Affordable stays for smart travellers
Hotels in Amsterdam can get expensive quite quickly, especially during weekends and peak travel seasons. Hostels offer more affordable alternatives while still giving everything needed for a comfortable stay.
A cheap hostel in Amsterdam is a good option for travelers who want to:
Modern hostels are no longer just basic dormitories. Many offer stylish interiors, private rooms, bars, breakfast options, shared lounges, and social events. This is why hostels appeal to both young backpackers and travelers simply looking for affordable accommodation in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam is one of Europe’s easiest cities to explore on a budget. Many attractions are located close together, within walking or biking distance. Cycling is especially popular here, it’s affordable, practical, and gives you a real feel for the city. Bike rentals are widely available across Amsterdam, with many shops offering flexible options for a single day or a full week.
Amsterdam makes it easy to experience the city’s culture, atmosphere, and local lifestyle on a budget. Alongside its famous museums and nightlife, the city offers plenty of experiences that are free of charge. Some of the best no-cost activities in Amsterdam include:
Not every hostel offers the same atmosphere. Amsterdam has different styles of budget accommodation depending on the type of trip you are planning. Choosing the right hostel comes down to your budget, your travel style, and the kind of atmosphere you’re looking for during your stay.
Accommodation prices in Amsterdam vary throughout the year. Summer, holidays, and weekends are usually more expensive, while weekdays and off-season periods offer lower prices. Compared to hotels or apartments, hostels are one of the most affordable ways to stay in Amsterdam.
Average prices for cheap hostels in Amsterdam:
Hans Brinker Hostel is located in the center of Amsterdam, within the Canal Ring, near the Museumplein. Just a 15-minute walk from the city’s main attractions! We offer both private rooms and shared dorms starting from €23,50 per person per night. Book now.
Most budget hostels in Amsterdam offer a choice between shared dorms and private rooms, so travelers can pick what best fits their style and budget. Both options make it possible to experience Amsterdam comfortably without paying high hotel rates.
Dormitories are usually the most affordable option and are especially popular with backpackers and solo travelers. They’re a great choice for:
Private rooms are also widely available and offer more comfort and privacy, while still costing less than most hotels. They’re a good option for travelers who prefer a quieter stay without losing the benefits of budget-friendly accommodation.
Finding the right hostel isn’t just about the price. The overall experience can really shape your trip, so it’s worth looking a bit deeper before you book. A few key things to check can make a big difference in how comfortable and enjoyable your stay will be.
Hostels offer much more than affordable accommodation. For many travelers, they are a major part of the Amsterdam experience itself. Benefits of staying in a cheap hostel Amsterdam include:
Traveling to Amsterdam on a budget becomes much easier with a few smart choices.
Hans Brinker Hostel is one of the more well-known budget hostels in Amsterdam. People often choose it for its low prices, social vibe, and laid-back atmosphere. It offers both dorms and private rooms, so it works well for backpackers, groups, couples, and solo travelers. Guests can expect simple, practical facilities, shared spaces where it’s easy to meet others, and an overall setup focused on enjoying Amsterdam without paying for unnecessary extras.
Hans Brinker is especially popular among visitors looking for:
Book your stay at Hans Brinker Hostel and experience Amsterdam on a budget, right in the city center! Hans Brinker: excellent value for money!
This article was written by Marie-Louise Henny, Director Hans Brinker, and was last updated on 28/05/2026. Sources used: Amsterdam Tourism, Dutch Review, Hans Brinker, I Amsterdam, and Amsterdam.
Not Here to Babysit—Know What You’re Getting Into.
For group booking requests, please read the following conditions carefully before continuing. All group requests must be made via agreeing to the terms below and filling out the request form.
Group bookings = 25 pax or more as well as all student, sports teams or event based bookings.
Maximum stay is 5 nights. Any requests for longer than 5 nights cannot be accepted.
We take the safety of underage guests seriously. For this reason we have extra policies for underage guests. For bookings with underage guests please note the below:
All minors must be accompanied by a parent/guardian/group leader/chaperone
We do not accept reservations with guests younger than 18 on weekend dates (Friday-Saturday) or on busy holiday dates such as King’s Day, New Year’s, Easter etc.
We do not accept Under 16s in any circumstances.
All reservations with underage minors need to first be approved with our reservations department.
Group Bookings made via other channels which do not follow the terms above are made at the booker’s own risk and we reserve the right to refuse bookings which do not follow our terms.
