The Dutch city of Amsterdam is among the most expensive vacation destinations in Europe. Still, the city’s charm and rich history are just some of the reasons why it must be a part of your bucket list.

Hostel Amsterdam review: 10 Wonderful Hostels in Amsterdam
Everything from its canals, architecture, the red light district, and the fantastic museums make it one of the best cities to explore on the whole continent.
But if you’re on a budget, you’ll still need a place to stay. How can you make a trip to Amsterdam work? Hostels are your best bet! Depending on what type of traveler you are, you can find a hostel that caters to your needs in Amsterdam. Families, couples, and solo travelers are welcome here.
Our top 10 for Amsterdam
- #1. St Christopher's at The Winston
- #2. Clink Noord
- #3. Flying Pig Downtown
- #4. Generator Amsterdam
- #5. Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam
- #6. Durty Nellys Inn
- #7. Hostel Van Gogh
- #8. Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark
- #9. Meininger Amsterdam City West
- #10. Dutchies Hostel
Here are some of the best hostel Amsterdam can offer that are located in great spots:
What Can You Expect From Amsterdam Hostels?
Choosing a hostel in Amsterdam surely won’t lead to disappointment as they come with many perks. One of those benefits is the significant savings you’ll get from picking a hostel instead of a hotel. Another is their social atmosphere where you’ll get to know people from all over the world.
When you travel to Amsterdam, you can find a wide range of hostels. You’ll have the option to stay in party-focused accommodations that are leaning more towards spirituality. However, most hostel Amsterdam currently have are geared towards digital nomads (or youth hostels).
Types of Rooms You Can Expect From Hostels in Amsterdam
You have dozens of choices, but you don’t need to worry as most of the city’s hostels offer the best value for money. You just need to remember that you’ll also save a lot more if you book a bigger dorm room. On the other hand, private rooms are way more expensive than dorms, but they’re more affordable compared to hotel rooms.
Here are the average hostel prices in Amsterdam:
- Private rooms: $52 – $63
- Dorms (mixed or female-only hostel): $17 – $32
Things You Should Consider To Find The Best Hostels in Amsterdam
Just like other places in the world, you’ll need to visit them to familiarize yourself with the location first to have a better experience. However, you won’t need to do trial-and-error as here are some of the factors that you need to consider to find the best hostels for your needs:
- Price: It’s easy to get your money’s worth when you book a hostel in Amsterdam. So, if you choose to go for the cheapest option, it’s likely that you’ll stay in a cramped dorm with not-so-excellent customer service.
- Location: Amsterdam is a big city, and you can’t fully explore it within a day. So, you need to choose a hostel located in central Amsterdam (or close to it) if you want to stay close to the city’s main attractions, the red light district, or the nightlife scene.
- Amenities: Almost all hostels in the city offer free Wi-Fi, and the majority also have free breakfast. But if you want to get extra perks, you’ll need to do your research to find the one that fits your needs.
- Staff: Most of the hostel Amsterdam have feature kind and accommodating staff. They are very friendly and dependable regarding the city’s attractions and public transport. Even if you don’t find the best hostel for you on this list, make sure to check the hostel’s reviews to see if they have helpful employees.
The Best Location To Find A Hostel in Amsterdam
Getting around Amsterdam is relatively easy, but choosing an Amsterdam hostel close to the city centre or public transport will make it a lot more convenient. By choosing to stay in hostels that fit these categories, you’ll be close to some of the city’s main attractions like the Red Light District, Van Gogh Museum, and Dam Square.
If you want to find the best hostels in Amsterdam, you should focus on these three areas:
- Westerpark (close to the city center): ideal for those who want to explore Amsterdam’s landmarks
- Oud Zuid (southern district): perfect for those looking for the cheapest hostels and backpackers
- Leidseplein (close to the city center): near the city’s nightlife district
The Best Hostels in Amsterdam
With countless hostels in Amsterdam, here are some of the best options for your next trip:
St. Christopher’s at The Winston
Price: $40 to $264

