Fully updated July 2025. Originally published March 2024.
Need to decide where to stay in Amsterdam? I’m sharing my favorite neighborhoods after two different trips there. I’ve paid a visit to the pockets that make this city so special — from the hip Jordaan district to local hotspot, De Pijp. Read on to discover the best areas and hotels in this iconic city.
Amsterdam is well-connected by public transport as well as both cycle and walking-friendly. Every corner feels postcard perfect, with canals and narrow streets lined by crooked historic buildings. So you might be wondering where are the best places to stay in Amsterdam?
I love the way old and new mix here so easily, creating a fusion of culture, art, and urban living so seamlessly. The culinary scene is diverse, with its bustling markets and cozy cafes adding to the appeal. Amsterdam’s bike-friendly streets and green spaces make it easy to explore the city.
I’m sharing my favorite districts where you can live like a local and where you’ll want to base yourself. This is my guide to the best places to stay in Amsterdam.
Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Areas to Stay in Amsterdam:
The best two neighborhoods for exploring Amsterdam are Jordaan and Central/Centrum.
- Jordaan (staying at Mr. Jordaan), for the best neighborhood for local charm
- Central/Centrum (staying at The Hoxton), for the best area for first-timers
Best Airbnbs in Amsterdam
- 1 Bedroom Luxurious Suite in Jordaan, for a cozy ground-floor stay with a garden-view soaking tub
- 1 Bedroom Loft in Jordaan, for a charming attic loft in a 17th-century canal house
- 1 Bedroom Canal Apartment in Jordaan, for waking up to canal views in the heart of the Jordaan
- 1 Bedroom Canal-View Apartment in Centrum, for a quiet retreat overlooking the Amstel
- 1 Bedroom Loft in Centrum, for a walkable home base near Waterlooplein and Rembrandt Square
- 1 Bedroom Loft with Nieuwmarkt Views, for stunning views over one of Amsterdam’s oldest squares
Best Areas in Amsterdam (By Travel Style)
- Jordaan, for romantic canals, independent boutiques, and quiet charm
- Museum Quarter (Oud-Zuid), for close proximity to major museums and elegant boulevards
- De Pijp: for buzzy cafés, local markets, and youthful energy
- Centrum/Canal Belt: for classic Amsterdam views and first-time convenience
- Oud-West: for laid-back residential feel with great local eats
- Amsterdam Noord: for an emerging creative district across the IJ
Things to Do
If you’re planning to visit popular attractions, it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance. Many museums and guided tours can sell out quickly.
- Night Canal Cruise
- Day Time Canal Cruise
- Cheese & Food Tour
- Van Gogh Museum Tickets (Consider this Tour with Guide)
- Anne Frank House Tickets (Consider this Guided Walking Tour)
- Heineken Experience
Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip
If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam, don’t miss my 3-Day Amsterdam itinerary, Amsterdam travel guide, and recommendations for the best boutique hotels and best restaurants in Amsterdam!
Travel Tip: If you plan to visit a few attractions, I’d consider purchasing an I Amsterdam City Card. The tourist card gives you access to and discounts on a variety of museums and attractions and unlimited use of Amsterdam’s public transport network for 24, 48, 72, or 96 hours.
Where to Stay in Amsterdam
Neighborhood Map: 7 Best Areas to Stay in Amsterdam
- Jordaan (YELLOW)
- Centrum and Centraal (PURPLE)
- Oud Zuid (ORANGE)
- Oud West (GREEN)
- De Pijp (BLACK)
- Oost (RED)
- Amsterdam Noord (BLUE)
What to Know Before You Visit Amsterdam
Getting From the Airport to the City
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is well-connected to the city center. The easiest way to get into town is by train — it takes about 20 minutes to reach Amsterdam Centraal, and tickets can be purchased from machines in the arrivals area. Prefer door-to-door convenience? Rideshares like Uber are available right outside the terminal and typically cost around €55–€65 depending on the time of day.
