Short Term Rental Amsterdam: Your Complete Guide to Temporary Accommodation
Mandy Thompson • Sat, Nov 8
Amsterdam's vibrant culture and booming economy attract thousands of professionals, students, and expats each year.
In this article, we'll cover:
- What qualifies as short-term accommodation
- Comprehensive pricing breakdown by apartment size and duration
- Best neighborhoods for different lifestyles
- Legal requirements and registration process
- How to avoid scams and find legitimate accommodation
Modern serviced apartments in Amsterdam offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience
What is Short-Term Accommodation in Amsterdam?
Short-term accommodation in Amsterdam typically refers to fully furnished rentals lasting from 2 to 12 months. Unlike tourist rentals (which are heavily regulated and limited to 30 nights per year), short-term rentals are designed for residents who need temporary housing for work, study, or personal circumstances.
Who Uses Short-Term Accommodation?
Short-term rentals in Amsterdam serve a diverse range of residents:
- Business professionals and corporate relocations - Expats on temporary assignments typically need 3-12 months of accommodation while they settle in and search for permanent housing. Learn more about corporate housing in Amsterdam.
- International students - Students attending Amsterdam's universities for semester exchanges or internships often require housing for 4-6 months.
- Expats and new residents - Newcomers to Amsterdam frequently use short-term accommodation as a landing pad while searching for long-term housing in the competitive Dutch market. Check out our guide for expats.
- Dutch residents in transition - Local residents undergoing home renovations, going through relationship changes, or between properties benefit from flexible short-term options.
Important distinction: Reputable short-term accommodation providers like City Retreat do not cater to tourists. They require residents to register at the address and provide residential rental agreements, which means no tourist tax or VAT applies.
Types of Short-Term Accommodation in Amsterdam
Amsterdam offers several types of short-term accommodation, each with distinct advantages and pricing structures.
Serviced Apartments
Serviced apartments are fully furnished units that include all utilities, internet, and essential amenities. They're move-in ready with kitchen utensils, cleaning equipment, linen, and towels. Providers like City Retreat offer flexible residential rental agreements that allow termination with just one month's notice. City Retreat is ideal for stays of 2-12 months, though they also accommodate guests staying 12+ months - while not the cheapest option for very long stays, some clients and companies prefer the convenience of ready-to-live apartments with full maintenance support included.
Advantages:
- Fully equipped and ready to live in immediately
- All utilities included (gas, electricity, water, internet)
- Flexible contracts with short notice periods
- Full maintenance support provided
- Security deposits follow strict Dutch regulations
- Optional cleaning services with linen and towels
Explore City Retreat's serviced apartments.
Hotels & Extended Stay
For stays under 2 months, hotels or extended stay options from providers like Hyatt may be more suitable. However, these typically come with significantly higher daily rates and include tourist tax. They're best suited for very short business trips rather than true short-term living.
Airbnb & Tourist Rentals
While Airbnb is popular for tourist stays, Amsterdam has strict regulations limiting holiday rentals to 30 nights per year. These options are typically more expensive than serviced apartments and are legally restricted for longer stays. For rentals exceeding the tourist limit, you'll need proper residential agreements.
Traditional Rental Platforms
For stays of 6 months or longer, platforms like Pararius.nl or Funda.nl may offer lower price points. However, these typically require 6-12 month minimum commitments and come unfurnished, requiring significant upfront investment in furniture and utilities setup.
Facebook Groups & Private Listings
⚠️ Exercise Extreme Caution: Facebook groups sometimes list short-term options at competitive prices. However, scams are very common. Never transfer money before viewing the property unless dealing with an established, trusted company.
Short-Term Rental Prices in Amsterdam: Complete Breakdown
Understanding the cost of short-term accommodation helps you budget effectively. City Retreat offers some of the most competitive rates for serviced apartments in Amsterdam, with pricing that decreases for longer stays.
