3 Best Hostels in Amsterdam – Solo Travelers Heaven with Unlimited Fun

Best Hostels in Amsterdam, Netherlands

So, you’re on the hunt for the best hostels in Amsterdam? You have come to the right place. Here we share the 3 absolute top hostels in Amsterdam; no questions asked!

All listed hostels are handpicked, and reviewed personally by us! We have traveled all the way to the biggest city in the Netherlands to bring you this unique guide. Hence, we stayed at all these accommodations so we can compare them for you.

Our favorite hostels in Amsterdam are:

  1. Cocomama - best for Female Solo Traveller
  2. Ecomama - best for Solo-Traveller
  3. ClinkNOORD - best for Couples

Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.

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Budget travelers know that there is no better way to make the most of their trip than by staying at a hostel: save money for exploring during the day, while swapping stories with fellow backpackers and travelers in the shared kitchen or bar in the evening.

Forget affordable hotels in Amsterdam – this is your guide to budget accommodation in the style of cool hostels! 

We also have another guide that is specialized in the Best Backpacker Hostels in Amsterdam.

These places are not for party…BUT, this is exactly why we have written a special guide on the best PARTY hostels in Amsterdam.

Explore the Netherlands further and check out the best hostels in Rotterdam.

If weed’s not your thing, there are so many other fun things to do in Amsterdam – we found +80 cool ideas!

Quick Introduction to Amsterdam Hostels

Average price for a bed: A bed in a dorm costs 15€ – 45€ per night. This highly depends if it’s weekend and the quality of a hostel. A private room in great hostels in Amsterdam start from 90€ up to 220€ per night. This is a rough average to give you an idea. Prices always depend on season and holidays.

At Hostelz.com you find all Amsterdam hostels. It allows you to compare the prices at Hostelworld.com and Booking.com with one click. Very useful to save money!

Check-In and Check Out: The average check-in time is from 15:00 (3pm), while the Check Out time is before 11:00 (11am). Hostels usually offer luggage storage in case you arrive earlier or leave later. Make sure you check if luggage storage is free or if there is an extra cost.

Hostel Type – Party vs. Boutique Hostel: You will find here a wide range of quality in hostels. From youth hostels, hostels for families to boutique and crazy party hostels, as well as super-budget-low-quality places.

Make sure you make up your mind which type of hostel and experience you fancy. In this guide we share with you the absolute top places, plus where to stay in Amsterdam cheap. Hostels like Bulldog Hostel are party places and Cocomama is an oasis for female solo traveler. For the party-peeps, check the party hostel guide here.

If you are not sure which hostel to pick, always go with Ecomama Hostel. You cannot go wrong here!

Fun Fact: All of the top 3 hostels in this guide are owned by Clink Hostels, one of the leading hostel chains in Europe!

Budget: Check out our Amsterdam Budget Travel Guide.

🎁 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:

The 3 Best Hostels in Amsterdam are …

Let’s jump right into the coolest hostels in Amsterdam.

  1. Cocomama – best for Female Solo Traveller
  2. Ecomama – best for Solo-Traveller
  3. ClinkNOORD – best for Couples

These are our favorite hostels in Amsterdam. We want to make your life even easier, so we put all accommodations on a map for you. We even added our own tips for favorite restaurants, things to see, and more.

We put all of the backpacker places on the map including our favorite places and sights.

Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type

🦸 Solo Traveler: Ecomama
🙎‍♀️ best for Female Solo Traveler: Cocomama
🥳 Party Hostel:Bulldog Party Hostel
👩‍❤️‍👨 Couple Hostel: Cocomama
👨‍👩‍👦 Family Hostel: ClinkNOORD
👩‍💻 For Digital Nomads: Ecomama
🧘 Cozy Hostel: Cocomama

1. Cocomama (Brothel becomes Boutique)

If you’re looking for one of those fun places to stay that makes you feel at home, look no further than Cocomama.

Cocomama Amsterdam is the very first boutique hostel set in a former brothel, in the heart of Amsterdam and has also been awarded as a 5 Star Hostel!

It is the perfect hostel for couples and female solo-travellers due to its design, its coziness AND social vibes.

The hostel also runs its own red light district tours.

Join this amazing tour, thank us later!

Book Cocomama here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

Full Review

Cocomama Room
Cocomama Common Space

Cocomama is your perfect choice to stay. The reasons for that are simple.

Apart from the beautiful interior decor and design, Cocomama Amsterdam understands what their travelers are looking for:

  • an easy-going atmosphere
  • cheap bike rentals
  • private hostel boat tours
  • free pasta nights, and many more activities you’ll love.

The rooms at Cocomama come with a little surprise, they’re all Holland themed!

You might find yourself sleeping in the Ann Frank room, or a room with tulips, Van Gogh, bicycles and even; for any neon-fans, a Red Light District themed room.

There are a variety of rooms to stay in from privates to shared with a dorm bed for you (and everything in between).

