Where to Stay in Amsterdam (14 Best Places, By A Local)

64 Comments

1. Hello, where would be the best place to stay if all hotels are sold out in the amsterdam centrum, does it makes sense to reserve a hotel outside of the centrum and still enjoy the heart of amsterdam?

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2. We will arriving on boat bike barge. We are staying 2
   nights and will have on concert at the arena. Any ideas?

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3. Hello! I’m doing a summer school in amsterdam during this summer, two weeks. I’m looking for a place to stay like a room for this time. Where I could look for it?

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4. Hello,
   I have 8 hours between connecting flights this coming Friday in Schiphol airport, would you please give me a suggestion about the Amsterdam sightseeing?
   Thanks in advance!

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5. Hi Amber,

   We are going to Amsterdam this July for 4 nights. We are thinking to stay outside of Amsterdam. The hotel we are looking at is “hotel2stay”. I believe it’s outside anyone of the areas that you suggested. Is this far from the city? How long would you say the train ride is from the hotel to the city each way? Thank you

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   1. Hi Winnie,
       
      So nice that you’re visiting Amsterdam for 4 nights!
       
      The Hotel2Stay looks lovely, and is actually within the city! It is just outside of the Ring, the main highway that circles the city, and can be found in the area known as Sloterdijk. I did not recommend the area in this guide, as there is not a lot to do there and relatively far away from the center. However, the hotel’s location next to the Sloterdijk Station, from which numerous trains, trams and buses depart every few minutes, makes it a great place to stay! It is also relatively close to one of my favorite areas in the city: the Westergasbuurt. So, if you know how to cycle, you could also try to get around by bike and explore its neighboring area.Have fun on your trip, and all the best,
      Amber

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6. Hi Amber – my son (23) and I plan to be in the area around the middle of December. Probably only stay for a day or two before we travel to other places. Not necessarily tourist trap stuff but would like to see some sights and have a beer or two…. how late does the nightlife tend to go…and being a tourist just want to be safe. Don’t mind walking so if there is a (cheaper) hotel a little further out – please suggest. Cheers

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   1. Hi Jeff,
       
      That sounds like a great plan! If you don’t want to stay in a tourist trap, but be close to many fun bars and most of the main sights, then I recommend staying in De Pijp. This neighborhood is my favorite, with many great bars for both nightlife and drinks, like Het Huis van Iemand Anders, Bar Bellini, GlouGlou and De Pilsvogel. Nightlife tends to end around 3 AM on weekends, and a lot earlier during the week. But what’s so great about De Pijp is that most hotels are located in a quieter street, while on walking distance from most bars and restaurants. 
       
      Here are three hotels I’d recommend that are incredibly well-located:

      Sir Albert Hotel – close to the Albert Cuypmarket
      Pestana Hotel – close to the Amstel river
      Onefam Amstel – budget option. A hostel with both dorm and private rooms on the Ceintuurbaan.

       
      And regarding safety: Amsterdam is a very safe city. Just stay within the Ring and don’t do anything you would not do at home, and you’ll be fine. And if you want more safety tips, you can also listen to our podcast episode on Amsterdam, where I dive deeper into the major safety hazards for tourists.Let me know if you have any other questions! All the best,
      Amber

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7. We are coming to Amsterdam sometime in the next 3 months and are thinking of staying at either the Hotel Residence Le Coin or the Renaissance Amsterdam Hotel as I’m travelling with my adult son and we need our own separate beds and a bit of space to relax in. Are both of these areas ok? Any thoughts/advice you have would be greatly appreciated!

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   1. Hi Shelley,

      That sounds great! I have looked at the hotels, and both are very centrally located. Amsterdam’s center is the busiest part of the city and tourist traps abound here. However, as the Renaissance Hotel Amsterdam is located in a smaller street, it looks like you’ll stay clear of the noise here! The great thing about being so centrally located is that everything is close and public transport is easy to use. However, it is also easy to get stuck in the center, which can be overwhelming to tourists (read: lots of tourists that frequent coffee shops and the red light district). If you are planning to explore the other areas in this guide, then it’s a very strategic location. But if this sounds overwhelming to you, I recommend staying in De Jordaan or De Pijp, which are also very central, but more authentic than the core of the city. 

      In De Jordaan, Mr. Jordaan and Hotel Mercier both offer rooms with twin beds. At the Mr. Jordaan the three person room might be a good choice! 

      In De Pijp, Pestana also offers twin beds, although they do look like they are shoved together. You can call ahead to figure out whether they can push them apart! Otherwise, Okura might be a great option, although it is more expensive.I hope this helped and I wish you a great trip!

