The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam, is an immersing picturesque city laid on canals. Being one of the world’s most attractive destinations, it draws millions of tourists every year. Namely, the city has impressive historic architecture, an avant-garde vibe, and a very rich cultural scene. If you are searching for a place where you can experience more freedom without spending a fortune, I recommend you start considering where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget!
Choosing this as your budget destination will allow you to explore plenty of landmarks. The Rijksmuseum, the Ane Frank House, Van Goghs Museum, and so many more contributed to declaring the city a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The best contribution to this is the immersive canals that separate the districts built in a spiral shape.
What is Amsterdam also famous for is its cycling culture and unique bike-friendly infrastructure.
Being “the capital” of the world and hosting people from all around the globe, it has a diverse culinary scene. The specialities range from traditional Dutch dishes to International plates.
As for its location, Amsterdam is nestled in the western part of the country. It lies 2 meters above sea level at the junction of the Amstel River and IJ Bay. The climate is mild and moderate during the summer months. Moreover, the winters can also be declared to be on the milder side in comparison with other European cities.
Travelling to Amsterdam is such a delight and staying in Amsterdam on a budget is also possible with smart planning of accommodation and other costs because it has to offer a lot and for anyone’s taste.
Read more: We have a detailed guide to Where to Stay in Amsterdam.
Question: Where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget?
Wherever you decide to stay, there is no doubt you will be able to experience the unique city vibes. Walking through and visiting places and museums, you will be delighted by the tradition, long-lasting history, and the attitude of the local people towards their heritage.
The most iconic is the Van Gogh Museum where you can see “The Sunflowers” and “The Bedroom” amongst the other paintings of this painter. Rijksmuseum is a unique place where you can see the Dutch Golden Age paintings. Rembrandt and Vermeer are the most significant painters in the museum collection.
The Anne Frank House, where you can have your virtual leaf at the chestnut tree near the house, is also a nice occasion to experience. The Canal Cruises and an occasional dinner on the cruiser is a good plan for a night out that does not cost a fortune.
Moving on, you will surely experience some of the most stunning views from Dam Square, the beautiful central square in Amsterdam and the home of the Royal Palace.
The Heineken Museum Tour, a visit to Vondel Park stroll, and Albert Cuyp Market, one of the biggest green markets in Amsterdam, are all a great idea for where to spend time.
Now that I have introduced some of the major visit-worthy points, let’s discover more about where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget.
Make sure you read my guide to one week in Amsterdam.
Here is the question: Where to stay in Amsterdam on a Budget?
The answer is simple: Jordaan
There is no doubt that Jordaan is the most famous Amsterdam district. The historic buildings, picturesque canals, art galleries, and nice cafes give it a special shadow of cosiness and charming authenticity. It is the place where the Westerkerk the most famous protestant church is located, which is very close to Anne Frank’s house.
Every Saturday, you can visit the farmer’s market the Noordermarkt, where farmers offer various organic products, antiques, and fresh food to visitors and locals. Cafes and restaurants are the showcase of the district and their appearance and indoor are varying from basic to very elegant.
Some of these areas include:
- Canal Belt
- Anne Frank House
- Westerkerk (West Church)
Why do I recommend these areas?
Canal Belt is a must-visit district in Amsterdam. Architecture, history, scenic and unforgettable views of the walking paths close to the canals lined with trees will give you a feeling of complete relaxation. Many museums will cater to your desire to explore the region’s culture, and the picturesque bridges over the canals will be your Insta photo location mark.
Anne Frank’s House is yet another very popular visitor point. It has been made a museum telling the story of the Jewish girl who was hiding from the Nazis with her family. As an addition to the Secret Annex, you can see the exhibition of the Holocaust. This museum puts an accent on the legacy of the girl which is a powerful reminder for generations that followed.
Westerkerk, the Protestant Church is one of the oldest in the Netherlands. It is famous for its magnificent tower that gives you an opportunity for an unforgettable panoramic view of the city. The interior is very elegant, featuring stained glass windows, and keeps lots of artefacts.
Please note: those might not be the exact names of the districts, neither its absolute borders. I just tried to simplify this information.
| 👨👩👧👦 Best for Families: | Bicycle Hotel |
| 👩❤️👨 Best for Couples: | Romantic Suite in Pijp |
| 🤩 Best Design Hotel: | CanalView Luxury Apartment |
| 😎 Best for Groups: | CanalView Luxury Apartment |
| 🦸 Best for Solo-Traveller: | Citiez Hotel Amsterdam |
| 💃 Best Hotel for Nightlife: | Hotel Imperial |
| 🤑 Cheapest Place to stay: | Hotel La Bohème |
1. Best areas and handpicked hotels for Amsterdam
Below is a list of the best budget places to stay in Amsterdam that will work with your preferences!
