Amsterdam: Best Hotels, Restaurants and Activities

Amsterdam, located in The Netherlands, is a truly stunning city, and while infamous for its many dispensaries and the red light district, there is so much more in-depth Dutch culture to enjoy here than may originally meet the eye.

No matter what you want your Amsterdam trip to look like though, here are some of the city's best hotels, restaurants, and activities for you to enjoy.

Best Hotels in Amsterdam

The hotel scene in Amsterdam is diverse, yet many lean on traditional design and authenticity, meaning that many of the most popular hotels are renovations of some of the city's stunning historic buildings! Many of the hotels on this list guarantee a unique history lesson, alongside a comfortable and cozy stay, with a great range of amenities either on-site or right on the doorstep, offering a convenient place to stay during your Amsterdam getaway.

From classy, elegant, boutiques to a quirky, modern hotel inspired by the city of Jakarta in Indonesia (yes, really!), the exciting array of hotels in Amsterdam truly offers something for every type of visitor!

The Craftsmen, Binnenstad, Amsterdam

Located in the Binnenstad neighborhood of Amsterdam, this quirky boutique hotel sits amongst the canals and is surrounded by a great selection of attractions and landmarks, including Anne Frank House, Flower Market, Rembrandt Basilica of St. Nicholas, Royal Palace Amsterdam, and Dam Square. There’s also plenty available right on the doorstep, with the hotel’s mouthwatering deli, serving up gourmet sandwiches right next door.

This unique boutique hotel is aptly named after the talented craftsmen who once owned this 17th-century building, with each of the 14 rooms inspired by each of them, perfectly paying homage to the building’s heritage. The accommodation boasts free Wi-Fi throughout the property and a delicious, generous continental breakfast that can be enjoyed either in your room or in the on-site gallery.

11 of the gorgeous on-site rooms feature stunning canal views, and each comes with a flat-screen satellite TV, a fridge, a kettle, a hairdryer, a shower, and a wardrobe. If you’re looking for an elevated stay, the split-level Boat Builder suite is truly exquisite, featuring artisanal touches, such as the nightstands, which are created from upcycled ships’ horns, and even a quirky boat-shaped bathtub!

Ambassade Hotel, Negen Straatjes, Amsterdam

Situated in the popular boujee area of Nine Streets (or Negen Straatjes) this stunning 56-room hotel is just an 8-minute walk from the Royal Palace, and within great proximity of many other popular Amsterdam attractions, including Anne Frank House, Rembrandtplein, and Leidseplei.

This 4-star hotel boasts a great range of on-site facilities, including a cocktail bar and terrace, private parking, 24-hour front desk, concierge service, business center, room service, airport transportation, and free Wi-Fi throughout. Choose from either an à la carte or buffet breakfast, and if you get hungry in the evening, be sure to make a visit to the on-site restaurant which serves up both French and international cuisine.

A truly unique hotel, it’s one for art lovers, bookworms, and historians alike, with a librarian on-site to tend to over 5,000 books signed by famous guests, including Salman Rushdie and Günter Grass. Be sure to also keep an eye out for the avant-garde paintings, with a single, expressive piece in each of the rooms.

Speaking of rooms, each comes fitted with air-conditioning, a comfortable seating area, a flat-screen satellite TV, and a safety deposit box

The Dylan, Negen Straatjes, Amsterdam

Situated along the Keizersgracht canal in the heart of Amsterdam, The Dylan is a 40-room boutique hotel, conveniently located near many major attractions, including Dam Square, and the popular Nine Streets shopping area. There are also plenty of trams, buses, and metro stops nearby for those looking to explore the city a little further.

The hotel boasts free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, a massage service, and a garden with a terrace, alongside some truly exquisite dining options. The popular on-site restaurant Vinkeles is located in an 18th-century bakery and boasts Two Michelin stars for those looking for something a little up-market. If you’re on the hunt for something a touch more casual though, be sure to stop by Bar Brasserie OCCO for a laid-back dining experience.

There’s a great range of different rooms and suites at this hotel, with some specially designed by Studio Linse, a well-known Dutch designer

Intecontinental Amstel, Weesperbuurt en Plantage, Amsterdam

Situated in a truly monumental building on the banks of the Amstel River, the aptly named Intercontinental Amstel is a stunning five-star hotel in an upscale area away from the hustle and bustle of tourist hot spots. That said, its location is no less convenient, with other great attractions nearby, including the Van Gogh Museum. Attractions such as Dam Square and the Royal Palace are only a 10-minute tram ride away.

As you can expect from a five-star hotel, there’s a great range of on-site facilities, including a health club (which boasts an iconic indoor pool with views across the river alongside a steam bath and sauna facilities), an on-site fitness center (complete with personal trainers), and an excellent on-site concierge service.

Dining at the Intercontinental is not to be missed, thanks to its stunning Mediterranean restaurant and beautiful terrace, which combines high-quality dining with casual comfort. Afternoon Tea is served in two shifts in the lounge on weekdays and there’s even a contemporary-luxury on-site bar.

Each room is tastefully decorated and offers panoramic views across the river and the rest of the city. Effortlessly combining classic decorations with modern facilities, the hotel offers a luxurious feel, with great in-room amenities such as flat-screen satellite TVs and an iPod docking station.

Hotel Jakarta, Eastern Docklands, Amsterdam

Hotel Jakarta is an incredibly unique Amsterdam hotel, situated at the IJ river at the former location where ships would leave for, you guessed it! - Jakarta! It sits conveniently close to Central Station, and the main shopping area as well as major attractions such as Dam Square and Royal Palace are easily accessible from here.

