Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ biggest tourist attraction. Every year, millions of tourists from the Netherlands and abroad flock to Amsterdam to enjoy its many cultural and historical highlights. As a result, Amsterdam is teeming with hotels, rental apartments, and B&Bs. Most of these accommodations are fairly standard and offer few extras. However, there are also places to stay in Amsterdam that are so unique you’ll likely never forget them. If you book these accommodations, you’ll turn your night or weekend in Amsterdam into something truly special. Vipio has compiled a list of some of these unique accommodations for you. You can book these accommodations directly through us.
1. Sleeping in a hidden chapel
This is probably one of the most unique places to stay in Amsterdam. This hidden chapel was built in 1751 as a Roman Catholic church. At that time, however, it was forbidden to be Roman Catholic in Amsterdam. Believers were severely persecuted. That’s why these kinds of clandestine churches were built, so that people could still practice their faith in secret. The church has been converted into a heavenly place to stay. The large double bed is situated directly beneath the altar, making your stay a truly unique experience. The church is located near Amsterdam’s main attractions, and you’ll have the entire space to yourself during your stay.
2. Staying in a Historic Harbor Crane
Experience Amsterdam in a way you’ll never forget. This historic harbor crane, transformed into a luxurious suite, offers perhaps the most extraordinary overnight stay in the city. It’s no wonder that world-famous DJs, supermodels, and artists have already discovered this spot. A panoramic elevator takes you to your exclusive retreat, high above the IJ River. The 36-square-meter suite spans two floors and offers a breathtaking view of Amsterdam’s skyline. Make your stay in Amsterdam unforgettable and let yourself be swept away by the magic of this unique place—romance, luxury, and views like nowhere else.
3. Bridge Keeper’s House
This charming little tower in Amsterdam was once used as a bridge keeper’s house. A few years ago, however, it was converted into a unique place to stay. This accommodation is located on Prins Hendrikkade, within walking distance of trendy cafés and bars. The eye-catching bridge keeper’s tower offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of Amsterdam’s city center and waterways. Just like the exterior of the tower, the interior is circular—even the bed! The building also features a shower and toilet. You’ll also have access to coffee and tea-making facilities, a small refrigerator, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, among other amenities.
4. Pumping Station of the Water Treatment Plant
What once served as a pump station within Amsterdam’s 1970s-era water treatment plant has now been transformed into one of the city’s most unique places to stay. Since the plant was decommissioned in 2006, modern homes have been built on the site, but two charming pump stations have been preserved. And you can now spend the night in one of them. This unique accommodation is 21 meters long and has been furnished with an eye for detail and atmosphere. The space accommodates two adults or a family with two children and features a private entrance, soundproof walls, a cozy tea and coffee corner, and a terrace overlooking the water. Thanks to its convenient location, you can reach the heart of Amsterdam in just 15 minutes. History, tranquility, and comfort come together here in a surprising way, for a stay you won’t soon forget.
5. Tiny House on the Water in Amsterdam
This tiny house on the water sleeps 4 people and is located in Amsterdam. From the accommodation, you can easily reach the city center by bike. The houseboat is fully equipped to ensure you have a comfortable and carefree stay. Outside the boat are two terraces, including a furnished rooftop terrace. From your accommodation, you’ll have a view of the marina and the water.
6. Luxury suite in Amsterdam right on the river
This 4-star boutique hotel, located on the IJ River in Amsterdam, offers a unique experience in a spectacular building connected by a 30-meter-wide pier. The hotel’s bold and creative atmosphere, featuring greenery and stainless steel, comes to life in this suite. With high ceilings and large windows just above water level, you’ll enjoy a fantastic view of the river. The hotel is a short distance from the city center, and major attractions such as the Anne Frank House, Dam Square, and the Rijksmuseum are just minutes away.
7. Houseboat near the city center
Experience the best of both worlds: the tranquility of a marina and the vibrancy of Amsterdam just a stone’s throw away. This charming houseboat is located just 6 kilometers from the city center and is easily accessible by public transportation—you’ll be right in the heart of the city within 15 minutes. The houseboat is perfect for a family or group of friends of 4 to 6 people. There are two bedrooms: one with a comfortable double bed and one with a bunk bed. In addition, the sofa bed in the living room can accommodate two more guests. The layout is practical and modern, so everyone will feel right at home. When the weather is nice, there are two lovely terraces where you can enjoy breakfast in the morning sun or a drink at sunset. Here, you’ll sleep on the water, in complete tranquility, while the energy of Amsterdam is never far away.
8. Historical Bridge Keeper’s Cottage in the Heart of Amsterdam
This former bridge keeper’s house, built in 1956, offers one of the most unique places to stay in Amsterdam. Located in the city center, the house seems to float above the water, which made it ideal for the bridge keeper in the past. After automation, it has been transformed into an unforgettable place to stay with a beautiful view of the water. Its central location offers easy access to attractions such as Hortus, Artis Zoo, the Maritime Museum, the NEMO Science Museum, and more. Public transportation to Schiphol takes 30 minutes, and Central Station is just 9 minutes away.
9. Staying in a converted tram depot
Believe it or not, this unique design hotel is housed in a former tram depot. This historic building is an important part of Amsterdam’s cultural heritage. The building was constructed at the beginning of the 20th century and was in use by the Amsterdam Municipal Transport Company (GVB) until 1996. The hotel’s design is urban vintage with an industrial touch. Trendy Scandinavian vintage design in a blue-steel, rust-red setting with plenty of greenery, lots of plants, and modern art. This trendy design hotel in Amsterdam West is located near the Jordaan and Vondelpark and is an excellent choice when booking a city trip to Amsterdam.
10. Spend the Night on an Island in Amsterdam
A peaceful private island in the heart of Amsterdam. Yes, it really exists! In fact, you can spend the night there. When you book this unique overnight stay, you’ll be taken to the little island by boat. Once you arrive at this magical hotel suite in the center of Amsterdam, life seems to boil down to just one wish: to stay here forever. Included in the booking are two one-way boat trips per night—one upon arrival and one upon checkout.
Unique Accommodations in Amsterdam
In addition to these stays, you can find many more unique accommodations in Amsterdam and the surrounding area on Vipio. But you’ll also find plenty of fun and unique accommodations outside of Amsterdam on Vipio. View all accommodations on Vipio. Don’t wait too long to book, though, because most stays fill up quickly.
List your own unique accommodation in Amsterdam on Vipio
Do you have a B&B, hotel, or holiday home in Amsterdam that offers a unique stay, and would you like to make it bookable through Vipio? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us directly at [email protected], and our team will be happy to tell you more about listing a unique stay in Amsterdam on Vipio. Be sure to visit our owner page for more information about the benefits of listing on Vipio.
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