Where to Stay in Amsterdam: My First Timers Guide with the Best Hotels & Areas
Hey, it’s Oliver. I get asked all the time about where to stay in Amsterdam, so I thought it would be easier to just put everything together in one guide. Whether you’re coming for the first time or just looking for a fresh perspective, I’m here to help you navigate the city’s neighborhoods, hostels, hotels, and all the other things that come with finding your perfect spot to stay.
Being from a small town near Cologne (Germany), just a 2.5-hour drive (or 3.5 hours by train) from Amsterdam, I’ve been there so many times. Most of my early visits were quick weekend trips with friends, and let me tell you—Amsterdam’s great for a weekend getaway. Whether you’re with friends, a partner, or flying solo, it works for all types of travelers.
Recently, I spent a whole week in Amsterdam, and let me tell you—this trip completely shifted my perspective. Amsterdam isn’t just about partying and the Red Light District (though that’s a classic). It’s the history, the food, the architecture, and, yes, the people. I’ve come to appreciate the city for so much more than I did when I was younger and only there for a weekend of fun.
Now that I’ve traveled around Europe a lot, I can honestly say Amsterdam is one of the coolest cities on the continent. Maybe it took me a while to appreciate it fully since it’s always been just a short trip for me, but there’s something about being able to step back and see a place with fresh eyes. This city is so much more than the party destination I once thought of. There’s a vibe here that just clicks.
In this article, I’ll be sharing my own experience with Amsterdam—across different trips, different mindsets, and different budgets. If you’ve clicked on this, I’m assuming you’ve already decided to visit Amsterdam, and now you’re looking for the best place to stay. That’s exactly what I’m here to help with.
My intention here is to give you the lowdown on the best neighborhoods and hotels so you don’t end up in a place that doesn’t meet your expectations. Let’s find you the perfect place to stay in Amsterdam so you can have the best trip possible.
In a Rush? Here Are Our Favorite Hotels in Amsterdam
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hotel Omega – Click here for rates & availability
⭐️⭐️ Hotel Asterisk – Click here for rates & availability
⭐️ Max Brown Hotel – Click here for rates & availability



Where to Stay in Amsterdam – My Ultimate Guide
Before booking a place in any major city, the first thing I always do is figure out which neighborhood I actually want to stay in. Why? Because even the nicest hotel in the world isn’t going to do much for you if it’s in a bad location—too far from the action, in an area that feels sketchy, or just inconvenient.
So that’s exactly what we’re doing here for Amsterdam. I’ve put together my personal favorite neighborhoods to stay in—ones I’ve actually stayed in myself or would personally choose again. And before anyone asks, no, I’m not recommending “Central Amsterdam.” There’s just no reason to stay in the middle of all the tourist chaos when you can be in a much better spot without drunk people yelling outside your window at 3 AM.
- Oud-Zuid – My Go-To Area: Oud-Zuid might not be a name you instantly recognize, but if I say “Museum Quarter” or “Museumplein,” you’ll know what I mean. It’s the area around Vondelpark, stretching up to the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum.
This has been my go-to neighborhood to stay in for years. I love being able to start my mornings with a walk in Vondelpark, be close to the museums, and still have easy access to the canal belt and city center—without actually staying in the middle of it. It’s a bit quieter, a bit cheaper, and just an overall great location. - The Jordaan & Canal Belt (Canal Ring) – Your Postcard Amsterdam Experience: If you want that classic Amsterdam feel—canals, cute cafés, vintage shops, and bars right by the water—then Jordaan or the Canal Belt is for you. This is what you picture when you think of Amsterdam, and staying here means you’ll be in the middle of all of it.
But fair warning: it’s pricey. Those dreamy canal-view hotels? Yeah, they’ll cost you. But if you’re willing to splurge, it’s definitely a special experience. - De Pijp – More Local, Less Touristy: If you like a more local feel, De Pijp is a great choice. It’s full of markets, cafés, and restaurants where you’ll see way more locals than tourists, which can be a nice change after a day of exploring the busy parts of the city.
I stayed here once for a weekend, and I really liked how it felt a little removed from the main tourist crowds while still being super easy to get around. Plus, accommodation here tends to be a better value for the price. - Noord – The Underrated Choice: Not many people talk about Noord as a place to stay, but I actually think it’s a solid option—especially if you’re on a budget. It’s right behind Centraal Station, just across the river, and there’s a free ferry running 24/7, so getting to the city center is easy.