Each dorm bed is comfy and cozy with luxurious mattresses and feather duvets for a perfect nights sleep. You might share a bathroom in some of the dorms but don’t worry, they are kept very clean and tidy.

It may have you feeling like you’re staying in an Amsterdam hotel cheap, yet seriously cheerful.

Cocomama is a place where you’ll make friends and hang out with other international trotters alike in the private garden, living room, cinema and fully-equipped kitchen where you can also enjoy their free breakfast each morning.

It’s a top choice if you enjoy quiet hostels that don’t lack atmosphere. Read our full review of Cocomama here.

What about the location?

Perfect location!

You are close enough to the city center to explore, and far enough to actually sleep well at night! Personally, for me this is best area to stay in Amsterdam.

Located in the Amsterdam City Centre district, Cocomama is 600 meters from the Heineken Experience and only one block away from the Albert Cuyp market, Europe’s largest daily open-air market, Leidseplein, Rembrandtplein and some of the city’s major museums.

Also located on the border of one of the popular and favorite neighborhoods, “De Pijp”.

Tramstop Stadhouderskade  (metro 3,4,12) and Tramstop Frederiksplein (tram 7,10) are located at literally one minute walk away from the hostel.

Who stays here?

Find a mix of couples, solo travellers and everybody that loves the vibes of a smaller, relaxed hostel – yet super social! It feels more like a home to us, where friends from all over the world come and join in.

Only groups with less than 4 people are allowed here.

This makes this place cosy and chill. The common area downstairs and the garden is the place to mingle.

For groups, check out the Ecomama Hostel below. Ecomama is by far the best hostel in Amsterdam for groups!

Room Types:

Spread over 12 rooms Cocomama offers:

  • Private Room Types available: Deluxe Double Bed Room, Family room for up to 5 People
  • Shared Room Types available (dorm rooms): 2-Bed Dorms, 4-Bed Dorms, and 6-Bed Dorms

Cocomama is one of the best hostels Amsterdam has for:

  • Couples
  • female solo-travelers
  • relaxed traveler
Book Cocomama here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

Full Review

Cocomama Dorm

2. Ecomama (upcycled, green hostel)

Ecomama is a funky Eco-friendly hostel in Amsterdam, and the green sister of the 5 Star Hostel Cocomama and our second 5 Star Hostel in town!

The slogan of Ecomama Amsterdam is

“Green, Quirky, Cozy, and Conscious Sleeping”.

It is clearly an invitation to every conscientious traveler out there who’s looking for special accommodation in Amsterdam.

Ecomama allows joyful, conscious living in the heart of the city.

It’s the right combination of the coziness of a community, the luxury of a hotel and meaningfulness of a social business.

Whether you are traveling with your crew and need a few beds or you’re on a romantic escape, or looking for some luxury while exploring the world; Ecomama is the place for you.

Book Ecomama here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

Full Review

Ecomama Room
Ecomama Common Space
Ecomama Common Space

Ecomama, just like Cocomama, also has sustainable features.

The 5 Star Hostel in Amsterdam has a natural stone heating system which is Eco-friendly. Your beds will feel even more comfortable, as you will sleep in sheets of organic cotton.

The mattresses are made of only natural, sustainable materials.

The beauty of Ecomama’s location is when you walk 5 minutes in any direction, you’ll hit and experience an entirely different part of town.

Each with its own vibe.

Surrounded by neighborhood cafés, restaurants and near the botanical gardens and Artis Zoo.

Read our full review of Ecomama here.

Location

Ecomama is located in Amsterdam’s Waterlooplein neighborhood, an area full of cosy cafés, bustling bars and museums like the Hermitage and Rembrandthuis.

Head to Waterlooplein Market, a five-minute stroll away, for quirky flea market finds.

Metrostop Waterlooplein (metro 51, 53, 54) and tram stop Visserplein (tram 9, 14) are located just a few minutes’ walk from the hostel.

Closest Landmarks

  • Royal Palace Amsterdam, 1.8 km
  • Basilica of St. Nicholas, 1.4KM
  • Dam Square, 1.8KM
  • Dutch National Opera & Ballet, 400M

Who stays here?

Ecomama is our absolute favorite accommodation. It is perfect for:

  • Solo-travelers (both male and female)
  • groups,
  • hipsters
  • definitely coffee lovers
  • Digital Nomads (with the coffee area)

Room Types and Dorm Rooms

  • Private Room Types available: double private, family room
  • Shared Room Types available: 5-bed dorms, female only dorms
Book Ecomama here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

Full Review

Ecomama Bar
Ecomama Living Room
Ecomama Dorm

3. ClinkNOORD (modern 1920s hostel)

Last but not least, we have a bigger hostel for you with a different location.

ClinkNOORD is a high-quality accommodation created by two backpackers sisters, Anne and Shelly, for budget-conscious city explorers.