How to Get Around Amsterdam
Amsterdam is incredibly walkable, and that’s one of the best ways to soak in the city’s charm. Between the canals, crooked buildings, and cozy corners, it’s a joy to explore on foot. That said, public transport is efficient and easy to use, with trams, metros, and buses all covered by the city’s OVpay system — just tap your debit card or phone to check in and out. And if you’re up for it, renting a bike is a fun way to feel like a local.
Book Tickets for Attractions Ahead of Time
Many of Amsterdam’s most popular sights — like the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum — book out in advance, especially in peak season. I recommend reserving tickets ahead of time for major attractions, museum passes, and guided tours so you don’t miss out.
Attractions to Book Ahead
- Night Canal Cruise
- Day Time Canal Cruise
- Cheese & Food Tour
- Van Gogh Museum Tickets (Consider this Tour with Guide)
- Anne Frank House Tickets (Consider this Guided Walking Tour)
Is the I Amsterdam City Card Worth It?
If you plan to visit multiple museums or use public transport frequently, the I Amsterdam City Card can be a good value. It covers entrance to many top attractions, includes unlimited use of public transit, and is available in 24-, 48-, 72-, or 96-hour options.
My Takeaway: The Best Area to Stay in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a wonderfully walkable city, and the canals are a huge part of the city’s charm. That’s why Jordaan and Central/Centrum are my favorite places to stay when I visit. Full of beautiful corners and iconic scenes, it’s exactly what you picture when you think of the Dutch capital.
With numerous dining options and convenient access to public transportation, everything you need is easily accessible right outside your door. Many museums and galleries nearby make these the top neighborhoods in Amsterdam for tourists.
My Top Pick: Jordaan
Best Area for Local Charm
Jordaan is arguably the most alluring of all Amsterdam’s neighborhoods. Jordaan is my favorite place to stay is because the area has retained its historic charm. You have narrow streets, picturesque canals, and traditional Dutch architecture.
A hub for cultural sights, Jordaan is home to numerous art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. With some of Amsterdam’s most well-photographed corners, I adore the scenic canal ring views and a collection of bridges.
Jordaan also boasts an excellent food scene, featuring a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries. You can find everything from traditional Dutch dishes to international cuisine. It’s my top choice for where to stay in Amsterdam. I love a morning spent grabbing a coffee to go from local Pluk cafe, and then strolling through the canals to the Rijksmuseum. After that, continue to De Kaaskamer to shop for all things Dutch cheese or grab cookies at Banketbakkerij Het Koekemannetje.
Where to Stay in Jordaan
Hotels
- Mr. Jordaan ($$$), for the best boutique hotel experience with canal views and local charm
- Hotel Mercier ($$$), for the best romantic boutique stay with elegant interiors
- Morgan & Mees ($$$), for the best upscale boutique hotel with refined design touches
- Linden Hotel ($$), for the best mid-range stay with charming canal views and a quiet location
Airbnbs
- 1 Bedroom Luxurious Suite in Jordaan, for a cozy ground-floor stay with a garden-view soaking tub
- 1 Bedroom Loft in Jordaan, for a charming attic loft in a 17th-century canal house
- 1 Bedroom Canal Apartment in Jordaan, for waking up to canal views in the heart of the Jordaan
Best Area For First-Time Visitors: Centrum and Centraal
Centrum and Centraal are excellent places in Amsterdam for new visitors, offering convenient public transportation and proximity to popular sights. In the city center, near museums and major attractions, it is also conveniently close to Amsterdam Centraal Station.
Shoppers can get their fill at Kalverstraat shopping street, while culture buffs can visit the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum just a short walk away. All while surrounded by well-preserved historical buildings, including the Royal Palace and Dam Square.
Where to Stay in Centrum/Centraal
Centrum and Centraal offer a broad range of accommodation options from luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, to budget-friendly hotels. It means most travelers can find something that fits their needs.