I stayed here a few times while backpacking in 2020, and the hostel scene was great. The area itself is definitely not as picturesque as other parts of Amsterdam—it’s more modern, with offices, new apartments, and converted warehouses—but it’s way more affordable. If you want a central stay without paying premium prices, this is worth considering.

There are a few areas I didn’t include in this article, and while you could still have a good time staying there, they just don’t work for me. The biggest one is the old center of Amsterdam—the stretch between Central Station and the Canal Belt, including the Red Light District.
This area is just too hectic. Most hotels are either near crowded shopping streets packed with tourists or right in the Red Light District, which, personally, I wouldn’t choose—especially not for a relaxed stay or if you’re traveling with family. It’s not as chaotic as some people might think, but it is a full-on party scene every night. If getting a good night’s sleep is a priority, this isn’t the place to stay.
Staying too far outside the center also isn’t ideal. There isn’t much going on, and while you’ll find a few hotels, Airbnb has been banned in the Netherlands for a while now, so cheap apartment rentals aren’t really an option. If you need a full apartment with a kitchen, checking Facebook groups for recommendations or booking an aparthotel on Booking.com is a better bet.
My Favorite Travel Insurance for the Netherlands
Since I travel pretty much full-time (or at least for long stretches), having proper insurance is a non-negotiable for me.
I’ve tried a few different travel insurances over the years, but for the past two years I’ve been using SafetyWing and I couldn’t be happier. I’ve had a few claims already, and every time, their online customer service has been super easy and smooth. As a backpacker and someone working remotely, being able to sort everything online is a huge plus (no endless overseas phone calls needed!).
Right now, I’m using their Nomad Insurance Essential, their travel medical insurance, which has been perfect for my needs and the way I’m traveling. They also offer Nomad Insurance Complete, a more comprehensive health insurance, which I’ve actually been thinking about upgrading to soon.
If you’re looking for an affordable and genuinely great travel insurance, while you’re traveling the Netherlands, I can give a total thumbs up for SafetyWing.
Check it out here: SafetyWing Travel Insurance
Where I’ve Stayed in Amsterdam
Now that we’re getting into the best areas and hotels, I want to start with my own experience in Amsterdam—because let’s be honest, what’s the point of me just repeating what I found on the internet?
I’ve been to Amsterdam plenty of times, but I’ll focus on my most recent trip in 2025. Things change constantly, and I want to make sure I’m giving you the most up-to-date info on hotels and neighborhoods. That said, it’s also useful to compare and see how things have evolved over the years.
For this trip, I ended up staying in a few different hotels (yes, mostly because I booked late and had to jump between places due to availability). But that actually worked out in my favor, because now I have more firsthand experiences to share.
Hotel Omega – My Favorite Stay
For the first two nights, I stayed at Hotel Omega, and honestly, I wish it had been longer. This was hands down my best hotel experience in Amsterdam. The location was perfect—tucked away on a quiet residential street near the museums and Vondelpark, just a three-minute walk away. It was peaceful, with actual birds chirping outside, which is something you don’t always get in a big city.
Beyond the location, the hotel itself was just so well-designed. It had that classic Amsterdam charm—elegant but cozy, stylish but not over the top. I felt completely at home, and looking back, I easily could have stayed here the entire week.
Book Here: Hotel Omega
Hotel Asterisk – A Friendly, Affordable Option
For the next two nights, I moved hotels—not too far, just over to the Canal Belt. At the time, I was a little bummed because Hotel Omega was a tough act to follow, but now, writing this, I can say that Hotel Asterisk was actually a fantastic experience.
It’s a small, family-run hotel, and the staff at the front desk were some of the nicest I’ve encountered in Amsterdam. They genuinely wanted to help me have the best experience—not just at their hotel, but in the city itself. They gave great recommendations and made sure I had everything I needed.
The hotel itself was a bit more basic, but it had a historic charm with a cute little courtyard and a solid breakfast spread. It was also more affordable, so for what I paid, I was really happy with it.
Book Here: Hotel Asterisk
Max Brown Hotel – Budget-Friendly & Surprisingly Great
Since I was only traveling with my carry-on backpack, switching hotels wasn’t too much of a hassle. My last move was back to my favorite area—the Museumplein—to a hotel called Max Brown Hotel, right next to the Rijksmuseum.
