Last updated on January 09th, 2022
Amsterdam is one of the top tourist spots in Europe thanks to its beautiful architecture and canals, fascinating attractions and warm local welcome. If you’re heading to this gorgeous city, whether for business or pleasure, you’re going to need to know where to stay.
Here, we bring you some of the best hotels in the area, from luxury top rated properties to boutique hotels and from great value B&Bs to family-friendly accommodation that is well located for exploring the city’s best-known sights. No matter what you’re looking for from your break in Amsterdam, we’ll help you choose the right accommodation for you.
What are the Best (Luxury) Hotels in Central Amsterdam ?
The Waldorf Astoria is a name associated with luxury, and this beautiful hotel on the Herengracht, a UNESCO World Heritage listed site, will certainly not fail to impress. The 5-star accommodation is set in six historic palaces dating back to the 17th century, and this property boasts every amenity you could imagine for a luxurious stay. From the uniquely decorated, elegant guest suites, lofts and rooms which afford splendid views of the garden and canal to the spa, indoor pool and fitness centre, this hotel is tastefully decorated in Dutch-inspired designs with cleverly incorporated historic details.
Why Stay Here : The Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam is one of the best hotels in the city thanks to its luxurious accommodation, impressive amenities and outstanding location right in the city centre.
Blending historical elegance with modern luxury, the 5-star Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam features outstanding amenities such as an indoor pool, spa, gourmet restaurant and bars. The well-equipped suites and rooms boast every modern convenience while the luxury suites even offer butler service. Located right in the heart of the historical city and just a 5 minute stroll from Dam Square, this beautiful property has its own terrace and charming garden where you can unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Why Stay Here : The Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam is one of the top rated hotels in Amsterdam thanks to its luxurious suites, its convenient location and its luxurious amenities.
Offering luxury accommodation alongside the beautiful Amstel River, the De L’Europe Amsterdam is located right in the city’s vibrant heart and offers impressive facilities such as a spa, fitness area, valet parking and a beautiful waterside terrace. The guest suites and rooms offer a host of modern conveniences and all within a ten minute stroll of Dam Square. Just 550 yards away from the Kalverstraat shopping district and 450 yards from the Rembrandtplein, this well-sited property is perfectly position to explore this beautiful city.
Why Stay Here : The De L’Europe Amsterdam is one of the best hotels in the city thanks to its fantastic location within easy reach of all the city’s sights.
When you’re looking for a hotel that offers the ultimate in luxury, convenience and amenities, the Hotel Okura Amsterdam is the perfect choice. This 5-star property is in the heart of the trendy De Piip district and boasts impressive city views as well as fabulous facilities like an indoor pool, spa and gym. The guest suites and rooms have everything you could possibly need for a relaxing and comfortable stay, but those who venture outside can enjoy the benefit of numerous shops, restaurants and a short tram ride to the museum district.
Why Stay Here : The Hotel Okura Amsterdam is rated as one of Amsterdam’s top hotels thanks to its luxurious facilities and its location in the fashionable De Piip district.
Enjoying a fabulous location right in the heart of the city and only 350 yards from the train station, the Kimpton De Witt Amsterdam offers the convenience of private parking together with an on-site bar and restaurant. Its comfortable guest rooms offer amazing conveniences and amenities and for those travelling on business, there are eight event and meeting spaces at their disposal. Guests who are travelling for pleasure will also be delighted to discover that this property is within easy reach of popular attractions such as the Royal palace and the Basilica of St Nicholas.
Why Stay Here : UNESCO World Heritage listed The Kimpton De Witt Amsterdam is a popular choice of hotel in the city, particularly amongst business travelers who appreciate the well-equipped meeting and event spaces.
6. The Hendrick’s Hotel – Great Value
The Hendrick’s Hotel is a comfortable and stylish property which enjoys a convenient location just 550 yards from the St Nicholas Basilica, 750 yards from the Dutch National opera and Beurs van Berlage and just a 15 minute walk away from Dam Square. The cosy on-site bar features a welcoming fireplace that adds to the hotel’s relaxing ambience, while the well-equipped guest units all feature comfortable facilities including seating areas.
Why Stay Here : The Hendrick’s Hotel is one of the best hotels in Amsterdam for its comfortable, good value accommodation.
