Names like Java Eiland and Borneo Eiland hint at this riverside neighbourhood's seafaring heritage. In Amsterdam's mercantile heyday, the district was home to shipyards and warehouses – buildings that in recent years have been repurposed as creative spaces and arts venues. Eye-catching modern architecture dominates the waterside, and a stay at one of the best hotels in the Eastern Docklands puts you close to the Muziekgebouw concert hall for world-class classical and contemporary music and dance and to the Bimhuis, one of Amsterdam's top jazz venues.

By Milad Alizadeh mastodonic - https://unsplash.com/photos/88OG33wysTsImage at the Wayback Machine (archived on 14 July 2017)Gallery at the Wayback Machine (archived on 3 May 2017), CC0

Alongside the Scheepvaartmuseum (Maritime Museum), the Amsterdam, a replica of a trading vessel from the peak of the Dutch overseas empire, is another must-see. Keen Instagrammers looking for inspiration will find prime locations including a collection of imaginatively designed canal footbridges like the serpentine Pythonbrug – they're works of modern art in their own right.

Flickr user Fred Romero

There are plenty of eateries and nightspots close to the best hotels in the Eastern Docklands. Although pleasantly insulated from the sometimes overwhelming bustle of the historic centre, the neighbourhood is just a couple of tram stops from Centraal Station and Stationsplein, gateway to all the sights and excitement of central Amsterdam.

The best hotels in the Eastern Docklands

FOR ART LOVERS

• Lloyd Hotel is a combination of boutique hotel and cultural hub in a finely renovated building where rooms blend designer style with features like wooden beams and original tilework.

Still not sure? Widen the net and check out our hotels in Noord or all our Amsterdam recommendations, or contact a friendly guru for advice.