Continue scrolling or pick your group and travel type on the menu:
1.1 Families
1.2 Couples
1.3 Design Traveler
1.4 Groups
1.5 Solo-Traveler
1.6 Nightlife-seeking traveler
1.1 Families
Staying with your family in Amsterdam while on a budget is possible due to the many open-air spaces to visit and the many attractions interesting for kids. All the places can be reached by bike which will be a great opportunity for the whole family to enjoy an active holiday.
De Pijp
A lovely district to stay with a family! You can choose among parks such as Sarphatipark and Albert Cuyp Market, which is perhaps the most famous one in Amsterdam.
As for the kids, I recommend you visit the Children’s Book Museum, De Pijp playground, and the Mirandabad, which is a public indoor and outdoor swimming pool resort. There are also plenty of family-friendly cafes and restaurants, which are very important for a family stay.
Slotervaart
Meet this green and peaceful residential neighbourhood located in the western part of Amsterdam, which offers interesting content for your family holiday. There is an artificial lake, Sloterplas, where you can enjoy swimming and sunbathing, picnics, as well as water sports activities.
There is a Cultural Centre in the district offering interesting events, and a shopping centre that you might want to visit. In addition, it is very well-connected with the rest of the city with public transport.
Handpicked accommodations for families
Bicycle Hotel Amsterdam, De Pijp
The first and most important is that the accommodation is budget-friendly. You will be able to rent a bike and start the day with breakfast at Bicycle Hotel, and for later in the day, you can choose one of the De Pijp restaurants or bars.
There is a great connection to the Amsterdam Centraal if you take a tram from Albert Cuypstraat station. Family rooms in the hotel are very comfortable.
Met Hotel Amsterdam, Slotervaart
Being one of the best hotels in Amsterdam on a budget, the Met Hotel offers a bar, a restaurant, comfortable family rooms, and a terrace. Breakfast is a very convenient option, so you can get out of the hotel and start enjoying the city with your family. The Van Gogh Museum and the Vondelpark are 4 km away, the Schiphol Airport is 12 km away.
1.2 Couples
Wondering where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget as a couple? You don’t have to worry as this trip of yours will certainly be a romantic and adventurous experience. Here, you can join free walking tours, go for a picnic in some of the parks, or visit free attractions like Begjinhof, a calm Middle Ages courtyard in this neighbourhood.
To stay within the limits of your budget, you can visit the museums at their discount or free days. A bike ride with a partner is yet another romantic activity to consider. However, what might be the most romantic and breathtaking is watching the sunset from a Magere Brug, so make sure not to miss out on it!
De Pijp
De Pijp is such a charming district that will do for a couple’s visit to Amsterdam on a budget. There are many live music performances, you can go for a picnic at the Sarphatipark, and enjoy the lively atmosphere walking along the district. Many pastry shops may inspire you to indulge in a sweet treat, so don’t ignore the desire. De Pijp is a nice place to create memorable holiday memories from Amsterdam.
Jordaan
If you are wondering what to do in this district with your beloved, I suggest strolling along the canals, discovering hidden picturesque courtyards, and listening to live music, since the music scene in Jordaan is quite vibrant. There are many boutique shops in the area where you can find something to buy while not going over your budget.
However, what couples like the most are the romantic, breathtaking views of the sunset. So, why not enjoy it from the Jordaan district?
Handpicked accommodations for couples
Romantic Suite in Pijp, De Pijp
Romantic Suite in Pijp is just a kilometre and a half away from the Van Gogh Museum, making it a perfect bed & breakfast accommodation for couples. You will enjoy your stay and have a great time with your beloved.
Jackie O Studio, Jordaan
A bed and breakfast accommodation is what couples need to start a relaxing romantic exploring tour of the city. You will be very close to Amsterdam Central Station from this point and the whole day will be only yours to enjoy different neighbourhoods of the city.
1.3 Design-lovers
Amsterdam’s rich heritage in culture, architecture, and music makes many design travellers dream of their visit to the city. What attracts this kind of visitor are the countless museums, such as the Design Museum, which is dedicated to design and architecture, as well as the MOCO Museum of Contemporary Art. The design and concept stores like The Frozen Fountain, and Hutspot are exceptional.