Hotels
- Pulitzer Amsterdam ($$$$), for the best luxury hotel set across 25 historic canal houses
- De L’Europe Amsterdam ($$$$), for the best timeless five-star hotel with riverside dining
- The Hoxton, Amsterdam ($$$), for the best stylish boutique hotel with canal views
- Hotel Estheréa ($$$), for the best family-run hotel with canal views and classic Dutch decor
Airbnbs
- 1 Bedroom Canal-View Apartment in Centrum, for a quiet retreat overlooking the Amstel
- 1 Bedroom Loft in Centrum, for a walkable home base near Waterlooplein and Rembrandt Square
- 1 Bedroom Loft with Nieuwmarkt Views, for stunning views over one of Amsterdam’s oldest squares
Best Area For Families: Oud Zuid
Oud Zuid is a sophisticated area in Amsterdam with a tranquil vibe, set apart from the bustling city center. Full of residential character, the squares and buildings in the area are well-maintained, retaining plenty of Dutch style.
One of the things I love most about Oud Zuid is that it’s home to Vondelpark. It’s a great spot for families to relax outdoors, with ample green space for picnics, biking, and other outdoor activities. With a selection of local markets, boutique stores, and dining establishments, the area has everything you need.
With good public transport connections, but far enough from the center to be a place to unwind at the end of a busy day, this is my top recommendation for families in Amsterdam.
Where to Stay in Oud Zuid
- Conservatorium Hotel ($$$$), for the best luxury design hotel (I absolutely adored our stay)
- Jan Luyken Amsterdam ($$$), for the best modern hotel tucked into a quiet street
- De Ware Jacob Boutique Hotel ($$$), for the best intimate boutique hotel with artful interiors
- Conscious Hotel Museum Square ($$), for the best sustainable hotel and family-friendly parks
Best Area for Foodies: Oud West
If you’re all about food, then Oud West is the best neighborhood in Amsterdam for you. Full of foodie hotspots, this district offers a diverse and vibrant culinary scene. It’s brimming with trendy brunch spots, food markets like Foodhallen at Ten Kate Market, and a hotspot for international flavors.
Close to Vondelpark, you can expect leafy, green spaces to couple with your dining destination. Entertainment is also high on the agenda for stays in Oud West, with numerous live music venues and hipster bars. Don’t miss LAB11, a cinema and exhibition space showcasing independent documentaries and films.
Just beyond Amsterdam’s canal belt, Oud West is the perfect blend between urban escape, coupled with convenience and cultural appeal.
Where to Stay in Oud West
- Hotel Van de Vijsel ($$$), for the best industrial-style boutique hotel in a historic sawmill
- Maison ELLE Amsterdam ($$), for the best chic and tranquil design hotel
- NH Amsterdam Leidseplein ($$) , for the best centrally located hotel and entertainment
- Conscious Hotel Westerpark ($$), for the best eco-hotel with local vibes
Best Area for Foodies: De Pijp
De Pijp is home to Amsterdam’s Latin Quarter, a vibrant area that has traditionally been a hub for students and creatives. If you want to live like a local, then this is the best part of Amsterdam for you.
Renowned for its lively atmosphere, the neighborhood is dotted with quirky shops, boutiques, and independent stores. It’s also a great place to find handmade crafts and vintage treasures.
Spend a morning wandering the stalls of the open-air Albert Cuyp Market, savor the area’s exceptional multicultural culinary scene, or simply wander to admire the beautiful historic architecture, with charming buildings lining its streets and canals. Grab a bite at Café Caron, one of my favorite bistros in the city.
Where to Stay in De Pijp
- Pestana Amsterdam Riverside ($$$), for the best luxury riverside hotel with spa and wellness
- Hotel Okura Amsterdam ($$$), for the best five-star hotel with Japanese-inspired dining
- Sir Albert Hotel ($$), for the best boutique stay with creative flair
- CitizenM Amsterdam Amstel ($$), for the best modern, tech-savvy hotel with smart rooms
Best Area for an Industrial Feel: Oost
Oost is a great area to stay for visitors seeking a diverse mix of culture, green spaces, dining options, historical landmarks, and convenient transportation links.
Rooted in its working-class heritage, Oost has become the epicenter of cool in Amsterdam. A place where old and new blend seamlessly, historical landmarks sit alongside boutique bars, and green spaces offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
This is also where you’ll find some of Amsterdam’s more affordable hotels with great public transport, including trams and buses, and of course cycle ways.
