If you’re visiting the Netherlands, I recommend getting out of Amsterdam.
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At least, for a day or two. After all, the unique list of attractions in Amsterdam is a little too extensive and surprising to miss out on. The same for its fusion-food restaurants, its genre-defying live music acts, and its lesser-known museums… including a horse museum.
In short, while Amsterdam’s usual spiel of activities, like Red Light District tours and Cannabis café side quests, might not appeal to you, I guarantee you’ll find something else that sweeps you off your feet.
The tougher part of nailing your Amsterdam adventure is figuring out where to stay. You want to stay close enough to the action that you’re within walking or cycling distance to hotspots, but not so close that you’re stuck in the City Centrum or Jordaan for days on end.
With these Airbnbs in Amsterdam, you can find a happy middle ground. They’re in neighborhoods like Plantage, Vondelpark, Oosterpark, Oud-Zuid, and the Nine Streets portion of Jordaan, where it’s a bit quieter and residential.
Airbnbs in Amsterdam near the city center, but not stuck in the madness
Ground-floor Canal Apartment
Though small at just under 650 square feet, this ground-floor apartment comes with one huge coup: a private backyard space. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring the city, while the private backyard area is perfect for unwinding in peace after hectic days.
Hidden Gem in Central Amsterdam
This one-bedroom apartment is located in the heart of the quiet, charming neighborhood of De Kadijken. Like the last apartment, this unit is only slightly larger than a tiny home. Still, there’s a balcony overlooking a green courtyard, along with views from the living room of the famous Maritime Museum. Central Station is just a twenty-minute walk from the rental, too.
Sunny Apartment Behind Museumsquare
This large apartment sleeps up to five in two bedrooms. It’s a partially shared unit, as the owners live upstairs. However, you only share the entrance with them. It’s located on a quiet street near some of Amsterdam’s most popular museums, along with neighborhood farmers’ markets. Just know that this is a fully smoke-free rental.
Private room at Queen Wilhemina naast Vondelpark
If you’re okay booking a room instead of a full rental, this guesthouse is a wonderful, bright pick. Similar to the last Airbnb, only the entrance is shared with the host. You’ve got a private bathroom, along with a kitchenette. Just know that you need to climb two sets of stairs to reach the rental.
Central & Quiet Loft
Located right next to Vondelpark, this upscale one-bedroom apartment is located in the attic on the top floor of a typical Dutch row home that dates back to the 1880s. You can expect a blend of historic features, along with modern finishes. It was also professionally designed by a famous Dutch visual artist, giving you plenty of character to enjoy. Just watch for the atypical stairs that lead up to the third floor.
Stylish Private Garden Studio
This home was also built in the 1880s, located in East Amsterdam. The studio is small, bright, and has a very basic kitchenette and small terrace. Like other rentals, you’ll share an entrance with the hosts, but have an otherwise private stay. (I believe this is to get around Amsterdam’s Airbnb laws, which require hosts to rent out rooms in their apartment. Technically, they’re respecting that rule while giving travelers a private experience.) This is another smoke-free unit.
2-Story Cornerhouse Canal View
This four-bedroom unit spans two floors, making it ideal for larger groups. The bedrooms also come with romantic canal and public garden views. It’s in a quiet part of the city where you can find dozens of excellent restaurants. Though the canal home dates back to the 1870s, it was fully renovated in 2016.
Luxurious Private Suite
This studio rental is described as having a ‘boutique hotel style’, which I’m apt to agree with. The studio includes unique design features, exposed brick, and a large freestanding bathtub. The only catch is that there’s no kitchen, or kitchenette, and the bathroom is located in the same room as the studio. It’s high-design and beautifuly done, so it gets away with the setup.
Canal View Apartment in De Pijp
This lovely one-bedroom apartment offers views of the Amsterdam canals. You’re also within walking distance to some of the city’s trendiest locations, from bars to cafes to shops, thanks to its location in the heart of De Pijp. Just know that this unit isn’t rented out all the time. The host puts it up on Airbnb when available, and prefers to host longer-stay guests.
Cozy, Private Canal View
This studio is also located in De Pijp, giving you access to museums, shops, and restaurants galore. The unit has a full kitchen, excellent views of the canal, and a balcony. Just know that smoking at this unit isn’t allowed for cannabis products. Plus, it’s on the first floor with a steep set of stairs.
Stylish & Warm Two-Floor Unit
This two-bedroom unit spans two floors. It’s located in a quiet neighborhood, making it great for families who are visiting—no parties or loud groups allowed. The unit dates back to the 1800s but has been fully renovated and remodeled by a professional architect. There’s also a large backyard to enjoy, with seating and greenery. As with another Airbnb on this list, this unit is someone’s home when they aren’t traveling—be sure to be gentle.
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