Set in a converted laboratory dating from the 1920s, this hip, modern hostel is decorated with a plethora of works of art and is located in the culturally vibrant area of Amsterdam Noord.

The hostel mixes Dutch style with creativity and modern comforts along with beautiful features from the original 1920s building, whilst providing curious travelers with a unique, relaxing and fun place to stay and socialize.

Book ClinkNOORD here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

ClinkNOORD Outside Common Space
ClinkNOORD Dorm
ClinkNOORD Hostel Common Space

Walk into this larger than life facility and you’ll first notice that everything is brightly colored with a fun science theme – the common area lockers are labeled as the periodic table.

There are also a ton of books and magazines on the walls.

A vibrant multi-level communal area features…

  • a plant-filled atrium
  • sofas
  • a library
  • cafe
  • a pool table
  • and a bespoke self-catering kitchen where guests can make and share food.

ClinkNOORD also offers flexible spaces for meetings and events.

The popular ZincBAR hosts live music performances, DJs and quiz nights.

Accommodation includes a mix of private and state-of-the-art dormitories, many with stunning views of the city, river, waterways or the surrounding parkland.

All rooms have air-conditioning, WiFi and all the little elements required for a great stay.

There are many types of rooms to choose from.

ClinkNOORD has about 800 beds(!) and with options of female only dorms, mixed dorms and if you’re seeking a little more privacy, you can opt for one of their many private rooms.

So, compared to Ecomama and Cocomama, this is a HUGE hostel.

Free walking tours depart from reception daily at 10:30, which is excellent especially if you’d like to meet other travelers.

Different kind of Location:

ClinkNOORD is situated in the culturally vibrant Amsterdam Noord area, just across the IJ River and about 10 minutes from the back of Amsterdam main Station.

When you arrive at Central Station, follow the signs to the ferries.

From here, jump on the free ferry (24/7) to ‘Veer Buiksloterweg’ which is short and quick ride and runs about every 7 minutes (departs every 15 minutes during the night).

From the boat stop, ClinkNOORD is only 400m away.

So, you see, the location is a bit off the grid, but actually you are close to the center with the boat.

Personally, we prefer the location of Ecomama since you can take the bike anywhere you want right away.

Who stays here?

ClinkNOORD is one of the top hostels in Amsterdam for:

  • Couples
  • groups
  • families with children

Spread over 213 rooms, ClinkNOORD is quite a big place to stay, offering following room types:

  • Private Room Types available: double and twin options
  • Shared Dorm Rooms Types available: 4-14 bed dorms (including mixed + female only)
Book ClinkNOORD here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

ClinkNOORD Living Room
ClinkNOORD Dining Room
ClinkNOORD Room

Best Hostels in Amsterdam for Solo Travellers

When it comes to solo travel in Amsterdam, you won’t be disappointed by the accommodations on offer.

Already we introduced you to two awesome solo traveller options:

  1. Cocomama (female solo traveller)
  2. Ecomama (solo travellers of all types)

But of course, you’re keen for one more option right? Come on then…

Generator Hostel Amsterdam

Generator Hostel Amsterdam is a brand new designer hostel located in the east of Amsterdam near De Pijp.

It was a former zoological building and is based in Oosterpark. This modern hostel has flexible and spacious social areas, filled with creative design touches like glass-fronted elevators, a raised café and an outdoor terrace.

The former lecture hall has been transformed into a lounge and bar. There is also a dining space and a secret bar in the former boiler room.

We put together a full guide to Generator Hostels across Europe and USA.

Book Generator Amsterdam here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Generator Amsterdam one of the best hostels in Amsterdam for solo travellers

Best Hostels in Amsterdam for Partying

You wanna party? We’re about to deliver the absolute coolest and craziest party hostels in Amsterdam for you to suss out. Don’t tell your mom, but Amsterdam Nightlife is obviously legendary. If you’re looking for that lively vibe with the potential of an awesome party, look no further. Well Ok, just scroll down a tiny bit more.

4 COOLEST Party Hostels? Your shortcut:

  1. The Bulldog – The Legendary Hostel!!!
  2. Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam
  3. St Christopher’s at The Winston
  4. Flying Pig Downtown Hostel

Read the detailed guide to the best hostels for partying in Amsterdam here. Below, we list two of the coolest places we recommend:

The Bulldog Hotel

Built with love by real Amsterdammers, The Bulldog Hotel is our recommendation and is located right in the centre of the city and in the middle of all the action.

For everyone looking for Amsterdam city centre hostels, listen up and read this one carefully. This backpacker hostel in Amsterdam is for you!

The red light district and Dam Square mere steps away! In fact, you are RIGHT IN IT!! You will be surrounded by coffee shops and windows with red lights and ladies sitting in…

The place is lively without being unbearable in the heart of the action with, an attached Coffee Shop and the most dynamic, fun crowd in town.

Fun: 64 Best Party Hostels in the World

This place to rest your head at night is known as one of the coolest party hostels in Amsterdam and Europe. The Bulldog Hostel is also the best hostel for smokers.

