Amsterdam is one of those cities that feels compact, but once you start exploring, you’ll realize it’s a patchwork of unique neighborhoods—each with its own personality. On this trip, I got to experience Amsterdam through the eyes of a local—my friend, who’s half Dutch. We wandered off the beaten path, found some cozy cafes, and even discovered which parts of the city are better to skip altogether. If you’re planning your Amsterdam adventure and want to know where to stay (and where not to), this guide is for you.
Discovering the Local Side of Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s charm doesn’t end at the canals and tulips—it begins where the tourists stop looking. While most visitors stay in the city center, there’s so much more waiting just beyond it. And the best part? Many of these areas are still within walking distance of major attractions.
We started our day in a part of Amsterdam that was totally new to me—even after visiting five times. This time, thanks to my friend, we explored a more local side of the city. We strolled through a neighborhood market that felt untouched by tourism. It was early in the day, and there were no crowds—just locals grabbing their morning coffee and shopping for fresh produce. It’s this kind of place where you can really feel the soul of Amsterdam.
The vibe? Chilled, authentic, and full of character. If you’re looking for a peaceful base while still being close to the action, this kind of neighborhood should be on your radar.
A Familiar Feeling: Amsterdam & Copenhagen
As someone who lives in Copenhagen, walking through certain parts of Amsterdam felt oddly familiar. That’s not a coincidence—one of Denmark’s famous kings was so inspired by Amsterdam that he had parts of Copenhagen designed to reflect its charm. Funny how cities can echo one another across borders.
But let’s get back to exploring.
The Canal District: Best of Both Worlds
After soaking in the local side, we made our way into the more iconic parts of Amsterdam—specifically, the Canal District. This is hands down one of my favorite areas in the city. It’s beautiful, relatively quiet compared to the center, and filled with hidden gems. You’ll find cobbled streets, charming bridges, and little boutique shops tucked away around every corner.
The Canal District spans about 4 square kilometers and includes multiple smaller neighborhoods. Not all corners of it are equal, though—some are best for nightlife lovers, while others are perfect for laid-back travelers who want to enjoy the city’s slower rhythm.
The Nine Streets: Picture-Perfect Amsterdam
If you want that postcard-perfect Amsterdam experience, head to the area around De Negen Straatjes or The Nine Streets. This neighborhood is everything you’re dreaming of—quiet canals, vintage boutiques, artisan cafes, and very little traffic.
It’s ideal if you’re planning to explore the city on foot. In fact, from the Nine Streets, you can walk to most major attractions in 15 to 20 minutes. And for longer journeys, the tram and metro are easy to use. The vintage shops here are great, and the atmosphere is super cozy, even on a rainy day—which, let’s be honest, is classic Amsterdam.
I’ve also shared some of my top hotel picks in the Nine Streets in the links below—definitely worth checking out if you want a stylish yet peaceful stay.
A Truly Local Experience
From the Nine Streets, we wandered into another one of my favorite local areas. Again, we were the only foreigners in the café—a clear sign you’re in the right place if you want the real Amsterdam. The locals chatted in Dutch, and the streets felt lived in, not curated for tourism. It might not be the most “Instagrammable” spot in the city, but that’s exactly what makes it special.
If you’re after authenticity over aesthetics, consider staying here. You’ll find budget-friendly hotels and apartments, and you’ll experience Amsterdam like a local—not a visitor.
We ended that part of the day in a peaceful city park. Green spaces like this are underrated, but they add so much value to your stay—whether for a morning jog or a sunset walk.
Areas You Might Want to Avoid
Not every part of Amsterdam is ideal for staying overnight. While some budget-friendly options may seem tempting, the vibe of the area makes all the difference.
1. Near Central Station
Yes, it’s convenient. Yes, it’s cheap. But staying right next to Amsterdam Central Station is, frankly, boring. Step out of your hotel and you’re greeted by traffic, generic shops, and noise. There’s no charm, no local flavor—just a sea of people in a rush. You’ll spend more time trying to escape the area than enjoying it.
2. De Wallen (Red Light District)
This might be controversial, but hear me out. The Red Light District, or De Wallen, is one of Amsterdam’s most famous neighborhoods. But it’s far from the most enjoyable. It’s crowded, chaotic, and packed with rowdy bachelor parties. If that’s your scene, fair enough—but if you’re looking for culture, comfort, and calm, steer clear. There are much better alternatives within walking distance.
3. Amsterdam-Zuidoost (Stadium Area)
There are a surprising number of hotels around Johan Cruyff Arena, the city’s main football stadium. If you’re visiting for a match, it makes logistical sense. But as a base for exploring Amsterdam? It’s a big no from me. The area feels disconnected from the city’s historic charm, and even after spending a few hours there, I couldn’t find a reason to recommend it. It’s better to stay centrally and just take the train for the game.