Relocating to a new city is never easy, especially when that city is as vibrant, diverse, and dynamic as Amsterdam. If you’re an expat in Amsterdam, you’ll quickly discover that each part of the city has its own character, rhythm, and lifestyle. While neighborhoods like the Jordaan and De Pijp are often in the spotlight, there’s one area that many international professionals and relocating families quietly fall in love with: Amsterdam South.
Why? Because it strikes the perfect balance between comfort, accessibility, and opportunities to settle in smoothly. In this guide, we’ll explore five strong reasons why choosing Amsterdam South could be the best decision you’ll make as an expat.
1. Easy Access to Business Hubs
For an expat in Amsterdam, location matters. Many people relocate here for work, often with international companies based in or around the Zuidas business district. Amsterdam South is practically next door to this area, which makes commuting quick and stress-free.
You’ll find yourself close to major offices, financial institutions, and global headquarters. But it’s not just about work, being nearby means you’ll also have easy access to after-work dining, networking events, and international meet-ups that are common in this part of town.
And if you travel often for business, Schiphol Airport is only about 15 minutes away by car or direct train. That kind of convenience is priceless when you’re juggling a demanding career and an international lifestyle.
2. International Schools and Family-Friendly Living
Relocation often isn’t just about you, it’s about your family too. One of the top concerns for every expat in Amsterdam with children is finding good international schools. Amsterdam South is home to some of the best, including the Amsterdam International Community School (AICS) and the British School of Amsterdam.
The neighborhoods in South also offer wide, green spaces, playgrounds, and safe cycling paths. Families often choose this part of the city because it feels calmer compared to the crowded center, while still being only a short tram or bike ride away from cultural hotspots.
Add in access to museums like the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, and your children will grow up surrounded by culture and history, all while having an easy daily routine.
3. A Blend of Comfort and Community
One of the hardest parts of being an expat in Amsterdam is finding a home that truly feels like home. Many internationals want a mix of local Dutch culture with international comfort, and that’s exactly what Amsterdam South provides.
Here, you’ll find modern serviced apartments, cozy cafés, and plenty of shops with international products. You can enjoy Dutch classics like fresh stroopwafels at the market and still find ingredients from home at specialty stores.
The South is also where many expat communities naturally form. Whether you’re looking to join professional networks, sports clubs, or language exchange meet-ups, you’ll find like-minded people who understand what it’s like to build a new life here.
4. Green Spaces and Quality of Life
Living in a major European capital doesn’t mean you have to give up nature. Amsterdam South is famous for its parks, including the vast Amsterdamse Bos, which is three times the size of New York’s Central Park.
For an expat in Amsterdam, this is a huge advantage. You can go for a morning jog, walk your dog, or even rent a canoe on the weekends without leaving your neighborhood.
Combine that with a wide choice of gyms, yoga studios, and cycling paths, and you’ll see why expats here often talk about the balanced lifestyle they’ve found. It’s easy to unwind and recharge, which makes settling into your new home much smoother.
5. Housing That Fits Relocation Needs
Finding housing can be one of the biggest challenges for an expat in Amsterdam. Short-term rentals, in particular, can feel complicated, with unclear contracts, hidden costs, or lack of flexibility.
That’s where Short Stay Houses makes a difference. Based in Amsterdam South, our fully furnished boutique apartments are designed for expats, business travelers, and anyone relocating to the Netherlands.
Here’s what you can expect when booking with us:
✔ Fully furnished apartments with modern décor
✔ All utilities included (gas, water, electricity, WiFi)
✔ Weekly cleaning and fresh bedlinen
✔ Laundry facilities on-site
✔ Comfortable double beds and smart TVs
✔ Free parking in a city where parking is often a headache
Our promise is simple: to give every guest a “home away from home” experience, with zero stress. That way, you can focus on your work, your family, and your new life in the Netherlands.
With more than 10 years of experience, our team understands what expats need during those first uncertain months. Whether you’re here for a few weeks or a few months, our apartments in Amsterdam South provide a soft landing.
📧 Interested? Reach us anytime at info@shortstayhouses.com.
Why Amsterdam South Stands Out
Let’s recap the five strong reasons why Amsterdam South is such a great choice for expats:
- Proximity to business hubs and Schiphol Airport
- Top international schools and family-friendly lifestyle
- Blend of comfort, culture, and community
- Green spaces and high quality of life
- Flexible, stress-free housing solutions for expats
When you add it all up, it’s easy to see why so many internationals choose to live here.
Final Thoughts
Becoming an expat in Amsterdam is both exciting and challenging. You’re stepping into a city full of opportunities, but the first months can feel overwhelming without the right environment. Choosing Amsterdam South as your base gives you the comfort, convenience, and community you need to thrive.
And with Short Stay Houses by your side, you won’t just find a place to stay, you’ll find a space where you can start building your life in the Netherlands with confidence.
So, whether you’re planning your move next month or next spring, consider Amsterdam South. It could be the smartest relocation choice you’ll make.
FAQs
1. Is Amsterdam South a good area for expats?
Yes, Amsterdam South is one of the most popular choices for an expat in Amsterdam. It’s close to international schools, business hubs like Zuidas, and Schiphol Airport. The area combines local Dutch culture with modern comforts, making it ideal for both professionals and families.
2. How easy is commuting from Amsterdam South to the city center?
Very easy. You can reach central Amsterdam in about 10–15 minutes by tram, metro, or bike. Many expats choose Amsterdam South because it allows them to live in a quieter area without losing access to the city’s cultural highlights.
3. What kind of housing options are available for expats in Amsterdam South?
Housing ranges from modern serviced apartments to family-friendly homes. For those looking for a flexible and stress-free option, serviced apartments like Short Stay Houses are fully furnished and include all utilities, making the relocation process much easier.
4. Are there international communities in Amsterdam South?
Absolutely. Many expats live in Amsterdam South, so it’s easy to meet people through schools, networking groups, expat clubs, and social events. It’s one of the best neighborhoods to feel connected as an expat in Amsterdam.
5. How can Short Stay Houses help with relocation?
Short Stay Houses provides fully furnished boutique apartments in Amsterdam South. Everything is included utilities, WiFi, cleaning, and laundry facilities, so expats don’t have to worry about hidden costs or complicated contracts. It’s designed to give you a soft landing while you focus on building your life in the Netherlands.
6. What are the best schools for expat children in Amsterdam South?
For an expat in Amsterdam with children, Amsterdam South is a great choice. The area offers top schools like the Amsterdam International Community School (AICS) and the British School of Amsterdam, making it easier for families to settle in.
7. How affordable is living in Amsterdam South compared to the city center?
Living costs can be a concern for any expat in Amsterdam. While Amsterdam South may be slightly more expensive than some outer neighborhoods, it offers more space, family-friendly housing, and convenient access to international facilities, which many expats find worth the investment.
8. Do expats need a car when living in Amsterdam South?
As an expat in Amsterdam, you don’t really need a car. The public transport system is excellent, cycling is the preferred way to get around, and car-sharing services are widely available. If needed, serviced apartments like Short Stay Houses even provide free parking.
9. Is Amsterdam South safe for expat families?
Yes, safety is one of the main reasons an expat in Amsterdam chooses to live in the South. The neighborhoods are calm, green, and secure, making it a comfortable place for families and professionals alike.
10. How long can expats stay in serviced apartments like Short Stay Houses?
A flexible stay is important for every expat in Amsterdam. Short Stay Houses in Amsterdam South offers serviced apartments for both short and medium-term stays, giving you time to adjust before moving into a permanent home.