      All the best, Amber

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8. Hi Amber, I finish a Eurovelo bike ride in Amsterdam with a friend. We need somewhere with secure bike storage, close to a bike shop (to get a bike box), and able to take delivery of a parcel (clothes for end of the ride). is there accommodation you would recommend? Kindest regards, Lisa

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   1. Hi Lisa,
       
      Unfortunately it is most common to store your bike on the street with a strong chain. Due to the limited living space in Amsterdam, secured bike storage is thus rare, especially if you want your hotel to receive a package as well. However, I did find a list of hotels with bike storage, which I have linked down below. Just note that I am not 100% sure about their bike storage. So please call the hotel before booking, as these requirements are not listed on their websites.

      Ambassade Hotel Amsterdam
      The Toren
      Pulitzer 
      Kimpton De Witt
      Casa Hotel
      The Social Hub Amsterdam City

      You can also opt for municipal biking storage. These are guarded, though you have to pay for them.Regarding bike shops, there is an overflow of those in Amsterdam, so you’ll find one close to any of these hotels! Just search for ‘fietsenmaker’ on Google Maps to find one.Good luck with your trip!All the best, Amber

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9. Hello,
   I’m travelling to the Netherlands and visiting University of Twente and Maastricht. If I stay in Amsterdam as a safe base, would you recommend staying near the airport for easy access to main roads. I’m renting a car and need advice.
   Thanks for your blog, it’s super helpful!
   Sincerely,
   Anna Maria

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   1. Hi Anna Maria,
       
      That sounds like you’re going to see tons of the Netherlands! Enschede and Maastricht are both pretty far from Amsterdam, so if you still need to book, I would not recommend having Amsterdam as your base. Especially if you need to get there early in the morning: rush hour out and into Amsterdam is no joke. Furthermore, everything is more expensive in Amsterdam than the rest of the Netherlands, and all cities are safe 🙂 
       
      Maastricht and Enschede are both also pretty far removed from each other. So if you have the time, I recommend staying in both cities whenever you need to be there. If you have to travel a lot between the cities, though, I recommend staying somewhere in the middle. In that case, Nijmegen is a good choice! This city is beautiful, and has many cute cafés, restaurants, hotels and good shopping. If you wish to stay at a hotel, I recommend The Rebyl or Boutique Hotel the Grand. But if you wish to have a kitchen with plenty of amenities, I recommend Naest. For things to do in Nijmegen, check out my guide on the best places to visit in the Netherlands!I hope this helps, and if you need anymore recommendations, please let me know!
      All the best, Amber

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10. Hi.. great informative article..
    We are active seniors coming to Amsterdam in April.. so many hotels!!
    And expensive.. we would like to stay in a nice hotel, not noisy yet very central for walking and site seeing..
    Can you narrow it down or suggest 2 or 3 hotels? Thanks!!

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    1. Hi Mindy,
        
       Yes, hotels in Amsterdam can get very expensive. I feel your struggle! The good thing is that there are many of nice hotels around, even though you have to pay the big bucks sometimes. But if you want to find the right balance between price, location and comfort, here are my top three hotels:

       Hotel de Hallen is located in Oud-West next to the Foodhallen. It is very well-connected to the rest of the city by public transportation, and the neighborhood itself is one of my favorites. 
       Sir Albert Hotel is located in De Pijp, which is the best area for people who love to experience local life. De Pijp is always bustling and its bars and restaurants are a treat. The hotel itself is part of a boutique hotel collection, which is reflected in its design. 
       NH Amsterdam Noord seems far away, but a quick ferry ride will get you into the center in no-time. This hotel is nice yet more budget-friendly, precisely because of the water separating Noord from the rest of the city.

        
       Bear in mind that I have not included my overall best hotel, Mr Jordaan, as that one is on the pricier side. If you’re willing to splurge though, it is worth it, as you’ll be staying in a classic canal house.I hope this helps! Let me know if you need any other recommendations.
        
       Happy travels,
       Amber

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       1. I Am looking for hotels to stay from December the 30th to January the 2nd with my husband . We are in our 60s. I Am shocked at the prices!

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11. Hello,
    Where would you recommend to stay near Faceland?
    Many thanks.
    Marie

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    1. Hi Marie Bell,If I am correct, Faceland is located on the Overtoom. I never heard of this place before, so please let me know if you mean another place!
        
       If this is the place, then you’re in luck, as it is located in a great neighborhood which I wrote about in this article. Oud-West is the place for foodies, and has many amazing hotels. One of the best hotels in Amsterdam is located right next door to Faceland: Maison Elle. But if this one is full, or you prefer something less classically chique, then I recommend staying at Hotel de Hallen or Conscious Hotel The Tire Station. Both are a 15 minute walk from Faceland. I do urge you to stay at Maison Elle though, as it is so close to your destination.
        
       Let me know if you need any other tips, and have a great trip!
        
       All the best,
       Amber

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12. Hi Amber,

    A bunch of friends and I are travelling to Amsterdam at the end of August for the World Rowing Championships at the Bosbaan in Amstelveen. We’d like to stay in a hotel somewhere within 20-30mins by public transport to the Bosbaan but also central enough to walk/tram to some cool areas with plenty of bars and restaurants. Can you recommend an area (and/or 3 star type hotels) please. Thanks. Tom

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    1. Hi Tom,
        
       That is such a cool thing to do! Rowing in Amsterdam is pretty popular.
        
