Amsterdam, the Dutch capital, is a city of old-world charm, with a large population but a pure homey feel.
If you think about European clocktowers in movies, snowy street shops, autumn leaves, and boats on the canal waters, then what you're thinking about resembles Amsterdam.
Amsterdam's abundance of attractions, ranging from the renowned red light district and coffee shops to art galleries and canal cruises, can make it challenging to determine the ideal lodging location.
This guide provides recommendations on where to stay in Amsterdam, whether you're a first-time visitor with a full Amsterdam itinerary looking for a central location or trying to save money.
1. Where To Stay In Amsterdam For First-Time Visitors: Amsterdam Centrum
For first-time visitors to Amsterdam, the best area to stay is the city center or Amsterdam-Centrum. Amsterdam city centre is where you can find the tourist crowds.
It also gives you a central location to access all the main sites and attractions that people visit in Amsterdam while giving you convenient options in both luxury and budget accommodations right in the center of the “Venice of the North”, as the city is sometimes called.
Amsterdam Centraal train station has many accommodation options in the center. Many hotels in the center also offer bike rentals for easy ways to get around.
The old centrum has many smaller neighborhoods, so no matter if you're staying in the popular neighborhood of Dam Square, Nieuwmarkt, Spui, or De Wallen or enjoying a bachelor/ette party weekend in the Red Light District, you'll be able to explore Amsterdam and see everything you came to visit.
Things to see and do in Amsterdam-Centrum
- Visit the Anne Frank House
- View art at the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum
- Take a walk in Vondelpark
- Visit the Rembrandt House
Best hotels in Amsterdam-Centrum
Best luxury hotel in Amsterdam: Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky
Those looking for luxurious accommodations in a historic building in Amsterdam should consider the Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky in the city center as one of the top options.
The 5-star Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky has direct access to Dam Square and the Royal Palace, giving you a straight line to the shopping centers and attractions that pepper the central district.
The 19th-century Grand Hotel buildings are spacious and stylish for history buffs, while the Grand Café serves excellent food and various teas.
For those concerned about finding the best location to stay in Amsterdam, the Grand Hotel converges at several tram lines and is only a short walk from Amsterdam Central Station.
Best 5-star hotel in Amsterdam: Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam
The Sofitel is a 5-star hotel in the city center that exudes luxury. Its blend of French and Dutch design gives it a classic feel mixed with contemporary comforts.
Its 52 luxury suites come with butlers, room service, dressing gowns, slippers, and easy access to fine dining provided in the restaurants on-site.
If you're seeking a hotel that can make you feel like Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn on vacation, this is the ideal choice. The hotel has been ranked as one of the top places for couples to stay in Amsterdam.
The seafood prepared by Chef de Cuisine Raoul Meuwese is matched only by the exquisite wines they have in stock. There's an indoor spa and sauna for those who want to relax after a long day of sightseeing.
The Sofitel is one of the most desirable accommodation choices in Amsterdam, particularly for first-time visitors. The Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank historic house, and the P.C. Hoofstraat shopping street are all within walking distance, making it an excellent option for those looking for where to stay in Amsterdam close to everything.
Best boutique hotel in the Old Centrum: Art’otel Amsterdam
As part of the Radisson Hotel Group, this boutique hotel is within walking distance of major attractions like the Jordaan neighborhood, the famous Dam Square, and the Royal Palace.
It's near enough to Central Station for you to hop on and get to the Rijksmuseum and Leidseplein in no time.
Art'otel Amsterdam has a bar, lounge, library, and gallery. Your on-site access to its facilities also includes a 24-hour kitchen and bar.
The all-day amenities make it a comfortable option for people staying in Amsterdam who want to relax at their hotel comfortably.
Best 4-star hotel in the city center: Swissôtel Amsterdam
The Dam Square is as central as it gets in Amsterdam, just a 10-minute walk from Central Station and the Royal Palace and Magna Plaza shopping center.
Being near the central station is a trait that all the best hotels in the Amsterdam city center share in common.
Swissôtel Amsterdam also has access to the Dam Square Tram Stop right outside. You can quickly get to Amsterdam's most famous museum locations from there.
This boutique-style hotel has bicycle rentals and a restaurant, making this an excellent location to travel with your spouse.
