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Travel advice for Netherlands
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Netherlands
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written by Rough Guides Editors
updated 11.07.2023
Almost 50 years after John Lennon and Yoko Ono promoted world peace from room 702 of the Hilton, hotels in Amsterdam are more worthy of the spotlight than ever. But even for seasoned travellers, finding the best area to stay in Amsterdam takes a bit of research.
The Dutch capital’s accommodation options are among the most exciting in Europe. And now, with the Eurostar route between London and Amsterdam, they are more accessible than ever. So we've done the research, found you the best parts of Amsterdam and recommended hotels in each one.
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customize ⤍Take your pick from handsomely converted old canal houses, sleek-and-chic boutique B&Bs and luxurious short-stay apartments. Or choose quirkier options like houseboats, a converted tram depot and even a crane.
Amsterdam may be one of the top 5 cities to visit in the Netherlands, but it still caters well for visitors on a budget. So you'll find bargain beds aplenty in the city’s hostels and campsites. Remember, as in most capitals, prices soar during peak season – July and August, Easter and Christmas – especially last-minute, so booking in advance is a must.
Amsterdam Canal in Old Centre © Tobias Arhelger/Shutterstock
If you choose to stay in the Old Centre, you’ll be a short walk from the main sights and the principal shopping and nightlife areas. Many first-time visitors consider this area the best place to stay in Amsterdam, due to its central location and abundance of budget accommodation options.
This is the first place to start looking if money is tight. Some may find the proximity of the red light district off-putting, although Spuistraat is also here and it's one of Rough Guides' 20 great streets to wander.
Find more accommodation options in the Old Centre of Amsterdam
Amsterdam Canal ring © LouieLea/Shutterstock
Ideally positioned for the plethora of clubs, bars and restaurants on and around Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein, the Grachtengordel area is on the rise. The Waldorf Astoria even decided to locate their new hotel here in 2014. And it's also home to the Anne Frank House, a must see in Amsterdam with kids, or without.
There are plenty of options for those on a budget too, including a number of very appealing – and occasionally stylish – hotels along the surrounding canals.
Find more accommodation options in Grachtengordel
Jordaan, the best area to stay in Amsterdam to avoid crowds © Tupungato/Shutterstock
Staying in the Jordaan puts you among the locals, well away from the prime tourist areas. There’s no shortage of bars and restaurants here either, and some of the city’s prettiest canals thread through the district, but you’ll be at least a 15-minute walk from the bright lights.
Be aware when looking for a place to stay that Marnixstraat and Rozengracht are busy main roads.
Amsterdam IJ river with ferries, EYE Film Museum and ADAM Tower © Photix/Shutterstock
These up-and-coming districts have some excellent, avant-garde accommodation options, including one of the world's weirdest hotels. And although their industrial architecture and open expanses won't hike Amsterdam up the most beautiful city in the world list, the old centre’s medieval lanes are only a short hop away by ferry or tram.
Find more accommodation options in the Eastern Docklands and Amsterdam Noord
Oosterpark in Amsterdam © Sirio Carnevalino/Shutterstock
Not many tourists stay in The Old Jewish Quarter, as it’s a largely residential area, with very few bars or restaurants. You’re pretty much guaranteed a quiet night’s sleep here, plus it's a good district for a green stay in Amsterdam and you're only a tram ride away from the leading sights
Find more accommodation options in Amsterdam city centre
Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam © Norman van Rhijn/Shutterstock
The best area to stay in Amsterdam for cultural attractions, the Museum Quarter centres on the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum – although the nightlife around Leidseplein is also within easy striking distance.
There are no canals here, and two of the main drags constantly rumble with traffic, but several good hotels are to be found in the area. You can also take a walk in local Vondelpark, one of the top free things to do in Amsterdam.
Find more accommodation options in the Museum Quarter
Tropenmuseum in Amsterdam © Christophe Cappelli/Shutterstock
Amsterdam might not be one of the best places to visit in Europe on a budget, but exciting accommodation options are cropping up in areas such as Amsterdam Oost. This is becoming a reliable spot to find top-notch digs for less and, thanks to reliable and frequent trams, staying here doesn’t place you too far from the action.
Find more accommodation options in Amsterdam Oost
Ready for a trip to Amsterdam? Check out the Rough Guide to Amsterdam or the Rough Guide to the Netherlands. If you travel further in the Netherlands, read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit. For inspiration use our Netherlands itineraries. A bit more hands on, learn about getting there, getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.
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written by Rough Guides Editors
updated 11.07.2023
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