       Although outside of the ring, the Bosbaan is still close enough to the city to give you plenty of options for hotels and areas to stay in. Bus 357 stops in front of the forest, so I recommend staying somewhere along its route. This gives you options on the Zuidas, and in Oud-Zuid, Willemspark and the Museum Quarter. For cool bar and restaurant areas and other good public transportation, I recommend the latter three, though. The only downside to this area is that hotels tend to be a little more expensive, but there are some gems around:

       The Olympic Hotel is furthest removed from the city center, but closest to the Bosbaan. There are also plenty of bars and restaurants around. I have lived in this neighborhood, and I never got bored here!
       The Aadam Wilhelmina Hotel is close to the busline and Vondelpark, making its location a 10/10.
       De Ware Jacob Boutique Hotel is closest to the city center and has beautiful rooms. Although a bit on the pricier side, it is definitely worth it!

        
       I hope this helps! Have fun on your trip, and all the best.Amber

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13. Thank you for your guide. How far from Jordaan is the Van Gogh museum? What’s the best way to get to the airport?
    What are thoughts on Max Brown Hotel? Pros? Cons?

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    1. Hi J!
        
       As Amsterdam is very walkable, nothing is located too far away. This means it is easy to reach the Van Gogh Museum easily from the Jordaan by foot, bike or public transport. Depending on where you are in the Jordaan (North or South), you can take different trams and buses. It is best to check the website of 9292.nl for the latest timetables. All in all, it will generally not take you more than 30 minutes to get there by foot.
        
       Regarding the quickest way to get to the airport, I refer you to the FAQ section in this article. But if you’re staying in the Jordaan, I recommend taking a direct train to Schiphol Airport from Amsterdam Centraal (central station). A train ride typically takes around 15 minutes. Finally, I think Max Brown hotels are great! I have never stayed there, but I have stayed at a hotel of the Sircle collection in Berlin, which the Max Brown hotels are a part of. The interior is very well-designed and they have top-tier service. In Amsterdam, they have a location in the Jordaan and in the Museumkwartier, which are both lovely neighborhoods. However, if you want to stay close to the Van Gogh museum, I recommend the latter, as it is located around the corner.
       I hope this helps, and have a lovely trip!
        
       All the best,
       Amber

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    2. Hello Amber,
       We hope to travel to Amsterdam in 2027. Any advice on a smaller lodging that would have 2 double beds or even twin beds?
       Thank you and wonderful guide.
       Wendy

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       1. Hi Wendy,
           
          So exciting that you’re traveling to Amsterdam this year! There are plenty of hotels offering twin rooms around, so it really depends on what type of neighborhood you’re looking for. (Bear in mind that rooms with two double beds are quite uncommon). If it is your first time, however, I do recommend staying outside of the center, but close enough so you can walk everywhere. The areas I have in mind are De Jordaan or De Pijp.One of the best hotels in de Jordaan is Hotel Mercier, which offers twin rooms. Mr Jordaan, which I named the overall best hotel, also offers twin rooms. 
           
          In De Pijp there are plenty of options as well, like Pestana, which is located on the Amstel river. This hotel is fabulous because it is super close to the action, while its immediate surroundings are very quiet. And if you want to stay close to De Pijp and Museum Square, Avani Museum Quarter is a great option. It overlooks De Pijp and the canals, and has comfortable modern rooms. Do bear in mind that you have to manually select a twin room on Booking.com and that hotels often see this as a preference instead of an urgent wish. To make sure you do get the twin room, I suggest leaving them a note or calling. Have fun on your trip and all the best,
           
          Amber

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14. Hello, Amber!

    I was reaching out to you because my boyfriend and I will celebrate our 3rd anniversary in Amsterdam next week! We are very excited but we still have not decided the hotel. I ran into your blog and thought it would be a good idea to just ask! We want to stay around the city centre, or at least not far from it, our budget would be 220€ for two nights maybe? Not a noisy area please, I can’t stand the noise at night to sleep. And if it could be a place with a nice view, that would be bonus points for sure!! I know there’s plenty of things I am asking for, but because it’s our anniversary we would love a lovely place!! Thank you beforehand🥹💗

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    1. Hi Claudia,
        
       First of all, happy anniversary! Amsterdam is such a romantic city to celebrate. I’m happy to advise you on the best areas to stay.
        
       Looking at what you’re looking for, it is going to be hard to find it for your price range. Amsterdam is an expensive city, where hotels in locations close to the city center with a romantic backdrop will cost you around €200 per night. So it really depends on what you want to prioritize. 
        