Note: City Retreat has a minimum stay requirement of 2 months. For shorter stays, consider hotel options or Airbnb. Seasonal discounts are often available during lower-demand periods like December and January. Check cityretreat.com/discount-page for current offers.
| Apartment Type | 2-4 Months (€/month) | 4+ Months (€/month) | Savings for Longer Stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio/1 Bedroom | €2,800 - €4,500 | €2,500 - €4,100 | Up to €400/month |
| 2 Bedroom | €3,300 - €4,500 | €3,000 - €4,100 | Up to €400/month |
| 3 Bedroom | €4,000 - €6,000 | €3,800 - €5,100 | Up to €900/month |
| 4 Bedroom | €4,200 - €6,000 | €4,000 - €5,200 | Up to €800/month |
| 5 Bedroom | €4,500 - €6,500 | €4,200 - €5,800 | Up to €700/month |
What's Included in These Prices?
City Retreat's pricing includes:
- All utilities (gas, electricity, water)
- High-speed internet
- Fully furnished apartment with kitchen equipment, cleaning supplies, linen, and towels
- Flexible residential rental contract (no tourist tax or VAT)
- Full maintenance support for any issues
- Security deposit approximately one month's rent (strictly following Dutch law)
For more details on what's included, see our article on serviced apartments in Amsterdam.
Comparing Short-Term Accommodation Options
To help you choose the right accommodation type, here's a comprehensive comparison of your options:
| Feature | Serviced Apartments | Hotels | Airbnb | Traditional Rental |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Stay | 2-12 months | 1 night | 1-30 nights | 12+ months |
| Furnished | Yes, fully | Yes | Usually | No |
| Utilities Included | Yes | Yes | Sometimes | No |
| Flexibility | High (1-month notice) | Very high | Medium | Low |
| Registration Possible | Yes | No | Rarely | Yes |
| Monthly Cost (1BR) | €2,500-€4,100 | €4,000-€8,000+ | €3,500-€6,000+ | €1,500-€2,500 |
| Setup Effort | None | None | Low | Very high |
Choose from Amsterdam's diverse neighborhoods to find your perfect temporary home
Best Neighborhoods for Short-Term Accommodation
Choosing the right neighborhood significantly impacts your Amsterdam experience. City Retreat operates primarily in Amsterdam and its immediately surrounding areas. Here's a breakdown of the most popular areas for short-term residents. For more detailed neighborhood information, see our guide to Amsterdam's diverse neighborhoods.
Amsterdam Zuidas (South Axis)
Zuidas is Amsterdam's modern business district, often compared to London's Canary Wharf or Paris's La Défense.
Best for: Business professionals, corporate relocations, families seeking modern amenities
- Recently regenerated area with contemporary architecture
- Home to major international companies and law firms
- Excellent restaurants, cafes, and shopping facilities
- Recreational facilities including padel courts and Spa Zuiver
- Close to Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest)
- Superb metro and tram connections
Amsterdam Centrum (City Center)
The historic heart of Amsterdam, home to iconic canals and landmarks.
Best for: Those who want to be in the thick of Amsterdam life, young professionals, culture enthusiasts
- Extremely busy with high tourist traffic year-round
- Mix of tourist shops and authentic local businesses
- Outstanding nightlife, restaurants, and cultural venues
- Excellent public transport connections
- Can be noisy near popular areas
- Generally more expensive than other neighborhoods
Learn about corporate accommodation in city centre.
Amsterdam Jordaan
One of Amsterdam's most charming and desirable neighborhoods.
Best for: Those seeking authentic Amsterdam atmosphere, couples, young families
- Beautiful canal-lined streets with historic architecture
- Central location without overwhelming tourist crowds
- Famous 'Nine Streets' (De Negen Straatjes) with boutique shops
- Excellent local restaurants and authentic brown cafes
- Strong sense of community
- Easy cycling distance to city center (5-10 minutes)
Museum Quarter & Vondelpark
An elegant, family-friendly area surrounding Amsterdam's famous park and world-class museums.
