🏨 Where to Stay in Amsterdam on a Budget: Best 5 Cheap Hostels
So, you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam but don’t want your wallet to cry harder than you after a canal boat tour at sunset? Don’t worry, I’ve got you! The Dutch capital may be famous for its art museums, bike culture, and dreamy canals, but it can also be notoriously pricey when it comes to accommodation.
The good news? There are plenty of budget-friendly gems where you can rest your head without sacrificing comfort (or style). In this guide, I’ll show you where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget, featuring five awesome cheap hostels that travelers love. Spoiler: you don’t need to be broke to experience the magic of this city.
1. 🛎️ Hans Brinker Hostel
Hans Brinker Hostel has been an Amsterdam staple since the 1960s, and over the years it has gained a reputation for being cheeky, bold, and unforgettable. Its infamous advertising campaigns proudly highlight its “basic” nature, but in reality, Hans Brinker is a whole experience in itself. Travelers flock here for the no-frills beds and the unforgettable memories they make in the bustling bar and basement club. This hostel is ideal for backpackers who want more than just a bed, they want a story to tell. Its central location puts you right in the action, making it one of the best options if you’re looking for where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget and still be at the heart of it all.
– Dorms and private rooms to suit different budgets.
– A basement bar and nightclub perfect for social nights.
– Free Wi-Fi throughout the hostel.
– A central courtyard for daytime hangouts and drinks.
🕒 Check-in time: 14:00, Check-out time: 10:00
📍 Kerkstraat 136-138, 1017 GR Amsterdam
📸 Rijksmuseum – One of the most famous art museums in the world, home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
📸 Van Gogh Museum – A must for art lovers, showcasing the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works.
📸 Vondelpark – Amsterdam’s green heart, perfect for walking, biking, or picnicking.
📸 Leidseplein – A buzzing nightlife square filled with bars, restaurants, and street performers.
2. 🏙️ ClinkNOORD Hostel
For travelers looking for a stylish, modern hostel with plenty of character, ClinkNOORD delivers. Located in Amsterdam Noord, this hostel is all about creative vibes and social spaces. The building itself is a converted 1920s laboratory, giving it a unique industrial charm. What sets ClinkNOORD apart is its focus on community, it hosts regular live music nights, DJ sets, and creative workshops, making it more than just a place to sleep. The free ferry ride across the IJ River makes every trip to and from Central Station feel like an adventure, and once you’re back at the hostel, you’ll find plenty of cozy nooks to relax in. If you’re deciding where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget but still crave style and atmosphere, ClinkNOORD is the perfect match.
– Modern dorms and private rooms with comfy beds.
– ZincBAR with live music, DJs, and theme nights.
– Shared kitchen, library, and creative spaces.
– Free Wi-Fi throughout the hostel.
🕒 Check-in time: 16:00, Check-out time: 10:00
📍 Badhuiskade 3, 1031 KV Amsterdam
📸 NDSM Wharf – A creative hotspot filled with massive murals, artist studios, and quirky cafés.
📸 A’DAM Lookout Tower – Offers 360-degree views of Amsterdam and even a rooftop swing for thrill-seekers.
📸 Eye Film Museum – An architectural icon and cultural center dedicated to cinema.
📸 This Is Holland – A 5D flying experience that lets you soar virtually over the Netherlands.
3. 🎨 The Flying Pig Downtown
The Flying Pig Downtown is legendary in the backpacking world and has been a go-to spot for decades. Known for its vibrant, party-loving atmosphere, this hostel is perfect for travelers who thrive in social environments and don’t mind a bit of late-night noise. What makes it stand out is its combination of central location, friendly staff, and communal vibe. It’s the kind of place where conversations in the bar turn into late-night adventures, and you’ll likely leave with new friends from around the world.
Despite the party reputation, it also offers cozy spaces to chill, so you get the best of both worlds. If your idea of where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget involves making friends, sharing stories, and being steps away from the action, The Flying Pig is your spot.
– Large dorms with lockers and some private rooms.
– A buzzing bar and smoking room.
– Fully equipped self-catering kitchen.
– Free Wi-Fi throughout the building.
🕒 Check-in time: 14:00, Check-out time: 10:30
📍 Nieuwendijk 100, 1012 MR Amsterdam
📸 Dam Square – The historic heart of the city, home to the Royal Palace.
📸 Red Light District – Famous for its nightlife, quirky museums, and historic streets.
📸 Anne Frank House – A moving museum telling the story of Anne Frank and WWII.
📸 Canal Belt (Grachtengordel) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site perfect for scenic strolls.
4. 🌿 Stayokay Hostel Amsterdam Vondelpark
Stayokay Vondelpark is a haven for travelers who want a quieter, more relaxed stay while still being within easy reach of Amsterdam’s highlights. Nestled right inside the city’s most beloved park, it offers a leafy escape that feels worlds away from the chaos of Dam Square. This hostel has a reputation for being clean, comfortable, and well-managed, making it great for families, solo travelers, and groups alike. Its large size means you’ll meet plenty of other travelers, but the vibe is calmer than some of the party hostels. If you’re wondering where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget but want to enjoy a balance of nature and city life, this hostel gives you exactly that.
– Clean dorms and private rooms.
– An on-site bar and restaurant with affordable meals.
– Bike rentals directly from the hostel.
– Free Wi-Fi and luggage storage.
🕒 Check-in time: 15:00, Check-out time: 10:30
📍 Zandpad 5, 1054 GA Amsterdam
📸 Van Gogh Museum – A short walk away, housing iconic works like Sunflowers.
📸 Rijksmuseum – Featuring masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and more.
📸 Stedelijk Museum – Amsterdam’s top modern and contemporary art museum.
📸 Heineken Experience – A fun interactive tour through the historic brewery.
5. 🚤 ClinkMama Hostel
ClinkMama is not your average budget hostel: it’s a stylish, eco-friendly retreat that mixes boutique design with sustainability. From the moment you walk in, you’ll notice thoughtful touches like recycled furniture, natural materials, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This hostel is perfect for travelers who appreciate design but still want to stick to a budget. It’s social without being rowdy, offering cozy common areas where you can connect with other guests or just curl up with a book. If you’re searching for where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget but want something unique, ClinkMama gives you a comfortable and conscious choice that feels like a little home away from home.
– Dorms, family rooms, and private doubles to suit different needs.
– A shared kitchen for budget-friendly meals.
– A cozy living room lounge and a movie corner.
– Free Wi-Fi throughout.
– Eco-conscious design features everywhere.
🕒 Check-in time: 16:00, Check-out time: 11:00
📍 Valkenburgerstraat 124, 1011 NA Amsterdam
📸 Rembrandt House Museum – Explore the former home and studio of the Dutch master.
📸 Artis Zoo – One of the oldest zoos in Europe, great for families and animal lovers.
📸 Waterlooplein Flea Market – A lively market filled with vintage finds, street food, and curiosities.
📸 Jewish Historical Museum – An insightful museum dedicated to Jewish culture and history.
🗺️ Map of Where to Stay in Amsterdam on a Budget: Best 5 Cheap Hostels
Amsterdam may have a reputation for being pricey, but as you can see, there are plenty of gems if you’re looking for where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget. Whether you want the wild nights of Hans Brinker, the stylish vibes of ClinkNOORD, the legendary party scene of The Flying Pig, the peaceful escape of Stayokay Vondelpark, or the eco-chic comfort of ClinkMama, you’ll find something to match your travel style.
By saving on accommodation, you’ll have more euros to spend on bikes, museums, stroopwafels, and canal cruises. And honestly, those are the memories that will make your trip unforgettable.