Amenities: Free linens, free Wi-Fi, free city maps, free towels, security lockers, key card access, hot showers, outdoor terrace, luggage storage, housekeeping, on-site resto-bar, on-site café, on-site club
Being one of the most popular hostels in Amsterdam, staying in St Christopher’s at The Winston would guarantee that you’ll socialize, sleep on comfy beds, and avail of their top-notch amenities. This is a great place to stay, especially if you want to have a good night’s sleep or explore the city for the best parties.
This Amsterdam hostel also hosts an on-site resto-bar, café, and club where you can enjoy good music and socialize with guests and locals. The resto-bar also serves delectable meals and refreshing drinks with discounts throughout the year. You also have many options as they offer burgers, salads, chicken wings, salads, and more.
This is one of a few hostels in Amsterdam, only five minutes away from the Amsterdam Central Station, located very close to the city centre. It’s also situated close to Dam Square and Red Light District, and most of the city’s attractions and landmarks are within a short walk. You’ll also get to enjoy the canal tours, coffee shops, and pubs that are within reach.
To encourage guests to mingle, they also offer free walking tours and daily pub crawls. The bar on the ground floor is also a great place to socialize during the day as it’s laid-back, while at night, the energy goes into overdrive.
You can also visit the Winston Kingdom Nightclub that’s right next door. Every night is exciting as they play live music and feature DJs. So, you can feel the party vibe when you decide to book a room in St. Stephen’s Hostel in Amsterdam. But you can still have a good night’s sleep in your room or relax in the common areas.
The hostel’s rooms are also comfy and accommodate groups of varying numbers. Unlike most Amsterdam hostel you can find online, this hostel’s rooms have ensuite bathrooms with 4 to 10 beds. If you opt for a smaller, more exclusive private room, it costs a bit extra. These rooms also have ensuite bathrooms, and some can even accommodate up to 6 people. Read more..
- best for backpackers, party animals, solo tourists, couples;
- central location; close to Dam Square and Red Light District
- great party atmosphere at night and social vibe at day.
- It can get noisy at night.
Clink Noord
Price: $29 to $137

Amenities: Free linens, free city maps, free Wi-Fi, wheelchair-friendly, elevator, kitchen, security lockers, key card access, fridge/freezer, common room, hot showers, laundry facilities, travel & tours desk, luggage storage, 24-hour reception, bar & café
Clink Noord located right at the heart of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Noord, with a complete list of amenities and having competitive room rates, this is a contender for the best boutique hostel in Amsterdam.
It’s not just great on paper as it’s also fantastic in real life! You’ll stay in a hostel that’s housed in a spacious building that features rooms that fit any type of tourist, from backpackers, solo tourists, families, or couples. Clink Noord’s dorm rooms also range in size (as well as price), while their private rooms have exclusive bathrooms.
But what sets Clink Noord apart from other excellent hostels in Amsterdam is its unique and vibrant atmosphere. They also have “labs” designed for artists and musicians to collaborate and work. The bar and common areas also encourage guests to relax and get to know each other.
You can also pass the time by playing at one of the pool tables, enjoying a refreshing drink at the café and restaurant, or spending some time alone in the outdoor area. This is undoubtedly only one of a few hostels in Amsterdam where you’ll truly feel that you’re at home.
The hostel’s staff are also multilingual and are ready to assist you 24 hours daily, just like most Amsterdam hostels. They can also help you sort out your itinerary or transport needs. Read more..
- best for budget tourists, couples, families, and large groups;
- one of the few alcohol-free hostel in the city;
- located in Amsterdam Noord and is right across a train station;
- you can reach the hostel via a free ferry ride;
- bar and restaurant, laid-back common areas, and a wide range of room options;
- relaxing and social atmosphere;
- parties aren’t encouraged in this hostel
Flying Pig Downtown
Price: $38 to $294