No need for public transport (so you save the cost!). You can walk or bike to everything.

Book The Bulldog Hotel here

Compare prices at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com

The Bulldog Amsterdam Dorm

Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam

If you’re seeking an unforgettable stay in Amsterdam, the Hans Brinker Hostel is the answer. If you’re looking for a no frills, straight up good time, Hans Brinker is the best party hostel in Amsterdam.

Start your night with happy hour at the on-site bar, kitted out with bright & funky decor to get those party vibes flowing. Hans Brinker also has an underground club that stays open until 3am, so if you want to end your night somewhere you can literally roll into bed, then you’ve got it here!

Hans Brinker is also the perfect location for exploring Amsterdam’s nightlife. At just a short walk, you’ll find yourself in Leidseplein, Amsterdam’s no.1 nightlife area

Book Hans Hans Brinker Hostel here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com

Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam Dorm

Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam Bar

Flying Pig Hostel Amsterdam – Uptown

Another legendary hostel recommendation for a good party time is Flying Pig Uptown.

This fun hostel is located directly next to famous Vondelpark, just an 8-minute walk from Leidseplein. There is a breakfast buffet available each morning at the Flying Pig.

You can enjoy a drink in the hostel’s bar and take advantage of the wide variety of cafes and restaurants in the direct surroundings. The in-house lively bar has themed nights, the cheapest beer in town and daily drinks specials!

Good to know: We also wrote a detailed guide on the best party hostels in Berlin.

Flying Pig Uptown is also a good hostel in Amsterdam, even world-famous for its laid back atmosphere with friendly and helpful staff.

There’s a guest kitchen and an indoor smoking area where you can meet plenty of fellow travelers.

There is also the Flying Pig Downtown, the brother-hostel.

The location is – obviously – downtown. Each bunk bed comes with night light, socket and at the bottom, a secure locker for your belongings. it is one of the most famous hostels in Amsterdam too.

Pig Downtown hostel is also a party hostel, perfect for backpacker and everyone who wants to meet people and have a drink. They have concerts and other events. The bar comes with a billiard pool table.

If I were you: Check the prices and availability on both Flying Pig Downtown and Flying Pug Uptown – and decide by price. Both are fun and clean.

Book Flying Pig Uptown here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com

Flying Pig Hostel Amsterdam – Uptown Dorm

Coolest Hostels in Amsterdam for Couples

Couples looking for a comfortable room and options to mingle with other travellers needn’t look far. As already mentioned, we think Cocomama is the best hostels in amsterdam for couples.

If Cocomama is full, you may consider St Christopher’s Inn at The Winston.

This hostel is located in Amsterdam’s city centre, next to the Red Light District and offers a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi. Central Station is 10 minutes by foot.

Each individually decorated dormitory room has bunk-beds, a toilet and shower. There are private rooms with a private bathroom available as well!

The Belushi bar and restaurant serves a variety of dishes and drinks.

This hostel also has:

  • a nightclub,
  • pool table,
  • smoking room and a
  • garden/terrace
Book St Christopher’s Inn at The Winston here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com

St Christopher’s Inn at The Winston Room
St Christopher’s Inn at The Winston Room with two beds

Cheap Hostels in Amsterdam

With all that choice, you may wonder what is the cheapest hostel in Amsterdam? Where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget?

The answer: it depends.

What we mean by that is that hostels change their prices all the time. Cheap places to stay in might not be so cheap during the summer.

It always depends on season.

That being said, we think, it’s not worth it to go with the cheapest hostel out there anyways.

Why?

The difference is usually not a lot of money per night, and a lot of amenities are not included. This can be breakfast or linen. Although, keep in mind a bad location far away from the city center costs you more in transport.

Other than the city, there are cheap areas to stay in and often cheap lodging in these areas.

However, if you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you wanna save every penny, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Amsterdam.

  1. Open Hostelworld with full list of places to stay in Amsterdam cheap
  2. Order the listing by price

Simple as that.

Here’s our guide how to use Hostelworld.

If you fancy a recommendation of a super Amsterdam cheap stay, then you might consider WOW Hostel. WOW hostel is not central but has low prices almost all year round.

Even more Good Amsterdam Hostels

Maybe the above hostel options just aren’t what you were looking for.

Maybe you would prefer more of an laid-back environment or you just want to be a little further away from the city center and the noise.

No worries, below is a simple short list of other good hostels amsterdam lets you choose from. They are still fun and will surely leave a lasting and memorable impression of your time.

  • WOW Hostel – best for groups
  • Hostelle – female-only hostel in Amsterdam
  • Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark
  • MEININGER Amsterdam City West

WOW Amsterdam Hostel (for big groups)

WOW Amsterdam is a creative hub in the west part of Amsterdam.

It consists of a hostel, studios for artists in residence, a restaurant, urban farm, exhibition space and much more.