This was actually the cheapest stay of the trip, but it completely exceeded my expectations. The location was unbeatable, basically right in the middle of everything, and the hotel itself had a quirky boutique vibe. If I’m being honest, the decor was a lot, but I kind of liked that it had its own personality. The staff was great, the bed was comfy, and for the price, I’d absolutely stay here again.
If you couldn’t tell by now, I really love staying in the Museum District—and here’s one extra reason why. If you walk in one direction, you’re in The Pijp, a more local, residential neighborhood. Walk the other way, and you’re in the Canal Belt, right in the postcard-perfect Amsterdam. It’s the best of both worlds, and for me, it’s always the perfect location.
Book Here: Max Brown Hotel
1. Oud-Zuid: My Favorite Area in Amsterdam

If you’ve read about where I stayed on my last trip, you already know that Oud-Zuid, especially the Museumplein (Museum District) and the area around Vondelpark, is my absolute favorite neighborhood in Amsterdam. So, I feel like I have to talk about it a little more.
This area has a certain charm—it’s not quite as postcard-perfect as the Canal Belt or Jordaan, but it still has plenty of classic Amsterdam-style houses. It’s also perfectly positioned: you’ve got Vondelpark on one side, ideal for a morning stroll with coffee in hand, and The Pijp on the other, where you can escape the tourist crowds and soak up a more local, residential vibe.
Of course, one of the biggest highlights here is the museum scene—the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum are right here, and I never get tired of visiting them. But what I love most about Oud-Zuid is the balance between location and affordability. It’s not overly busy or noisy, but it’s incredibly well-connected. You can walk to the Canal Belt in five minutes and to Amsterdam Central and the Red Light District in about 15. That alone shows just how compact and walkable the city is.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Oud-Zuid

Pros of Staying in Oud-Zuid
✅ More affordable than the city center
From my experience, hotels here tend to be more budget-friendly compared to those in the Canal Belt or Jordaan. You get a better deal without sacrificing location.
✅ Peaceful and quiet
Unlike the more central areas, there’s no rowdy nightlife or party noise outside your hotel window. It’s the kind of place where you actually get a good night’s sleep.
✅ Easy transport connections
The tram system here is great, and you can get to Schiphol Airport in just 30 minutes. Super convenient, especially if you’re catching an early flight.
✅ Close to the best museums and Vondelpark
Whether you’re into art or just want a relaxing green space, you’re perfectly placed for both. Vondelpark is also great for running, biking, or just sitting with a coffee.
Cons of Staying in Oud-Zuid
❌ Not many cafés and restaurants right outside your door
You’ll have to walk a bit to find a variety of dining options. Most of the great spots are either in The Pijp (which isn’t too far) or in the Canal Belt.
Overall, if you’re looking for a quiet, well-located, and relatively affordable place to stay in Amsterdam, Oud-Zuid is hard to beat.
Best Places to Stay in the Museums District
Here are some of my favorite hotels in the Museums District—not necessarily the most luxurious or famous ones, but places I’ve actually stayed at and would genuinely recommend to others.
Hotel Omega
I already mentioned Hotel Omega earlier, but it deserves another shoutout because it was honestly one of my best hotel experiences in Amsterdam. It’s a small boutique-style hotel that somehow manages to feel both cozy and stylish—exactly what you’d hope for in an Amsterdam stay.
I’m not saying that staying here and exploring the city was my main character moment… but it was.
I booked the Deluxe Double Room, which was only slightly more expensive than the Small Double, and it was totally worth the upgrade. Even with the better room, I still spent under $200 a night, which is a great deal for Amsterdam.
Why I loved it:
- The location is fantastic—tucked away in a quiet residential street, but just a short walk from Vondelpark and the museums.
- The staff went above and beyond to make my stay great. Super friendly and helpful.
- The hotel itself is just… charming. Well-designed, stylish, and cozy.
Honestly, I wish I could’ve stayed longer. If I had to pick a hotel to return to in this area, this would be it.
Max Brown Hotel Museum Square
The second place I stayed on my trip was Max Brown Hotel Museum Square, and I have to say—this was some of the best value for money I’ve had in Amsterdam.
I booked the Small Room, and to be honest… it was small. If you’re a couple or have a lot of luggage, it might feel a bit tight. But for a solo traveler like me, it was totally fine.
The funniest part was that my room was up in the loft/attic area, and my window was right below one of those classic Amsterdam house hooks. Through that window, I had a direct view of the Rijksmuseum, which was so cool.
