Where to stay in Amsterdam? The best areas and places to stay

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Looking for accommodation in Amsterdam and in a hurry? Check out travelers’ favorite hotels in Amsterdam on Booking.com by clicking here!

A tip: They’re in high demand, so book quickly!

And if you want all the details on the best areas to stay in Amsterdam, along with my selection of the top hotels, read this article.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam: My Selection of the Best Accommodations

You’re planning to visit Amsterdam during your next trip and you’re wondering where to stay?

You’re at the right place!

When traveling, it’s never easy to find the perfect hotel, especially if it’s your first time in the city.

As I know Amsterdam very well, I have created for you a list of the best hotels in Amsterdam, sorted by neighborhood.

Whether you’re looking for a hotel in the historic center, near the main museums or in a lively district, you’ll find what you’re looking for here!

For each area, I will also tell you more about the best things to do and places to visit.

With my recommendations, you can book your dream hotel in Amsterdam right now and ensure an unforgettable trip!

And at the end of this article, you will also find my selection of budget hotels in Amsterdam as well as my list of the best places to stay in Amsterdam if you’re travelling as a family.

So, where to stay in Amsterdam as a tourist?

Let’s find out!

My Favorite Hotels in Amsterdam

Here’s a quick summary of my favorite hotels in Amsterdam, if you don’t have time to read my detailed article.

Just click on the hotel name for details and rates:

In the Old Town of Amsterdam (Binnenstad)

Binnenstad is none other than the historic center of Amsterdam and the ideal neighborhood for staying in the heart of the city.

As the quintessential touristic area, the old town is home to many of the must-see attractions when traveling to Amsterdam and several iconic places.

Always bustling, it’s also full of cafés, restaurants, and shops.

You’ll be thrust into the heart of the city’s vibrancy!

In my opinion, it’s the must-visit neighborhood for staying in Amsterdam!

I recommend this area for your stay in Amsterdam:

  • Because it’s the most central location and thus the best starting point for sightseeing
  • To be closest to Amsterdam’s most significant landmarks
  • For its proximity to the central station: very convenient for getting to the center from the airport or if you’re arriving by train
  • If you love lively districts.

The old town area is the ideal place to discover:

Here is my selection of the best hotels in central Amsterdam

  • Singel Hotel Amsterdam: Located 200 meters from the station and 500 m from Dam Square. Modern double room with the possibility of a canal view starting from 140€, breakfast at 15€. Strong points: decor, welcoming staff, facilities. It’s my top pick for quality/price in Amsterdam.
  • Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam: Situated across from the train station, in the center of Amsterdam. Tastefully decorated double room starting from 190€, breakfast at 18€. Strong points: indoor pool, sauna, spacious room. An excellent choice for staying in Amsterdam’s old town!
  • Kimpton De Witt Amsterdam: Located 500 m from the Royal Palace and Dam Square. Spacious and bright double room from 250€, breakfast included. Strong points: free bicycle loans, hearty breakfast, bar-restaurant.
  • NH Collection Amsterdam Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky: Situated right on Dam Square, this luxury hotel offers sleek and modern rooms from 310€, breakfast included. Strong points: central location ideal for sightseeing in Amsterdam on foot, exceptional bedding, superb breakfast. One of the finest luxury hotels to stay in Amsterdam!
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Another excellent hotel I recommend, which is not located exactly in the center (that’s why I’m listing it separately), is the Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre.

It’s located a 10-minute walk from the station, by the river, and offers spacious, modern, and comfortable rooms starting from 190€, breakfast at 25€.

Strong points: location, comfort, friendly staff, included sauna access. It’s my recommendation for a high-end stay in Amsterdam!

NH Collection Amsterdam Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Historic Center of Amsterdam
NH Collection Amsterdam Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Historic Center of Amsterdam

In Red Light District

The Red Light District is part of central Amsterdam but it’s so distinctive that we differentiate it from other areas.

Yes, because it’s here in Red Light District that you’ll find the famous windows behind which sex workers offer their services. Add in a number of coffee shops and you have two of the city’s symbols together in one place!

It may seem like an unconventional area to stay in Amsterdam, but don’t worry—the hotels I’ve selected for you are great and entirely reputable! 😊

This district is ideal for your stay in Amsterdam:

  • If you want to stay in the city center
  • To be near all the sites and museums of the old town
  • If you’re looking for a lively and festive area with lots of bars
  • If you’re single or taking this trip to Amsterdam with friends and you’re looking for some female company in the evening! 😅

The Red Light District is perfect for:

Where to Stay in Red Light District in Amsterdam?