Best for: Families, professionals seeking work-life balance, culture lovers
- Beautiful tree-lined streets with grand architecture
- Vondelpark provides 47 hectares of green space
- Home to Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Concertgebouw
- Quieter and more residential than city center
- Only 10-15 minutes by bike to central Amsterdam
- Excellent schools and family amenities nearby
Discover getting around Amsterdam.
Other Locations
While City Retreat focuses on Amsterdam and immediate surroundings, competitors offer options in other Dutch cities:
- The Hague (Den Haag): Available through Short Stay Group
- Haarlem: Served by Htel Apartments, 20 minutes from Amsterdam
- Rotterdam: Corporate Housing Factory provides serviced apartments
Legal Requirements and Registration
Understanding Amsterdam's housing regulations is crucial for a smooth short-term stay. The city has strict rules to combat the housing shortage and ensure proper registration of residents.
The Difference: Residential vs. Tourist Accommodation
Amsterdam distinguishes between tourist rentals (vacation rentals) and residential short-term accommodation:
Tourist/Holiday Rentals:
- Limited to maximum 30 nights per year
- Require registration number from municipality
- Subject to tourist tax
- Each rental must be reported in advance
- Heavy fines for non-compliance (€8,700 - €21,750)
For regulations, visit Amsterdam.nl holiday rentals.
Residential Short-Term Rentals (2+ months):
- Require residential rental agreement
- Tenant must register at the address with municipality
- No tourist tax or VAT
- Subject to standard Dutch rental law protections
Municipal Registration (BRP)
Anyone staying in the Netherlands for more than 4 months must register with the municipality in the Personal Records Database (BRP - Basisregistratie Personen). This registration gives you a BSN (Burgerservicenummer or citizen service number), essential for:
- Opening a Dutch bank account
- Receiving salary from Dutch employer
- Accessing Dutch healthcare system
- Filing tax returns
- Other official processes
For stays shorter than 4 months, you can register as a non-resident in the RNI (Register of Non-Residents) to still receive a BSN for administrative purposes.
How to Register:
- Book an appointment: Make an appointment at the Amsterdam municipality as soon as your arrival date is confirmed. During busy periods, slots fill quickly.
- Gather required documents: Valid passport, proof of address (your serviced apartment provider should provide a housing confirmation letter), and any relevant visas or work permits.
- Attend appointment: Bring all documents to your appointment at the municipality office.
- Receive BSN: Your details will be entered into the BRP or RNI and you'll receive your BSN. Keep this number safe.
For detailed registration information, visit the official Amsterdam municipality website. Our guide on how to register in Amsterdam provides step-by-step instructions.
How to Book Short-Term Accommodation in Amsterdam
Finding and securing quality short-term accommodation requires planning and vigilance. Here's your step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Determine Your Requirements
Before starting your search, clarify:
- Duration of stay (minimum 2 months for most serviced apartments)
- Budget range
- Number of bedrooms needed
- Preferred neighborhoods
- Move-in date
Step 2: Research Reputable Providers
Start with established companies:
- City Retreat - Amsterdam serviced apartments
- Short Stay Group - Multiple locations
- Corporate Housing Factory - Corporate focus
- Htel Apartments - Amsterdam & Haarlem
Step 3: Compare Options and Pricing
Request quotes from multiple providers and compare monthly rates, security deposit terms, contract flexibility, additional services, and cancellation policies.
Step 4: View Properties (When Possible)
For established companies with verified track records and excellent online reviews (like City Retreat), viewing may not always be necessary. Many corporate HR departments book on behalf of employees, and international candidates often secure accommodation before arriving in the country. This is perfectly acceptable when dealing with reputable providers.
However: If you're booking through Facebook groups or unverified private landlords, viewing the property in person is absolutely essential. Never transfer money to unknown parties without seeing the property first - this is where most scams occur.
