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Ahhhh The Dam; that's what those of us who've been privileged enough to visit it have dubbed it. The best city in the world? Me thinks Yes! This is the one European city I have visited the most and I could go back a thousand times more.
With more restaurants to discover, bikes to see, stroopwafels to eat, and wandering to do; I don't think I could ever get enough. Although booming with things to do and see. my bank account thinks otherwise, Offering up an exciting, immersive, and inspiring environment, your purse won't be able to help but shed a few tears. And yet, it's worth every penny spent and every tear shed.
Accommodation may offer up the most damage to your purse. Even when you think: No worries! I can budget this with hostel accommodation. I'll hardly be in the room anyway. Think again, because there is little wiggle room, in both budget and space, when it comes to Amsterdam accommodation. So let's start with an awesome hostel suggestion.
1. Hostel
The Generator
Perfect for a group of friends, a couple, or even family, The Generator is able to satisfy your needs for any vacation occasion. With style, a library, a cafe, a bar, chillout zones, and a terrace, they offer up the perfect backdrop to any visit to Amsterdam.
Ok enough with the chit-chat. We get it, it's cool, we want to stay there but how much does it cost? In the peak of summer, a 6-bed or 4-bed dorm will cost you ±€56 - 85 per bed/per night. Or you can elevate the experience with their private deluxe room for two at ±€247.50 per night. These prices are naturally reduced in the winter and Amsterdam is no less pretty.
2. Affordable
Hotel ibis Schiphol Airport
You can simply never go wrong with an ibis hotel. Savvy travelers want reliability, excellent value for money, and credibility when it comes to accommodation. And there is no greater guarantee than ibis. Accommodation in any city wouldn't be the same without the choice of an ibis hotel. And Amsterdam accommodation is no different. From ibis budget to ibis style, there is something to suit any taste and any budget.
One of my first stays in Amsterdam was at the Hotel ibis Schipol Airport. Now, I'm in no hurry to stay so far out of the city again but I can't deny that this choice is cost-effective. From ±€90 per room in the winter to ±€130 per room in the summer, there are various sleeping styles, upgrades, and even discounts if you become a member.
Tip: Take into account what travelling to and from the city will cost you. You will need to take a bus from the hotel to the airport and catch a train to the city center. This takes around 30-35 minutes. I highly recommend the Amsterdam Travel Ticket. One ticket, every form of transport you could need, and so worth it. The price for the 1-day ticket is €18, the 2-day ticket costs €24, and the 3-day ticket is €30.
Hotel ibis Budget Amsterdam City South
Now don't let the word 'budget' throw you off. It's ok if you think you're worth more, you should always set high standards for yourself. But there's no shame in being money conscious, in fact, it's very responsible of you! Not to mention, 'budget' couldn't be done better than the Hotel ibis Budget Amsterdam City. ±€67 per room in the winter to ±€120 per room in the summer. Note that this hotel is in the South of the city so not quite central and it will take you 28 minutes to get to the city center with 1 change on public transport.
3. A Treat
Apollo Hotel Amsterdam, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Glamour, style, and imagination, Apollo Hotel Amsterdam has it a-plenty. With their green walls bringing life to what could be a boring hotel hallway, to their art deco and vibrant restaurants and modern clean rooms, you'll be perfectly content with a little taste of luxury. Apollo Hotel Amsterdam will cost you ±€211 per room in the winter and ±€250 per room in the summer. For quite a steep fee you'd hope to be a bit more central, this is the Apollo's downfall. The nearest metro stop is 9oo m away and it will take you 17-20 minutes to get to the center.
However, it is located on scenic Apollolaan, overlooking the intersection of five canals, which will give you a new perspective of Amsterdam, away from the crowds and overbearing business of the city center.
nhow Amsterdam RAI
So you want to transcend the hotel experience. Go beyond the average life of a hotel stay. Maybe you even view yourself as superior? Then you'll want to stay at nhow Amsterdam RAI. You won't just be staying in Amsterdam, you'll be transported around the world with each room reflecting six cardinal directions of the building; North, North West, East, South, South West, and South East.
With colour, vibrancy, light, and dream-like decor you won't regret your stay at the hotel designed by famous architect Reinier de Graaf. That will be ±€140 per room in the winter and ±230 per room in the summer. It is perfectly located too, just 10 minutes from the city center with a metro stop 290m away.
4. My No1 Pick
Hotel Motel One Amsterdam Waterlooplein
Where location, price, and decor meet. The Motel One in Waterlooplein boasts a modern, classical style with hints of Renaissance, and draped in moody lighting and deeply rich furniture. Centrally located, you'll be close to perfect brunch spots, convenient lines on both the tram and underground, and general good vibes.
Tip: Waterlooplein is quickly becoming one of my favourite areas to visit. Centrally located and surrounded by some of my favourite breakfast spots. Not to mention you can go on the hunt for treasures at Amsterdam's oldest flea market. 300 stands, open 6 days a week, and vibrant, it's worth a visit.
More Suggestions
The Lancaster
I loved exploring this side of the city. Located across from the zoo, and botanical greenery it'll feel like a step outside of the city while being convenient enough to make it into the center. Close but not too close. However, The Lancaster is due for an upgrade into the 21st century. While the lobby doesn't leave you questioning (modern and colourful; boasting cucumber water and cool vending machines with toiletries), the rooms certainly don't match the same impression.
Warning: The Lancaster is not home to the aircon. So avoid this hotel in the peak of summer. Not to mention that opening your window fully is not a possibility due to safety precautions, and the room size will leave you feeling claustrophobic. Perhaps not worth it at €229.80 per night.
Hotel Novotel
It may look like an old 90s office block from the outside but it offers space, a rarity in Amsterdam, good prices, and great service. The metro stop is 950m away and a 20 min ride will get you directly into the city center.
Hotel ibis Centre Stopera
This is a great alternative to Motel One Amsterdam Waterlooplein. Not only is it located on the same street but it guarantees the quality of an Ibis stay.
Enjoy lively, picturesque, and accommodating Amsterdam.
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