Amenities: Free linens, Free WiFi, security lockers, key card access, kitchen, common room, elevator, outdoor terrace, free luggage storage
Flying Pig Downtown ranks among the best hostels in Amsterdam, and it’s considered a top choice for partygoers. It’s a great place to have fun and socialize in a secure environment.
But if you’re done partying and just want some peace, there are many areas where you can relax. You also have access to pool tables, exclusive DJ-hosted parties twice a week, and the cheapest beer in town (at the hostel’s bar). But if you want to watch a movie, you can also stay in the television room.
This is also one of a few cheap hostels in Amsterdam that offers a free and fully-equipped kitchen where you can cook a meal for yourself or other guests. It’s also a great way to save money as eating out will surely make you burn through your budget more quickly.
The Flying Pig Downtown also has a great location as it’s only walking distance from the central train station. You’ll also have easy access to some of the best cheap restaurants, shops, bars, cafés, and more. The Red Light District is also just a few minutes’ walk from the area.
Amsterdam’s prominent landmarks that you can easily explore from this hostel are the Anne Frank House, the Royal Palace, and the famous Dam Square. So, it’s perfect if you want to explore the city entirely while staying in one of the city’s awesome hostels. Read more..
- best cheap hostel in Amsterdam for those on a budget, looking for a party hostel, backpackers, or couples;
- located right at Amsterdam centre with a train station nearby;
- walking distance from the Red Light District;
- on-site resto-bar;
- fully equipped kitchen;
- clean and modern rooms;
- great party and social atmosphere.
- It can get loud at night.
Generator Amsterdam
Price: $45 to $187

Amenities: Free linens, free maps, free WiFi, security lockers, key card access, air conditioning, common room, meeting rooms, elevator, hot showers, luggage storage, laundry area, travel & tours desk, on-site resto-bar, on-site café
Generator Amsterdam staying in an accommodation part of a chain of European hostels pays as you’ll get security, a great social atmosphere, and laid-back outdoor areas. You can also chill at the cozy lounge area and bar or read a book at the library, hosting one of the most extensive catalogs compared to other hostels in Amsterdam.
They also offer bike rentals, making it easier to explore the city in a quintessentially Dutch way. Generator Amsterdam also offers free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a safe luggage room. The staff also organize and host various events to encourage guests to socialize.
Generator Amsterdam is housed in a former university building converted into a hostel that features several private rooms. Currently, it can accommodate up to 500 guests. The large number of people that can stay here means that it’s effortless to meet new people.
You can also choose between private rooms that can accommodate two, four, or six people if you want more privacy. They also have more affordable dorm rooms, but only four people can stay in one room.
This designer hostel located in Amsterdam-Zuidoost (southeast part of the city centre) is ideal for travelers. It is close to a park, and the hostel is situated in a more laid-back neighborhood. The area is also near enough to explore the city through trams, bikes, or walking. But it’s far enough from the hustle and bustle of the main streets, so the noise is drowned out. It’s one of a few of Amsterdam’s hostels where you can truly experience the iconic bike culture. Read more..
- best cheap hostel in Amsterdam for budget travelers, couples, and solo backpackers
- located near a park in Amsterdam-Zuidoost, close to the city center;
- bar and restaurant;
- modern and clean rooms;
- large rooms, social atmosphere, and relaxing common areas;
- travel & tours desk.
- No kitchen that’s useful if you want to make your meals.
Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam
Price:$24 to $175