       When prioritizing budget, you unfortunately have to give up on the location. However, you can still book a hotel in a quiet area. Hotel Jansen Amsterdam Bajeskwartier has beautiful rooms and is within your budget for two nights. It is close to the Amstel station, which means public transport will take you to the center in no-time. 
        
       If you want somewhere quiet in a romantic setting, you will have to give up on budget. Apollo Hotel Amsterdam is a little over budget and close enough to the city center, although you would have to cycle from there as there are not many PT options around. Conscious Hotel Museum Square is a little pricier, but closer to the center as its located in the Museum Quarter (which I labeled the most romantic neighborhood along with Willemspark). I hope these tips help! Unfortunately, Amsterdam is incredibly expensive when it comes to hotels. But maybe you will find some good last minute deals. If you want to browse by area however, I will refer you to the rest of this article where I recommend Amstelveen for budget-friendly travelers, and Willemspark & Museumkwartier as the perfect place for couples.All the best,Amber

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15. Hi Amber,can you recommend a safe district to stay in that maybe has a local village with Shops ,Restaurants and very near the Wagner Stadium.Myself and Family hope to stay there for Hockey World Cup in the Summer 2026 .Im Likely to book an Air B&B.Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Travelling from Dublin,Ireland . Many Thanks Bernard

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    1. Hi Bernard,
        
       That sounds so exciting! As the Wagener Stadium is located on the edge of Amstelveen, you could check out Airbnbs and apartments there. A good option could be Cityden Zuidas, which offers apartments and a 25-minute walk away.
        
       However, the area around the stadium is not that lively, and if you do want to explore more of the city, I would recommend staying in either Oud-Zuid, Willemspark or Museumkwartier. The bus line 357 passes through here, which stops in front of the stadium. Plus, there are plenty of bars and sights around, without being crowded! The July – Twenty-Eight is probably your best bet when it comes to apartments. 
        
       If you have any further questions, please let me know.
        
       All the best,
       Amber

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16. I just made a reservation for the Barbizon. Is that ok?

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    1. Hi Carol,
        
       That is a very nice hotel, in the middle of the city center. There are many public transport options right on your doorstop, so you will get to any destination in the city in no time. Do make sure to ask for a room at the back of the hotel if you’re a light sleeper, as it can be noisy at night. Still, it’s one of the quieter streets in the center and seeing it’s a five star hotel, the windows will probably hold most of the sound at bay.
        
       Have fun on your trip!
        
       All the best,
        
       Amber

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17. Suggestions for a second city choice a train ride from Amsterdam Jordaan. Thank you

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18. Best area to stay prior to boarding a river cruise (Viking)? How do I get to the port from the hotel?

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    1. Hi Renee,
        
       Thanks for reaching out! For that I would need to know where you are boarding your cruise. Viking River Cruises often docks in different spots in the city that are far removed from each other. Let me know which one will be your docking spot, and I will give you some recommendations.
        
       All the best,
       Amber

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19. Hi Amber, I appreciate your post on where to stay in Amsterdam. I have travel clients in their early 70’s. What would be your suggested locations for them that are relatively quiet and close to tram stations? This will be their first time in Amsterdam, they have 4 nights. Access to a kitchenette and a washer and possibly dryer would be perfect. Thank you!

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    1. Hi Linda,

       Thanks for reaching out! Luckily for your clients, most areas of the city are well-connected to the center by tram or metro. The most ideal locations are those within the ring, which in the case of this guide, means every neighborhood except Zuid-Oost and Amstelveen. However, I would suggest the following hotels and locations that specifically cater to their requests:

       – Bob W Oosterpark is located about 200 meters from the nearest tram and train station. It is situated in Oud-Oost, which is a quiet neighborhood. Your clients could rent one apartment and one room, so together they could have access to a kitchenette.
       – CityDen BoLo District is a little out of the way, but it has a tram stop right in front of its door. This hotel offers two-bedroom apartments, and while the apartments themselves do not have washing machines, they do have a laundry room. Your clients will also have a good night’s rest here, as the hotel is located in a quiet area.

       As houses are small in Amsterdam, and there is a housing problem, finding a hotel that has all these things (a kitchenette, two bedrooms, a private washing machine, tram stop in front of the door) is a challenge. Hence, I suggest prioritizing one or two of these. Many hotels do have a laundry service, for example, which could be a great option when prioritizing location. However, if you want to have an apartment with a kitchen, washing machine, and dryer, you are looking at places that are further away from the city center and thus take longer to reach. For relatively quiet areas, I suggest looking for places in the following areas: Oud-West, Oud-Oost, Willemspark, Rivierenbuurt, Plantage & Weesperbuurt, Noord, and Westerparkbuurt.

       If you have any more questions or want to have recommendations for specific requests, let me know, and I will get back to you!

       All the best,
       Amber

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20. Hi Amber. We are a family of 5 travelling to Amsterdam on the 28th December just for 2 nights. 3 adults and 2 older teenagers (17 and 15). Any recommendations to where we should stay that is central and within walking distance to bars, restaurants and shops. Not to loud a night time though🫣. Thanks in advance.