WOW Amsterdam is well connected to Amsterdam’s old city center by bicycle, public transport and car. Within walking distance to the hostel you will find a local market, supermarket, restaurants, bars and shops.

Book WOW Amsterdam here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com

WOW Amsterdam Hostel Dorm
WOW Amsterdam Hostel Dining Room

Hostelle (female only hostel in Amsterdam)

A 20-minute metro ride from Amsterdam’s city centre, this female only hostel offers rooms and beds in a modern designed hostel.

Hostelle is clean and equipped with beautifully decorated rooms designed by various artists.

Book Hostelle here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com

Hostelle Common Space

Hostelle Dorm

Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark

Stayokay is the HI Network of the Netherlands. Personally, we prefer smaller hostels.

Yet, this modern Hostelling International hostel is centrally located right in the middle of the famous Vondelpark, within walking distance of the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.

Good location and modern design make Stayokay Vondelpark a good place to stay in Amsterdam. Despite its size, it is a social hostel to mingle.

Book Stayokay Vondelpark here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com

Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark

MEININGER Amsterdam City West

MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West is actually a hotel, but it has most of the characteristics of a hostel. And backpackers love it very much. It is situated only two minutes from the Sloterdijk train station, and only a few minutes by train from the airport. It is very sociable, especially for young travellers.

The staff are efficient and friendly and the whole place s clean and tidy. The guest kitchen is great and well equipped to meet the needs of all the guests looking to use it. The rooms are clean and fresh towels are provided every day. They don’t have a free luggage storage, so be prepared for that.

Book MEININGER Amsterdam City West here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com

MEININGER Amsterdam City West Room

MEININGER Amsterdam City West Kitchen and Dining Space

Unmissable Sights in Amsterdam

Alright alright; so we gave you a bunch of great places to where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget.

Now, what can you see in the city?

One of the unique things about this buzzing city is that there is something for just about everyone.

Numerous historical museums to explore by day, beautiful green parks, endless shopping streets and neighborhoods filled with cafes, restaurants, bars and markets.

There’s also a bunch of free things to do in Amsterdam.

No wonder Amsterdam is a long standing favorite place for tourists to visit.

When visiting Amsterdam there are MANY things to see along with the classic Dutch cliches like the tulips, the clogs, the cheese and the Red Light district.

So below we’ve compiled a few must-sees, things-to-do and areas that are worth visiting.

Keep in mind: many of the museums require tickets that should be purchased in advance and online to avoid the long lines, so check first before you go to save yourself the headache.

Something else to consider before exploring the city is to purchase the I amsterdam City Card which is a pass that includes entrances to the best museums and attractions, a canal cruise, free use of public transportation and many other city discounts.

17 Top Museums and Attractions

The city obviously offers so many sights to see, including museums.

We wrote a huge guide to the top fun things to do in Amsterdam.

Here we have the 17 top museums and attractions – You already know a few of them for sure.

1. Anne Frank House

Museum house where Ann Frank and her family hid from the Nazis in a secret Annes, during WWII.

2. Rijksmuseum

Rijksmuseum is a 19th-century building housing Dutch Golden Age painting masterpieces and vast European art collection.

3. Van Gogh Museum

Museum housing the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh paintings, alongside drawings and letters.

4. Stedelijk Museum

Contemporary museum with appearance of large bathtub, showing international, modern art & design.

5. Rembrant House Museum

Restored, 17th-century house where Rembrandt lived & worked for 20 years, hung with his etchings.

6. Heineken Experience

Interactive tour through beer giant’s history in former brewery, with a tasting room finale.

7. Royal Palace of Amsterdam

Grand residence for royal receptions since 1808, open to the public & exhibitions when not in use.

8. Oude Kerk

The Oude Kerk is Amsterdam’s oldest building and oldest parish church, founded circa 1213 and consecrated in 1306 by the bishop of Utrecht with Saint Nicolas as its patron saint.

After the Reformation in 1578 it became a Calvinist church, which it remains today.

9. Science Center NEMO

Interactive science exhibits, experiments & shows in a huge, waterfront, boat-like museum.

10. Natura Artis Magistra

Artis, short for Natura Artis Magistra, is a zoo in the centre of Amsterdam. It is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and one of the oldest zoos of mainland Europe.

Next to possessing a zoo, Artis also contains an aquarium and a planetarium. Artis also has an arboretum and a fairly large art collection.

11. Amsterdam Museum

Former orphanage with artwork, artifacts & interactive exhibitions tracing the city’s history.

12. EYE Film Institute Netherlands

Huge collection of Dutch & foreign movies & film posters in contemporary, waterside culture center.

13. Hortus Botanicus

Compact botanical gardens, originally planted in 1682, with formal outdoor & greenhouse sections.

14.  De Gooyer Windmill

The tallest wooden windmill in the country is octagonal in shape & was once used as a flour mill.

15.  National Monument

White travertine monument with relief sculpting & the national site for the remembrance of WWII.

