Amsterdam, Holland's premier commercial city, has long been seductive to tourists with its stunning setting around a 17th century ‘Golden Age’ ring of canals (the Grachtengordel), some of the world's finest art (in the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum) and its tolerant culture, evidenced by the Red Light District and liberal drug laws. It is a city full of charm and easy-going appeal, with so much to do and see and delight the eye. Hotels here, however, have always presented something of a problem, since the vast majority of buildings in the city’s historic centre and tall and narrow, giving little space for such amenities as restaurants, lounges, spas and so on. Many of our favourite hotels occupy the tall, narrow canal houses built for merchants and now restored, though a recent trend has seen the conversion of handsome public buildings into glossy new addresses such as the College.
We have divided our recommended Amsterdam hotels into ‘Hotels’ and ‘Guesthouses’ (by which we mean hotels that do not have restaurants). The list that follows is that of our preferred addresses with full facilities including restaurants, perfect for those who prefer to stay in larger, and perhaps grander, hotels. See Amsterdam Guesthouses if you prefer a more intimate address and inexpensive address. The order of hotels bears no reflection on our preference.
Amsterdam
Boutique hotel with four stars in the centre of Amsterdam's Fashion and Museum District. Spacious rooms, private meeting rooms, a terrace, a bar, and a restaurant. Corporate events, weddings, or cultural visits.
Amsterdam
Large canal-side hotel in central Amsterdam. Its contemporary interior design compliments a classical exterior. Modern grandeur, Michelin star restaurant, and central courtyard bring comfort and beauty.
Amsterdam
Large historic building. Industrial sized rooms renovated for comfort and multiple functions. Restaurant, library, art exhibitions, catwalks, meeting rooms entertain many cultural interests. Rooms individually decorated.
Amsterdam
17th century townhouse in the heart of Amsterdam's cultural centre. Boutique hotel that combines contemporary designs and old-world decoration.
Amsterdam
Grand hotel with five-star facilities in the heart of Amsterdam. Modern renovation, spa and fitness, and a unique selection of bars. Corporate or luxury destination.
Amsterdam (Nieuwmarkt en Lastage)
Large super-modern and environmentally friendly. Spacious rooms with natural light and mod-cons. Rooftop sky lounge with panoramic views, restaurant with a terrace, fully-equipped gym and regular art exhibitions. On the waterfront next to Central Station.
Amsterdam
A homage to modern design in the centre of Amsterdam. Huge open rooms, minimalist furniture, and natural light. Bars, restaurants, and a large spa.