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    1. Hi Hilary,
        
       So great that you are traveling to Amsterdam with your family! I totally get it that you would want to be close to the action while still getting a good night’s sleep.
        
       Personally, I love De Pijp, and I think it would make for a great neighborhood to stay in. It has got a lively bar and restaurant scene, but most bars are clustered around two or three streets. The Sir Albert Hotel is a great option. Still trendy, which your kids might love, but relatively quiet as well. Many bars are just a five-minute walk away, but they will cause no sleep deprivation whatsoever. Only the tram might wake you around 6:30 AM if you’ve got a room with a street view. Another good option is Pestana, which is located on the banks of the Amstel. It’s a little further away from the bars and restaurants in De Pijp, but still walkable.
        
       Another great neighborhood you could try is Oud-West. This area has plenty of restaurants as well, but is largely residential, making it a lot quieter than the city center. The center itself, though, is pretty close too. Maison Elle could be a wonderful option here, as it is located on a quiet street overlooking the park. If you are looking for luxury, then Hotel Omega, on the other side of the park in the Museumkwartier, is amazing. I see they have a huge discount with Genius at the moment. So, if you’ve got Level 3, you might have a good deal.
        
       I hope this helps! Bear in mind, prices tend to be higher in December. So, I recommend using your Genius discounts on Booking to the max.
        
       All the best,
       Amber

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21. Hi

    Thank you so much for all the information. I am meeting my son in Amsterdam that now works in The Netherlands and are looking for a great place to stay preferably an apartment where I can cook a traditional Christmas meal for my family. Alternatively, a fantastic hotel that will provide an excellent Christmas lunch. I will be staying from 22/12/2025 till 26/12/2025.

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    1. Hi Riana,
        
       Visiting Amsterdam for Christmas sounds like an amazing idea! There are still plenty of apartments for rent during that time. Some of my favorites that score high on both design and location are:
        

       Catalonia Vondel Amsterdam, which is located next to the Vondelpark. This hotel offers a couple of apartments and its neighborhood is often filled with Christmas decorations.
       The Houthavens Apartments are in a great location as well. Its apartments are large, which is not often the case in Amsterdam, and look to possess fully equipped kitchens as well.
       The Studio next to Skinny Bridge is another good option. While this one does not have a separate bedroom, its location in the center makes up for it.

        
       If you don’t want to cook, there are also plenty of hotels with fabulous restaurants. However, not many of them offer Christmas lunches, so I suggest booking a Christmas lunch at a restaurant that does not belong to a hotel. This gives you more options and is often a lot more fun, in my opinion. For example, you could stay at the Catalonia hotel mentioned above, take tram 1 to J.P. Heijestraat, and go for lunch at the nearby restaurant Gitane.
        
       Bear in mind that if you plan to have a Christmas lunch somewhere, now is the right time to book, as the best restaurants fill up quickly. If you need more restaurant recommendations, feel free to reach out, or take a look at the mini-guides below each neighborhood in this guide.
        
       All the best,
       Amber

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22. Do most hotels offer complimentary transport to the airport? I have an early flight to catch on a Sunday morning. Thank you

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    1. Hi Moira!
        
       It is not typical for hotels to have a free airport shuttle. Many of them do have a standard list of taxis they could call, or offer a paid service like the Intercontinental Amstel Hotel. So, if you have an early flight, I suggest booking an airport hotel for your final night. The Ibis Styles Airport hotel, or the Corendon Amsterdam Schiphol Airport hotel are good options!
        
       Depending on what time you leave, however, you might be able to take public transport. The train to Schiphol leaves hourly from Central Station between 1 and 5 am. Before and after this period, it runs every ten to twenty minutes. From Amsterdam Amstel, you can take a night bus between 1 and 6 am. But there are many more options from multiple points in the city. Check 9292.nl for the best travel advice. However, if you are worried about possibly missing your flight, but you don’t want to stay near the airport, then book a hotel close to Central Station. THIS HO(S)TEL or NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace could be a good option.
        
       If you already have a place booked, or any other questions, please let me know! I could help you figure out the best way to the airport.
        
       All the best,
       Amber

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23. Hi,
    Your obviously a lot younger than us and we are looking for a place to stay in Amsterdam that isn’t in the busy night life/cafe or area where all the young people party or the seedy redlight district, but where there are still cafes and restaurants and easy access to public transport to major sites. I’ve currently booked for Movenpick on the water, but it looks a bit isolated. Any suggestions

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    1. Hi Vicki,
        
       Good choice, and I would not want to stay in the Red Light District either. The Mövenpick is a beautiful hotel with great views of ’t IJ. It is a little isolated in the sense that there are not many bars and restaurants within walking distance. However, it is still located next to the Bimhuis, where you can catch jazz concerts, and close to Choux restaurant and Jakarta hotel’s restaurant, which are great options for dinner. Its location makes it a great place for a quiet stay. Additionally, there’s a tram stop directly in front of the hotel, which will take you to the central station in just three minutes, making the rest of the city extremely accessible.
        