Moreover, the city is a real paradise for people who love to visit Creative Workspaces and Creative Studios. It will be a great delight if you can visit the city during the Design Week held in October and learn a bit more about Droog Design known for its innovative and conceptual design approach.
Oost (East)
This is a neighbourhood where you can see the diversity of the city, even if you plan to visit Amsterdam on a budget! You can start your daily walk by visiting the Lloyd Hotel & Cultural Embassy which used to be a hotel and has been converted into a cultural embassy, then go on with the Dutch Design Center, and enjoy the street murals while you walk along the district. There are many significant buildings in this district, including the one where the Royal Institute of Tropics is settled. A real gem of a district, isn’t it?
De Pijp
As a design traveller, this district will make you discover and be inspired by numerous design spaces. Art galleries, street murals, design shops and boutiques, and creative studios and workshops where the local artists and designers show their artistry.
Handpicked accommodations for the design lover
CanalView Luxury Apartment, Oost (East)
CanalView Luxury Apartment is set in the vicinity of the MOCO Museum and Vondelpark. In a perfect location in a great neighbourhood and close to the Stopera & Ballet, you can enjoy every minute of your stay.
Het Kabinet, De Pijp
Het Kabinet is very close to an interesting Museum of Bags and Purses, just a kilometre away, makes for a very decent and nice place for a stay. Light and wooden furnished rooms are perfect for relaxing after a long day of walking and exploring the design spots of Amsterdam.
1.4 For Groups
Still wondering where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget? The city offers many group-friendly activities and places to stay in. Biking is a great option for a group sightseeing of the city. Moreover, don’t miss out on going on a Heineken Museum guided tour, Anne Frank House tour, Rijksmuseum Tour, and many more, depending on what is your interest. The biggest and most famous park in Amsterdam, the Vondelpark, is a perfect place for a picnic or a long walk.
De Pijp
The most lively district in Amsterdam is perfect for a group visit Amsterdam on a budget because it offers many group-friendly activities. Exploring markets, restaurants, and street art, visit the Vredeskerk the Peace Church, or the Museum Square, everything is better with friends. Amidst the strolling and biking, you can sit and enjoy in one of the outdoor cafes and terraces.
Oost (East)
Javastraat, a very interesting and multicultural street in Amsterdam, is a nice place to walk through with friends. Amsterdam Poort and the artistic exhibitions and performances are also a good place to visit, as well as the Artis Royal Zoo. This district with its mix of culturally attractive spots is a perfect spot for a group to visit and stay there!
Handpicked accommodations for groups
ibis Styles Amsterdam City, De Pijp
Being one of the best hotels in Amsterdam on a budget, ibis Styles Amsterdam City is perfect for staying with a group. It offers nicely decorated rooms and a delicious breakfast. There are many bars and restaurants in the surrounding area that are perfect to dine in. A tram stop is 150 meters away so the access to the rest of the city is perfect.
HouseBoat next to AMSTEL, Oost (East)
HouseBoat next to AMSTEL is a bed and breakfast accommodation with a terrace offering a pool view, and a pool with a garden view, making it perfect for group visits. A bike rental service is available within the hotel, and in addition to the kitchen offered in your room, you can enjoy the seating and dining area. Furthermore, there are open swimming pools, a jacuzzi, and a hot tub available for your enjoyment.
1.5 Solo-travelers
Being a solo traveller means you can explore the area at your own pace. Deciding to come to Amsterdam on a budget will be the same as being in paradise. No matter if you are interested in architecture, design, museums, innovative living, or even technologies there are endless opportunities for you. Trust me, each part of the city carries its own type of magic, ensuring you have a wonderful stay!
Nieuw-West (New West)
There are so many places to see and explore in this district, so I better start listing them. There is, Sloterpark – one of the largest in Amsterdam, Slopterplas – a picturesque lake within the Sloterpark. Moreover, you can experience the cultural events in De Meervaart, go on a food exploring tour, shop at Osdorpplein, and discover boutiques, supermarkets and souvenir shops.
De Pijp
De Pijp is a real gem for a solo traveller to explore. Here are, again, some of my above-mentioned suggestions: Albert Cuyp Market- one of the biggest outdoor markets, Sarphitpark is ideal for a long and relaxing walk, visit the Van Gogh Museum or Rijksmuseum and a relaxing stop in Coffee shops and Cafes. There are also many restaurants in the district, so you are promised a great culinary experience.
