Urban escapes
View from above
A spectacular view is yours for the taking atop several unique accommodation options in Amsterdam. Whether it’s high above the vibrant NDSM district in a disused and repurposed crane or Yays Crane apartment along the KNSM-Eiland’s foreshore, you’ll be in awe of the passing parade of ships day and night.
Along the water
With over 100 kilometres of canals in Amsterdam, finding a sweet spot to stay by the water is easy. SWEETS hotel have transformed 28 former bridge houses into stylish hotels with uninterrupted views of the canal. Enjoy a ringside view as bridges open before your very eyes and barges cruise by just a few metres away.
On the farm
Since the Netherlands is the world’s biggest flower exporter, it should come as no surprise that urban farms, fields of flowers and spacious gardens are hidden throughout Amsterdam and its outskirts. Live the lush life at Amsterdam Farm Lodge to the north of the city, where you’ll find a delightful vegetable garden stretching out in tidy rows, chickens, pigs, goats and other farmyard friends. The lodge is part of a small-scale, sustainable urban agriculture project (NoordOogst) and with seven holiday apartments, two restaurants and a playground, it is a great escape for families and groups of friends.
Go green
Less than a 10-minute bike ride from Centraal Station, Zoku has a rooftop garden and greenhouse, along with a broad terrace with plenty of fresh air that pairs perfectly with their produce-packed breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. This is also an ideal spot to mix business with pleasure, as they offer co-working day passes for €30 that include lunch among the trees.
By the fireplace
Gezellig means cosy, and a number of Amsterdam’s hotels offer cosy in spades, giving you that apres-ski vibe. Hotel V Frederiksplein offers 48 rooms, an intimate, laid-back atmosphere and a fireside couch, perfect for a heart-starting brandy post cross-country exploration. Hotel V has two other equally cosy locations. Try Hotel V Fizeaustraat for glitz and glamour or Hotel V Nesplein for serenity in the city centre.
At the seaside
The Dutch coastline is within easy reach of Amsterdam, where you’ll find some great places to stay that will get you in touch with nature. Stay in a luxuriously appointed Sea House along the coast at Roompot, including one with its own sauna. Connect with nature as the waves cascade onto the beach, and nearby wildlife charms you with birdsong and braying. As any self-respecting Dutch person will tell you, walks along the dunes are just the ticket any time of year.
Under the stars
Get the authentic outdoor urban escape vibe with a camping trip on an island. Camping Zeeburg is within easy reach of the city centre and offers colourful waterside wagonettes that make you feel like you’re in the middle of nature. Breathe in the fresh air on walks and admire the nearby landscape as you explore the area. At the end of the day, warm up in your wagonette with a nice bottle of red or tipple. Check out our guide to camping in and around Amsterdam for more.