       However, if you are looking for more buzz around your accommodation, I suggest Pestana. Located in De Pijp on the bank of the Amstel, the area around the hotel is peaceful, while all the bars, restaurants, and shops in De Pijp are close by.
        
       Park Plaza Hotel in Willemsparkbuurt is also a little quieter, with many cozy restaurants in its proximity. Located next to the Vondelpark, it is one of the more romantic stays. Similarly, Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel overlooks Oosterpark and is located in a peaceful, yet ‘gezellige’ neighborhood.
        
       If you need more recommendations, be sure to let me know! Any of these areas is great for what you are looking for, so check the other hotels in this guide out as well if you need more inspiration.
        
       All the best,
       Amber

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24. As someone who will be there for a few days travelling solo. is there a good way to connect with easy going locals for drinks/chats?

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    1. Hi Ashley,
        
       That sounds great! There are many ways to meet new people in Amsterdam, although there is not a specific café that I know of where people go to make new friends. When traveling solo, many friends of mine use the friends version of Bumble (the dating app) to connect with people in a city, or they prefer using Couchsurfing. Both could be a great way to meet up with people who are currently in the same place as you!
        
       If you prefer meeting folks in real life, I would suggest booking a workout like Rocycle or Reformer pilates and chat to a bunch of people there. Not many people chat to strangers in the locker room, but if you are a confident extrovert, then most people will like to be spoken to! Just make sure to book a class in the afternoon and not in the morning before work. This way, you will know most will not be in a rush to get somewhere. And if cycling or pilates is not your thing, you could also join a run club event. Here, people are actively looking for new connections.
        
       Something that is on my bucket list is joining a dinner party through & the Table. This is a platform where women host dinners for other women in multiple cities in Europe. Usually, these dinners have a theme or a specific age group they’re targeting. You will have to book it a couple of days or even weeks in advance, though, so make sure to check it out before you leave.
        
       My top tip in this case is to find something you like to do. This could be knitting, working out as mentioned above, or painting. Google that and pair it with terms like event, course or café, and of course Amsterdam. This way you will find spaces like knitting cafés or sip-and-paint workshops where people go to meet new friends. And if all else fails, just approaching someone who is sitting by themselves in a café is always a good idea!
        
       Have fun and all the best,
       Amber

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25. Hello, 4 Seniors coming for 24 hours to Amsterdam for the first time. Looking for food, shops, local sites. wondering about the Sebastian hotel but would appreciate any advice for easy access to a local short experience Thank you…

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    1. Hi Clark,
       Sounds like a great trip! I have listed many things to do in my 60 Things to Do in Amsterdam guide, so make sure to check that out for some inspiration. Additionally, you can check out my Amsterdam itinerary and mix and match the activities of these five days. However, if you just have one day in the city I would suggest the following itinerary:
       Morning: Start your day with breakfast at Bonnie and then wander through the Willemsparkbuurt to your next stop, the Rijksmuseum. This is Amsterdam’s iconic museum showcasing over 800 years of Dutch history and art. The building itself is stunning as well, so really take your time wandering through its halls. Next, take the tram 12 to Nieuwezijds Kolk and walk to Café Nieuw Amsterdam, a sit-down restaurant with a wonderful lunch menu. Take your time enjoying the food, or walk over the Haarlemmerdijk for a bit if you have some time left.
       Afternoon: As you just have 24 hours, I recommend booking a boat tour for the afternoon. This way, you will experience the canals like they should be: from the water. Additionally, you learn a lot about Amsterdam’s history and culture. Afterwards, take metro line 52 to De Pijp and sit down at one of the many cafés around Sarphatipark or on the Gerard Douplein for a traditional Dutch ‘borrel,’ which roughly translates to enjoying drinks with snacks with good company. Try the bitterballen and some beer from Brouwerij ’t IJ while you’re at it.
       Evening: For dinner, make reservations at restaurant ’t Heemelrijck, where they serve traditional Dutch food. There really is no place like it, so this is a must if you like to take a deep dive in Dutch culture.
       I hope this helps, and have fun while in Amsterdam!
       All the best,
       Amber

       Reply

26. Hi! i’m planning to visit Amsterdam next December. What do yo think of the area BoLo (Bos en Lommer) to stay? Thanks in advance!

    Reply

    1. Hi Jorgelina,
        
       Bos en Lommer is a great area to stay in if you are looking for somewhere a little more quiet! It is largely a multicultural residential area with a couple of nice restaurants and even a cultural stage by the name of Podium Mozaïek. As it is quite close to the Westerparkbuurt, many other attractions will be on walking distance and its proximity to metro station De Vlugtlaan will get you to other parts of the city in no time.
        
