Morning light and reflections in Amsterdam
Photograph: Shutterstock
Photograph: Shutterstock

The best Airbnbs in Amsterdam, chosen by a local expert

Searching for a magical stay in this iconic city? Look no further than our round-up of the best Airbnbs in Amsterdam

Derek Robertson
Contributor: Frankie Lister-Fell
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Amsterdam means something different to everyone. Some fall in love with its storybook canals and centuries of history, while others come for its coffeeshops and legendary nightlife. Whatever draws you in, one thing’s certain: every neighborhood has its own charm. Whether you're exploring historic Jordaan, sipping orange wine in Noord or visiting top attractions like the Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank House, these canal-side flats and rare houseboat Airbnbs put you close to the city's finest.

Best Airbnbs in Amsterdam at a glance

This guide was written by Derek Robertson, a writer based in Amsterdam. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines

🏨 RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to hotels in Amsterdam

Is it cheaper to get an Airbnb or hotel in Amsterdam?

If you’re hunting for the best bang for your buck, hotels often edge out Airbnbs in Amsterdam especially for solo travellers or short stays. On average, a one‑bedroom Airbnb can cost around €200 a night, and a standard hotel room is about the same – though you can find some budget hotels costing between €150-200. That said, rentals still have their many draws. Travelling with friends or family? A spacious apartment with a kitchen can work out cheaper per person and it gives you a glimpse of real Amsterdam life.

Best Airbnbs in Amsterdam

1. Luxury Airbnb in Jordaan near Leiden Square

💎 Verdict: Most luxurious Airbnb in Amsterdam.

📍 Location: Leiden Square, Jordaan, moments away from Amsterdam's canal ring.

Classy, genteel, extremely picturesque – in many ways, Jordaan is the quintessential Amsterdam neighbourhood. There’s no better place to indulge in hip cafes, stylish restaurants, and quaint boutiques – think atmospheric yet bohemian, quirky yet high quality. And this newly renovated, two-level gem makes an ideal base. Sleeping four across two huge bedrooms, it’s light, spacious, and beautifully modern – perfect for those looking for style, tranquility, and a little luxury. There’s even a parking space in the basement, should you rent a car.

Time Out tip: You’re close to Vondelpark, the Anne Frank museum, Noorderkerk, and a plethora of wonderful little streets and canals.

Price: From 431 a night.

Beds: Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests.

Why would a local recommend it? Jordaan will give you the quintessential Amsterdam experience – simply go for a walk up and down the surroundings canals and drink it all in. Sometimes literally, for nowhere has a better selection of little cafes and bars to fuel all that exploring. Derek Robertson

Derek Robertson
Derek Robertson
Local expert, Amsterdam

2. Best central Airbnb with private garden in Oost

💎 Verdict: Best Airbnb in Amsterdam with a garden.

📍 Location: Watergraafsmeer, Oost, opposite Parc Frankendael.

Amsterdam Oost is known for its lively markets, rich culture, and exceptional restaurants, and this Airbnb reflects that same vibrancy with its bold colors and Latin-inspired design. There’s loads of space in this homey apartment to sit back, relax and pop on a record from their vinyl collection. If the weather permits, the garden is a perfect spot to unwind and listen to the birds. There’s also a quaint garden house to lounge in. Plus, just outside is Park Frankendael, a seven acre green space with a 17th century estate that is perfect for a stroll.

Time Out tip: Dappermarkt street market is open every day apart from Sunday. Head here for everything from fresh flowers to speciality foods. Both the Rijksmuseum and the canal belt are around 15 minutes away by bike.

Price: From €394 a night.

Beds: Two bedrooms. Sleeps three guests.

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3. Boathouse Airbnb in Noord with free parking on the waterfront

💎 Verdict: Coolest Airbnb in Amsterdam.

📍 Location: Noord, north Amsterdam, near NDSM Wharf and close to Centraal Station.

