Europe, Netherlands

Where to stay in Amsterdam: Neighbourhood Guide

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Last Updated on September 16, 2025 by Lauren Allen

Wondering where to stay in Amsterdam? Then you’re in luck!

This neighbourhood guide shares the very best areas to stay in the Dutch capital. Whether it’s your first time in the city or you’re a seasoned visitor, there’s lots to consider when booking a trip to this popular European city.

For example, do you want to stay near certain attractions or escape the hustle and bustle? Are you on a budget or not? If you’re unsure, deciding on where to stay can get overwhelming. However, as a regular visitor, I know the very best spots in town.

Having visited Amsterdam seven times (with several more trips in the pipeline), I’ve personally stayed in several areas across the city. Throughout this post, I’ll share my honest thoughts to help you make an informed decision.

Some locations are particularly great for first-timers, while others suit those looking for a more authentic experience. Ultimately, there are many fab options for all types of budgets. Read on to find your perfect stay in this well-loved destination.

Canal views on a sunny day in Amsterdam. In this photo, you can see beautiful canal side homes, colourful bunting, pink and red flowers and some boats on the water. It's a clear day with blue skies. — The canals of Amsterdam, Netherlands

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Amsterdam

As a quick rundown, here are some of the top neighbourhoods in Amsterdam and why you should consider staying:

Centrum: Best for first-time visitors
Amsterdam Noord: Best for art lovers and hipster vibes
Jordaan: Best for historical attractions and shopping
De Wallen: Best for nightlife
Museum Quarter: Best for museum buffs (obvs)
De Pijp: Best for foodies and market-goers

Below, you’ll find the very best places to stay in Amsterdam across all areas. This includes everything from budget-friendly options to luxury stays. You’ll also learn more about each location.

Want expert advice? Drop a comment below or join my Facebook group for personalised tips and tricks!

Lauren (the owner of this blog) with views of the Damrak behind her. It's a sunny day with blue skies Lauren is wearing a black tshirt and a green patterned skirt.

The Damrak is a row of different coloured crooked buildings in the Dutch capital that many people like to photograph. — Admiring views of The Damrak

The Damrak - A row of different coloured crooked buildings in the Dutch capital that many people like to photograph. In this particular photo, you can see the spire of a nearby church in the background. — Admiring views of The Damrak

Centrum

If you’ve never been to the Dutch capital, you may be wondering where to stay in Amsterdam for the first time. Centrum is one of the top spots as it allows you to stay in the heart of the city.

By doing so, you’ll be within walking distance of many of the top attractions which allows you to tick off your bucket list with ease. No matter how long you’re visiting, staying in a central location is highly convenient for first-time visitors.

Plus, the journey from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Central Station takes no time at all. If you’re staying close by, you’ll reach your hotel quite quickly after passing border control.

When it comes to attractions, Amsterdam city centre is home to the historical canal belt, Dam Square and the picture-perfect Damrak houses. There are also many museums in the area including Madame Tussauds, Amsterdam Dungeon and Fashion For Good.

Fancy hitting up some traditional bars? Just minutes away from Dam Square, you’ll find Wynand Fockink and De Drie Fleschjes – two of my favourite spots in the city.

Wynand Fockink dates back to the 17th century and serves tasty Dutch genever in many different flavours.

On the other hand, De Drie Fleschjes is an authentic brown bar that also serves genever and other local drinks. Its cosy interior makes it the perfect spot for an afternoon drink before more sightseeing. Plus, you get a freebie with your Iamsterdam City Card. Who doesn’t love free things?

Here are some of the top places to stay nearby:

A woman holding a magnet in front of the canal and Damrak crooked houses. The magnet has a windmill on it and the windmill blades turn. — Amsterdam, Netherlands

Lauren (the owner of this blog) sat in front of the Damrak. You can see her long dark brown hair and colourful floral dress laid out on the floor behind her.

The Damrak is a photogenic row of crooked houses. — Amsterdam, Netherlands

Where to stay in Centrum

Cheap and cheerful:

Ciao Papa Hotel
Singel Hotel
ibis Styles Amsterdam Central Station
Inntel Hotels

Mid-range options:

art’otel Amsterdam
Kimpton De Witt
INK Hotel Amsterdam – MGallery Collection

Luxury:

W Amsterdam
Hotel TwentySeven

Find places to stay in Centrum

A woman holding a postcard in front o of the Damrak. The Damrak is a photogenic row of crooked houses and the postcard photo looks like it was taken during autumn as you can see some autumnal leaves in the corner. — Holding a postcard in front of The Damrak

Amsterdam Noord

Located across the river from Central Station, Noord is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the city. I’ve stayed there several times now and can safely say it’s one of the best areas to stay in Amsterdam.