Why I loved it:
- Incredible value for money. Affordable for Amsterdam and still a well-designed, stylish hotel.
- Amazing location. Literally steps from the Rijksmuseum and Museumplein.
- The attic room was such a vibe. That little detail of seeing the museum from my window just made the stay extra special.
2. The Jordaan: A Hipster Neighborhood with a Central Location

If you picture Amsterdam’s iconic canals, narrow houses, and charming bridges, you’re probably picturing The Jordaan. This neighborhood is what people dream of when they imagine staying in Amsterdam. It’s effortlessly cool, full of boutique shops, vintage stores, cozy cafés, and canal-side bars—basically, the hipster heart of the city.
I love walking around The Jordaan. It’s the kind of place where you can wander aimlessly and always find something interesting, whether it’s a tucked-away art gallery, an old-school record shop, or a café with a perfectly poured cappuccino. Plus, it’s super central—you can get to the Canal Belt, Nine Streets (Negen Straatjes), and even Amsterdam Central Station within minutes.
Of course, there’s a catch—actually, two. It’s not cheap, and there aren’t many hotels. The hotels in this area are some of the most expensive in the city, and since it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, you won’t find any new hotels either.
Pros and Cons of Staying in The Jordaan
Pros of Staying in The Jordaan
✅ Postcard-perfect Amsterdam vibes
This is the Amsterdam you see in pictures—canal views, historic houses, and a ridiculously photogenic atmosphere.
✅ Tons of great cafés, bars, and vintage shops
If you love indie boutiques, thrift stores, and artsy coffee shops, you’ll never run out of places to explore.
✅ Super central but not as chaotic as the Red Light District
You’re close to everything, but it doesn’t have the wild, party-heavy scene of Amsterdam’s touristy areas.
✅ Perfect for a romantic or stylish stay
If you’re traveling as a couple or just want that classic “Amsterdam experience,” this is hands down one of the best places to stay.
Cons of Staying in The Jordaan
❌ Expensive accommodation
Hotels with canal views here cost a small fortune. Even mid-range options tend to be pricey.
❌ Not the quietest area
While it’s not as loud as the Red Light District, this area is still fairly busy with tourists, especially during the day.
Best Places to Stay in the Jordaan
For the Jordaan area, I only have one hotel I’d personally recommend. There are definitely more options, but this one really stood out to me.
Morgan & Mees
Okay, full disclosure—I didn’t actually stay at Morgan & Mees. But funny enough, I still have my own little story about this place.
I came here for breakfast, and I have to say—I was pleasantly surprised. The hotel and restaurant have this chic, upscale vibe, but the prices weren’t as crazy as I expected. I mean, yes, I paid €20 for breakfast with a coffee, but honestly, that’s just Amsterdam pricing at this point.
I ordered the M&M Royal (which is basically eggs Benedict with salmon) and it was delicious. Even if you’re not staying here, I’d totally recommend stopping by for a meal.
Now, being the diligent travel blogger that I am, I decided to ask if they had an empty room I could check out (no shame in the blogger game). And to my surprise, they happily showed me around.
My thoughts? This place is a 10/10. The rooms are stylish, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff was incredibly friendly and helpful.
It’s a little over my personal budget at around $250 a night, but for Amsterdam, that’s actually midrange pricing. If you’re looking for a beautiful boutique stay in the Jordaan, this one’s a big recommendation from me.
3. Canal Belt: A Great Central Location Close to the City Center

The Canal Belt (Grachtengordel) is the heart of Amsterdam’s historic charm. This area is made up of the four main canals that wrap around the city center—Herengracht, Keizersgracht, Prinsengracht, and Singel—and is basically a dream location.Staying here means waking up to canal views, walking over charming little bridges—basically the full Amsterdam experience.
The best part is that you’re central to everything. Walk a few minutes in one direction, and you’re in The Jordaan. Walk the other way, and you hit Rembrandtplein, the Nine Streets, or even the Museum District. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want to be right in the middle of the action without being in the chaos of the Red Light District.
Of course, that central location comes at a cost—literally. Hotels here are some of the most expensive in Amsterdam, and while the area is stunning, it’s also busy and a bit touristy.
Pros and Cons of Staying in the Canal Belt

Pros of Staying in the Canal Belt
✅ Unbeatable central location
You can walk pretty much everywhere, from museums to bars to famous landmarks.
✅ Iconic Amsterdam atmosphere
Picture-perfect canals, houseboats, and historic bridges—you’ll feel like you’re in a movie.
