Where To Stay in Amsterdam First Time
Amsterdam is one of the most popular cities in Europe, and it’s easy to understand why. With an amazing canal system, a vibrant cultural scene, and countless museums and famous landmarks, you’re sure to find something that suits your tastes. If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam for the first time or just want to know where to stay when visiting this beautiful city for the first time, here are some suggestions for neighborhoods that will make your experience even more fun (and memorable).
You need to understand Amsterdam as a city to select the best place for your stay when you’re visiting it for the first time.
Amsterdam is a city of diversity, contrasts and possibilities. It’s also a city of culture, history and opportunities.
You need to understand Amsterdam as a city to select the best place for your stay when you’re visiting it for the first time.
Jordaan
Where To Stay in Amsterdam First Time
If you’re looking for a quiet neighborhood with lots of cafes and restaurants, Jordaan is the place to be. It’s also close to the city center, so if you’re planning on exploring Amsterdam by foot or bike, this is your best option.
The Jordaan has some great options for accommodations that will make your stay feel like home away from home:
- Hostels – There are several hostels in Jordaan that are affordable and provide both dorm beds as well as private rooms with shared bathrooms (or showers). These include Youth Hostel Amstel (dorms start at €17/night) and Hostel Mokum (dorms start at €18/night). If you’re looking for something more luxurious than a hostel but don’t want to pay too much money per night then consider staying at one of these upscale hotels such as Hotel Amstel located right next door!
Canal Ring
The Canal Ring is the center of Amsterdam, and it’s where most tourists stay. It’s also the most expensive area in the city, so if you want to be close to many attractions without paying through the nose for it, this is your best bet. The canal ring has a few hotels close together on either side of it—the Vondelpark and Leidseplein are both within walking distance—but there aren’t any accommodations along here that offer anything special or unique (unless we’re talking about Bijenkorf). If you don’t mind spending money on your hotel room and don’t mind being right next door to everything anyway (which seems unlikely), then this may be an ideal place for first-timers.
Old Centre
Where To Stay in Amsterdam First Time
The Old Centre is the oldest part of Amsterdam, and it’s where all the tourist attractions are located. Because it’s close to everything and so central, this area is great if you want to be able to walk around and see everything (and not just stay within walking distance). It also has some cute little shops and restaurants.
If you’re looking for a quieter place than most of Amsterdam, however, this area may not be for you—it can get quite loud at night due to bars on every corner (though there are plenty of them).
Red Light District
Where To Stay in Amsterdam First Time
If you’re looking for a place to see the red light district, this is it. The location is ideal: right in the center of Amsterdam, close enough to walk but far enough away so that it feels like you’re somewhere else.
The Red Light District is home to many different types of prostitution—everything from massage parlors and strip clubs to high-class call girls—and if you want an authentic experience without having any interaction with prostitutes yourself, then this should be your first stop! The streets are lined with windows where men can pay for sexual services; there are also several shops selling various items like lingerie or sex toys (which we recommend checking out if possible).
Canal Belt
The Canal Belt is a residential neighborhood, and it’s the most expensive area in Amsterdam. It’s very safe and quiet, with many parks nearby. There are some good restaurants and bars here, but if you’re looking for something more upscale that’s close to the city center (and has great food), head over to the Jordaan instead!
De Pijp
De Pijp is the most multicultural neighborhood in Amsterdam. It’s located in the south of the city, so it’s a great place to stay if you want to explore both sides of town: there are plenty of shops and restaurants along Herengracht Canal, as well as some great views from rooftops around Kloveniersburgwal and Dam Square. The area has a very lively atmosphere and lots of cafés, bars and clubs that open until late at night (or early morning).
If you’re looking for somewhere quiet but close enough to walk into town every day without having an expensive taxi ride home each time then De Pijp might be your best bet!
Museum Quarter
Where To Stay in Amsterdam First Time
If you’re looking for a place to stay that’s close to the museums, but don’t want to pay for the privilege, Museum Quarter is a good choice. The area has many restaurants and cafes, as well as some budget hotels near Vondelpark and Leidseplein.
You’ll also find yourself within walking distance of Van Gogh Museum as well as Rijksmuseum (both are free).
The area is also home to plenty of nightlife, including Heineken Experience and Madame Tussauds. You can easily walk to most of these destinations from Museum Quarter.
Eastern Docklands
- Eastern Docklands:
In the past few years, the area of Amsterdam known as Eastern Docklands has been undergoing a massive redevelopment. It’s being transformed into a new neighborhood that will be accessible by train from Centraal Station (the central train station), as well as by boat along the River IJ and Canal Ring. The area is also close to some of Amsterdam’s major attractions like Vondelpark and Van Gogh Museum. If you’re looking for somewhere central that’s not too far from where most tourists stay—but still offers plenty of things to do on your visit—Eastern Docklands should definitely be considered!
These are the best neighborhoods in Amsterdam for first-timers.
The Jordaan is the best neighborhood to start your trip in Amsterdam with. It’s full of restaurants and bars, has some great history, and offers plenty of things to do if you want to stay out late on a Friday night.
The Canal Ring is also worth checking out if you have time on your trip, because it’s close to the center but still feels like an escape from it all—and there are plenty of things for visitors who don’t want their nights filled with clubs or bars (or vice versa). You can even rent bikes here! If all else fails, go see Anne Frank’s house (it’ll be worth every penny).
The Old Centre has been home since 1496 when it became part of Amsterdam during its rise as one of Europe’s most important cities following its conquest by Spanish forces in 1594. It was once known as “the city within a city,” so much so that locals refer today simply as “Amsterdam.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, these are the best neighborhoods in Amsterdam for first-timers. They offer great places to stay and explore the city. Take your time when you’re visiting Amsterdam – people here will love to show you around!
