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Amsterdam and budget hotels? Yes, it’s possible. You just need to know where to look.
While Amsterdam isn’t the most budget-friendly destination, it’s still doable on a budget. After spending some time hunting for the best budget accommodation in Amsterdam for my own trip, I’ve gathered some great finds. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a layover, or a longer stay, these options will help you stretch your money further.
I’ve visited Amsterdam a few times now, as well as other parts of the Netherlands, and it remains one of my favorite cities. With its picturesque canals, museums, and vibrant culture, Amsterdam is quite the popular travel destination for a lot of people. Finding affordable accommodation in such a popular city can be tricky. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered!
Why Choose Budget Hotels in Amsterdam?
If you’re on a budget or just want to make your money go further, choosing budget hotels in Amsterdam is a smart move. Accommodation is often one of the biggest expenses on a trip, right after airfare. By saving on where you stay, you have more to spend on experiences—like museum visits, canal cruises, or dining out at local restaurants.
But going for a budget hotel doesn’t mean compromising on comfort or safety. Many affordable accommodations are located in great neighborhoods, offer good amenities, and come highly rated by other travelers. It’s all about finding the best value for your money.
How to Find the Best Budget Hotels in Amsterdam
Finding the perfect budget hotel in Amsterdam might feel overwhelming. Here’s my strategy for landing the best deals and value (this goes for any travel destination).
Use Multiple Platforms: I always start my search on Booking.com because it has a wide range of options and user reviews. Then, I cross-reference the hotels on Google Maps to check their exact location, and Google reviews. It’s important to ensure you’re in a neighborhood that’s close to the attractions you want to see, or that there are available and easy public transportation options.
Ratings: I typically opt for hotels that are rated 8+ on Booking.com AND 4+ on Google, with at least hundreds of reviewers.
Check for Direct Booking Deals: Many hotels offer discounts or added perks like free cancellation if you book directly through their website. It’s worth checking.
Utilize Loyalty Programs: Booking.com’s Genius program is a great way to save. You can achieve Genius status fairly quickly, which offers discounts of up to 10-15% on selected properties, plus other benefits like free breakfast or room upgrades. I have found some great savings being on level 2.
Be Flexible with Dates: Prices can vary significantly depending on the time of year and even the day of the week. If you can, plan your stay during the off-peak seasons or weekdays to get the best rates.
Look for Amenities that Add Value: Take into account if a free breakfast is included in the rate when you’re comparing the prices of hotels. A complimentary breakfast can save you a decent amount of money, as eating out for breakfast each day can quickly add up.
Best Budget Hotels in Amsterdam
Here are some of my top picks for Amsterdam budget hotels. These options all offer a great combination of affordability, comfort, and location. These are in no particular order.
1. Budget Hotel Tourist Inn
Fantastic location right in the center of it all. This hotel/hostel hybrid is within walking distance of major locations like Dam Square and the Anne Frank House.
Breakfast: Yes, a complimentary continental breakfast buffet is served daily.
Transportation Options: It’s just an 8-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station, with easy access to trams that take you to the Museum Quarter and other parts of the city.
Extras: 24-hour front desk, bike rentals, and luggage storage.
2. Bicycle Hotel
This hotel is located in the vibrant De Pijp neighborhood. It’s known for its commitment to being climate-friendly, utilizing solar panels, recycling programs, and offering bike rentals directly from the property.
Breakfast: Yes, a generous breakfast featuring cereals, homemade hummus, and Dutch specialties is included in the room rate.
Transportation Options: The Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum are about a 15-minute walk away. Right around the corner from a metro stop and tram stops.
Extras: Bike rentals are available on-site. They also offer baggage storage, and a cozy, family-run atmosphere.
3. Hotel Museumzicht
This charming, budget-friendly hotel offers some of the most affordable rates on the list. It’s situated in a fantastic location, right around the corner from the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum.
Breakfast: Yes, a complimentary continental breakfast is included.
Transportation Options: Located right around the corner from Museum Square, with easy access to trams and buses.
Extras: The hotel features a charming lounge with tea and coffee.
4. YOTEL Amsterdam
While not the most walkable location on this list, YOTEL Amsterdam in Amsterdam Noord offers a modern, large-chain hotel vibe that’s more contemporary. It’s located across the water from the city center.