✅ Lots of great restaurants and bars
From trendy cocktail lounges to traditional Dutch pubs, there’s always somewhere good to eat or drink nearby.
✅ A good mix of luxury hotels and boutique stays
If you’re looking for a stylish, high-end stay, this area has some of Amsterdam’s best boutique hotels.
Cons of Staying in the Canal Belt
❌ Expensive
Expect to pay a premium for hotels here, especially if you want a canal view.
❌ Can be busy and touristy
Since it’s such a central area, you’ll be sharing the streets with a lot of other visitors.
If you’re visiting Amsterdam for the first time and want to be right in the middle of the city’s most iconic scenery, the Canal Belt is a fantastic choice—as long as you’re okay with the higher price tag.
Best Places to Stay in the Canal Belt
The Canal Belt is home to some of Amsterdam’s best hotels, but fair warning—most of them come with a price tag that will blow your horns off.
The Pulitzer Amsterdam
I’m only mentioning this hotel because I’m a huge nerd, and this is the hotel Brad Pitt and George Clooney stay at in Ocean’s Twelve.
Needless to say, it’s pure luxury—the best location, the best service, the best rooms. There’s honestly not much to critique here because it’s just that high-end. The only downside is, of course, the price tag is outrageous. But if you’re willing to splurge, this is one of the most iconic stays in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam Wiechmann Hotel
This hotel is basically the opposite of all those sleek, modern hotels popping up on Amsterdam’s outskirts. Amsterdam Wiechmann is authentic, charming, vintage—and yes, old.
The rooms are filled with original historic furniture, and the entire place has a classic Amsterdam charm that makes it stand out. That being said, you have to be someone who appreciates the vintage aesthetic—if you’re expecting ultra-modern decor, this might not be for you.
Beyond its unique style, it’s still a 4-star hotel, meaning the service, amenities, and food are all top-notch. If you’re looking for historic charm in a prime location, this is the one.
4. De Pijp: Great Local Vibes and a Central Location


If you want to stay somewhere central but without feeling like a full-on tourist, De Pijp is a great option. This neighborhood is just south of the Canal Belt and next to the Museum District, but it has a much more local, lived-in vibe compared to the more polished areas of Amsterdam.
De Pijp is full of cool cafés, vintage shops, street markets, and local restaurants—basically, it’s the perfect mix of hip and authentic. It’s also home to the famous Albert Cuyp Market, where you can grab some fresh stroopwafels or Dutch snacks.
It’s a fantastic place to stay for longer trips because it’s more residential, quieter at night, and generally more affordable than the more touristy parts of Amsterdam.
Pros and Cons of Staying in De Pijp
Pros of Staying in De Pijp
✅ More local, less touristy
This is where a lot of actual Amsterdam residents live, work, and hang out, so you won’t feel like you’re in a theme park version of the city.
✅ Fantastic food and café scene
Tons of independent restaurants, brunch spots, and local bars—way better than the overpriced places in the tourist zones.
✅ Generally more affordable
Hotels here tend to be cheaper than those in the Canal Belt or Jordaan, and you get more for your money.
✅ Still very central
It’s not far from the Museum District, Vondelpark, and the canals—you’re just a short tram ride or walk away from everything.
Cons of Staying in De Pijp
❌ Not as postcard-pretty
It’s still a cool-looking area, but it doesn’t have the same historic, canal-side charm as the Jordaan or Canal Belt.
❌ A bit further from the main sights
You’ll need to walk a bit more or rely on public transport to get to some of Amsterdam’s biggest attractions.
Best Places to Stay in De Pijp
De Pijp has some great hotels, but since it’s a more residential, local area, you’ll also find a lot of apartment-style accommodations.
With Airbnb being highly regulated in Amsterdam, many of these apartments have been converted into aparthotels or small B&Bs. Essentially, they’re still full apartments, just with a more official setup.
So if you’re looking for a place with a kitchen and a bit more space, De Pijp is one of the best areas to find it.
Sir Albert Hotel
Funny enough, while researching hotels in De Pijp, I came across Sir Albert Hotel and thought, wait a second… that looks familiar. Turns out, I actually stayed here years ago on a weekend trip in my mid-twenties. At the time, it was way over my budget, but I felt so fancy staying here.