       Because Bos en Lommer is mostly residential, there are only a handful of hotel options available. Still, there are some solid recommendations to be found, like Dutchies Hostel as a budget-friendly option. If you are looking for something a little more luxurious with a solid breakfast, then Cityden BoLo District is a great option. Hotel New Kit, on the other hand, is the perfect choice if you prioritize accessibility to the rest of the city, as it is located right next to the metro station.
        
       If you are looking to branch out, you could also check out the area De Baarsjes, which lies just south of BoLo and is a little more central. I love this neighborhood as it is the quieter version of Oud-West, where you can find De Foodhallen. Stay at Leonardo Hotel, which is located in the Rembrandtpark and offers simple rooms with skyline views of Amsterdam, or in a tiny home on the canal by the name of Sweets Kinkerbrug. 
        
       I hope this helps and have fun in Amsterdam in December!
        
       All the best,
       Amber

       Reply

27. is there still geese/ goose parades in netherlands?

    what is your morning like everyday!!

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    1. Hi Julia,
        
       Good question! I guess it says enough that I had to Google what goose parades are. As far as I could find, they are usually booked for festivals or business parties, so you will barely spot them in the wild. I did not grow up with the concept, and besides some geese running around Vondelpark, I barely see them. My mornings are usually quiet and fairly easy, unless I have to take the train during rush hour, but no goose parades.
        
       A place where goose parades have taken place is the Efteling. This amusement park is a national treasure. Quirkier than Disney, it tells the story of mostly European fairytales, and there is something discerningly Dutch about it in my opinion. If you like to see where Dutch families like to hang out multiple times a year, then this is the place to be!
        
       If you want to learn more about Dutch culture and its traditions, I would suggest sticking around for King’s Day, which is when the entire country dresses up in orange and celebrates the king’s birthday. I have mentioned many more cultural things to do in this guide and my Amsterdam itinerary as well. Think fried food, cheese and cycling, as well as learning more about ‘borrel-tijd’ (late afternoon drinks). 
        
       If you have any more questions, let me know! I will be happy to help.
        
       All the best, Amber
        
        

       Reply

28. Hi! What is the area to the left of Weesperbuurt & Plantage? My husband and I have a trip planned and are staying in the area to the left of Weesperbuurt and was curious on your opinion of that area? Thank you!

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    1. Hi Brittany,
       So exciting that you are planning a trip to Amsterdam! The neighborhoods you are describing could be the southern part of the Canal Belt or the area called De Weteringschans. They are part of the city center and the Canal Belt and thus an ideal place to stay in! I would say this part, depending on the street can still be quiet at night while being very close to lots of great restaurants, cafés and sights.
       I especially love the Utrechtsestraat! Here you will find lots of beautiful shops and some typical brown cafés. Ku Kitchen & Bar is a great Japanese restaurant you must try. Another great, but often busier street in the neighborhood is the Nieuwe Spiegelstraat, which offers many antique stores and the famous sandwich shop Zero Zero. The Vijzelstraat is probably the busiest with traffic, but also has some great restaurants and shops around. And of course do not forget to check out all of the beautiful canals around!
       Let me know if you need any other tips, I will be happy to help 🙂
       All the best,Amber

       Reply

29. First off- Thank you so much for all this information. It has been tremendouse for me- first time visitor to Netherlands.

    My main reason for coming is to attend the “Flat Mountain Music Festival”. I am not able to find the location on any maps. Could you guide me as to what part of the Netherlands it is in- North /South/ East or West. Thank you. Could you also guide me to the best music venues to see World Music and or small venues with alternative acoustic music ?

    Dankjewel

    Reply

    1. Hi Michael,
        
       Thank you and you’re welcome! I am happy your first trip to the Netherlands is turning out so wonderfully.
        
       The line-up to the Flat Mountains Music Festival looks amazing, so cool that you’re going there! As far as I could see, the festival is taking place in Dorpshuis de Schalm in Westwoud, which is about an hour north of Amsterdam. Its address is Dr, Doctor Nuijensstraat 14-B, 1617 KC Westwoud. From Amsterdam, you can take the train to Hoorn and take Bus 415 from there. You could also choose to rent a car or a bike in Hoorn.
        
       As for music venues in Amsterdam I personally love Paradiso and the Melkweg. They offer a diverse program which includes world and alternative music too! On Paradiso’s website you can also buy tickets for shows in Bitterzoet and Tolhuistuin, which are a bit smaller and thus offer more world and alt music. Smaller stages like Maloe Melo for blues and the Waterhole are also great to catch some live shows. Bimhuis offers mainly jazz and improvized music, Cinetol, Toekomstmuziek and Volta mainly showcase alternative music by smaller bands, and cafés like Skek and Café de Koe often have live music too. 
        
       I hope this helps, and I wish you a lot of fun traveling through the Netherlands! 
        