Breakfast: Breakfast is included with some booking options.
Transportation Options: There are ferrys from Amsterdam Central Station to Buiksloterweg, which runs 24/7 and takes less than 5 minutes. From there, it’s about a 15-minute walk or a short bike ride to the hotel. Buses and a metro line also provide access to the city.
Extras: A fitness center, an outdoor terrace, and an on-site bar and restaurant.
5. Camping Zeeburg Amsterdam
A fun and unique option for travelers who want a glamping experience just outside the city center. This colorful campsite offers a variety of accommodations including pods, wagons, and eco-cabins.
Breakfast: No, but there is a mini-mart and an on-site café-restaurant for fresh croissants, bread, and meals throughout the day.
Transportation Options: Around 30min walk + tram ride to the city center, or a 20 minute bike ride.
Extras: Includes a private beach, bike rental, a bar, barbecue facilities, and options for kayak rentals.
6. The Bedstee Boutique Capsule Hotel
A cozy and quirky capsule hotel with vintage Dutch charm, in a great location near the Museum Square.
Breakfast: Included in some rates.
Transportation Options: Conveniently located next to a tram stop and other major tram lines. Walkable to the museums and other parts of the city.
Extras: A fun onsite bar, laundry services, and mood lighting in the capsules. The hotel is known for its eco-friendly and unique design.
7. MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam Amstel
This modern hotel offers a comfortable stay right next to Amsterdam Amstel Station, making it an ideal base for exploring the city via public transportation.
Breakfast: Included with some rates.
Transportation Options: Located steps away from Amsterdam Amstel Station, which connects you to trains, buses, trams, and the metro for easy access to all of Amsterdam and beyond. It’s a 10-minute ride to the city center.
Extras: The hotel features a guest kitchen, 24-hour reception, and a bar. There are also bike rentals available.
8. Backstage Hotel
This music-themed hotel is centrally located. This is where we stayed for our one night layover in Amsterdam. The location is fantastic—we walked everywhere and used public transportation to and from the airport. While prices have increased a bit since I stayed, you can still score good deals during the off-season.
Breakfast: Not included, but available.
Transportation Options: Very walkable to most of the city, with public transportation stops nearby.
Extras: On-site bar, pool tables, guitars for guests to play, and record players you can take to your room.
9. Hotel Library
Located in the heart of Amsterdam, Hotel Library is ideal for travelers looking for a central stay.
Breakfast: Some rates include breakfast.
Transportation Options: Just a 12-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station. Bus stops nearby, making it easy to get around the city.
Extras: A library, 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. The hotel also offers coffee and tea in the lobby.
10. CityHub
This pod hotel is perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking for a tech-savvy experience. CityHub offers compact, cozy pods with smart features like customizable lighting and in-pod Bluetooth speakers.
Breakfast: Included with some rates.
Transportation Options: Conveniently located near tram stops, making it easy to access central Amsterdam and major attractions. It’s also a 15-20 minute walk to Vondelpark and Leidseplein.
Extras: Eco-conscious, a self-service bar, app-controlled pod features, and helpful CityHosts available to provide recommendations.
Map of Amsterdam Budget Hotels
Staying Central vs. the Outskirts
When choosing a budget hotel in Amsterdam, one of the biggest decisions is whether to stay in the city center or on the outskirts. The central canal belt is undoubtedly convenient, with most attractions within walking distance. However, accommodations here can be pricier.
Staying a bit outside the center, such as in neighborhoods like De Pijp, Jordaan, or Amsterdam West, can be more budget-friendly. These areas are well-connected by trams and buses, so it’s not a problem in Amsterdam to stay a little outside of the city center.
I have stayed both in the canal belt, and on the outskirts on different trips. For my longer trip we stayed on the outskirts, this was great and there was a tram right into the center. For my one night layover we chose to stay in the canal belt as we were very limited on time.
Wrapping Up Your Amsterdam Stay
Amsterdam is a fun-filled city and by choosing a budget hotel, you can enjoy all the sights and experiences it has to offer without spending a fortune. Most of the day, you’ll be out exploring anyway, so a comfortable, affordable place to rest your head is all you need. Use the tips and recommendations in this guide to find the perfect budget hotel for your stay in Amsterdam. If you’re planning more affordable trips, be sure to check out my guide to affordable international destinations!