That headline is underselling it somewhat; there’s plenty more to this waterfront cabin than the joys of free parking (not that free parking should be scoffed at). Located in trendy Amsterdam-Noord, which was voted as Amserdam's coolest neirhgbourhood, this stunning spot somehow manages to bridge the divide between excitement and peace, offering the perfect base for exploring this part of the city while also offering tranquillity and serenity in spades. Also, who doesn’t love a real fire?

Time Out tip: Noord is considered the hipster area of Amsterdam and there’s plenty of lively local restaurants, like Barracuda, surrounded by late night bars.

Price: From €193 a night.

Beds: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.

4. Canalhouse Airbnb with canal views in Centrum

💎 Verdict: Most affordable Airbnb in Amsterdam.

📍 Location: Nieuwmarkt, Centrum, close to the Red Light District

This huge apartment is in a classic Dutch home in one of the oldest parts of the city. Overlooking the canal, it’s reached by a steep staircase and once inside, you’ll find a beautifully modern space with large windows and minimalist design touches. The location couldn’t be better for exploring the city by foot. It’s walking distance from Nieuwmarkt, Chinatown, and the Red Light District, yet tucked away on a peaceful street where you can unwind in quiet comfort at night.

Time Out tip: It’s just a 10-minute walk from Centraal Station.

Price: From €242 a night.

Beds: One bedroom. Sleeps three guests.

 

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5. Houseboat Airbnb in central Amsterdam on the canal

💎 Verdict: Best houseboat close to the city centre.

📍 Location: Utrechtsestraat, Centrum, in the centre opposite the Stopera near Rijksmuseum and Rembrandt Huis.

Unsurprisingly for a port city full of canals, there are plenty of houseboats to rent on Airbnb in Amsterdam and this is a very pleasant one indeed. It's modernly furnished and has a deck that’s perfect for sitting out during the sunnier months. Plus, access to a nearby gym is included. Why you'd want to go to a gym while on holiday is another thing entirely, but each to their own.

Time Out tip: You’re super close to Utrechtsestraat here, an upscale shopping street in central Amsterdam which is the go-to spot for restaurants and bars.

Price: From €351 a night.

Beds: Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests.

6. Huge loft Airbnb next to Vondelpark

💎 Verdict: Best Airbnb for couples.

📍 Location: Vondelpark, Oud-Zuid, near all the major museums including Rijksmuseum and the shopping area Nine Streets.

This delightful, modernised loft space is inside an historic 1882 building. The blend of antique and contemporary informs the beautiful interiors which mix up exposed brick and metal furniture with cleverly-chosen and preserved feature which could only evoke the rich history of Dutch artistry and artisans. We are huge fans of that very sexy bath tub and the little hidden details on tiles throughout the property. Fans of traditional Dutch art will love this one.

Time Out tip: Get grounded with a walk in the lovely Vondelpark, which is right next door.

Price: From €225 a night.

Beds: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.

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7. Houseboat with free bikes near the Olympic Stadium

💎 Verdict: Best houseboat Airbnb for groups.

📍 Location: Stadionbuurt, Oud-Zuid, a 15 minute bike ride to the old centre and a 10 minute bike ride to Vondelpark.

As you can imagine, the list of trendy/chic/minimal/cool houseboats on offer in Amsterdam is lengthy. So how can an Airbnb'er make sure theirs stands out? With free bikes, of course! In a city that is best navigated on two wheels, you couldn't find a more perfect (and affordable) stay than this floating home near the Frans Otten Stadium. This modern two-storey vessel sleeps four, has two bathrooms, a roof terrace and towels, tea/coffee and wifi are all included. There are four bikes available and a child seat if necessary.

Time Out tip: The Amsterdam Forrest (Amsterdamse Bos) is a five-minute walk away.

Price: From €226 a night.

Beds: Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests.

Location: Stadionbuurt, Oud-Zuid.

8. Serviced Airbnb in an old bridge house in Amsterdam-West

💎 Verdict: Best Airbnb in Amsterdam-West.

📍 Location: Willemsbrug, Nassauplein, near the entrance to Westerpark.

