Areas

Nestled amongst the picturesque 17th century warehouses, townhouses and lovely bridges that light up and reflect in the water at night, you can hardly be closer to the Amsterdam canals than staying on a houseboat.

It started in the sixties when transport went less over water and was taken over by trucks. Many redundant boats were demolished but already in those days there was a housing shortage in Amsterdam and some transport boats were used as an alternative to live on, mostly by hippies.

Nowadays Amsterdam has 2.900 houseboats of which about 1.000 are historical and seen as ‘sailing heritage’ within the maritime history of Amsterdam.

houseboats canals Amsterdam

Three houseboats in Amsterdam that we recommend for a wonderful and unique stay :

Montelbaan Houseboat Apartment is a spacious and stylish 1-bedroom houseboat. Perfectly located, the houseboat is moored along one of the pretty canals just opposite the stunning Montelbaan Tower which was once famously painted by Rembrandt himself. According to one of the guests: ‘Just sitting on the boat having a breakfast or a beer in the afternoon is in itself a treat!’

B&B Cozy Watervilla Amsterdam is a charming and unique 1-bedroom houseboat, located close to the square Leidseplein in Amsterdam’s authentic Old West.

The Houseboat Amsterdam is a colourful and cosy 2-bedroom houseboat in the heart of the Canal Belt at the Prinsengracht canal that offers the experience to enjoy Amsterdam from a different perspective.

Tulip Festival Events

The Noordoostpolder, opposite the Markermeer bay from Amsterdam, contains more tulips than anywhere else in the Netherlands. From April 17 - May 5th, the annual Tulip Festival is a formal introduction to the super abundant tulip fields in the Noordoostpolder. Each spring a small migration of flower lovers saunters through a landscape of blooming bulbs, hand seeded a few months prior. Come admire the sheer outburst of organic colors arrayed forth in nectar scented petals.

Top 5 Amsterdam Squares

Perfectly positioned at various locations across the city, many of which are just minutes away from several of our Amsterdam holiday apartments, Amsterdam’s superb collection of iconic squares are all definitely worthy of a visit. Ranging from famous landmarks to nightlife hotspots, each individual square offers something for everyone who visits this truly remarkable city.

Jordaan Festival Amsterdam – The city’s famous street party

Taking place annually in September, the Jordaan Festival is an event certainly not to be missed whilst visiting the vibrant city of Amsterdam. Set within the fashionable Jordaan district and within easy reach of many of our Amsterdam holiday apartments, the festival is bursting with traditional Dutch music and emits a warm and welcoming atmosphere, full of character and charm.

Amsterdam Day Trips: Relaxing Beach Adventures

The Netherlands’ sweeping coastline encompasses a series of clean, white, sandy beaches, several of which can be reached via public transport from the capital of Amsterdam, offering a calming seaside alternative to the city’s bustling streets.

Amsterdam Day Trips: Rotterdam’s Authentic Charm

Renowned for its industrial heritage and its working class roots, the city of Rotterdam has become a dynamic, energetic and innovative metropolis brimming with a host of architectural and cultural gems.

Amsterdam Day Trips: Discover the Historic Treasures of The Hague

Accessible from Amsterdam Central Station in under one hour, the Netherlands’ seat of government comprises an elegant setting that blends history with modernity and boasts numerous attractions to entertain and captivate its visitors.

Amsterdam Day Trips: Dutch Delights in the City of Utrecht

Accessible by train in less than thirty minutes, the beautiful city of Utrecht makes a rewarding alternative to the streets of Amsterdam, offering guests a quaint yet bustling setting brimming with culture, history and, above all, charm.

Amsterdam Day Trips: Delft – The Netherlands’ Ceramic City

Regarded as the home of Holland’s famous blue and white pottery, Delft is bursting with character and charm and offers activities and entertainment to everyone who visits. Situated in the south of the Netherlands and within easy reach, via public transport, from many of our Amsterdam holiday apartments, Delft is a traditional Dutch city which is definitely worthy of a visit.

Amsterdamse Bos – Nature’s Finest: Discover Amsterdam’s Captivating Forest

Sweeping almost 1,000 hectares, the Amsterdamse Bos is one of Europe’s largest city parks, granting a welcome retreat from the confines of the capital and a chance to explore a picturesque environment brimming with fantastic attractions.