Having undergone a recent renovation, the Pillows Anna van den Vondel Amsterdam offers beautiful and stylish accommodation that won’t fail to impress. Its distinctive 19th century architecture is paired with interior décor in contemporary style. Its guest suites and rooms are characterized by their large windows which afford gorgeous garden or city views. This hotel is also perfectly located to explore the city, just off the Vondelpark, 900 yards from the Van Gogh Museum and just 1400 yards from the Rijksmuseum.
Why Stay Here : The Pillows Anna van den Vondel Amsterdam is a popular choice thanks to its fantastic pairing of historic architecture and modern style in one comfortable and beautiful hotel.
8. Hotel Sebastians – Affordable
This boutique style property enjoys a peaceful and scenic location in the Grachtengordel-West district. Located in a historic canal house, this accommodation offers comfortable guest rooms with excellent amenities and an on-site bar for relaxing drinks after a day of sightseeing. Just a 10 minute walk away from the train station and the popular tourist attraction The Anne Frank House, this well-located property even offers a shuttle and bicycle rental service at an additional charge.
Why Stay Here : The Hotel Sebastians is one of the best options for accommodation in Amsterdam thanks to its affordable prices, convenient bicycle rental and shuttle service services.
9. Motel One Amsterdam-Waterlooplein – Affordable
This great value property is well located for guests who want to explore the best of the city. Situated just 550 yards of the Rembrandt House and 650 yards away from the Dutch National Opera, this comfortable hotel boasts cosy guest rooms with every amenity that you would expect for a relaxing stay. The hotel also has its own on-site bar which is the ideal spot for a drink after discovering Amsterdam’s many attractions.
Why Stay Here : The Motel One Amsterdam-Waterlooplein is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a combination of comfort and value from their city break accommodation.
What are the 5 Best Boutique Hotels in Amsterdam ?
The Hotel TwentySeven enjoys a fabulous location in the city centre with amazing views over the Royal Palace, the Rokin and the National Monument on Dam Square. This recently-opened suite hotel has a 5 star rating for a good reason thanks to its tastefully appointed suites with individually designed décor and its host of personalized services. Every spacious suite boasts impressive details and unique artworks while the property itself has its own gourmet on-site restaurant and fashionable bar.
Why Stay Here : The Hotel TwentySeven is highly recommended for its fashionable styling and luxurious all-suite accommodation.
Enjoying a splendid location along the Keizersgracht canal, the Dylan hotel is a lovely boutique-style property in the centre of the city, just a short stroll from Dam Square. This hotel has its own Michelin starred restaurant located in the bakery which dates from the 1700s as well as its own on-site fitness centreand private garden with terrace. The guest suites and rooms are luxurious, with some having been designed by famous Dutch designer Remy Meijers.
Why Stay Here : The Dylan Amsterdam is one of the best hotels in the city center thanks to its Michelin starred restaurant and well-appointed guest rooms.
3. Hotel Estheréa – Great Value
Set along central Amsterdam’s Singel Canal, the Hotel Estherea is located just 350 yards away from Dam Square yet boasts all of the benefits of being situated in a quiet and peaceful spot. Its classical décor and stylishly decorated, romantic guest rooms add to the ambience of this historic property, and some of its rooms boast impressive canal views. Guests also enjoy the advantages of being just a short stroll away from all of Amsterdam’s primary attractions including its nightlife, shopping area and museums.
Why Stay Here : The Hotel Estherea is one of the top rated Amsterdam hotels thanks to its peaceful location within easy reach of the main attractions.
The intimate and luxurious Highland House is a fine boutique-style property located just 200 yards away from Beurs van Berlage. With the Anne Frank House and De Jordaan just around the corner, this hotel is perfectly located to see the best of the city. Every room in this property has been uniquely named and themed for a truly special experience making this a wonderful choice for couples looking for a romantic break.
Why Stay Here : The Highland House is one of the best hotels in Amsterdam for couples who want all the benefits of a central location as well as a special and luxurious experience.
5. The Toren
Offering elegant accommodation and stylish guest rooms, The Toren enjoys a fabulous location along the Keizersgracht canal, just yards away from the popular tourist attraction the Anne Frank House. Each guest room boasts beautiful classical-style décor with ceiling paintings and chandeliers that never fail to impress. With the Westermarkt tram stop just 250 yards away from the hotel’s front door and the Royal Palace just a ten-minute stroll, this boutique-style property is a convenient choice for sightseeing.