There are several attractions in this part of town including This Is Holland, Eye Film Museum and A’Dam Lookout (which are all a stone’s throw away from each other).

A short walk away, you can also find the NXT Museum, the Straat Museum and NDSM Wharf which are all must-see’s if you’re looking for unusual things to do in the city.

NDSM Loos is also worth visiting if you’re into art as much as I am. It’s full of artists studios and regular exhibitions are held here. In the past, I’ve been known to spend hours admiring the work of local artists. It’s one of my favourite spots in town!

Aside from a range of must-see attractions, the IJ-Hallen flea market is frequently held in Noord. Here you can find heaps of vintage treasures, clothes and unique antiques.

Lastly, Noord boasts a vibrant food scene with many great restaurants such as Hangar, Pelusa and Coba Taqueria.

Fancy a drink for the road? Then head to Metro – a popular restaurant and wine bar with a low-lit cosy atmosphere. On one of my most recent trips to the city, I enjoyed a few glasses of wine here with a friend. We loved the vibe so much, we stayed until closing time.

Although Noord may not be the best choice for first-timers, it’s a fab option if you visit the city as much as I do. When it comes to Amsterdam neighbourhoods, it allows you to live more like a local and see a side of the city that many tourists skip.

Wondering what you need to know before visiting the Dutch capital for the first time? Then check out this complete guide.

Noord is home to some of the weirdest museums in Amsterdam.

Let Me Be Myself is an Anne Frank mural next to the Straat Museum in NDSM Wharf. It's multicoloured and painted on the exterior of a brick building. — Anne Frank Mural

Lauren (the owner of this blog) walking around the Straat Museum in NDSM Wharf.

In the background, you can see an abstract art mural in lots of beautiful colours including yellows, blues and purples.

Lauren is wearing a floral midi dress and a headband with gems and sequins on the top. — Anne Frank Mural

Where to stay in Noord

My recommendations: I’ve stayed at two different places in Noord – Clink Hostel and Yotel. Both are great options depending on your budget and are well located in the city.

Clink Noord is a fab option as they offer dorm beds as well as low-cost private rooms. It’s also minutes away from the free ferry that takes you between Noord and Central Station.

For travellers on a budget, it’s one of the best places to stay in Amsterdam. Although the rooms are a little basic, they come with everything you need for a comfortable stay.

They also hold regular events to meet like-minded people if you’re travelling alone and have lots of fun things to keep you busy (such as books, board games and snooker). Check out this full review of Clink Noord for more information.

Book a stay at Clink Noord

Yellow stairs leading to ZinkBAR. — Clink Noord

A single bed in a dorm room with a small lamp, plug socket and white bedding. — Clink Noord

Want something a little nicer? Then I recommend Yotel. Situated across the road from the NXT Museum, you can reach many of Amsterdam’s top attractions in no time.

The rooms are clean, comfortable and come with everything you need for a great stay. Yotel also has a gym, bar and restaurant where they serve up a tasty breakfast each day.

Book a stay at Yotel

Not convinced? Here are some more options:

Cheap and cheerful:

Bunk Hotel
Tribe Amsterdam City

Mid-range options:

Mercure Amsterdam North Station

Luxury:

Sir Adam Hotel

Apartments:

Unique accommodation:

Find places to stay in Noord

Lauren holding a key card for Yotel Hotel in the Noord neighbourhood. In the background, you can see parts of the hotel room including the TV, sink and the end of the bed. — Yotel is one of the best hotels in Amsterdam Noord

Jordaan Neighbourhood

Right in the heart of the city, Jordaan is bursting with picture-perfect canals and quaint corners. Home to De 9 Straatjes (AKA The Nine Streets), it’s also a must-see for shopaholics.

Here you can find beautiful boutiques and stores selling everything from vintage clobber to designer goods. In fact, it’s one of the very best places to shop in the Dutch capital.

If you’d prefer to go sightseeing, Jordaan is also home to some of the top attractions in Amsterdam. For example, Anne Franks House, The Tulip Museum and the Houseboat Museum are all located in Jordaan.

As such, it’s a spot that needs to be on your itinerary no matter how long you’re there for.

Once you’re done seeing the sights, the area is full of authentic brown bars. Rest your legs at Cafe Chris, Cafe Pieper or Cafe de Tuin.