It’s difficult to get a better canal view in 'Dam than by being literally on one. That’s what you get with this ‘bridge house’, which, as its name suggests, is a rental that straddles a canal. Once the home of an Amsterdam bridge keeper (ie. the person who guards a bridge), this bridge house was built in 1928 but has since been restored into an Airbnb with a double bed, kitchen and bathroom. Be sure to wave at the boats as they pass by!

Time Out tip: Cross the bridge for a stroll down the Haarlemmerdijk which is one of the city’s most popular shopping streets.

Price: From €162 a night.

Beds: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.

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9. Boutique houseboat in Jordaan near Anne Frank House

💎 Verdict: Best luxury houseboat.

📍 Location: Jordaan near the Anne Frank House.

We didn’t want to add another houseboat to this list. It felt too… obvious. But then we spied this Airbnb property and the problem was this: it was just to beautiful to overlook. Located right in the heart of the city, this home-on-the-water is ideal for those who base their city breaks around endless art gallery trips and lots and lots of photos of pretty buildings (making Amsterdam your ideal city, as well). The main living space is dominated by olive green velvet sofas, light-reflecting wood and floor to ceiling windows. But our favourite aspects are the green floral curtains by the bed and the blue-green bathroom tiles resembling a mermaid’s tail. Lovely. Just lovely.

Time Out tip: Bordered by Brouwersgracht, Prinsengracht, Leidsegracht and Lijnbaansgracht, the Jordaan is arguably Amsterdam's most charming neighbourhood and the location of many excellent galleries (including the likes of Vassie and Torch). Read our guide to this sought-after area here.

Price: From €430 a night.

Beds: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.

 

10. Penthouse in De Pijp near Albert Cuyp Market

💎 Verdict: Best Airbnb for small group stays.

📍 Location: On the border of De Pijp and the historic centre, and just a two minute walk from Albert Cuyp market.

Houseboat schmouseboat! This canalside penthouse has just as much to offer – from jaw-dropping views to a delightfully luxurious interior. A unique space that sleeps up to four people, this 1890s home comes complete with original, exposed beams and enough daylight that you’ll practically feel as though you’re outside. Plus, a bunch of Dutch intellectuals have supposedly lived there – so you’ll fit right in. Ah, flattery.

Time Out tip: De Pijp is very hip indeed. You'll be walking distance from MoCo, the Heinkenen Experiecne, Van Gogh Museum, Rijks and concept store haven, Utrechtsestraat.

Price: From €271 a night.

Beds: Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests.

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11. Central Amsterdam Airbnb in Haarlemmerdijk

💎 Verdict: Best Airbnb for central Amsterdam location.

📍 Location: Haarlemmerdijk, Centrum, next to Jordaan. 

This studio really has it all. It's centrally located, spacious, bright, and beautifully furnished with lots of cool minimalistic additions that make this place feel stylish yet laid-back. And then, of course, there's also the high ceilings - the perfect excuse for an indoor swing, what else? When you want to romanticise even more, the terrace will be your go-to spot for your morning coffee.

Time Out tip: Just along your street, you'll have endless cafe and restaurant options. And shops, lots and lots of shops. The Anne Frank House is a 10 minute walk away, as is central station.

Price: From €250 a night.

Beds: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.

12. Windmill Airbnb outside of Amsterdam in Abcoude

💎 Verdict: Most unique Airbnb near Amsterdam.

📍 Location: Abcoude, Utrecht, which is 30 minutes by train from Amsterdam.

Get cosy in this actual windmill, just outside Amsterdam city centre in green field-filled Abcoude. Settle down in bedrooms filled with thick, dark wood beams, and rustic hard wood floors. Crash out in front of a roaring fireplace after a day exploring the city, or sit out on the terrace surrounding the historic building and look out over the rolling green countryside beyond dotted with sheep and cattle.

Time Out tip: Amsterdam city centre is a 20 minute drive or 22 minute train ride away.

Price: From €351 a night.

Beds: Three bedrooms. Sleeps six guests.

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