  • Hotel Royal Taste: Located in the heart of the Red Light District, by a canal. Double rooms with seventies-inspired decor start from €150. Strong points: the friendly staff, great location, comfy bedding. An excellent choice for accommodation in Amsterdam!
  • Hotel CC: Situated 100m from Oude Kerk. Cosy rooms, some with canal views starting from €186, breakfast at €12.50. Strong points: the comfort, the nice views, easy access from the train station.
  • Hotel Luxer: 10 minutes from Dam Square and 200m from the central train station. Discover their comfortable and inviting rooms from €200, breakfast at €14. Strong points: helpful staff, close to all shops.
  • NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace: A 5-star hotel located 500m from Dam Square. Offers elegant rooms with sleek decor from €240, breakfast included. Strong points: gourmet cuisine, welcoming staff, excellent breakfast. The best hotel for a luxury stay in Red Light District.
NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace Red Light District Amsterdam
NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace Red Light District Amsterdam

In the Jordaan District

The Jordaan is another historic district to consider for your stay in Amsterdam. Created in the 17th century to house artisans and workers, it is now considered a quaint, bohemian area.

Located west of the old town, it has the same picturesque charm as the city center, but without all the touristy shops.

You can admire the beautiful old red brick houses, stroll along the canals, and enjoy a truly pleasant atmosphere for walking around.

You’ll love this neighborhood:

  • If you’re seeking the traditional side of Amsterdam
  • If you have a hipster soul
  • To get the feeling of staying in a village right in the heart of the city.

Not to be missed in the Jordaan district:

  • Vintage shops for shopping
  • Westerkerk, the largest Protestant church in the Netherlands
  • Brown cafés to enjoy a beer in a great atmosphere
  • Noordermarkt, a flea market
  • The Anne Frank House.

Where to Stay in Jordaan, Amsterdam?

  • Linden Hotel: Located 800m from the Anne Frank House and Westerkerk. Stay in a beautifully renovated 18th-century building with rooms starting at €125, breakfast at €12.50. Strong points: the peacefulness, free drinks and cakes, charming rooms. A great choice for staying in the Jordaan area of Amsterdam!
  • Amsterdam Wiechmann Hotel: This property is a 10-minute walk from the Anne Frank House, occupying 3 charming canal houses. Rooms start at €160 with breakfast included. Strong points: attentive staff, very comfortable beds, the view. The perfect hotel for a comfortable stay in Amsterdam!
  • Morgan & Mees: Located between the Anne Frank House and the Royal Palace. Rooms with very nice, simple and cozy decor and exceptional bedding from €200 per night. Strong points: the tasty breakfast, charming hotel.
  • Pulitzer Amsterdam: This 5-star hotel welcomes you into traditional houses dating from the 17th and 18th centuries, recently renovated. It features stunning rooms that blend contemporary and classic styles from €400, breakfast at €32. Strong points: the hotel’s character, attentive staff, the quality of the food. The ideal hotel for a romantic stay in Amsterdam!
Pulitzer Amsterdam Jordaan district
Pulitzer Amsterdam Jordaan district

In the Museum Quarter (Museumkwartier)

If you love art and culture, the Museum Quarter is the ideal place to stay in Amsterdam.

It’s home to the most famous museums in the city as well as Vondelpark, a large park spanning over 45 hectares.

This district has a calm, somewhat upscale atmosphere and is located south of the old city and canal belt. It’s part of the most sophisticated and chic area in Amsterdam.