Have I convinced you to stay in Jordaan? Here are some of the best hotels in the area:

Cafe Chris in Amsterdam - A traditional brown cafe that was established in 1624. Inside you will find a cosy interior decorated with brown tables, ornaments and stained glass windows. — Cafe Chris

Black and white photographs of Anne Frank on display at the Anne Frank Museum. — Cafe Chris

Where to stay in Jordaan

Personal recommendations: During my first trip to Amsterdam back in the day, my sister and I booked a room at the Backstage Hotel. Aged just 21 at the time, we wanted to discover as much as possible; history, great views and nightlife.

That first trip gave me everything I wanted and more! I didn’t know it at the time, but the Dutch capital would soon become one of my favourite cities in Europe.

Alongside its great location in Amsterdam City Centre, the Backstage Hotel offers a quirky vibe focused on music. As keen gig-goers, it was right up our street!

Although it’s been a while since our stay, I don’t recall any downsides (except maybe the steep stairs) and many latest reviews seem to agree. The hotel is often highly rated for location, customer service and cleanliness.

Book a stay at Backstage Hotel

Not your thing? Consider these hotels:

Mid-range options:

Luxury:

Hotel Estherea
Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht

Find places to stay in Jordaan

The living space inside the Houseboat Museum. This space is very cosy with red tapestry style chairs and shelfs full of books in the background. You can also see nautical decorations such as a boat and artwork or photos hanging on the walls. — Houseboat Museum

An old radio and world globe on display at the Houseboat Museum. You can also see shelfs full of different coloured books with titles such as "The Amsterdam Canals" and a book about Rotterdam. — Houseboat Museum

De Wallen

If you’re visiting for nightlife, staying in De Wallen is the most convenient choice. Known for the iconic Red Light District, it’s one of the oldest and most famous parts of the city.

The neighbourhood is full of narrow streets lined with historical canal houses, but most people visit for something completely different…

Beyond its infamous reputation, the area is home to charming cafes, bars, and restaurants, as well as cultural landmarks such as the Oude Kerk (Old Church).

If it’s nightlife you’re looking for, De Wallen is the perfect place to party. Home to several nightclubs, pubs and karaoke bars, you’re bound to have a good night out. Fancy a more relaxed drink instead? Then you can also find sophisticated cocktail bars.

Just a stone’s throw away from the famous red-lit windows, Rosalia’s Menagerie is easily one of the top bars in Amsterdam. I love it so much that I’ve been back several times. They do some of the best cocktails in the whole city!

When you’re not partying til’ the early hours, consider resting your head at either of the following spots:

The exterior of the Tulip Museum. The bottom of the building is painted white and 'The Tulip Museum" is painted in dark blue. Through the windows, you can see the museum shop where visitors can by tulip related souvenirs. — Amsterdam Tulip Museum is a popular attraction in Jordaan

Where to stay in De Wallen

Cheap and cheerful:

Mid-range options:

Luxury:

Find places to stay in De Wallen

The mirror room at the Oude Kerk (Old Church). The mirror room is beautifully decorated with a gold decorative mirror hanging above the fireplace and a traditional floral wallpaper with a blue base. — Oude Kerk (Old Church)

Views of traditional crooked buildings and canals in Amsterdam. Some of the buildings have wooden shutters on the windows and the buildings have been build with different coloured bricks such as light brown, dark brown and black. — Oude Kerk (Old Church)

Museum Quarter

Located in Oud-Zuid, you should opt to stay in the museum quarter if you’re big into museums (obviously). However, it’s also well connected to other main attractions and neighbourhoods. With an efficient transport network across the city, it’s a good choice all-round.

There are many things to do nearby such as visiting the city’s best art galleries, hitting up unique museums and crafting your own cocktails at House of Bols. You’re also not far from Vondelpark here so it’s a top spot to consider if you like relaxed walks in the park.

While I’m yet to stay in what’s officially the Museum Quarter (despite staying nearby on a previous trip), these spots come highly rated amongst other travellers:

Tulips in front of the Rijksmuseum. The focus of this photo are the tulips which are pink, red and white and you can see the museum in the background.

The Rijksmuseum is a beautiful building in a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles. — Rijksmuseum, Museumplein

Lauren (the owner of this blog) in front of the Rijksmuseum.

There is a large puddle with a reflection of the museum behind her as well as plant pots with loads of colourful tulips in them.