16.  Museum Van Loon

Fine canal-house museum with a varied collection of paintings, furniture, silver and porcelain.

17. A’DAM Lookout

Elevator with a light show to a 20-story rooftop with a restaurant/bar & an over-the-edge swing.

The highest swing in Europe is unique and you will be overlooking the complete city.

It is really nothing for non-adrenaline-junkies.

You need to prebook a ticket online before you can actually go up to the roof top. There is also a roof top terrace to have a drink.

Obviously I recommend first taking the swing, then have a drink…prices here are a bit step for having a drink. Yet, I recommend having one beer  at sunset. Totally worth it! ClinkNoord is just around the corner of Amsterdam Swing.

Book Amsterdam Swing Ticket here

Amsterdam Swing Lookout - Get your Ticket with Tiqets.com

Areas + Neighborhoods

You may wonder about the best neighborhoods to stay in Amsterdam.

We wrote up a summary of the best areas to stay in and why they are popular.

  • Dam Square

Central public square and popular gathering place since the 17th-century, flanked by the Royal Palace.

  • Jordaan

The narrow canals and streets of trendy Jordaan are flanked by indie boutiques, cozy pubs and hip eateries.

Stalls at the Noordermarkt square market offer jewelry, clothes, antiques and organic food.

Other attractions include the Houseboat Museum and the Amsterdam Cheese Museum.

  • Leidseplein

Vibrant square, a hub for nightlife, entertainment, public transportation, shopping and dining.

  • Rembrandtplein

Rembrandtplein is a major square in central Amsterdam, Netherlands, named after Rembrandt van Rijn who owned a house nearby from 1639 to 1656.

  • De Pijp

Bohemian De Pijp’s narrow streets are lined with Middle Eastern eateries, old-school pubs and cafes with sidewalk terraces.

Gregarious stallholders at Albert Cuypmarkt sell Dutch specialties like herrings and waffles.

In a former brewery, the multimedia Heineken Experience chronicles the history of beer making and offers tastings. Also in the area, Sarphatipark features English-style gardens with ponds and meadows.

  • Spui

The Spui is a square in the centre of Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands. The Spui was originally a body of water that formed the southern limit of the city until the 1420s, when the Singel canal was dug as an outer moat around the city.

  • Grachtengordel

The Grachtengordel is a neighborhood in Amsterdam, Netherlands located in the Centrum district. The seventeenth-century canals of Amsterdam, located in the center of Amsterdam, were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in August 2010.

Parks in Amsterdam

In and around Amsterdam you will find many parks.

If you’re looking to save money, visiting parks is easily one of the best free things to do in Amsterdam.

Here’s our two favorite parks you might want to stop by for a picnic or take a rest from your bike ride:

  • Vondelpark

Expansive, 19th-century urban park with a playground, ponds and an open-air theater.

  • Amsterdamse Bos

Covering an area of almost 1000 hectares, the Amsterdamse Bos is one of the largest city parks in Europe.

It contains 150 indigenous species of trees and over 200 species of birds.

The park sits to the South of central Amsterdam and can easily be reached by bike, tram or metro from the city center.

Local Markets

We have to admit, we love local markets.

There is always a local vibe going, a great way to see the local life in action.

These two markets in Amsterdam are our top choices we like to visit.

  • Bloemenmarkt

Flower market dating from 1862, displaying blooms from tulips to geraniums on floating barges.

  • Albert Cuyp Market

Iconic street market since 1905 with lots of stands selling clothing, local foods, flowers & more.

Where to Weed – Coffee Shop Amsterdam

Allow me to set the record straight here that NO marijuana is NOT legal in Amsterdam, it is however TOLERATED.

What exactly does this mean?

Basically, thanks to ‘gedoogbeleid’ (don’t worry I can’t pronounce the word either), which literally translates to “policy of tolerance”, you are able to walk into a coffeeshop to buy and smoke marijuana.

Holland cannot technically “legalize” marijuana because of various world treaties. The drug brings in so much money to the Dutch economy that it is something that the state and local police do not criminalize.

In the Netherlands the term Coffee Shop has come to mean alcohol-free establishments where cannabis (weed, hash, marijuana) are sold and consumed.

According to the Dutch Drug and Coffee Shop Law the coffee shops in Amsterdam are licensed to sell small quantities of cannabis to adults over 18.

Keep in mind that when you see signs that read “coffeeshop” it does not mean it’s a place to go and actually sit down to have a cup of coffee, it is instead a place for weed smokers.

If you want coffee look for cafes or coffee houses instead. Smoking cigarettes is not allowed in coffeeshops or other public indoor places.

Also, please be aware of people discreetly, yet persistently, peddling “hard” drugs around the city.

Important to know: Amsterdam and the Netherlands are proud that they have this freedom. However, the police is not really happy when you would start smoking in public. especially in smaller cities you can end up with fines. For good reason, as we think. If you want to to smoke, visit a coffee shop and enjoy the stuff there. Fair enough, right!?