The Museumkwartier is perfect for your stay in Amsterdam:

  • If you plan on visiting lots of museums
  • If you’re passionate about painting and art in all its forms
  • If you want to indulge in luxury shopping at Vuitton, Chanel, and more

Things to do in the Museum Quarter and around Museumplein:

The Best Hotels to Stay in Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter

  • Park Plaza Vondelpark Amsterdam: by choosing this hotel, you’ll be just steps away from Vondelpark. Rooms with sophisticated decor and park views start at €139, with breakfast available for €17. Strong points: excellent reception and facilities (comfortable bedding), high standards, and tranquility. One of the best value-for-money accommodations near Amsterdam’s museums!
  • Conscious Hotel Museum Square: situated a 5-minute walk from the Van Gogh Museum, this hotel places a high emphasis on ecology and has been certified with an eco-label. The materials used are sustainable, recycled, and certified. From €200 per night. Strong points: organic breakfast, design, impeccable service.
  • Amsterdam Marriott Hotel: located right next to Museumplein. This luxury hotel offers understated and elegant rooms starting at €270, with breakfast for €22. Strong points: sauna, fitness center, private parking. Our top recommendation for a high-end stay in Amsterdam’s museum district.
  • Conservatorium Hotel – The Leading Hotels of the World: this stunning palace is located just 200 meters from both the park and Museumplein. It offers exquisite rooms and suites featuring designer luxury furnishings starting from €480, with breakfast at €47. Strong points: indoor pool, sauna, wellness center, excellent restaurant. The perfect luxury hotel for a romantic getaway in Amsterdam!
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If Park Plaza is fully booked on your travel dates, you have another 2 options that also offer excellent value for money and are among the most affordable in the Museumkwartier:

Conservatorium Hotel Museum Quarter
Conservatorium Hotel Museum Quarter

In Leidseplein District

The Leidseplein district is located between Amsterdam’s historic city center and the museum quarter, within what is known as the canal belt.

This part of the city is one of the most lively, with numerous bars, clubs, nightclubs, and several theaters/concert venues. As you can imagine, a festive atmosphere is guaranteed!

So, if you’re deciding where to stay in Amsterdam and aren’t too keen on getting a good night’s sleep but rather prefer going out dancing and partying, this is the place for you!

However, it also occupies an excellent central location, bordering almost all other districts mentioned in this article, making it very convenient for exploring Amsterdam.

Things to do in Leidesplein district:

  • Go bar hopping
  • Attend a concert or a show
  • Dance the night away.

What are the Best Hotels in Leidseplein, Amsterdam?

As I mentioned, the district is very festive, so I’ve selected good hotels located in quieter areas and not directly next to the noisy bars and clubs. They’re situated slightly away from the hustle and bustle, allowing for a peaceful stay!

  • Prinsengracht Hotel: situated on a peaceful street by the canal and only 150m from the bars. Double room with views of the interior courtyard or canal start at €130, breakfast included. Great value for this Amsterdam hotel!
  • NH Collection Amsterdam Flower Market: located near the flower market, the hotel offers warm and comfortable rooms starting from €250. Strong points: excellent location, views from the terrace, very pleasant staff.
  • Banks Mansion – All Inclusive Boutique Hotel: also close to the flower market and 500m from Leidseplein, this hotel features Art Deco-style rooms with wooden furniture and stained glass. From €270, breakfast included. Strong points: bike rental, free snacks all day, all-inclusive mini-bar and hotel bar. One of the best places to stay in Amsterdam for top-notch amenities!
  • American Hotel Amsterdam: this historic hotel is housed in a beautiful building right next to Leidseplein. Decorated in an original and unique style, the rooms are spacious and some offer canal views. From €350, breakfast at €24.50. Strong points: impeccable service, beautiful decor, great location. Our recommendation for a luxurious stay in the canal district!
American Hotel Amsterdam Leidseplein District
American Hotel Amsterdam Leidseplein District

In Waterlooplein and Plantage Districts

The Waterlooplein district is situated to the southeast of Amsterdam’s old town. It corresponds to the former Jewish quarter and is directly adjacent to the historic center.

Plantage is the district next to Waterlooplein, but since the latter is very small, I’ve chosen to group them together.

You might consider Waterlooplein and Plantage for your stay in Amsterdam:

  • If you’re looking for peace and quiet
  • If you’re interested in history
  • For a family vacation in a residential area
  • If you prefer a greener neighborhood
  • To be close to everything without the crowds

Things to see and do in Waterlooplein and Plantage:

Best Accommodations East of Amsterdam Centre

  • Motel One Amsterdam-Waterlooplein: Located close to Zuiderkerk and just a 15-minute walk from Dam Square. Cozy rooms with very comfortable beds starting at €154, breakfast for €11.50. Strong points: proximity to the center, charming staff, and a good varied breakfast. This is my top pick for value for money in East Amsterdam!
  • The Lancaster Hotel Amsterdam: situated right across from the zoo. Double rooms starting at €170 per night. Strong points: tram stop nearby, ample breakfast, very quiet.
  • Monet Garden Hotel Amsterdam: A boutique hotel near the Jewish Historical Museum and the zoo. Beautiful, very comfortable rooms, some with canal views, starting at €290, breakfast for €19.50. Strong points: super comfortable bedding, warm welcome, walking distance to all places of interest and museums. One of my favorite hotels for staying in Amsterdam with your partner or family!
  • Hyatt Regency Amsterdam: A 5-star hotel located 800 meters from the zoo. Bright rooms with elegant decor starting from €360, breakfast for €28. Strong points: staff attentive to guests’ well-being, the decor, the location, excellent dining. The perfect luxury hotel to stay near Amsterdam’s center!
Hyatt Regency Amsterdam Plantage District
Hyatt Regency Amsterdam Plantage District

In Pijp District

The Pijp district is situated between the Museum Quarter, the Canal Loop, and Plantage.

It shares similar characteristics with the Jordaan, formerly a working-class neighborhood that has been transformed into a bourgeois-bohemian quarter. It retains the same authentic and picturesque atmosphere but with even fewer tourists.

With its abundance of cafes and restaurants, it’s a favored hangout for the local youth.

I find it to be a really great neighborhood to stay in Amsterdam, especially for those looking for a popular and typical atmosphere.

What to do in the Pijp district:

  • Albert Cuyp Market: one of the largest open-air markets in Europe where you can find everything!
  • Heineken Experience to discover the history and brewing process of the famous beer
  • Visiting a coffee shop.

Our Selection of the Best Hotels in Pijp

  • ibis Styles Amsterdam Amstel: located a 10-minute walk from the Museum Quarter and Albert Cuyp Market. Pleasant and modern rooms starting from €130, breakfast included. Strong points: ideal location in the district, good breakfast.
  • Pestana Amsterdam Riverside – LVX Preferred Hotels & Resorts: a brand-new luxury hotel located in the former town hall offering rooms from €210, breakfast for €25. Strong points: the setting, indoor pool, spa, views. Our recommendation for a high-end stay in Pijp district!
  • Hotel Okura Amsterdam – The Leading Hotels of the World: this splendid 5-star hotel offers gorgeous rooms and suites starting from €280, breakfast for €34. Strong points: spa and wellness center with treatment rooms, large indoor pool, the 2 Michelin star gourmet restaurant on the 23rd floor, the Japanese restaurant (1 Michelin star). The most luxurious hotel with a pool for staying in Amsterdam!
Hotel Okura Amsterdam Pijp District

Hotel Okura Amsterdam Pijp District

Where to Stay in Amsterdam on a Budget

If you’re on a tighter budget, here is a selection of some affordable accommodations and hostels for cheap stays in Amsterdam:

  • Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam: Youth hostel located 400 meters from the Rijksmuseum and a 10-minute walk from Vondelpark. Bed in a dormitory starting at €26, breakfast included. Strong points: the location, the warm welcome, the ambiance. An excellent choice for cheap accommodation in Amsterdam!
  • The Flying Pig Downtown: located right in the historical center. Beds in a dormitory start at €40 and double beds from €77 + breakfast for €4. Strong points: cleanliness, ideal location, amazing atmosphere. The best solution for staying in central Amsterdam on a budget!
  • Budget Hotel Hortus: located in Plantage. Double room with shared bathrooms starting from €65. Strong points: bicycles available, welcoming staff.
  • Urban Lodge Hotel: located 3 km from Jordaan and 4 km from Vondelpark. Modern and bright rooms starting from €100, breakfast included. Strong points: very cozy setting, proximity to the train, ample breakfast.
  • Motel One Amsterdam: Located 2 km from the Rijksmuseum and Albert Cuyp Market. Clean and well-decorated double rooms starting at €110 per night, breakfast for €11.50. Strong points: helpful staff, location 2 mins from the subway, good breakfast.
  • Jaz Amsterdam: Located 15 minutes by subway from the center. Spacious and designer rooms starting from €110, breakfast for €16.95. Strong points: very friendly staff, amenities, excellent breakfast.
Urban Lodge Hotel - cheap hotel Amsterdam
Urban Lodge Hotel – cheap hotel Amsterdam

