Best places to stay in Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s city centre starts in front of Amsterdam Centraal train station, so stays in the central district are very well-connected. Here, you’ll find the Royal Palace, Rembrandt’s House and the Red Light District. To the east of the centre (near Kadijken and ARTIS), there are similarly good transport connections and myriad hotels. Top attractions included the Shipping Museum, the huge Amsterdam Zoo and NEMO, an interactive science museum that’s ideal for rainy days with kids.
For quintessential Amsterdam vibes, head right for the Grachtengordel – a maze of canals, bridges and tall, wonky canal houses. You’re within touching distance of the Anne Frank House and the Tulip Museum. Bordering the canal quarter, Jordaan is a residential but trendy district, home to independent boutiques, eateries and pubs and the popular locals’ hangout, Westerpark. Oud West is a well-heeled area home to Vondelpark and the city’s top museums. You’ll find the Rijksmuseum (national museum), the Van Gogh Museum, the Modern Art Museum and the Diamond Museum, to name but a few. Head to De Pijp to be close to these museums and the canal quarter, but for a more local and laid-back vibe.
Where to stay to be near the popular attractions in Amsterdam
For the classic museums and main attractions, opt for Oud-West, the Grachtengordel or central Amsterdam. You’re well-connected by tram if you want to head further afield but within easy walking distance of places like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank’s house. You’re also spoilt for a choice of fun shops and places to eat. Central also boasts de Bijenkorf, one of the Netherlands’ largest department stores and a must-visit for designer shopping.
Where to stay with your family in Amsterdam
Families visiting the Dutch capital might wish to avoid the clamour of central and the nightlife centring on the Red Light district. If so, head to Oud West or de Pijp. The eastern area is also perfect for families with children of any age, thanks to the zoo and the NEMO Science Museum. It has a pleasant atmosphere, with wide, tree-lined streets, pleasant canals and plenty of options to eat. Alternatively, to get some of that city-centre bustle without being overwhelmed, seek a hotel inside the Grachtengordel and introduce your family to Amsterdam's life in full swing.
Where to stay as a solo traveller
Solo travellers looking for cosy vibes and lively evenings should make a beeline for Joordan. It’s a bit cooler than the city-centre districts, home to many independent shops and venues, with a higher chance of rubbing shoulders with locals. First-time visitors may head right for the Oud-West area for front-row access to the museums. If you’ve been to Amsterdam before and feel au fait with the Grachtengoordel and the best-known museums, try de Pijp or Oost. Both more residential areas offer budget-friendly accommodation and different parks, as well as the World Museum and the Heineken Experience.
Find cheap hotels in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is awash with budget-friendly hotels. The Flying Pig has two hostel locations, Downtown – literally steps from Amsterdam central station – and Uptown – right next to Vondelpark and the main museums. Both hostels have a kitchen, secure lockers, a bar and run city bike tours. Dormitory beds are around £25–30/night. For something more upscale but still budget-friendly, try the Ibis Amsterdam Centre. There are comfortable, modern rooms for as little as £90–100/night. In peaceful De Pijp, the Ibis Styles Amsterdam City also has rooms for under £100/night and offers bike rental so you can see the city like a local. For four-star luxury without the four-star price tag, book Hotel Arena in leafy Amsterdam Oost. The classic Amsterdam exterior, complete with a cool terrace bar, gives way to an elegant interior, where ultra-modern furnishings meet original features (just over £100/night).