W Amsterdam
In the heart of the city center, W Amsterdam offers a heated rooftop pool and scenic lounge bar. It has excellent rooms, with room service and the Michelin-starred restaurant, The Duchess.
It's also a half-mile from Central Station, so you can conveniently access the public transport system and see everything you've planned.
It's also a mile from P.C. Hooffstraat and not much further away from Nine Streets, both famous as well-trafficked shopping districts in Amsterdam.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center
Those wondering where to stay in Amsterdam and looking for somewhere quieter can't go wrong with the Radisson Blu Hotel, located just a short walk from Dam Square in a less busy corner of the Amsterdam city center.
The Kalverstraat and Waterlooplein shopping streets are also only a 10-minute walk away or easily accessible through the Spui Tram Shop just outside the hotel.
For boutique-style lodging in Amsterdam, this is for those looking for something a little on the low-key side.
Best budget hostel In Amsterdam City Center
The Flying Pig Downtown
Those looking for a cheap place to stay in Amsterdam should consider The Flying Pig Downtown a top choice.
Great location for budget travelers looking to shop and sightsee, walk to Dam Square in 5 minutes or take a little longer walk to the Anne Frank House.
Since the Amsterdam Central Station is only a short 3-walk away, you can access all the city's sights.
Despite being a budget hotel, The Flying Pig still has a hotel bar, continental breakfast, and downtown restaurant locations in the surrounding neighbourhood.
More affordable accommodation in Amsterdam-Centrum:
In any accommodation in Amsterdam, you want to look for something close enough to the city center to put you within walking distance of famous sites.
This also gives you easy access to a transit stations, including tram ports, train stations, bus stops and metro stations.
2. Where To Stay In Amsterdam On The Canal Ring
Those who want canal views because it's romantic or for personal preference will want to choose from these hotel locations near De Jordaan neighbourhood, one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam's canal belt is a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the city's most beautiful and picturesque areas.
The accommodations in this great location are stunning and offer easy access to the city's most popular shopping districts and museums.
By staying in the canal belt, you can enjoy the best of both worlds – a scenic and naturalistic setting and the convenience of being close to the heart of the city.
Things to see and do in De Jordaan Neighborhood:
- Take advantage of the many breakfast and brunch locations in the neighborhood
- Enjoy the canal scenery in The Jordaan neighborhood
- Shop in Lindengracht Market and on Westerstraat
- Visit the Woonbootmuseum, the Houseboat Museum
- Relax at the unique Bar Oldenhof
- Take a canal cruise for a unique perspective of the city
Best Hotels in De Jordaan Neighbourhood (With Canal Views!)
Best 5-star canal hotel: The Dylan Amsterdam
Located right on the canal, The Dylan Amsterdam is a luxury location designed by the Dutch designer Remy Meijers.
You'll be awed by the luxury suites, terraces, and the Michelin-star awarded restaurant, Vinkeles.
This restaurant is within The Dylan Amsterdam's 18th-century bakery and has views of its gardens, of which you can partake while you sample traditional French cuisine and a selection of wines from the hotel's cellar.
The hotel is located just a short stroll away from tram and metro stops, providing easy access to anywhere you wish to go. Or you can start your Amsterdam adventure by shopping in the Nine Streets district on foot.
Best luxury accommodation on the canals: Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht
The Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht hotel is perfect for couples seeking a unique and romantic stay in Amsterdam.
The open-plan room designs offer spacious and luxurious bathrooms. The hotel's Bluespoon restaurant is a great place to dine, and the hotel bar is perfect for a relaxing drink with a view of the canal.
If you're looking for a great cocktail bar or diving into the nightlife scene, you don't have to go that far either: the hopping Leidseplein club and bar scene starts not far from the Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht's Hotel doors.
Best boutique accommodation with canal views: Canal House
Not only does Canal House feature famous views of the water, but it's also one of the best hotels in Amsterdam for those that love to shop.
The Canal House is within walking distance of famous high-end stores like Bijenkorf, Puccini Chocolatier, Marcel Waders, and United Nude. History and nature buffs will also enjoy walking to the Anne Frank House and the Amsterdam Tulip Museum.
Fifteen minutes away, the Amsterdam Central Railway Station waits to take you to other sights past the canals and into the Amsterdam city center.