TOP 3 Amsterdam Coffee Shops

We recommend joining a Coffee Shop and Ganja Tour.

During this tour you will visit coffeeshops and learn a bit about its background.

And yes, yes, you can also smoke weed if you want to; but you do not have to!

Below we list 3 coffee shops for you to check out on your own.

1. The Bulldog Amsterdam

Probably the most well-known coffeeshop in Amsterdam thanks to the central location at Leidseplein (ironically, the building is a former Amsterdam police station).

The Bulldog Amsterdam is actually a chain of Bulldogs spread around the city centre.

The Bulldog No. 90 (Oudezijds Voorburgwal 88) was the first coffee shop in Amsterdam and laid the benchmark for the existing coffee shops in Amsterdam.

2. Green House Centrum

This small little coffeeshop has good quality herbs and a great atmosphere. The Green House is winner of 38 High Times Cannabis Cups.

It delivers some of the best cannabis in Amsterdam and it is a great hangout for a traveler in Amsterdam.

You can find many interesting pictures on the wall of celebs that visited the Green House.

The coffee shop is situated nicely in the red light district next to a canal.

3. Easy Times Coffeeshop

Located in the heart of the city, Easy Times Coffeeshop is a coffeeshop you do not want to miss when visiting Amsterdam.

Directly on one of the most beautiful Amsterdam canals, right off of Leidseplein, it has a very modern and recently renovated interior that is very clean and appealing.

You can smoke while enjoying their popular chocolate space muffins while watching numerous boats go by on the Prinsengracht canal.

Any Discounts?

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How to book?

The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.

We included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.

Read: Step-by-Step guide on how to book with Hostelworld

We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Amsterdam best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.

The coolest Hostel App you need comes as well from Hostelworld. It gives you super cool features like you can contact your hostel mates beforehand, ask questions, and make plans together. Find more details in our review of the app.

Download the Hostelworld App here

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Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to download the Hostelworld App from the App Store - like a real Hostel Geek!

The best way to find hostels: Hostelgeeks website and Hostelworld App

Need an eSIM Card for Amsterdam?

Get your eSIM Card with Airalo.com instantly online. It is easy to set up and cheap! Read our review of Airalo here.

No more searching for mobile stores. Get your eSIM Card for now and enjoy it instantly after landing in your new destination.

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Our Favorite Hostels in Amsterdam put on a map + sights

By now we’ve introduced some truly awesome hostels in Amsterdam, plus top museums, parks and ‘coffeeshops’ to visit. We realize that’s a lot of information to take in.

SO! We’ve pinpointed every place mentioned in this article on this handy map just for you. Just in case you’re still keen for more, here are a few extra ideas:

Don’t forget to have a read of our handpicked 29 top things to do in Amsterdam!

Oh! How could we almost forget our 5 secrets to Amsterdam – a non-tourist guide. We’ve marked them as follows:

  • TOP Sights: Blue
  • Top 3 CoffeeshopsBrown
  • ParksPurple
  • Neighborhoods: Yellow
  • Cheap Hostels: Black
  • More Awesome Hostels: Orange
  • Best Amsterdam Hostels: Pink

(View full sized map here)

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Getting Around Amsterdam

Amsterdam a great city to explore by foot or by bike.

It is no surprise that bikes rule the roads in Amsterdam and with about 880,000 of them (yes, that is more bikes than people), bicycles are definitely the most popular form of transportation around the city and can be a great way for visitors to get around quickly.

Renting a bike in Amsterdam is pretty easy as bicycle shops are everywhere.

Just look for a store with the word “fiet” (bike) in the title and you can rent bikes hourly and daily for very small fees (average prices between 8-10 euros).

There are several located near the Central Station, the Leidseplein and Dam Square.

And remember that bike riding and walking is very economically friendly!

If you’re not one who likes to do a lot of walking, or like to ride bikes, the tram is always another option.

Trams run daily from around 6am (weekdays) and 7am (weekends) to just after midnight.

You can find tram line maps and timetables at any tram stop, with major stops having electronic boards telling you the next departing services.

A one-hour ticket in the city is €2,80 but if you’re planning to get around by public transportation, we’d recommend you to get the 24 hr ticket, which is € 7,50.

Don’t forget to check-in and check-out each time you take a ride!

Also check out the Hop-On Hop-Off bus and public transport ticket.

Exactly how safe is Amsterdam?

Yes, Amsterdam is a very safe city to visit, in fact, it is not a dangerous city at all!

First things first; all of the hostels listed in this article are safe hostels in Amsterdam.

In the Safe City Index 2017 Amsterdam takes the 6th position in the list of safest cities in the world (2017).

With a laid-back and care-free atmosphere, violent and criminal behavior is almost non-existent in this city.

In a city with more than 800,000 bikes, bike theft is the biggest crime of all in Amsterdam.