Handpicked accommodations for a solo traveler
Citiez Hotel Amsterdam, Nieuw-West (New West)
Wondering where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget? Citiez Hotel Amsterdam offers designer rooms, so you will have a pleasant stay. The rooms are spacious and have panoramic windows. There is an all-day cafe within the hotel and Osdorpplein Shopping Center is very close to the property. Hope you will enjoy your stay!
Albert Cuyp Studio, De Pijp
Albert Cuyp Studio is a nice option for a solo traveller. It does have a great location, only a kilometre away from the Rijksmuseum. Rent a bike or use public transportation to explore the city or simply relax by walking through the central area at your own pace.
1.6 Nightlife Traveler
Great venues, and events, as well as Late Night Eats, are conveniences for a nightlife seeker in Amsterdam. Diverse occasions make everyone- no matter what kind of entertainment looking for- enjoy Amsterdam at night!
The busy square Leidseplain is great for experiencing nightlife. Many bars are located at Rembrandtplein, making it a tempting nightlife spot. There are many concerts and live music events taking place in Amsterdam, so be sure to check the schedule as soon as you know the dates of your visit.
NDSM Wharf, which used to be a shipyard, is now transformed into a very creative hub, worth your interest. And lastly, I will mention clubbing in Westergasfabriek where you can step on the dance floor and enjoy.
Rembrandtplein
Looking for cheap places to stay in Amsterdam without missing out on the fun experience? Whatever nightlife content you appreciate you can find it here. Live music, dancing, after-hours clubs, pubs, street performers, or live music venues. This is a perfect district for you.
Leindseplein
This is a very dynamic and energetic district which offers everything a nightlife seeker could possibly look for. Live music, dancing, many different venues, or just a drink with a company newly met can be a treat here.
Handpicked accommodations for nightlife
Hotel Imperial, Rembrandtplein
Hotel Imperial is a family-run hotel takes a central location and offers nicely decorated rooms for a pleasant rest for “night birds”. The Dam Square is a 10-minute walk from the hotel and you have everything you might need at hand.
Hotel La Bohème, Leidseplein
Hotel La Bohème offers you a private or shared room, breakfast, and a bar. The most significant museums are within a 10-minute walk.
2. Best Neighborhood to Stay in Amsterdam
According to the research I have done, these would be the perfect neighbourhoods to stay in while looking for cheap places to stay in Amsterdam.
- De Pijp
- Oost (East)
- Nieuw-West (New West)
- Slotervaart
FAQs
What is the best neighborhood to stay in Amsterdam?
The best neighborhood for budget-conscious travelers in Amsterdam is Jordaan. Known for its historic buildings, picturesque canals, art galleries, and charming cafes, Jordaan offers a cozy and authentic atmosphere. It's also home to significant landmarks like the Westerkerk and Anne Frank House, making it an ideal location for a memorable stay.
Where should you not stay in Amsterdam?
While Amsterdam is generally a safe city, some areas might not be as convenient or suitable for tourists, especially those looking to stay on a budget. Avoiding neighborhoods like Red Light District and De Wallen is recommended, particularly for families or travelers seeking a quieter and more family-friendly environment.
What should I avoid in Amsterdam?
It's advisable to avoid getting involved in activities related to illegal substances, as drug laws in Amsterdam can be quite strict despite the city's reputation for tolerance. Additionally, be cautious when navigating busy tourist areas, as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded places like markets or public transportation.
Where should I stay in Amsterdam for the first time?
For first-time visitors to Amsterdam, staying in centrally located neighborhoods like De Pijp or Oost (East) can be convenient. These areas offer easy access to major attractions, museums, and vibrant nightlife while providing a glimpse into local life. Additionally, accommodations in these neighborhoods often cater to various budgets, making them suitable for different types of travelers.
Map + All Sights
Discover budget-friendly stays in Amsterdam! Use our map to find all the top sights and the perfect affordable accommodation for your stay.
Summary: Where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget?
I truly hope that the elaboration on where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget has been of great help.
If you need inspiration or more suggestions, please visit my other blogs to discover more interesting destinations!
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Any Questions?
There you have it. I hope you have no questions and found your home in my home town.
However, please remember: I am not perfect, and it is likely I missed a few things to point out.
Therefore: Do you have questions? Is anything not clear?
Please please please drop me a comment below with your email! I will reply to you ASAP via email and here in the comments.
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