When you return, you have decorative fabrics and luxurious dark wood décor to keep you company.
Best 4-star hotel on the canal: The Hoxton
Five canal houses make up The Hoxton Amsterdam, close to the Royal Palace Amsterdam and the city's shopping opportunities.
The modern hotel puts you in the city's heart along the canal and is close to the Anne Frank House and luxurious boutiques.
You'll have a hard time finding something cozier in the heart of the city. This makes it one of the best short-stay apartments in Amsterdam.
Best 3-star hotel with canal views: Mr. Jordaan
For those fascinated by architecture and modern art, Mr. Jordaan is an excellent choice.
This distinctive Amsterdam lodging offers convenient access to Amsterdam's city center, the Flower Market and noteworthy landmarks such as the Basilica of St. Nicolas and Rembrandtplein, which are just a short distance away.
Most unique Amsterdam accommodation: Hotel Estheréa
The Estherea Hotel is a charming, boutique-style hotel in Amsterdam's heart.
The hotel offers a peaceful and relaxing retreat from the bustling city outside, featuring elegant and tastefully decorated rooms and a beautiful interior courtyard garden.
The hotel's prime location provides easy access to some of Amsterdam's most popular attractions, including the Anne Frank House as well as the Van Gogh Museum.
3. Where To Stay In Amsterdam For Nightlife & Late-Morning Brunches: Leidseplein & De Pijp
If you're looking for the coolest places to stay in Amsterdam, particularly for the nightlife, you want to find places to stay in Leidseplein & De Pijp.
South Amsterdam boasts some of the best neighborhoods just below the canal belt of the city center, offering a plethora of food and drink options and famous markets.
Outdoor brunch options can be found in abundance in these more local neighbourhoods of Amsterdam.
Things to see and do in Leidseplein & De Pijp:
- Eat brunch at Little Collins or Scandinavian Embassy
- Buy fresh baked goods at the famous Albert Cuyp Market, which has been there for over a century
- Hit the pre-nightlife at Café Gollem, or the wine bar, Glou Glou
- Chill in the lounge at Wijnbar Paulus
- Spend a relaxing day at Sarphatipark or the arthouse theatres in Rialto
Best Hotels In Leidseplein & De Pijp
Sir Albert Hotel
The Sir Albert Hotel is close to Museum Square and only a 15-minute walk away from the canal district.
The Asian fusion cuisine at Sir Albert gives it a unique flair, with guests enjoying robata dishes and then relaxing on the private terrace for drinks later.
It's common for guests to wander out to Vondelpark or the film festivals and retro movie showings in Rialto.
The Sir Albert Hotel is only footsteps away from a Tram Stop that can take you to the major stations and put you within walking distance of all the famous sites.
Hotel Okura Amsterdam
The 5-star Hotel Okura Amsterdam in De Pijp looks over the gorgeous Amsterdam skyline.
It has four restaurants and two Michelin stars, so that foodies will be in heaven at Restaurant Ciel Bleu or Yamazato. The Nagomi Spa and Health center also has its roots in Japanese customs, with guests enjoying facials, manicures, and massages of all kinds.
For extended stays, the Hotel Okura Amsterdam has personal trainers and workout centers, including gyms and saunas in all guest packages.
The museum, restaurant, and shopping districts are all available by tram minutes from the hotel.
Other Recommended Hotels In Leidseplein & De Pijp:
4. Where To Stay In Amsterdam For Families: Jewish Quarter & Plantage
In the Jewish Quarter in Amsterdam-Oost, the attractions and accommodations are geared more towards families.
The Amsterdam Zoo is also conveniently located in Amsterdam East, making the area an excellent choice for families with toddlers or young children.
If you're taking the whole gang on vacation and don't need the more luxurious romantic options of some other hotels, these selections provide more convenience and family-friendly living spaces.
Things to do in Amsterdam-Oost:
- Visit Javastraat, Amsterdam's coolest street and enjoy wandering the Dappermarkt
- Eat café delights and drink coffee at de Jonge Admiral
- Relax and play in Oosterpark, Frankendael Park, and Flevopark
- Visit the cultural museum, Tropenmuseum
- Dine at De Kas, the most famous fine dining restaurant in Amsterdam-Oost
Best Hotels In Amsterdam Oost
The Lancaster Hotel Amsterdam
The Lancaster Hotel Amsterdam is a townhouse in a peaceful and surprisingly rural city centre section, opposite the Artis Zoo, which kids love.