But, because there is always a ‘but’ in this imperfect world we live in, there are a few precautions one should always consider and be aware of while traveling in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is a safe city for women of all ages traveling alone or together, safe for families with children as well as individuals traveling in larger groups. There is very little harassment in the streets or elsewhere.

The worst incidents are mainly pick-pockets but if you are careful and alert, you can eliminate this problem.

Watch out for these “hungry thieves” on crowded trains, trams, buses and street markets, especially during high tourist seasons.

Tourists are more often targeted than Amsterdam residents because they are more easily distracted while taking selfies, placing their belongings down unattended and for other ‘not using common sense’ reasons.

Remember: simple precautions will minimize your chances of being robbed. Protect your personal belongings at all times, especially your ID and or passport. Simply put, just be smart and attentive and you’ll be fine.

In the event of a serious emergency, the emergency number for police, fire brigade and ambulance services is: 112.

What you should avoid in Amsterdam?

Most neighborhoods are relatively safe for walking, even alone, with a few exceptions.

You probably don’t want to be wandering around in the Red Light District at 3:00 in the morning, but that is due more to possible rowdiness and drunk people behaving more aggressively than anything else.

Maybe checking out the Red Light District area earlier in the evening would present a much better touring experience and of course be a little bit safer.

Please be mindful that taking pictures of the prostitutes, especially around the Old Church area, is strictly forbidden.

I once saw a female tourist taking pictures of one of these ‘women in the window’.

She (the prostitute) ran out from her room, approached the photo capturing perpetrator and made her delete every prohibited picture she had taken, even from her trash bin.

Everyone else walked by either shaking their heads at the tourist in shame or laughing because she was just that dumb for doing something she wasn’t supposed to be doing.

So basically, don’t be THAT tourist while in the Red Light area.

Oh and just so you know: If the bouncer of bodyguard of the prostitute gets you, you can most likely say goodbye to your camera since the camera will end up in the canals.

FAQ

There are a lot of common questions, especially when you have never been to the Netherlands in general and Amsterdam. We collected the most commonly asked question. If you have any questions left, please drop us a comment or contact us directly.

Flights to Amsterdam?

We use Skyscanner and Omio.com to find cheap flights and good connections all over the globe.

Skyscanner has a bunch of cool features like Multi-City Trip. Instead of doing this research step-by-step, Skyscanner offers this flight planning tool.

Our Step-by-Step Guide to Skyscanner

review of Skyscanner flight searches

More Hostels in Netherlands and Europe

Alright, this is your answer to where to stay in Amsterdam. We happily delivered the most fun hostels, great design hostels and hostels for solo travellers.

Of course, there is many more cool hostels in the Netherlands.

We did the leg work for you and bring you more hostel guides to awesome destinations:

You can find all our new and updates articles for ‘Best Hostels in’ here.

We also created a huge guide to hostels. Here we cover how to build lifetime friendships in hostels, the perfect packing list and more.

Over to you

Do you have any questions left, maybe doubts? Then please leave it in the comment below. We are very keen to help you - and actually you would even do us a favor!

Your question will help us to improve this Amsterdam guide.

Last note: Our commitment

This is a genuine article to help you travel a bit smarter, and find the best place on a budget! We will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. We are constantly updating all our guides to keep them as fresh and accurate as possible.

Safe travels,
The Hostelgeeks

CLOSED: Lucky Lake Hostel (unique design)

Update: Lucky Lake Hostel has permanently closed its doors.

Lucky Lake Hostel is a one-of-a-kind-hostel located in the heart of the Dutch countryside. It’s certainly a central Amsterdam hostel, less than 30 minutes from the city center!

Located next to a lake, this quirky, kitsch hostel features uniquely decorated cosy cabins and trailers, creating a clean, relaxed and chilled-out atmosphere.

Visitors are able to enjoy the provided hammocks, along with use of the ping pong table and can enjoy a walk around the nearby lake.

Good to know: Lucky Lake hostel only opens in summer.

CLOSED: Shelter Jordan

Update: Shelter Jordan has closed its doors.

Shelter Jordan is a cheap hostel Amsterdam has in place for you; I mentioned it before. The hostel is located in Amsterdam City West, more precise in the hip district of Jordan.

Just around the corner you have the famous Anne Frank House, Dam Square, Royal palace and the Museum District. You can find the big Meininger Hotel Amsterdam city here too. There is also the luxury hotel of Morgan&Mees around, but obviously a night here is much more expensive, starting from 200€. Here’s a guide of boutique Amsterdam hotels; in case you can afford this.

For all the backpacker like us, Shelter Jordan starts from 15€ only! This leaves more wiggle-room to spend money on experiences, right?!

The hostel is run by Christian volunteers and the staff cooks family dinner every night. This is really more a laid-back hostel.

Compare Prices: Hostelworld

Shelter Jordan - one of the cheapest hostels in Amsterdam in West City

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