6 Best Hotels in Amsterdam, Netherlands

At this budget hotel most guest rooms have shared bathrooms, but etchings hang on the walls, much of the furniture is antique, and the Rijksmuseum looms just outside the windows. Functionally furnished with vintage pieces (not in a hip way, mind you), the small rooms look dated, but they come equipped with modern box-spring beds and free Wi-Fi. A free continental breakfast is served in the cozy breakfast room/lounge, which is filled with Delft blue tiles, antique collectables, and vintage board games. Note, though, that the hotel occupies the top floors of the building, and guests must climb a narrow and very steep stairway to the reception desk and the rooms—the owner highly recommends traveling light. During busy periods, there's a two-day minimum length of stay.

Convenient, no-nonsense, and with few amenities (elevator, breakfast), this well-known budget choice has another great thing going for it: low rates—especially if you're willing to share a bathroom. Double rooms without private bathrooms start at less than €100, while those with an attached bathroom will run you more. Although guests have complained about the sometimes-surly staff, you're here for the location: near Leidseplein and a short walk to Vondelpark and the museums.

This cozy and contemporary boutique hotel is perfect for guests seeking a charming environment away from the hustle and bustle yet within walking distance to the Jordaan. The striking black-and-white color scheme of the entranceway contrasts with the light-color walls in the sleek guest rooms, some of which are split-level and boast beamed ceilings; all have air-conditioning and bathrooms with showers or tubs. Be prepared to climb lots of stairs, as there's no elevator. Guests will want to hang out in the hip bar downstairs or outside on the spacious terrace of the attached restaurant for some prime people-watching over a glass or two of wine.

These uniquely styled guest rooms—meticulously decorated with marquetry antiques, Persian rugs, and handcrafted Art Deco furnishings—overlook one of Amsterdam's famous sights, a lineup of seven consecutive bridges across the Reguliersgracht. The proud owners of the 18th-century house scout the antiques stores and auction houses for furnishings, and all have thorough documentation. Top-floor, beam-ceilinged rooms are the smallest and are priced accordingly; by contrast first-floor Room No. 5 is practically palatial, with its own private terrace.

Guest rooms in this intimate 19th-century house are named for different composers and writers, and reflect the eye of a discerning designer, filled with nicely framed art, flowers, and antiques. Overstuffed armchairs and sofas furnish the plush library and the Stravinsky Room, where coffee, cakes, and wine are available by request throughout the day and evening; there's also a pretty back patio. If you're not a fan of steep, narrow stairs, ask for a room on a lower floor, as the inn has no elevator.

Modern functional furniture fills the larger-than-average guest rooms of this 17th-century canalside house; those in the front overlook the canal, while those in the rear are blessedly quiet. Beware that the traditional Dutch stairs are steep and narrow—a chairlift is available if you need one. Coffee and tea are available in the cheerful lounge/breakfast room throughout the day. There is no 24-hour reception, but you'll be provided with a key to the house so you can come and go as you please.