Amenities: Free linens, free breakfast, free towels, free WiFi, security lockers, key card access, safe deposit box, common room, elevator, luggage storage, 24-hour reception, on-site resto-bar, on-site café
Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam is a no-nonsense and exciting option that you can choose for your accommodations when you visit Amsterdam. Although it is among Amsterdam’s cheap hostels, it deserves to be at the top of the category.
The hostel also offers the best value for money for backpackers, solo travelers, and couples. They also provide free breakfast and WiFi, making your stay even cheaper.
Aside from being cheap, the hostel also features regular bar nights with happy hours. So, if you’re looking for a party hostel, be on the lookout for deals they offer on their room rates.
They also offer a variety of room choices like a mixed dorm, twin room, double room, and private rooms for three or more people.
Hans Brinker Hostel is situated right at the center of Kerkstraat in the affluent district of Grachtengordel, which is part of the city canal zone. By choosing to stay in this hostel, you’ll have easy access to the expansive Vondelpark and the famous Anne Frank House. You can also head to Leidseplein, where many popular nightclubs and bars are located, only a two-minute walk. Read more..
- best cheap hostel in Amsterdam for those who want to stay in a quintessentially Dutch area;
- great hostel bar, café & restaurant
- free towels and free breakfast;
- scenic views from the hostel’s windows as it’s located in the city canal zone;
- comfy beds;
- good value.
- some of the staff are not as approachable as others;
Durty Nellys
Price: $45

Amenities: Free linens, free maps, free Wi-Fi, security lockers, book exchange, safe deposit box, key card access, hot showers, air conditioning, bike rentals, luggage storage, travel & tours desk, hostel bar, restaurant, and café, breakfast buffet
Durty Nellys Inn Hostel and Irish Bar has spotless and comfortable dorm rooms and luxurious deluxe rooms. Like most hostels in the city, they also have an accommodating and friendly staff.
The hostel’s location is also perfect as it is right at the heart of the Amsterdam city centre. It is also near enough to the Red Light District that you won’t need to ride a taxi or bicycle as it’s only two minutes away. You can also explore Dam Square quite easily if you plan to stay here.
So, all-in-all, the hostel’s main draw is the excellent combination of the best location, helpful staff, and a lively Irish Pub right on the ground floor. It’s the best choice if you’re visiting Amsterdam to explore the city in the morning and party the whole night to meet your fellow guests.
The hostel’s management also doesn’t impose a curfew, and all dorm rooms and deluxe rooms feature ensuite bathrooms. If you choose the former, you can use individual secure lockers, reading lights, power sockets, and adaptors. All guests can also use the hostel’s free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, and more. These perks would surely make your stay as comfortable as it gets.
Durty Nelly’s staff can also organize free walking tours, book museum tickets, schedule canal cruises, and arrange bike rentals for you. Read more..
- best for cheap hostel in Amsterdam for party animals, backpackers, solo tourists, and budget travelers;
- located near the Red Light District right at Amsterdam’s city centre;
- energetic on-site bar and restaurant;
- party-focused and eclectic atmosphere.
- No kitchen and free breakfast.
Hostel Van Gogh
Price: $29 to $214

Amenities: Free linens, free maps, free towels, free WiFi, key card access, elevator, fridge/freezer, safe deposit box, air conditioning, cable TV, bike rentals, luggage storage
Hostel Van Gogh is one of the countless cheap hostels that’s close to, you guessed it, Van Gogh Museum. But it’s also an excellent base to explore the Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Art Museum, and other attractions in the city too.
So, if you’re visiting Amsterdam to appreciate the city’s art scene and culture, you need to take a good look at this hostel. Even though they don’t include free meals in their room rates, you can still avail yourself of their delectable luxury continental breakfast buffet.
As one of the top hostels in Amsterdam, Hostel Van Gogh also offers private dorm rooms if you want to have privacy during your stay. But you’ll get a better deal if you opt for their spacious dorm rooms. Read more..
- best cheap hostel in Amsterdam for those who want to party;
- clean rooms;
- excellent connectivity to public transport;
- close to museums, supermarkets, shops, restaurants, and more;
- complete amenities;
- approachable and helpful staff.
- no cheap meals;
- security may not be as stringent compared to other hostels.
Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark
Price: $36 to $225