This hotel offers a complimentary breakfast buffet, and breakfast, lunch, and dinner can all be enjoyed at the on-site restaurant, Café Jakarta, or grab a drink at Sky Bar Malabar, located on the 8th and 9th floor. There are plenty of other great on-site facilities too including a swimming pool and a naked sauna. What's even better is just how eco-friendly this hotel is, with sustainable-certified wood, solar panels, and water-saving plumbing.

Each of the 200 luxurious rooms is decorated with an Indonesian-influenced style, and many of the larger rooms feature a spacious balcony with gorgeous panoramic views, with some overlooking the river IJ and those located on the other side of the hotel overlooking the central station.

Best Restaurants in Amsterdam

When it comes to choosing the perfect place to dine in Amsterdam, there's a great selection of many different options. With a great range of both casual and upscale establishments, there's plenty on offer here!

Whether you're looking to dine on something new and creative, enjoy a one-of-a-kind seafood experience, or hope to try the best of the best when it comes to your favorite international dishes, there's a culinary experience for everyone in Amsterdam.

Klein Breda, Grachtengordel, Amsterdam

Situated just around the corner from one of Amsterdam's busiest and most popular squares (Rembrandtplein), Klein Breda is a stunning two-story international restaurant.

With a varied menu offering barbecued meat, vegetable dishes, and fresh fish, alongside a great selection of European wines, this restaurant uses seasonal ingredients in each of its inventive dishes.

Be sure to only visit if you're hungry though, as lunch and dinner are served as a three, four, or five-course set menu.

Pesca, Jordaan, Amsterdam

Aptly named, Pesca, is a stunning seafood restaurant that's perfect for lovers of fish dishes. A self-proclaimed 'theatre of fish", the show starts as soon as you step through the door here, as you're offered a glass of champagne to enjoy while deciding what fresh fish dish to sample.

Each is laid out on ice, so you can see everything on offer perfectly displayed. From octopus to cod, and muscles to scallops, the choice is completely yours! After this, choose from the menu of drinks and sides, grab a table, and wait for your hand-selected dish to be brought out to you!

Daalder, De Baarsjes, Amsterdam

Housed inside a  former Goldsmith’s College, this stunning restaurant is the home of top-standard cooking, brought to you by chef Dennis Huwaë and his team. 

Serving up international-inspired, original dishes, Daaler's team prides itself on its flawless presentation and punchy and unique flavors. With a refined yet friendly feel and plenty of great food, this restaurant is a guaranteed attraction for anyone who chooses to visit.

Diners can choose from a six-course tasting menu or seasonal a la carte options, but be sure to save room for dessert so you can sample their signature stroopwafel.

Pizza Beppe, Grachtengordel, Amsterdam

Though there are plenty of great Italian restaurants in Amsterdam, sadly, great pizza used to be something of a rarity. Thankfully, Pizza Beppe stepped in to save the day, and they now boast multiple locations in and around the Grachtengordel area.

Indulge in the masterful simplicity of a delicate dough with a charred crust, San Marzano tomato sauce, and mouth-watering Buffalo mozzarella. 

A great choice if you're looking for something super tasty, but just a little more casual.

Box Sociaal, Marken, Amsterdam

Located near the city zoo, this unique, Australian-inspired restaurant prides itself on serving up some of the best brunch in the business. With a selection of timeless brunch classics on offer every day until 4 pm, it's the place everyone heads to after a night out drinking!

In the evening, a unique and innovative menu is on offer, serving up a selection of tasty dishes derived from both Asian and Australian influences.

Best Things to do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a truly remarkable city to visit, and while known for sex and marijuana, there's so much more to discover in this delightful city! There's an impressive range of museums and popular hangout and culture spots alike, each of which brings its own unique charm to this flavorful city.

From enjoying some outdoor time at a spacious park, to taking a peek into history and culture at one of the many great museums, there are plenty of great attractions to visit in Amsterdam.

Take a Canal Cruise

While many people like to explore the city by bike, taking a canal cruise is one of the most popular, laid-back options when it comes to getting around and seeing all that Amsterdam has to offer. There are many different operators available, but we personally recommend this one, thanks to the option to enjoy a cheese and wine selection as you cruise around in luxury!

De Hallen, Oud-West, Amsterdam

De Hallen is, without a doubt, one of the trendiest spots in the city. This lively cultural hub that sits in the heart of the Oud-West is home to a variety of great boutique shops, a hotel, a cinema, and a lively food hall!

Choose from a great range of small eateries, and enjoy a whole afternoon of movies, dining, and shopping! The perfect escape for those who love city living!

Vondelpark, Oud-Zuid, Amsterdam

This large, spacious park, was once the only public park in the world where people could legally smoke joints, barbecue, and have sex. Thankfully, the last one of these things has been outlawed, but it's still a great place to have a tasty barbecue while you enjoy a smoke!

For those of you not looking to experience this side of Amsterdam though, it's a great place for wellness and clean living, thanks to its many wooden trails and wide, open spaces. Locals frequently come here to run, cycle, and play sports and you can do too! 

Be sure to stop by the beautiful Rose Garden, or visit the famous open-air theatre where you can catch an impromptu show!

Rijksmuseum, Oud-Zuid, Amsterdam

Often hailed as Amsterdam's best, and most classical museum, Rijksmuseum is home to a large collection of over 8,000 Dutch artworks and peices of history dating back to the Golden Age.

With over 1 million objects, a small but impressive collection of Asian artifacts, and even an on-site Michelin-starred restaurant and a café, this is arguably one of the most impressive museums in all of Europe.

KattenKabinet (Cat Cabinet), Rembrandtplein, Amsterdam

If you're a cat-lover, there's simply no way you can visit Amsterdam without heading to this truly unique and weird museum! Totally dedicated to artworks of cats, visitors can view an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other cat-related artifacts.

If all these cat-related items to look at just aren't quite enough, there are even some furry feline friends that stroll around the museum!