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Where to Stay in Amsterdam
An ideal hotel embodies the Dutch quality of gezelligheid-a warm and inviting atmosphere of comfort. Gezelligheid can be found at any budget, particularly at moderately priced hotels run by local families. With around 30,000 beds available (counting both hotels and hostels), 40% are in 4 and 5 star hotels, although the ratio is slowly shifting to correct the imbalance. If the hotel you had in mind turns out to cost more than you can afford, try asking around for special packages for off-season stays. Even weekend or particular weekday stays may cost less, depending on what's available. Even if you really plan on staying at a low-cost hotel, whether out of financial necessity or to fulfil some romantic notion, it can be worth your time to pay attention to the hotel and hostel touts that haunt Centraal Station. By going over what they have to offer, you might just stumble upon a deal that suits your needs better. Just make sure to see the actual place for yourself first before making any reservations. Useful Tips
Hotels are classified according to how much they charge during peak seasons. Breakfast is sometimes included in the rate, but if not it can cost from 5€ to 15€ extra depending on what's served and the designation of the hotel. Single rates are generally available, though the cost is not always that much lower than the double occupancy rate. The price categories are only for rooms with their own bathrooms. Rates usually increase an average of 5% every year. Special rates are sometimes offered for guests with children. Usually you can have your child share your room for free, or there might be a nominal extra charge. Between November 1 and March 31, room rates for all price categories go down drastically, except during the New Year and Christmas. Amsterdam is worth visiting during those months, just as it is during the summer when tourists come in droves. There are cultural events all-year round, and you can enjoy the wonderful Dutch dishes that are not usually served in summer. Plus, there will obviously be more locals than tourists at the places you will be visiting during your stay. Another important consideration is your hotel's location. You need to know how near your hotel will be to the places you plan to visit. It also makes a difference to know what kind of neighbourhood it's in. Some areas are notorious for their high ratio of drug dealers and pimps, so you probably want to avoid that. |
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Whether it's a homey family-run hotel or a contemporary hotel with every conceivable amenity, Amsterdam offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit your preferences. The most popular type of place is actually a combination of both worlds: you can choose to stay at a hotel that has the charm of a picturesque canal house while offering many modern luxuries inside. 
The first thing most people consider when deciding on a hotel is the cost. But even if you have to stick to a particular budget, most hotels in Amsterdam are clean and neatly furnished, regardless of the cost. Many hotels being offered are actually newly renovated. That said, if you end up at an unsavoury place with an indifferent staff, look elsewhere or go to a VVV tourist information desk to check on your other options.