer stays.

  • Best Budget Hotel: Book The Muse Amsterdam – boutique hotel inspired by the Dutch Golden Age.

7. Amsterdam Old Centrum (Binnenstad)

Best for: Being close to everything


The city center puts you steps away from Dam Square, shopping streets, canals, and historic landmarks. It’s busy and lively, but ideal if you want maximum convenience and don’t mind the energy of central Amsterdam.


👉 Recommended hotels:

  • Best High End hotel: Book De L’Europe Amsterdam – classic luxury with refined rooms and suites overlooking the Amstel River.

  • Best Different hotel: Book The Art Deco Houseboat – a unique stay with sun terrace, air conditioning, and a fully equipped kitchen.

  • Best Mid-range hotel: Book Hotel V Nesplein – stylish rooms with rustic décor in a quiet central street.

  • Best Budget Hotel: Book Residence Le Coin – bright rooms with kitchenettes in a very central location.

  • Best Hostel: Book Stayokay Hostel Amsterdam Stadsdoelen – private rooms and dormitories in a historic city-center building.


Sunset at the Flower market Amsterdam view from the Singel canal.
The back of the Amsterdam flower market at sunset | Photo: © Inbal Tur-Shalom

8. Keeping Kosher? Stay in Buitenveldert (Zuideramstel)

Best for: Kosher travelers, residential comfort


If access to kosher food is important, Buitenveldert is the most practical area to stay. This post-war residential neighborhood has kosher restaurants, supermarkets, and good tram connections to the city center. While it’s not a sightseeing area, it offers comfort and convenience.


👉 Recommended hotels:

Also worth considering: Adagio Amsterdam City South (Amstelveen) – modern studios and apartments with kitchenettes, located slightly further south but well connected.

9. Staying a Bit Further from the Center

Best for: Better value, more space, quieter evenings


If you don’t mind a short tram or metro ride, staying outside the historic center can offer better value and a more local experience. Public transport in Amsterdam is reliable and easy to use.

Pros

  • Lower accommodation prices

  • More spacious rooms and apartments

  • Quieter, residential atmosphere

Cons

  • Less nightlife nearby

  • Daily travel into the center

The best areas to stay for adventurous travelers seeking a more authentic experience:

  • Oud West: Lively local area with cafés, parks, and good tram connections. Best for Families stay: Book Apartments De Hallen

  • Westerpark: Green, creative neighborhood centered around a large park and cultural venues. Best Boutique Apartments: Book Kith & Kin

  • Amsterdam Oost: Green and residential, known for Oosterpark, local cafés, and everyday Amsterdam life. Well connected to the center by tram and metro. Top Rated boutique stay for couples: Book Breitner House 

  • Slotervaart: Residential and affordable, with direct tram links to the center. Best for Multi-generational family stay: Book 6 bedroom villa in Amsterdam

  • Geuzenveld-Slotermeer: Quiet suburban area, with a mixed population, including immigrants, best for travelers seeking a different vibe, with direct tram links to the center. Best for couples stay: Book Private Apt Amsterdam


boat on the canal on a pink evening sky in Amsterdam
Sunset in Amsterdam | Photo: © Inbal Tur-Shalom

🏨 Curious about Amsterdam visitors' favorite area? Click here and find out.

Final Thoughts

Amsterdam offers a wide variety of hotels for every taste—whether you want luxury canal-side elegance, boutique design, or vibrant local neighborhoods. Choosing the right area and accommodation sets the tone for your entire trip, ensuring a meaningful and memorable experience.

💡Good to remember: Amsterdam hotels fill up quickly, especially in spring and summer. If you see a place that fits your needs, it’s worth booking early. Use the links above to compare options and secure the right hotel for your trip with confidence.

🧭 Ready to explore Amsterdam? Discover my unique tours now!  

🧳 Planning a trip to the Netherlands? Let’s plan your perfect vacation!

A quick note: bookings made through the link earn me a small commission. Thank you for the support 🫶🏼

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