Why Stay Here : The Toren is one of the best hotels in Amsterdam for classical style and traditional features.
What are the Best Bed and Breakfast in Amsterdam ?
The Jordaan Suite bed and bubbles offers a luxurious and pampering experience for guests in a fantastic location within easy reach of all of Amsterdam’s primary attractions. Guests receive a bottle of Prosecco on their arrival and benefit from a well-equipped and stylishly designed second floor bedroom with all modern conveniences. Just 650 yards away from the Anne Frank House and 900 yards from Leidseplein, this beautiful property is the ideal choice for couples on a city break.
Why Stay Here : The Jordaan Suite bed and bubbles is one of the best B&B choices in Amsterdam for couples looking for a luxurious and intimate stay.
Located just a 3 minute stroll from Dam Square and the heart of the city, the Prinsenhof Suite is a historic building constructed in the 1400s. Guests can enjoy all of the benefits of a well-equipped and stylishly decorated bedroom with its own seating area and private facilities. When they’re ready to head out into the city, they are just 450 yards away from the Royal Palace and only a 7 minute stroll from the famous Flower Market.
Why Stay Here : The Prinsenhof Suite is a wonderful choice for couples who want to stay in a historic and convenient setting in the heart of the city.
What are the Best Hotels with Canal View Rooms in Amsterdam ?
The historic Ambassade Hotel is located in ten 17th century mansions along the Singel and Herengracht canals. Its unique guest rooms all feature luxurious and tasteful décor, pairing Louis XV furniture with 1950s-CoBrA artworks. One unique feature of this property is its Library-Bar which contains more than 4000 books signed by their authors. It also boasts a floatation centre with discounted massages for guests, and a stylish brasserie specializing in French cuisine.
Why Stay Here : The Ambassade Hotel is one of the best choices in Amsterdam for literature lovers who want to stay in a convenient location with beautiful canal views.
The Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht enjoys a beautiful location in the canal belt within 0.6 miles of popular attractions such as the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum. This elegant property boasts guest rooms which have all been individually designed and decorated by Marcel Wanders and which each feature their own seating area together with modern amenities. This hotel also has its own on-site restaurant, bar, spa and wellness centre, making this an excellent choice for guests who long to be pampered.
Why Stay Here : The Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht is a top rated hotel in Amsterdam thanks to its gorgeous canal-side location and on-site spa.
What are the Best Family Hotels in Amsterdam ?
1. MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West – Affordable
The perfect choice for families visiting the city, the Meininger Hotel Amsterdam City West enjoys a convenient location next door to the Amsterdam Sloterdijk train station. Its comfortable rooms are decorated in contemporary style with light décor, wood floors and all modern conveniences. The property itself offers guests a guest kitchen, bar and lobby with authentic Dutch artworks. Guests staying at this property can be in the heart of the city in just five minutes when they take the train.
Why Stay Here : The Meininger Hotel Amsterdam City West is the ideal choice for families who want a quiet but well-equipped accommodation out of the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
2. Urban Lodge Hotel – Affordable
Located in Amsterdam’s Westpoort district, the Urban Lodge Hotel offers comfortable accommodation that is ideal for families. The on-site bar is the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing drink in the evening while the private on-site parking which is available for an additional fee is convenient for those travelling by car. The on-site bike hire service makes it easy to explore the local area, and the Vondelpark and Leidesplein are both just over two miles away from the property.
Why Stay Here : The Urban Lodge Hotel is one of the top choices for families looking for a comfortable, family-friendly break away from the heart of the city.
3. ‘t Hotel – City Centre / Affordable
This historic hotel is located in a 17th century canal house in the heart of the city, just 400 yards from Westermarkt tram stop and 350 yards from the popular attraction, the Anne Frank House. The train station can be reached within a 15 minute stroll and the Royal Palace and Dam Square are under 10 minutes away on foot. This makes the ‘t Hotel a conveniently located choice for families who want to be close to the heart of the action.
Why Stay Here : The ‘t Hotel is one of the best options in Amsterdam for families looking for the perfect combination of value and location.