Step 5: Review Contract Carefully
Before signing, ensure you understand contract type, duration and notice period, all costs, deposit terms, maintenance responsibilities, and early termination clauses.
If anything is unclear, seek advice from !WOON, a free tenant support organization funded by Amsterdam municipality.
Step 6: Secure Your Booking
Once you've chosen your accommodation, sign the contract, pay the security deposit (typically one month's rent), pay the first month's rent, and arrange move-in date and key collection.
Step 7: Register with Municipality
Within a few days of arrival, complete your municipal registration to obtain your BSN (see Legal Requirements section above).
Avoiding Housing Scams in Amsterdam
Amsterdam's housing shortage has created a fertile environment for scammers. Protect yourself by following these essential guidelines:
Red Flags to Watch For:
- Requests for payment before viewing the property
- Prices significantly below market rate
- Landlord claims to be abroad and cannot show property
- Pressure to make quick decisions without proper documentation
- No official company website or verifiable business address
- Requests for payment via wire transfer to foreign accounts
- No proper rental contract or vague terms
- Photos that appear stolen from other listings
Safety Rules:
- Never pay before viewing: This is the golden rule. Legitimate landlords and companies will always allow viewings. The only exception is established companies with verified track records.
- Verify the company: Check the company is registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KVK). Look for reviews on independent platforms.
- Meet in person: Insist on meeting the landlord or agent face-to-face at the property.
- Get everything in writing: Ensure all agreements are documented in a proper rental contract.
- Trust your instincts: If something feels off, walk away. There are legitimate options available.
Where to Report Scams:
If you encounter a scam or suspect fraud:
- Meldpunt Zoeklicht (City of Amsterdam fraud reporting): Report housing-related fraud
- Police: File a report for attempted fraud
- !WOON: Get advice on suspicious rental offers
Pros and Cons of Different Accommodation Options
Serviced Apartments (like City Retreat)
✓ Pros:
- Move-in ready with no setup required
- All-inclusive pricing (utilities, internet, furnishings)
- Flexible contracts with short notice periods
- Professional maintenance support
- Residential contracts allow municipal registration
- No tourist tax or VAT
- Transparent pricing following Dutch law
✗ Cons:
- Higher monthly cost than traditional long-term rentals
- Minimum stay requirement (2 months with City Retreat)
- Cannot accommodate tourists
- Limited customization of furnishings and decor
Learn more about the benefits in our article on why serviced apartments beat hotel living.
Traditional Long-Term Rentals
✓ Pros:
- Generally lower monthly rent
- More stability for long stays (1+ year)
- Can personalize and furnish to your taste
✗ Cons:
- Requires 6-12 month commitment
- Usually unfurnished, requiring significant upfront investment
- Need to set up separate utility accounts
- Extremely competitive market with long waiting lists
- Often requires proof of income and references
Hotels and Extended Stay Hotels
✓ Pros:
- No minimum stay commitment
- Daily housekeeping and amenities
- Flexible booking and cancellation
✗ Cons:
- Significantly more expensive for extended stays
- Cannot register as resident
- Limited kitchen facilities
- Less suitable for establishing a home base
Tenant Support and Resources
As a tenant in Amsterdam, you have rights and access to support services. Here are key resources:
!WOON - Free Tenant Support
!WOON is a trusted non-profit organization funded by the City of Amsterdam that provides free, confidential advice to tenants. Their services include:
- Advice on rental agreements and contracts
- Help understanding rent caps and service costs
- Support with maintenance disputes
- Guidance on tenant rights and responsibilities
- Assistance with housing scam identification
!WOON has offices throughout Amsterdam with regular walk-in hours. Visit wooninfo.nl/english for English-language support and to find your nearest office.
Other Support Organizations
- Able Amsterdam: Provides support and advice for residents with accessibility needs
- Mee NL: Offers assistance with housing adaptations and support services
- Amsterdam Municipality: Official information on housing regulations, registration, and tenant rights