       All the best,
       Amber

       Reply

30. My grandson is going to uni next week. He could only get a years accommodation in the Stadium area. I read its one of the most dangerous places in Amsterdam. I’m quite worried. can you reassure me please.

    Reply

    1. Thank you. It’s fine. I have spoken to someone now.

       Reply

       1. Hi Cate,
          Thank you for reaching out, and I am happy you have been able to talk to someone about it. I just wanted to respond to help you out if you still have any doubts or fears with your grandson moving abroad. 
          Amsterdam is generally a very safe city. Of course, when visiting or when moving there you should take the general safety precautions, like keeping an eye on your valuables and locking your door at night and when you leave. Generally, the worst thing that could happen in the city is your bike getting stolen 🙂
          Amsterdam Zuid-Oost indeed has the reputation of being less safe than the other areas. However, this is just because of the history of the neighborhood. A couple of decades ago it was less safe, hence its reputation. Now, however, lots of people move there for their more affordable housing options and I would say it is just as safe as other parts of Amsterdam! Especially when you compare it to the Banlieu in Paris or some neighborhoods in Detroit, Zuid-Oost is like Disneyland. If you do not get involved with the wrong people, walk or cycle through dark parks at night and do not linger around dark alleys or streets, you will be fine.
          I hope this makes you a little less worried about your grandson moving to Zuid-Oost. It is a great starting point for an apartment and has good public transport options. I would say the other neighborhoods in this list are more fun due to their historical nature and wide array of restaurants, sights and bars, but safety-wise all are fine. 
          All the best,
          Amber

          Reply

          1. thank you. He has just arrived in Amsterdam which he said could be more different from Marbella! ! He said he is loving the cooler weather 😏

             I hope that he will be fine and meet good friends.
             Many thanks again.

             Reply

31. Great article! What gluten-free restaurants do you recommend in Amsterdam?

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    1. Hi Jack,

       Great question! Lucky for us there are plenty of options, but here are some of my 100% GF favorites:

       – Craft Coffee & Pastry: technically not a restaurant, but the best GF bakery in the world. You must try their chocolate croissants!
       – Bloem Eten & Drinken is completely vegan and gluten free, so coeliac safe according to their website!
       – Alchemist Garden Community is 100% GF and Vegan. Great for lunch!
       – Rose & Vanilla and De Glutenvrije Winkel: both are 100% GF bakeries

       And here are my favorite accommodating restaurants (make sure to communicate your needs clearly if you are coeliac however):

       – LouLou Pizzabar and de Pizzakamer both have amazing gluten free pizza
       – De Italiaan is an Italian restaurant that can make about 90% of their menu GF
       – The tacos at Cabron on the Albert Cuyp are GF, but just communicate your needs extra clearly here, as it is a small space
       – FouFow ramen offers GF noodles
       – I love having lunch at Café Vrijdag or Café ‘t Paardje, which both offer gluten free bread
       – Factory Girl also has some great GF options, like their pancakes.
       – I have also never had any issue with Maru Japanese Kitchen, which has fresh wasabi!

       I hope this helps! And if you need more tips on how to navigate Amsterdam gluten free, please shoot me a message 🙂

       Reply

32. Hello Amber
    Thank you so much for the online information
    My name is Ed Stokes from Phoenix via Iowa
    I will be retiring this year and heading to Amsterdam to spend about three weeks for an extended stay and traveling to and from the different countries via train

    this will be my first trip so reading your information was very helpful

    You recommend something for an extended stay for myself rather than hotel?

    Reply

    1. Hi Edward,

       That trip sounds amazing! Plus, three weeks in Amsterdam will really allow you to get to know the city. Renting an apartment is a good idea for such a long time! I have named a few amazing apartments in this article, which I have shortlisted below:

       – The July – Boat & Co in the Westerparkbuurt has fully equipped apartments
       – The July – Twenty-Eight in the Apollobuurt also offers apartments
       – The Market Retreat in De Pijp is a beautiful apartment in my favorite part of the city. However, while it has a fridge, it has no kitchen
       – All three accommodation options in the Rivierenbuurt are apartments. This is also one of the most residential areas which I have mentioned and thus makes it perfect for a longer stay.
       – Casa in Oud-Oost offers roomy and colorful apartments as well
       – Wittenberg by Cove in de Plantage & Weesperbuurt only offers apartments and has great service!
       – Zoku is also a perfect place to rent an apartment at.
       – If you want something special for your three weeks I recommend Asile Flottant in Noord, which allows you to stay on a boat
       – Or rent an apartment at the Premier Suites in the Zuidas. This area is not that lively at night however, as it is the city’s business district

       These are my top picks, but you can also check out Airbnb for these three weeks, or click the ‘Apartment’ filter in Booking.com. While looking for an apartment I would recommend something outside the city center, like de Pijp, Oud-West or Oud-Oost. These are well connected to the center with public transport, but also allow you to experience the calmer local side of Amsterdam.

       Hope this helps and that you have an amazing time in Europe!

       Reply