Amenities: Free linens, free maps, free WiFi, wheelchair-friendly, elevator, book exchange, security lockers, key card access, common room, meeting rooms, laundry facilities, on-site restaurant, bar and café, travel & tours desk, luggage storage
Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark is a modern and cheap hostel popular among backpackers and budget travelers. It also has one of the highest reviews among the cheapest hostel in Amsterdam.
Aside from its price, one of the hostel’s main perks is its superb location in the center of the iconic Vondelpark district. This means that you’re pretty much in the middle of everything, and you can walk to most of the nearest attractions, shops, bars, restaurants, clubs, and even Schiphol Airport.
You can also hang out at the hostel’s bar where you can watch sports and listen to good music. They also organize daily happy hours, and you can enjoy a 10% discount for drinks if you’re staying in the hostel.
The hostel also has various common areas where you can mingle with guests. These amenities help foster a great social atmosphere while also being laid-back.
Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark also features an almost complete set of amenities and modern facilities. They also have dorm rooms that can accommodate either 2, 4, 6, or 8 people at once. There are also a handful of rooms where up to 20 people can sleep, which is perfect if you’re traveling with a large group.
You can also keep your belongings safe with their lockers, and you can enjoy their game room. It’s also easier to explore the city if you avail of their bike rental. Their staff can also help you book tickets for museums and other attractions or guide you on the best routes to take when exploring the city. Read more..
- best cheap hostel for budget travelers, backpackers, and couples;
- located at the southwestern part of the city center;
- close to good restaurants and must-visit museums;
- have an on-site bar & restaurant, common rooms, bike rentals, and secure lockers;
- clean and modern rooms and amenities;
- relaxed and quiet atmosphere;
- easy to socialize with other guests.
- no kitchen facilities;
- no free breakfast.
Meininger Amsterdam City West
Price: $28 to $200

Amenities: Free linens, free maps, free WiFi, wheelchair-friendly, elevator, hot showers, cable TV, security lockers, outdoor terrace, key card access, fridge/freezer, laundry facilities, common room, meeting rooms, parking, luggage storage, on-site bar
Although its name evokes more of a hotel vibe instead of a hostel, it’s a bit of both. They have great private and dorm rooms, and they’re very quiet with comfy beds. The hostel also has modern amenities and all the creature comforts you’ll need to make your stay memorable.
Meininger Amsterdam City West is also very family-friendly, and they even have high chairs available for guests to use in the kitchen area. They also feature a play area with lots of toys in the common room.
The hostel’s private bedrooms also have ensuite bathrooms and a kitchen where you can cook your favorite meals when you visit Amsterdam. The hostel’s vibe is also very social, quiet, and relaxing while remaining very secure. But one thing that might turn families though is the lack of free breakfast; they still offer meals at a very low price. So, Meininger Amsterdam City West has everything your family can potentially want.
The hostel’s location is also a bit far from the city center, but it’s very accessible to public transport options like the train. This means that you won’t be that far from Amsterdam’s main attractions. Read more..
- best cheap hostel for families, couples, large groups, budget tourists;
- located next to Amsterdam Sloterdijk train station in the western part of the city;
- fully-equipped kitchen;
- spacious private room;
- complete amenities;
- very relaxed and comfy vibe;
- modern design;
- The hostel’s location might turn off some travelers who want to be close to most of the city’s iconic landmarks.
- No free breakfast
Dutchies Hostel
Price: $24 to $186