Payment terms and our cancellation conditions will also be detailed on any offer we send you.
House rules must be agreed to on arrival. These will be provided and can also be sent up front.
We reserve the right to deduct fines for damage, soilage, other improper use of hostel equipment, tampering with fire safety equipment, significant noise nuisance at unsociable hours and smoking in rooms from group deposits. For more information, please see our house rules which can be provided up front.
Visiting Amsterdam and want a budget-friendly stay without sacrificing comfort? Skip the top bunk and enjoy the privacy of your own space. With a cozy box-spring bed and just enough room to recharge, you’ll be rested and ready for whatever the city throws your way—day or night.
Exploring Amsterdam is exhausting enough—you deserve a little extra space and privacy. With a comfy box-spring bed, blackout blinds for uninterrupted sleep, and plenty of room for your luggage, this is the place to rest, recover, and recharge. Tucked away in a quiet hallway on the higher floors, it’s your personal escape from the chaos—at least until checkout.
Still young at heart but craving a little extra comfort? This room comes with a cozy queen-sized bed—perfect for collapsing after a long day (or wild night) in Amsterdam. Rest up, recharge, and pretend to be a responsible adult for a night.
Not too small, and not too big. Then this mixed gender room has all you need! This room is perfect for throwing some fun pyjama parties or simply relaxing after a day exploring Amsterdam or having a drink at one of our bars. And who knows, maybe you even get to call dibs on the bottom bunk!
Not afraid to climb a ladder after exploring Amsterdam for a day (or evening)? This mixed-gender room comes with 3 bunk beds and plenty of space for you to recover from the night before if you need to. Bring 5 of your friends or be that adventurous traveller you are at heart and make 5 new friends!
Grab a bed in our 8-person dorm and join the fun—whether you end up bonding with some new friends or just enjoy the chaos in peace. After a day of “culture” or a night of questionable decisions, you’ll have a spot to crash. Whatever happens, you do you.
Already booked a bed at Hans Brinker? We’ll send you a link before you arrive to get your tickets.
Join Paco’s Club
Paco the Alpaca looks after his people.
When you book directly on our website, you’re automatically in Paco’s Club: which means up to 20% off your stay!
Just use code PACOSCLUB when making your booking and your discount will kick in.
Same rooms. Same vibes. Better price.
Book direct. Stay smart. Let Paco sort you out.
Direct bookings only. Subject to availability. Cannot be combined with other offers.
Still young at heart but craving a little extra comfort? This room comes with a cozy queen-sized bed—perfect for collapsing after a long day (or wild night) in Amsterdam. Rest up, recharge, and pretend to be a responsible adult for a night.
Exploring Amsterdam is exhausting enough—you deserve a little extra space and privacy. With a comfy box-spring bed, blackout blinds for uninterrupted sleep, and plenty of room for your luggage, this is the place to rest, recover, and recharge. Tucked away in a quiet hallway on the higher floors, it’s your personal escape from the chaos—at least until checkout.
Visiting Amsterdam and want a budget-friendly stay without sacrificing comfort? Skip the top bunk and enjoy the privacy of your own space. With a cozy box-spring bed and just enough room to recharge, you’ll be rested and ready for whatever the city throws your way—day or night.
Explored the city, danced all night, and now need a place to crash? This women-only dorm offers a comfy, laid-back space to recharge—whether that means beauty sleep or late-night chats. Bring 5 of your besties or meet new travel sisters along the way!
Grab a bed in our 8-person dorm and join the fun—whether you end up bonding with some new friends or just enjoy the chaos in peace. After a day of “culture” or a night of questionable decisions, you’ll have a spot to crash. Whatever happens, you do you.
Not afraid to climb a ladder after exploring Amsterdam for a day (or evening)? This mixed-gender room comes with 3 bunk beds and plenty of space for you to recover from the night before if you need to. Bring 5 of your friends or be that adventurous traveller you are at heart and make 5 new friends!
Not too small, and not too big. Then this mixed gender room has all you need! This room is perfect for throwing some fun pyjama parties or simply relaxing after a day exploring Amsterdam or having a drink at one of our bars. And who knows, maybe you even get to call dibs on the bottom bunk!
Not too small, and not too big. Then this mixed gender room has all you need! This room is perfect for throwing some fun pyjama parties or simply relaxing after a day exploring Amsterdam or having a drink at one of our bars. And who knows, maybe you even get to call dibs on the bottom bunk!
