There are over 250 hotels in Amsterdam, ranging from 1 star right up to top quality 5 star accommodation, so there is no shortage of options for every budget. Many hotels have that something that makes them unique or special, such as extraordinary architecture, historical importance, brilliant design or beautiful décor. Others are noted for their friendliness and service, and a large number have been designated as sustainable due to their following exacting criteria. These hotels are awarded the Green Key logo, which advertises their awareness of their environmental obligations.
Another very popular option is the hostel. Here, you can get quality accommodation at a fraction of the price that you would normally pay for a hotel. The choice is yours; opt for a shared dorm (mixed or single gender), family or private room with shared or private bathrooms and maintain complete control over your expenditure. Some hostels will provide towels, while others will offer a rental service, so it is a good idea to put in a bit of research before you book your room to ensure you know what to expect. Hostels also have the advantage of being very sociable places, where you can meet new travelling buddies or form lifelong friendships with kindred spirits. This is particularly useful if you are travelling solo and wish to share experiences or advice.
If you are on the road it is easy to miss the familiar environment of home and that homely atmosphere. If you are looking for somewhere that employs a more personal approach, a bed & breakfast may be just what you are looking for. Amsterdam has many quaint B&Bs where a hospitable approach is key. As the people who run them almost always live in the same building, you can get to know your hosts and chat with them during your stay. They are often much smaller operations than hotels, so the owners will have more opportunity to stop and chat. Hence you can engage with Amsterdam people in an authentic Amsterdam home. Before you leave in the morning, you can enjoy a home cooked breakfast and get an idea of how people in Amsterdam start their day.
If you want something really unique, and see Amsterdam in a totally different way, why not stay on a houseboat? By going for this option you can see the city from the perspective of its canals, which really make it what it is. The houseboats are moored in some of Amsterdam’s prettiest areas, and provide all the facilities one could wish for. They literally are floating hotels, located in places where it is convenient to disembark and do some exploring on foot or bicycle.
When you have spent the day walking around Amsterdam, you may want to get away from people for a while and all that energy. If this is the case, maybe look into one of many campsites located in or around the city. This is an extremely budget friendly option, and it is very easy to meet up with all sorts of people, from the Netherlands or further a field, over a barbeque or picnic. Not only do they offer a site for your tent, but clothes washing facilities, secure storage and canoe and bike hire are also available. The weather is most amenable to camping between mid March and the end of October.