Even now, Sir Albert is still one of the best hotels in the area. It’s a modern, artsy, boutique-style 4-star hotel with a sleek design. The rooms are on the smaller side, but the location is fantastic—if you want to stay in De Pijp, this is one of the best options.
That said, for the same price, you could stay at Hotel Omega, which (in my opinion) has bigger rooms and an overall cozier feel.
B&B Felix
B&B Felix is an interesting little bed & breakfast—it’s probably the closest thing to an Airbnb you’ll find in Amsterdam.
It’s a small, locally-run spot with just a few renovated rooms, all designed with a modern, stylish touch. It might sound a little unconventional, but check out the photos on Booking.com—it’s a really cozy, well-done little B&B that feels personal and unique. If you want something small and intimate, this is a fantastic choice.
5. Noord: Great Alternative with Good Hostels

Noord is often overlooked by tourists, but it’s one of those hidden gems that’s totally worth considering if you’re looking for affordable accommodation and a more unique Amsterdam experience. Located just across the IJ River from Amsterdam Centraal, it’s still part of the city but feels like it’s in its own world. You’ll have to take a free ferry to get there, but the ride’s quick, and it’s open 24/7.
Noord’s vibe is more industrial, with old warehouses converted into creative spaces, cool cafés, and even trendy hostels. While it might not have the picture-perfect canals of central Amsterdam, it’s a great place to find budget accommodation that doesn’t skimp on character.
If you’re traveling on a budget, Noord is a perfect alternative to the pricer neighborhoods, especially for solo travelers or backpackers looking for affordable hostels.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Noord
Pros of Staying in Noord
✅ Great for budget travelers
It’s way cheaper than other central neighborhoods, especially when it comes to hostels, boutique stays, and even short-term apartments.
✅ Very local and relaxed
Not many tourists here, so you get more of a local Amsterdam vibe—fewer crowds and more space to enjoy the city at your own pace.
✅ Super easy access to central Amsterdam
The ferry is free and runs all day and night, so you’re just a few minutes away from all the big sights.
✅ Unique, creative vibe
Noord has a cool industrial feel with street art, art galleries, and pop-up bars, making it an interesting place to explore when you want a break from the traditional tourist spots.
Cons of Staying in Noord
❌ Not as picturesque
It doesn’t have the classic Amsterdam canals or that old-world charm. The area is more modern and industrial, so it might not have the romantic feel you’re after.
❌ Not much to do after dark
While it’s a great place to stay, Noord can be a little dead at night. There aren’t a ton of bars or nightlife options, so it’s quieter compared to more central neighborhoods.
❌ Slightly inconvenient for sight-seeing
Although you’re close to the ferry, it’s still a bit of a hassle to get to major attractions like the Rijksmuseum or Anne Frank House if you’re looking to be super close to the action.
Best Places to Stay in Noord
I haven’t been to Noord in a while, but I remember staying here when I was backpacking in Amsterdam. More recently, my sister stayed in a hotel here in 2024, and she thought it was a great deal—affordable, well-located, and with the free ferry running all day and night, getting to the center was never an issue.
ClinkNOORD Hostel
Over the years, I’ve stayed in a few different hostels in Amsterdam, but ClinkNOORD is hands down the best. I stayed here myself and was honestly so impressed. The dorms and private rooms were spotless, and even the dorms felt surprisingly spacious. The bathrooms and showers were super clean, which, unfortunately, isn’t always a given in European hostels. The bunk beds had privacy screens, little shelves, and USB ports—small things, but they make a huge difference when you’re backpacking.
The common area was fantastic, with pool tables, comfy sofas, and just an overall great vibe for meeting people. There’s also an on-site café and a small shop where you can grab anything you might need as a traveler. But what I loved most was how social it was. They put a lot of effort into organizing activities, and if you’re a solo traveler, that’s a huge plus. I joined a couple, met some great people, and honestly I just had a great experience at this hostel.
Holiday Inn North Riverside
If hostels aren’t your thing, Noord has plenty of great hotels, and you get way more for your money than in the city center. One of the best options is the Holiday Inn North Riverside, a newer hotel with clean, spacious, and modern rooms. The staff are friendly and helpful, and one huge advantage is that this hotel has private parking—something you almost never find in central Amsterdam. If you’re driving, that’s a major perk.
The only real downside is that the hotel itself lacks a bit of character—it has that generic office-building look. But honestly, for the price you pay and the space and comfort you get, it’s a solid choice, especially considering how quick and easy it is to get to the city center with the free ferry.
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