Best hidden gems for families needing a place to stay in Amsterdam
Finding a place to lay your head… and the heads of your kids isn’t easy in European cities. Amsterdam is no different. Most hotel rooms only accommodate two, maybe three people. It can be infuriating! And the prices! Here I’ve listed the top picks for lodging that will accept at least four people. These hotels are hidden gems near public transportation or walking distance to Amsterdam’s sights.
1. Hotel Aalders
Jan Luijkenstraat 13-15
This family-run hotel is located in Museumplein, just a block from the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. Perhaps more importantly to your children, it’s near the I amsterdam sign and Vondelpark. Full of Dutch charm, Hotel Aalders offers family rooms that include an ample and tasty European-style breakfast. Cribs available upon request; free Wi-Fi. Room for four starts at $276.
2. Stayokay Hostel
Vondelpark
Well-located in Vondelpark, Stayokay Hostel was my family’s first experience staying in a budget hostel, and I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised. Yes, the rooms are basic with two bunk beds (sheets, pillows, blankets included; no towels) and an en-suite bathroom. I’d compare it to my college dorm room, but my dorm didn’t have a bar downstairs! During the week, my kids were easily the youngest guests, and I was easily the oldest guest; but on the weekend, we did see a few families and seniors check in. The stay includes a basic breakfast and very slow (but free) Wi-Fi that only works in the lobby. Room for four people starts at $127.
KidTripster Tip: We paid for a four-person private room, though we only had three in our party. Even so, it was still far less expensive than a traditional hotel room.
3. The Bridge Hotel
Amstel 107-111
Overlooking the Amstel River and the “Skinny Bridge,” The Bridge Hotel has one spacious quad room with a kitchen and bathroom located on the fourth floor (no elevator). There’s also an apartment unit with a living room, kitchen, double bed, and separate room with two single beds. The friendly staff serves a healthy breakfast which is included. Cribs available upon request; free Wi-Fi. Room for four starts at $315.
4. Hotel Wiechmann
Prinsengracht 332
Run as a family hotel for three generations, Hotel Wiechmann is located on one of the prettiest corners in Amsterdam along Prinsengracht canal. It’s close to the charming Negen Straatjes, or Nine Streets, shopping area and just a few minutes walk from the Anne Frank Huis. It has a quad room and a family suite; breakfast is included. Cribs available upon request; free Wi-Fi. Your kids’ favorite part will likely be the resident dog. Room for four starts at $220.
5. Hotel Sebastian’s
Keizersgracht 15
Hotel Sebastian’s is a stylish and sophisticated boutique hotel with a huge luxury family room that sleeps four people or five, if your request an extra bed ($22). You can enjoy a view over the patio, courtyard or bustling Keizersgracht canal. The staff serves a tasty American-style breakfast (Youth 12 and under free; Adult $10). Free Wi-Fi. Room for four starts at $360.
6. Renaissance Amsterdam Hotel
Kattengat 1
Located in the picturesque Jordaan district, Renaissance Amsterdam Hotel is a classy business hotel that does have family rooms to accommodate four people. There are mini-fridges in the rooms and an on-site fitness center and laundry; cribs available upon request. Babysitting can be arranged; fee for Wi-Fi. Room for four starts at $279.
7. Amsterdam Marriott Hotel
Stadhouderskade 12
Well-located near Leidseplein, Amsterdam Marriott Hotel offers families a comfortable, large room with two double beds. There’s on-site laundry and cribs available upon request; babysitting can be arranged. Free Wi-Fi in public areas. Room for four starts at $262.
KidTripster Tip: Breakfast is not included here, though the restaurant does have a good spread. Or consider going across the street to the market for inexpensive toasted cheese and bacon sandwiches.
8. Canal Boutique Rooms & Apartments
Keizersgracht 304
Located in the middle the Jordan district near Nine Streets, Canal Boutique Rooms & Apartments offers large families something that’s in short supply in Amsterdam – space. The well-equipped, modern apartments have a living area, kitchen, bathroom, and three bedrooms, accommodating up to six people. Some units have lovely canal views. You’re greeted by a hospitality host who comes bearing gifts: complimentary basket of fresh fruit and a box of chocolates. Free Wi-Fi. Apartment for six starts at $408.
9. Max Brown Hotel Canal District
Herengracht 13-19
A truly gorgeous and unique hotel, Max Brown Hotel Canal District is located in three Dutch canal houses with an amazing 300-year old facade along Herengracht and Brouwersgracht canals. The extra large room has a double bed and sofa bed, suitable for four people, with a lovely canal view. Breakfast is included; free Wi-Fi. Room for four people starts at $258.
10. Max Brown Hotel Museum Square
Jan Luijkenstraat 40-46
I love the urban chic Max Brown Hotels so much, I’m recommending the Museum Square one, as well. Situated in four Amsterdam townhouses, this property is in a largely residential area near Museumplein. The bright and airy extra large rooms here can accommodate up to six people. Again, breakfast is included; free Wi-Fi. Room for four people starts at $242.
For Top 10 Plays in Amsterdam, click here.
For Top 10 Eats in Amsterdam, click here.