Staying in Amsterdam with Family

  • Amsterdam Teleport Hotel: located 10 minutes by tram from the center or 5 minutes by train. Studios with double beds and bunk beds + sitting area + kitchenette, accommodating up to 6 people, starting from just €110! I highly recommend this place for an affordable family stay in Amsterdam.
  • MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West: also located 5 minutes by train from the center of Amsterdam. Modern family rooms for up to 6 people starting from €140. Great value for money for this hotel where families can stay in Amsterdam!
  • Yays Oostenburgergracht Concierged Boutique Apartments: Aparthotel not far from the zoo. Well-equipped studios and suites perfectly suitable for a family, starting from €210.
  • Kith & Kin Boutique Apartments: the property is located close to the Jordaan district. It offers beautiful apartments tastefully decorated with a fully equipped kitchen and living area, starting from €225 for 4 (2 adults + 2 children). Yet another great option for family accommodations in Amsterdam!
  • Yays Zoutkeetsgracht Concierged Boutique Apartments: 1 to 2-bedroom apartments that are elegantly modern with canal views, starting from €270.

What is the Best Hotel in Amsterdam?

If you’re looking for the best hotel in Amsterdam, I can only recommend the Conservatorium Hotel, which is rated “The Leading Hotels of the World”. It truly is one of the finest 5-star hotels in Amsterdam.

For something a bit more affordable yet still in the luxury category, you should consider the NH Collection Amsterdam Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky, which is perfectly located right on Dam Square, at the very heart of the city.

I also have a big soft spot for the Hotel Okura, also listed as The Leading Hotels of the World, for its large indoor swimming pool and the quality of its restaurants, which boast 3 Michelin stars.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam: The Summary Table of the Best Hotels

To give you a better idea of the best hotels to stay at in Amsterdam, I have created a table summarizing all the hotels mentioned in this article. You can sort them by price or by neighborhood!

Hotel District Price
Singel Hotel AmsterdamVieille ville (Binnenstad)140€
Park Plaza Victoria AmsterdamVieille ville (Binnenstad)190€
Kimpton De Witt AmsterdamVieille ville (Binnenstad)250€
NH Collection Amsterdam Grand Hotel KrasnapolskyVieille ville (Binnenstad)310€
Movenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre10 min de la Vieille ville (Binnenstad)190€
Hotel Royal TasteRed Light District150€
Hotel CCRed Light District186€
Hotel LuxerRed Light District200€
NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon PalaceRed Light District240€
Linden HotelJordaan125€
Amsterdam Wiechmann HotelJordaan160€
Morgan & MeesJordaan200€
Pulitzer AmsterdamJordaan400€
Park Plaza Vondelpark AmsterdamDistrict des musées139€
Conscious Hotel Museum SquareDistrict des musées200€
Amsterdam Marriott HotelDistrict des musées270€
Conservatorium HotelDistrict des musées480€
Prinsengracht HotelLeidseplein130€
NH Collection Amsterdam Flower MarketLeidseplein250€
Banks MansionLeidseplein270€
American Hotel AmsterdamLeidseplein350€
Motel One Amsterdam WaterloopleinWaterlooplein et Plantage154€
The Lancaster Hotel AmsterdamWaterlooplein et Plantage170€
Monet Garden Hotel AmsterdamWaterlooplein et Plantage290€
Hyatt Regency MasterdamWaterlooplein et Plantage360€
Ibis Styles AmsterdamPijp130€
Pestana Amsterdam RiversidePijp210€
Hotel Okura AmsterdamPijp280€
Hans Briker Hostel AmsterdamCheap Hotel26€
The Flying Pig DowntownCheap Hotel40€
Budget Hotel HortusCheap Hotel65€
Urban Lodge HotelCheap Hotel100€
Motel One AmsterdamCheap Hotel110€
Jaz AmsterdamCheap Hotel110€
Amsterdam Teleport HotelFor Families110€
MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City WestFor Families140€
Yais Concierged Boutique ApartmentsFor Families210€
Kith & Kin Boutique ApartmentsFor Families225€
Yays Zoutkeetsgracht ApartmentsFor Families270€
Book your trip now and save money!

You’re traveling to the Netherlands? These articles will help you !

Discover all my articles about Amsterdam: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Amsterdam are listed there.

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Best area to stay in Amsterdam
Best area to stay in Amsterdam
Anonymous

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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