The 16 best Airbnbs in Amsterdam, chosen by a local expert

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.

Rooms? Two king-sized bedrooms, sleeps four
The mood? Modern, understated luxury
Location perks? You’re close to Vondelpark, the Anne Frank museum, Noorderkerk, and a plethora of wonderful little streets and canals.
Budget range? Not cheap, but a worthwhile indulgence

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

Thanks to an influx of artists and creative types, lured by cheap rents and the ability to re-purpose huge swathes of post-industrial space, Noord is now the coolest neighbourhood in Amsterdam. And these pioneers also brought a healthy dose of sustainability with them across the Ij River – it’s a watchword that guides much of the development and new ventures opening up here. So where better to experience all this than the wooden Little House? An oasis next to an old canal lock, it’s very small but incredible charming – there’s a wood-burning fire, private patio, a small, fresh-water swimming pool, and an orchard with pears, plums, and cherries where the owners’ free-range chickens roam. There’s no kitchen, but don’t worry – Noord has some of the best modern (and vegan) food in the city.

Rooms? One small bedroom – called a “Dutch cupboard” – sleeps two
The mood? Rustic, back-to-nature – but very charming with it
Location perks? Noord has an abundance of culture, from the EYE film museum and NDSM wharf to a plethora of art galleries, microbreweries, and local co-operatives running cafes and restaurants.
Budget range? Very affordable
Why would a local recommend it? Noord isn’t just the coolest place to see and be seen – it’s a chance to explore away from the typical tourist hotspots and maddening crowds. It also showcases a different side of the city, and offers many unique attractions – rewards for the curious await. Derek Robertson

Looking for a waterfront cabin on the outskirts of Amsterdam? Look no further. This gorgeous Airbnb has all you need for a semi-rustic stay on the water's edge. You'll also have access to your very own sauna and a couple of bicycles if you feel like exploring. Dreamy indeed.

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two.
The mood? Waterfront living.
Location perks? Hmmm... The literal lake you're located on.
Budget range? A steal.

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. 

Rooms? Three bedrooms. Sleeps up to six.
The mood? Historic, cosy and cylindrical. 
Location perks? All the benefits of being in the quiet countryside surrounded by idyllic views while being only 20 minutes from central Amsterdam. 
Budget range? Decently priced. 

Aside from the super cool interiors, this surfer's haven is most attractive to guests because of its hosts. While they live on-site, you'll have your own space in the surf shack – but they are more than happy to take you out for a surf whenever the waves are right. As for the space, home away from home sums it up. Chilled vibes all round is just what the doc ordered here. 

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps four.
The mood? Eclectic energy.
Location perks? Watersports galore.
Budget range? Very well priced for what's on offer.

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.

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests.
The mood? Modern, minimalist. 
Location perks? Enjoy a serene waterfront view of Amstel, while being super close to Utrechtsestraat – the go-to spot for restaurants and bars. 
Budget range? A decent rate for such a central location. 

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.

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.
The mood? Old meets new in a home that will get you perfectly primed for art gallery trips.
Location perks? Get grounded with a walk in the lovely Vondelpark, right next door.
Budget range? A nicely sized treat – luxurious without really breaking the bank.

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.

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests. 
The mood? Sleek, modern. 
Location perks? A short cycle into Old Centre, Amsterdam Lake and Amsterdam forest, while providing a peaceful retreat from the bustle.  
Budget range? A gorgeous location at a low cost. What's not to love?  

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!

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two guests. 
The mood? The best spot to people watch. 
Location perks? Enjoy a stay in this unique stand-alone bridge house rental just a short stroll to the Harlemmerbuurt. 
Budget range? In the mid-high ranges. 

Located just on the outskirts of the city centre, this stylish townhouse combines excellent access to all of Amsterdam’s attractions (it’s just a ten-minute tram ride to the centre and the tram stop is very close by) with the relaxing charms of nature. Large windows throughout the home provide lovely waterside views, while the spacious patio area is a great spot for having a leisurely brunch pre-Rijksmuseum or whatever the day’s plans are. And, best of all, it has a handy private peer with a fitted ladder perfect for a morning swim (isn’t trying to heave yourself out of a wild swimming spot always the worst?).

Rooms? Three bedrooms. Sleeps four guests.
The mood? Work to live.
Location perks? Your own private peer makes a spot of morning wild swimming a must.
Budget range? A great price given all the ‘extras’.

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.

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.
The mood? Olive, wood, metal and pure delight.
Location perks? Just above Jordaan, you’ll be surrounded by restaurants, bars and nice little shops (plus a very local bakery).
Budget range? Pay a little more for a really beautiful stay.

“But this isn’t in Amsterdam!” we hear you cry. “It’s in Woeden, which is next to Utrecht and you can’t include it on a list of Amsterdam Airbnbs because…” Yes, we know. And we hear your totally understandable geographical concerns. But hang about a moment because… well because this is an authentic old cheese warehouse from 1898 and when one is in the Netherlands is there anywhere more historic and more cool to stay than an authentic cheese warehouse? (OK, maybe a windmill or a boat, but there are loads of those on this list). This monument to the goodness of Gouda and the excellence of Edam is located just 12 mins from the station with direct links to Amsterdam, giving you prime access to the city while also providing a quieter, more refined base. And it used to be a cheese warehouse, did we mention that?

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.
The mood? A beautiful Dutch-as-they-come building with a classic loft conversion feel.
Location perks? Woerden itself is a lovely small town with lots of great bars and restaurants to sample.
Budget range? Leaves you with enough change to purchase some cheese.

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, 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?

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two guests. 
The mood? Cosy waterfront abode.
Location perks? Considered a hipster neighbourhood, Amsterdam North has a more local vibe and a great spot for enjoying canal rides and lively local restaurants like Pllek. 
Budget range? An affordable couple's stay. 

Here’s another one that’s slightly outside of Amsterdam itself, albeit only by a 20-minute car or bus journey. The Fortuna Spinoza, a lush 1743 home in quaint Monnickendam, rents out rooms which are so extravagantly decorated you’ll feel like you’re part of the Orange-Nassau family. It’s just the one room, but you can spend the morning in the lavish breakfast room with its landscape wallpaper and roam the expansive gardens surrounding the house. It’s all so nice, you might forget to catch the bus to Amsterdam after all.

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.
The mood? Pure historic decadence.
Location perks? There’s a clog factory nearby. Oh go on, you know you want to pay it a visit.
Budget range? A price in line with its splendour.

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. 

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two. 
The mood? The millennial's habitat. 
Location perks? Be right in the centre of it all. Literally. Just along your street, you'll have endless cafe and restaurant options. And shops, lots and lots of shops. 
Budget range? On the higher end for the trendiest spot in town.

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.

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests. 
The mood? Artsy. 
Location perks? De Pijp is very hip indeed. You'll be close to MoCo, Van Gogh Museum, Rijks and concept store haven, Utrechtsestraat.
Budget range? Not cheap, but pretty decent if you split it four ways.