Known throughout the world as the Dutch city of artistic history and canals, Amsterdam in The Netherlands is an excellent city to explore either on two wheels or on foot. The compact main center contains most of the top tourist sites in the city, all within around a 10-minute walk from each other, but there is plenty to see and do further out as well.
Amsterdam is divided up into several different neighborhoods with the main district being the City Centre, or The Ring. Each of these neighborhoods offers their own sites to see and great accommodation options, such as five-star world-class hotels, boutique hotels, luxury river boats, canalside converted houses, and hostels. Here is a helpful guide for first-time visitors to the “Venice of the North” on where to stay in Amsterdam.
De Jordaan
De Jordaan is a more residential, charming neighborhood in Amsterdam that’s well known for its food scene, photogenic townhouses, and welcoming atmosphere. While the area is technically part of Amsterdam-Centrum, it has a more relaxed pace compared to the rest of the Inner City. The central location of De Jordaan also allows visitors to be within easy access of several of Amsterdam’s main sites, such as Dam Square and the Anne Frank House. The neighborhood also makes it easy to explore the canal belt on foot.
Best Places to Stay in Jordaan
De Jordaan is known for its cool accommodation options, such as renovated canalhouses, old train depots, and converted art galleries among many boutique hotels. The most popular areas include Prinsengracht, Haarlemmerstraat, Westerstraat, which are well connected by the bus and tram network.
Hostels
Budget Hotels
Mid-Range Hotels
Luxury Hotels
De Pijp
De Pikp is any area known for its nightlife, picturesque urban layout, and excellent brunch spots, as well as the home of the city’s iconic Albert Cuyp Market and the Heineken Experience. Along with offering several things to do in the neighborhood, this district boasts a large number of old-school pubs, bars, and eateries for late night food and drinks.
Best Places to Stay in De Pijp
One of Amsterdam’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan areas, De Pijp offers a variety of affordable options for hotels and is only a short tram ride from Central Station.
Hostels
Budget
Mid-Range
Luxury
InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam
Old Centre
As you can probably guess by its name, the Old Centre is Amsterdam’s oldest area and is where the majority of tourists stay. The neighborhood boasts numerous places to shop and eat, as well as hop aboard a boat for a scenic cruise along the city’s famous canals. One of the best places to stay in Amsterdam, visitors will be close to most of the main sights as well, with the Old Centre’s hub being Dam Square. Tourists will also find shopping streets like Nieuwendijk and Kalverstraat.
Best Places to Stay in Old Centre
If travelers have the budget and want to be located closest to all the sights the city has to offer, the Old Centre is where to stay in Amsterdam. A wide range of accommodations can be found in the area, varying from hostels to luxury boutique hotels. The main downside, however, is this district can be more crowded than other places to stay in Amsterdam.
Hostels
Budget Hotels
Mid-Range Hotels
Luxury Hotels
Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam
Oud-West
Oud-West is a great place to stay in Amsterdam for food. Not too far away from the city center, this lively residential district is far less touristy and features plenty of green space with Vondelpark and Rembrandtpark at the neighborhood’s border. With an impressive culinary scene, Oud-West is home to a wide variety of ethnic restaurants, as well as a number of famous hang-outs and De Hallen.
Best Places to Stay in Oud West
Oud-West offers many excellent accommodations, such as Hotel de Hallen. This unique hotel is part of a cultural hub that includes an artisanal food court. As more of a residential area, the streets of this neighborhood are quieter at night compared to other areas in the city. However, there are still places for nightlife.
Hostels
Stayokay Hostel Amsterdam Vondelpark
Budget Hotels
Mid-Range Hotels
Luxury Hotels
Pin It:
Leave a Reply