Where to Stay in Amsterdam
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in De Pijp
Provides more affordable accommodation and dining options compared to the historic center, with a lively atmosphere.
See full Amsterdam neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Amsterdam
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
De Pijp
Bohemian and lively, known for its diverse food scene, vibrant market, and youthful energy.
Our top picks in De Pijp
Chic boutique hotel with a focus on art and design, located near the Albert Cuyp Market.
Book NowA unique hotel for gamers, featuring retro and modern gaming consoles in rooms.
Book NowA larger, more upscale hotel known for its Michelin-starred restaurants and panoramic city views.
Book Now
Oud-West
A diverse and rapidly developing area offering a mix of local life, trendy eateries, and green spaces.
Our top picks in Oud-West
Eco-conscious hotel with a focus on sustainability, offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop terrace.
Book NowStylish and affordable hotel located a short walk from Museumplein and Vondelpark.
Book NowOffers serviced apartments providing a more independent stay, ideal for longer visits or families.
Book Now
Jordaan
Charming canals, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes define this picturesque historic district.
Our top picks in Jordaan
Stylish hotel located in a former 17th-century canal house, offering a vibrant lobby bar.
Book NowA collection of 25 interlinked Golden Age canal houses offering luxurious rooms and beautiful courtyards.
Book NowIntimate boutique hotel with individually decorated rooms reflecting the Jordaan's artistic heritage.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1De Pijp | Mid-range | Bohemian and lively, known for its diverse food scene, vibrant market, and youthful energy. | foodiesnightlife |
Oud-West | Mid-range | A diverse and rapidly developing area offering a mix of local life, trendy eateries, and green spaces. | digital nomadsfamilies |
Jordaan | Luxury | Charming canals, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes define this picturesque historic district. | first-timerscouples |
Centrum (Canal Ring) | Luxury | The historic heart of the city, bustling with tourists, major attractions, and iconic canal views. | first-timersculture |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Amsterdam
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Amsterdam
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Amsterdam. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Amsterdam
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Amsterdam
De Pijp
Mid-rangeBohemian and lively, known for its diverse food scene, vibrant market, and youthful energy.
- +Incredible variety of food and drink options
- +Great nightlife and social scene
- +More affordable than the historic center
- -Can be very noisy, especially on weekends
- -Less historically 'iconic' Amsterdam feel
Oud-West
Mid-rangeA diverse and rapidly developing area offering a mix of local life, trendy eateries, and green spaces.
- +More local and less touristy feel
- +Good value for money
- +Proximity to Vondelpark and cultural institutions
- -Less central than other options
- -Can feel a bit residential in parts
Jordaan
LuxuryCharming canals, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes define this picturesque historic district.
- +Extremely picturesque and walkable
- +Abundant unique shops and restaurants
- +Central and easy to explore from
- -Can be very crowded, especially in summer
- -Accommodation can be expensive
Centrum (Canal Ring)
LuxuryThe historic heart of the city, bustling with tourists, major attractions, and iconic canal views.
- +Unbeatable central location
- +Close to most major sights
- +Excellent transport links
- -Extremely crowded and tourist-heavy
- -Can be noisy and overwhelming
- -Less authentic local feel
Daily Budget (Budget)
EUR 80/day
Hidden Gems in Amsterdam
Lesser-known spots the locals love
De Kas
Dine in a stunning greenhouse setting at De Kas, where they grow their own vegetables, fruits, and herbs on-site. The menu changes daily based on the harvest, offering a fresh and seasonal culinary experience.
Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets)
FREEWhile popular, this charming network of narrow streets connecting the main canals offers a more intimate shopping experience than the Kalverstraat. It's packed with independent boutiques, vintage shops, and cozy cafes.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Amsterdam
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Amsterdam Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Amsterdam on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Amsterdam Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Amsterdam with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Amsterdam: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Amsterdam's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Amsterdam: Scenic Excursion
Escape Amsterdam for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Amsterdam Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Amsterdam's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Amsterdam
Backpackers in Amsterdam: FAQ
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