Lauren is wearing a blue and white floral dress, with tights and brown shoes. — Rijksmuseum, Museumplein

Where to stay in the Museum Quarter

Mid-range options:

Luxury:

Conservatorium Hotel

Find places to stay in the Museum Quarter

The exterior of the Van Gogh Museum in Museumplein. — Van Gogh Museum

De Pijp

Despite visiting Amsterdam many times, De Pijp wasn’t on my radar for a long time. However, it’s now one of my favourite spots in the city. This bustling neighbourhood is known for Albert Cuyp Market – a popular market dating all the way back to 1905.

Once you’re done hunting for goodies, you could easily spend hours hitting up the local vintage boutiques. My favourite is Penny Lane thanks to its large selection of stunning dresses, funky accessories and colourful scarves.

If you’d prefer to eat your way around the city, you’ll be pleased to know that De Pijp is a foodie heaven. With many cuisines on offer (such as Dutch, Mexican and Indian), there’s a spot to satisfy your craving no matter what.

If you’re grabbing food in the area, consider Miri Mary for tasty Indian dishes, Maris Piper Brasserie for Micheline-recommended food or Little Collins for brunch.

Last but not least, De Pijp is also a great place to go bar-hopping in Amsterdam. With everything from snazzy cocktail bars to breweries and brown cafes, you’ll find something to suit you.

Fancy staying in De Pipj? Then check out the following hostels and hostels:

Colourful clothing hung on rails at Penny Lane Vintage Boutique in De Pijp. — Colourful vintage gems at Penny Lane

Where to stay in De Pijp

Personal recommendations: Wondering where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget? Then I recommend CocoMama! Located around a 10-minute walk from the ever-popular Albert Cuyp Market, this budget-friendly hostel is ideal if you’re low on cash.

Depending on your visit dates, you can get a bed in a dorm room for as little as £33 per night. While that may not seem super cheap, remember that Amsterdam is a popular destination and accommodation prices reflect this.

When I stayed at CocoMama, I paid £54 for two nights, but prices have increased since then (that’s inflation for ya).

While it was well-located, cosy and good value for money, this hostel had its downsides. Firstly, there is no lift meaning I had to drag a large suitcase up and down several flights of stairs.

Secondly, parts of the hostel could’ve done with some TLC. However, it’s been over a year since my stay and they may have spruced it up since then. Who knows?

Ultimately, you get what you pay for and for a comfortable place to stay at a bargain price, it’s a good shout.

Book a stay at Cocomama

Crooked buildings in Amsterdam. The buildings stand at different heights and have been built with either light brown, dark brown or black coloured bricks. There are red shutters on some of the buildings and some also have hooks on the top - many buildings across the city have these hooks. — Crooked buildings in Amsterdam

Still not sure? Consider these spots instead:

Cheap and cheerful:

Mid-range options:

Luxury:

InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam

Find places to stay in De Pijp

Marbles Vintage store in De Pijp. Outside the store, there is a rail of colourful sale clothes on display. — Marbles Vintage, Amsterdam

Is it expensive to stay in Amsterdam?

The cost of staying in Amsterdam varies a lot depending on the type of accommodation you book. The city offers a wide variety of stays from cheap and cheerful (ish) hostels to luxurious 4 and 5-star hotels.

If you’d prefer a more homely feel, opt to book apartments instead. Or, if you fancy something a bit different, there are many unique places to stay in the Dutch capital.

For example, you could book a stay at the Faralda Crane Hotel or stay on a houseboat right on the water. The choice is yours!

While it can be super expensive to stay in Amsterdam (especially if you visit during peak times), there are many budget-friendly options available. To get the best deals, try to avoid busy times and book as far in advance as possible.

A row of crooked houses on the Damrak in Amsterdam City Centre. You can see a reflection of the buildings in the canal and two white boats that are ready to take tourists on canal tours. — The Damrak

Should you stay in the centre of Amsterdam?

As I’ve mentioned above, staying in the centre of the city can be pricey. While it’s often the best location for first-time visitors, you may want to consider staying further afield if you’re on a budget.

At peak times of the year such as tulip season, accommodation prices skyrocket. If you’re low on cash, you may want to consider staying outside of Amsterdam.

There are lots of spots nearby that offer cheaper accommodation rates, yet aren’t too far from the centre of the city. For example, Haarlem is around 20 minutes from central Amsterdam by train. Even in peak times, hotels and hostels here are much cheaper.

In fact, I’m heading back to the Netherlands very soon and by booking a stay in Haarlem instead of the capital, we saved hundreds!

Other places to consider include Monnickendam, Zaanse Schans and Zaandam.