Where to Stay in Oost
- Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Maurits at the Park ($$$$), for the best luxury boutique hotel overlooking Oosterpark
- Zoku Amsterdam ($$$), for the best long-stay aparthotel with rooftop views and coworking
- Wittenberg by Cove ($$$), for the best spacious serviced apartments
- Spinoza Suites ($$), for the best boutique suite stay tucked away
Best Area for a Creative, Offbeat Stay: Amsterdam Noord
Once an industrial district, Amsterdam Noord has transformed into one of the city’s most creative and forward-thinking neighborhoods. Located just across the IJ River from Centraal Station (a quick, free ferry ride away), this area offers a refreshing contrast to the historic canal belt. Think converted warehouses, modern architecture, and a burgeoning food and design scene.
It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for something a little different—more space, more quiet, and a deeply local feel, all within reach of the city center. With a few standout hotels, Noord is ideal for design lovers, eco-conscious travelers, and those wanting to escape the tourist core.
Where to Stay in Amsterdam Noord
- De Durgerdam ($$$$), for the best quiet lakeside luxury retreat in a historic fishing village
- Hotel Jakarta ($$$), for the best eco-friendly hotel with tropical interiors and IJ river views
Where to Stay in Amsterdam: Neighborhood & Hotel FAQ
What Is the Best Area to Stay in Amsterdam for First-Time Visitors?
Centrum or the Canal Belt is best for first-timers — it’s central, walkable, and offers postcard-perfect canals and easy access to top sights.
Is Jordaan or De Pijp Better for Travelers?
Both are great, but Jordaan is quieter and more romantic, while De Pijp is livelier with cafés, street markets, and a younger vibe.
What Is the Most Walkable Area in Amsterdam?
Jordaan and the Canal Belt are the most walkable — flat, scenic, and packed with shops, museums, and canalside cafés.
Where Can I Find the Best Boutique Hotels in Amsterdam?
Jordaan, De Pijp, and the Museum Quarter all offer top boutique options — from design-forward stays to converted canal houses.
Is Amsterdam Noord a Good Place to Stay?
It’s great for those who want a more local and creative experience. It’s quieter and offers unique hotels, but requires a short ferry ride to cross the IJ.
What Is the Best Area to Stay in Amsterdam on a Budget?
Oost and Amsterdam Noord tend to offer more affordable hotels without sacrificing local charm. You’ll find great design stays, green spaces, and fewer crowds — all still well-connected by public transport.
What Area of Amsterdam Is Best for Nightlife and Dining Out?
Oud West and De Pijp are top picks for nightlife and food. De Pijp has a buzzy, youthful energy with great cafés and bars, while Oud West is home to Foodhallen, cocktail lounges, and trendy late-night spots.
Are There Any Areas to Avoid Staying in Amsterdam?
While Amsterdam is generally very safe, I recommend avoiding the Red Light District (De Wallen) for overnight stays — it’s crowded, noisy, and geared more toward nightlife than relaxation. Bijlmermeer in the Zuidoost also tends to feel less central and tourist-friendly. In popular areas like Centrum and the Museum Quarter, stay aware of pickpockets, especially at night or in high-traffic zones.
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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!
These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you. If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here.
1. Book Your Accommodations
I use Booking.com for hotels and Airbnb for vacation rentals. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.
2. Book Your Rental Car
Self-driving is the best way to explore most destinations. I use Discover Cars for our rental cars, select full coverage insurance, and opt for a reputable company like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
3. Book Your Tours & Experiences
I use Viator, Airbnb, and Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check all three as their inventory varies depending on the destination.
4. Book Your Private Transfers
For easy, reliable private transfers, I use Welcome Pickups. It’s my go-to for arranging a driver in advance — whether it’s an airport pickup, a hotel-to-hotel transfer, or a day trip. The experience is seamless, with English-speaking drivers and upfront pricing, so you can travel stress-free at every stage of your trip.
5. Get Cell Data for Your Trip
I use Holafly for international cell data. Their unlimited data eSIMs are easy to install, activate instantly on arrival, and let you skip local SIM cards and expensive roaming fees.
6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, or cancellations).
My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:
- World Nomads (best for all-around)
- Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)
Xx,
Jessica