Amenities: Free linens, free maps, free Wi-Fi, wheelchair-friendly, hot showers, fridge/freezer, security lockers, meeting rooms, fully equipped kitchen, common room, laundry facilities, bike rentals, book exchange, outdoor terrace, bar
Dutchies Hostel is situated quite far from the heart of Amsterdam, but it’s an up-and-coming option that packs a lot of punch. This is one of Amsterdam’s awesome hostel also provides an eclectic vibe that comes with a complete set of amenities.
This hostel mixes Dutch-style social events with a laid-back atmosphere making it an enjoyable place to stay in. The staff also hosts various events like free walking tours and pub crawls. It might be a fun hostel, but it still has quiet areas, and you can still relax.
The hostel is also just a few minutes away from Sloterdijk station, where you can reach most of the city in just minutes. So, even though it’s far from all the action, you’ll reap the benefit of cheaper room rates. Its location is also a factor that you should consider since it’s close to many restaurants, shops, and cafés to try authentic Dutch dishes. Read more..
- best cheap hostel for budget travelers, backpackers, and couples;
- located near Sloterdijk train station at the western part of the city center;
- clean and modern rooms;
- fully equipped kitchen;
- relaxing and social atmosphere.
- no on-site restaurant or café;
- a bit far from central Amsterdam (but it also makes the room rates cheaper).
The Runners-up: Female-Only Hostel & Party Hostels in Amsterdam
Choosing only ten out of the hundreds of hostels in Amsterdam is incredibly tough. Most of the choices you’ll find deserve a closer look – even your hard-earned money. But there are a lot of contenders for the best hostel in Amsterdam. So, here are some of the best hostels in Amsterdam that didn’t make the cut:
- 2nd best hostel in Amsterdam for those on a budget: Flying Pig Beach Hostel
They offer free breakfast, free shuttle service, and a great location to explore the tourist attractions in the city. This is also the best hostel in Amsterdam for its unique beach parties and cheap drinks.
- 2nd best hostel in Amsterdam for those who want to stay in the downtown area:
This hostel is located right at the city’s heart and is very close to Vondelpark and Museumplein. It’s also effortless to explore some of the most iconic Amsterdam landmarks from this hostel.
- 2nd best hostel in Amsterdam for those looking for value for money and a great social vibe: Flying Pig Uptown
Flying Pig Uptown is one of the best hostels in Amsterdam, located close to Schiphol Airport. They feature a great bar and restaurant where you can have fun and socialize with other guests. The staff also organizes several events and themed parties every evening.
- 2nd best hostel for those looking for an Instagrammable accommodation: Lucky Lake Hostel
Lucky Lake Hostel is located just outside the central business district, and they feature very vibrant cabins and campervans. These unique rooms are ideal for young backpackers and couples looking for Instagram-perfect vacation accommodations. They also have outdoor areas where you can chill or hang out with other guests.
- Best hostel in Amsterdam for religious travelers: Shelter City
Shelter City is a Christian hostel near the Amsterdam Central Station and Dam Square. It’s the perfect choice for travelers who prefer to stay in a drug and alcohol-free accommodation. They also serve free breakfast and prides in their calm and relaxing atmosphere. So, if you want to just rest after exploring Amsterdam or enrich your spirituality while traveling, Shelter City is the best hostel for you.
- 2nd best hostel for female solo travellers: Hostelle
This female-only hostel features rooms with super comfy beds and pillows. It’s also only a few minutes away from Amsterdam Central Station, so going around the city won’t be a problem. They also feature a fully-equipped kitchen where you can cook meals for other guests or if you’re missing food from home.
About Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, and it is home to more than a million people in its city centre. It is also the Netherlands’ largest, most important financial, cultural, and creative center.
The city’s name was derived from “Dam” of the River “Amstel.” Centuries ago, the town was first called “Amstelredamme,” which became “Amsterdam.” This city’s culture and history make it one of the most visited destinations in Europe, where over 7 million foreign tourists flock annually.
Amsterdam is called the “Venice of the North” as its crisscrossing canals, striking architecture, and countless bridges are akin to the Mediterranean city. Whether you’re looking to attend serious parties, explore the city’s culture and history, or just take in Amsterdam’s vibe, you’ll never get bored.

Lizzy
Traveler & Blogger
Hi, I’m Lizzy! In the past 10 years I’ve travelled 60 countries and I’m still counting. While I was backpacking I could not find a website that provides valuable information about hostels. After months of thinking, doubting and brainstorming, hostelstobook.com was born.
I hope to make your trip easier, so you’d only stay in the best hostels around the globe. Do you have any questions? Don’t hesitate to send me a message.