Where to Stay in Amsterdam: Neighbourhoods the Guidebooks Underrate
Amsterdam’s canal ring is one of the most beautiful built environments in Europe. It is also extremely loud at night, overpriced, and mostly designed for visitors rather than people actually living in the city. Here is where to base yourself if you want a different experience.
Amsterdam Noord
North of the IJ river, connected by a free ferry from behind Centraal Station that runs 24 hours. Noord has been developing fast — the EYE Film Museum at IJpromenade 1 is genuinely excellent, the A’DAM Tower, the creative spaces in the old NDSM shipyard. Airbnb in Noord is significantly cheaper than the centre and the ferry means central Amsterdam is twelve minutes away.
De Pijp
South of the canal ring, residential, genuine neighbourhood energy. The Albert Cuypmarkt is walking distance. Tram connections are good. Airbnb from €80–120/night for a decent apartment. The compromise between central access and actual neighbourhood life.
Oost (East)
The eastern districts — Indische Buurt, Dapperbuurt, Watergraafsmeer — are the most diverse and arguably most interesting parts of Amsterdam to base yourself in. The Dappermarkt runs Tuesday through Saturday and has been called the best street market in Amsterdam. The tram and metro connections are good. Tourist density is low. Prices are lower than the west.
The hostel option
Amsterdam has good hostels in the centre but the centre is noisy. Stayokay has two properties — one near Vondelpark, one in Oost. The Oost location is the better base for actually experiencing Amsterdam. Dorm beds from €28–38.