Traditional green wooden buildings in Zaanse Schans in the Netherlands. — Zaanse Schans

Lauren in front of the Inntel Hotel in Zaandam. This famous hotel is known for its unique exterior which looks a bit like green and blue lego blocks built on top of each other. — Zaanse Schans

Where is the safest area to stay in Amsterdam?

Having visited Amsterdam many times, I can say with confidence that most parts of the city are super safe. As someone who travels solo most of the time, I’ve not once felt unsafe in Amsterdam – even at night.

Regardless, you should always exercise caution no matter where you are. Use your common sense and I’m sure you’ll be fine!

Check out this post for the complete low-down on travelling alone in Amsterdam.

FAQs about a trip to Amsterdam

How long do you need in Amsterdam?

While you can see the main tourist hot spots in 3-4 days, there is a lot to do in Amsterdam. Despite my many visits to the Dutch capital, there are still things I haven’t done.
If possible, aim to spend a week (or more) in the city. That way, you can get a true feel for this well-loved European destination and perhaps take a day trip or two.

What is the most lively area in Amsterdam?

As one of the most visited cities in Europe, most of Amsterdam can be pretty lively. However, De Wallen is well-known for its bustling atmosphere and vibrant nightlife.

What is the most hipster neighbourhood in Amsterdam?

There are two quite hipster neighbourhoods in the Dutch capital; Noord and De Pijp. Noord is known for amazing street art, flea markets and unique accommodations while De Pijp is great for vintage shopping, restaurants and bars.

Lots of colourful street art in NDSM Wharf in the Noord neighbourhood. — Street art around NDSM Wharf

Conclusion

Deciding where to stay in the city can be a tough choice, but there are hundreds (if not thousands) of options. No matter what your interests, budget and tastes are, you’re bound to find the perfect fit.

If you’re travelling solo like I often do, dorm rooms are one of the most budget-friendly options. If not, splitting the cost of a mid-range hotel can end up quite affordable.

Celebrating a special occasion? Then Amsterdam boasts many luxurious hotels.

The city is also home to unusual lodgings such as a boat hotel, crane hotel and several houseboats where you can rest your head when you’re not hitting the sights.

For cheaper rates, you may want to stay further afield. However, first-timers should consider staying in the heart of the city to truly appreciate what it has to offer.

No matter where you stay, you’ll never be too far away from the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam.

Which neighbourhood takes your fancy? Let me know below!

Lauren Allen

After experiencing her first solo adventure overseas soon after graduating from university, Lauren has discovered a love of solo travel. The countries she visits often fuel ideas for her art and design work, which along with travel tips and guides, she loves to share with other like-minded art and travel enthusiasts on this blog.

Conny Scholten

May 8, 2025

What a good way to promote Amsterdam, well done

Reply

Lauren Allen
Conny Scholten
May 8, 2025

I’m glad you enjoyed the guide 🙂

Reply

Earlene

November 2, 2025

I have visited Amsterdam 6 times (2 times were in a nearby town and we drove in daily or took public transport). It was less than a hotel in Amsterdam and we had special needs due to one person being in a wheelchair. Twice I stayed in a hotel directly across the street from the Heineken Brewery. It was definitely an economy hotel, but clean and convenient. They had parking along the canal opposite the hotel which you paid for at the hotel. Since I had the whole summer off to travel, I always had a car to worry about. One summer my husband and I stayed in Leiden and came in on the train. We picked up our car on the day we left the city. My favorite stay was with my 3 grandchildren when we lived on a houseboat on the Amstel Canal for a couple of weeks. There were 4 of us and we had everything we needed including a washer and dryer. Owners of the boat lived in an apartment across the street and would take you on trips on the boat for an extra charge (we never did this). They also owned a restaurant across the street and, if you didn’t feel like “going out” they would deliver food to the boat (which we never did either). Every evening kids would sit up top and play cards. Amsterdammers ride up and down on the river on summer evenings on their small boats and they became familiar with the kids and often pulled up alongside to talk to them. Since it is common practice for people on boats to tie up alongside the houseboats and walk across the houseboat to a restaurant, they would also sit down and chat with me and the kids on their way over! That was an experience they have never forgotten. My husband had seen this boat featured on Samantha Brown’s “Places to Love” TV program, but became too ill to travel that year so I did it alone. I am sure there are cheaper houseboats around to rent so that experience is highly recommended!

Reply

Lauren Allen
Earlene
January 17, 2026

Oh wow, this sounds like such a unique experience!

Reply

Where to stay in Amsterdam: Neighbourhood Guide

Where to stay in Amsterdam