4. Monet Garden Hotel Amsterdam – City Centre / Canal View
This boutique-style property boasts comfortable and contemporary accommodation right next to Amsterdam’s beautiful canals. The majority of its guest rooms afford garden and canal views and each one is well-equipped with modern amenities. This hotel has its own on-site fitness centre which guests can use free of charge, while the cosy bar with its fireplace is the ideal spot to relax at the end of the day. Just 450 yards away from the Dutch National opera and 900 yards from Rembrandplein, the Monet Garden Hotel Amsterdam is perfectly located for exploring the city.
Why Stay Here : The Monet Garden Hotel Amsterdam is one of the top rated options for families who want to enjoy cosy and comfortable accommodation close to the beautiful canals.
What’s the Best Hotel with Free Parking in Amsterdam ?
1. NH Amsterdam Noord – Free Parking
The NH Amsterdam Noord is located in the hip upcoming district of Amsterdam Noord. Featuring fine dining, this popular hotel boasts its own free parking which is a major attraction for any guests travelling by car. The comfortable guest rooms afford gorgeous views over the canals and city centre and have work desks that make this property ideal for business travellers as well as those visiting the city for pleasure.
Why Stay Here : The NH Amsterdam Noord is one of the best choices for free parking and free shuttle to the city centre.
What are the 2 Best Cheap or Affordable Hotels in Amsterdam ?
For guests looking for a budget break close to the heart of the city, the Motel One Amsterdam is hard to beat. Just 450 yards from the RAI Convention Centre, this comfortable property offers guests modern and well-equipped rooms and an on-site bar where they can enjoy a relaxing drink. With local attractions such as Museum Square and the Heineken Experience less than 1.5 miles away, this is the ideal spot for a value break close to the city centre.
Why Stay Here : The Motel One Amsterdam is one of the best choices for affordable accommodation in the city, close to popular attractions.
Located just a 20 minute drive away from Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport and 0.6 miles from the Sloterdijk train station, XO Hotels Park West offers guests comfortable rooms with elegant décor, seating areas and all modern conveniences. With a tram stop just 10 yards away from the property’s front door, it couldn’t be easier to get into the heart of the city, although guests travelling under their own steam will be delighted to discover that there is an on-site parking garage which guests can use.
Why Stay Here : The XO Hotels Park West is one of the top choices for guests who are looking for comfortable accommodation with on-site parking and convenient public transportation into the city centre.
Amsterdam City Centre
The busiest and best known area of Amsterdam is its Centrum or centre, and this is where you’ll find the majority of the city’s most famous tourist attractions. As one of the world’s best-preserved and largest historical city centres, its 8 square kilometer area is home to almost 8000 monumental buildings dating back to the 1600s and 1700s. The Medieval centre of the city focuses on the main Rokin and Damrak streets, following the river Amstel’s former path. These roads meet at Dam Square which today is a focal point of the city. The city centre is easily explored on foot, with most of the most popular sights within a 30 minute stroll. Popular neighbourhoods include Chinatown, the Jewish Quarter and De Jordaan as well as the famous Red Light District. The city centre also encompasses the canal belt which are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as more than 2000 shops and half of the city’s cafes and restaurants.
Best Hotels in Amsterdam City Centre
- Hotel TwentySeven – Small Luxury Hotels of the World – Boutique Hotel
- Pulitzer Amsterdam – Luxury
- Hotel Sebastians – Great Value / Affordable
- Ambassade Hotel – Canal View
Red Light District and Surroundings
Most people have heard about Amsterdam’s Red Light District and it is a top attraction that features on most tourists’ must-see list. Home to museums, sex shops and brothels, this notorious part of the city has a surprisingly friendly atmosphere and is a popular spot for stag and hen parties. Of course, the area is famous for its prostitutes, and the name of the district is derived from the red lights which highlight the windows where 300 working girls can be found. Although many people worry about their safety in this part of the city, in fact it is a very secure area thanks to a strong police presence as well as private bodyguards who are on duty. During the day, this district isn’t especially lively, but after the sun goes down it springs into action, with most action taking place between 11pm and 3am. While sex may be the big selling point of this district, there are lots of other attractions here including Dutch brown cafes, museums and pubs.
Top Rated Hotels in Red Light District
- Hotel Luxer – Affordable
- Red light district B & B canal view – Bed and Breakfast
- NH Collection Amsterdam Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky – Luxury