Ten minutes away, the square at Waterlooplein offers exploring and shopping opportunities, as does the nearby Rembrandtplein.
Transportation to Dam Square is accessible from a bus and tram stop within walking distance of the hotel. Central Station is 15 minutes away to take you wherever you need to go.
While not the most luxurious option, the Lancaster Hotel Amsterdam is perfect for families.
Wittenberg by Cove
The modern accommodations in the Wittenberg are great for a short stay, or if you're looking for where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget, Wittenberg is a great option for couples or families.
You can walk to the Hermitage Museum and the Artis Zoo. Even the Carre Theatre and Dutch National Opera & Ballet are close to the building for kids who are a little older and want to take in a little culture while staying in Wittenberg.
5. Where To Stay On A Boat In Amsterdam
Staying on a boat is a unique luxury experience in Amsterdam.
If you're looking for a houseboat stay in Amsterdam, consider the below suggestions.
Renting on the canal is a scenic option for those that want to be within cruising distance of the museums and shops in the city center.
Houseboat Little Amstel
The Little Amstel is a modern and stylish houseboat on the Amstel River at the edge of Amsterdam's historic center.
The rooms offer river views and feature wooden floors and light-colored walls.
The hotel is conveniently located within easy walking distance of several cafes, restaurants, and popular attractions such as Rembrandtplein and Museum Square.
Boat & Breakfast
Boat & breakfast is one of the best boat stays in Amsterdam, close to the Basilica of St. Nicolas and within walking distance of Dam Square and all the events and festivals.
This bed and breakfast is a mile from the Dutch National Opera & Ballet and the Royal Palace Amsterdam.
If you want to stay on the water and still have access to the culture, nightlife and shopping districts in the city center, the Boat & Breakfast is an accessible option great for couples traveling together.
Other Recommended Boathouse Accommodations In Amsterdam:
Where to stay in Amsterdam – Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time to visit Amsterdam
When deciding when to visit Amsterdam, I'd recommend avoiding crowds of public holidays on King's Day. The cold, wet Netherlands weather from December to February is also not the most enjoyable.
Generally, the shoulder season for tourists is late spring, and early fall is perfect as this will give you the best chance to avoid large crowds.
This will also give you a chance to enjoy beautiful mid-year weather. We recommend April, May, or mid-late September for your visit.
How many nights do I need in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam has a ton to see and do, and you'd be doing yourself a disservice without spending at least 3 or 4 nights here on your first visit, which is the minimum recommended by most travel advisors.
How to get around Amsterdam?
Amsterdam has an extensive public transport network like many large urban cities in Europe.
This means it's equipped with a dedicated metro, bus, tram, and train system to help you get around.
Unique to Amsterdam, however, is a ferry system that will help you take advantage of the scenic waterways between destinations.
For this unique sightseeing alternative to traditional transportation methods, an Amsterdam City Card gives you use of these transport options over 2-3 days per card.
An iAmsterdam Card will also get you into many of the city's museums at no additional charge. Book here with FREE cancellation!
Another unique way how the locals move around their city is by bike. Just know there are rules about where you can bike and who has the right of way! You can also rent bikes in the city and do it as the locals do.
Final words on where to stay in Amsterdam
Whether you're seeking budget-friendly options or luxurious romantic accommodations, these hotels offer everything you need for the perfect stay in Amsterdam. If you're unsure about where to stay in Amsterdam, these accommodations are worth considering as they tick all the boxes for what you should look for in an ideal hotel.
This includes access to the city's public transport system, which allows you to travel to all main attractions like famous museums, breweries, restaurants, and parks.
Many of these hotels are within easy walking distance of the historic town squares, canals, and numerous boutiques and trendy shops.
Some of these luxury accommodations have multiple Michelin-starred restaurants, award-winning breweries, and romantic views.
A quieter location with open-concept rooms near museums, parks, or zoos may be preferable for families. The city even boasts some unique Amsterdam accommodations on the canal ring.
For whatever reason, you're visiting the Venice of the North, and for however long, use this hotel guide to find the perfect accommodation in Amsterdam!
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