Hotels in Amsterdam

Still wondering what to do in Amsterdam? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Amsterdam and book your hotel today!

Amsterdam is a truly unique and captivating European city, famous across the globe for its concentric ring of historic canals, its iconic narrow houses with gabled façades, and its famously liberal and laid-back atmosphere. This capital city of the Netherlands is a cultural powerhouse. Y1ou can spend your days cycling along the picturesque waterways, immersing yourself in the masterpieces of the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, or reflecting on history at the Anne Frank House.

The city is a fascinating blend of 17th-century architecture and progressive modern life. You can wander through the charming Jordaan district with its independent boutiques and cosy brown cafes, or cross the central Dam Square, home to the Royal Palace. Finding a perfectly situated hotel is the key to unlocking the full, vibrant experience of Amsterdam.

Choosing where to stay in Amsterdam is all about balancing the desire to be central with avoiding the most crowded and noisy areas. The city centre is compact and highly accessible, so you have several great options.

For a classic experience right in the heart of the action, the area within the Canal Ring (Grachtengordel) is ideal. This puts you closest to Dam Square, the flower market, and many attractions. It is highly walkable and incredibly beautiful, especially along the Nine Streets (Negen Straatjes), known for their unique shops and boutiques. Hotels here are often housed in charming, historic canal houses, but can be pricey.

For a combination of culture and a more spacious feel, the Museum Quarter (Museumplein) area is excellent. Home to the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Concertgebouw, this district is elegant, well-connected by tram, and provides a slightly quieter base, especially at night. It is a fantastic choice for those with an interest in art and easy access to the main parks, such as Vondelpark.

If you prefer a lively, local, and slightly more bohemian atmosphere, the Jordaan district is highly recommended. Just west of the central canals, this former working-class area is now one of the city's trendiest spots, known for its labyrinthine streets, traditional brown cafes, and small art galleries. It offers a slightly more authentic experience while still being within an easy walk of the city centre.

Amsterdam is served by the very efficient Schiphol Airport (AMS), which has a fast, frequent train service running directly to Amsterdam Centraal Station in the city centre. From Centraal Station, the city’s extensive tram network will connect you to virtually any neighbourhood. When book2ing your hotel, its proximity to a major tram stop or Centraal Station will ensure your travel around the city is smooth and fast, allowing you to settle in and start exploring without delay.

To find the most competitive hotel rates in Amsterdam, it is wise to avoid the major holiday periods and special events that dominate the calendar. The peak season runs from April to October, with the highest rates during the summer months of June to August when the weather is at its best.

The biggest price spike unique to Amsterdam occurs around King's Day (Koningsdag), celebrated annually on 27th April, where the city turns entirely orange for a massive, city-wide street party. Another event that causes huge demand is the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) in October. For the best value, aim for the low season months of January and February, when rates are at their lowest. A good money-saving tip is to search for hotels outside the central Canal Ring, in areas like De Pijp or Oud-West. These districts are vibrant, offer great local restaurants, and are only a short tram ride away from the main attractions, providing significantly better value for money.