Amsterdam is a city that never fails to charm its visitors with its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, finding the perfect place to stay in the heart of this bustling city can greatly enhance your experience. I’ll share my personal experience staying at one of Amsterdam’s top hotels and recommend five other fantastic options for you to consider.
My Stay at the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky
Overview
During my recent trip to Amsterdam, I had the pleasure of staying at the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. Located on the bustling Dam Square, this iconic hotel offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Its prime location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s many attractions.
Booking and Check-in
I booked my stay through the hotel’s official website, which was straightforward and user-friendly. The website often offers special deals and packages, so it’s worth checking there first. Upon arrival, the check-in process was smooth and efficient. The staff were incredibly welcoming and made me feel right at home.
Room and Amenities
I opted for a Deluxe Room, which was spacious and elegantly decorated. The room featured a comfortable king-sized bed, a flat-screen TV, a well-stocked minibar, and a Nespresso coffee machine. The bathroom was equally impressive, with a large walk-in shower, premium toiletries, and fluffy bathrobes. One of the highlights was the stunning view of Dam Square from my window.
The hotel boasts a range of amenities, including:
- Fitness Center: Equipped with modern machines and open 24/7.
- Spa: Offering a variety of treatments to help you unwind after a day of sightseeing.
- Restaurant: The White Room, a Michelin-starred restaurant, serves exquisite gourmet cuisine.
- Bar: The Grand Café Krasnapolsky is perfect for a relaxed drink or a light snack.
Service and Staff
The service at the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky was exceptional. The staff were attentive and went out of their way to ensure I had a pleasant stay. Whether it was providing directions, recommending local attractions, or arranging transportation, they were always ready to assist.
Location and Nearby Attractions
The hotel’s location on Dam Square is unbeatable. Major attractions such as the Royal Palace, Madame Tussauds, and the Nieuwe Kerk are just a stone’s throw away. The Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Rijksmuseum are also within easy reach, either by a short walk or a quick tram ride.
Price and Value
A stay at the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky is an investment in luxury and convenience. Rooms start at around €250 per night, depending on the season and room type. While it may be on the higher end of the price spectrum, the quality of service, prime location, and overall experience make it well worth the cost.
Entertainment and Extras
The hotel often hosts live music events and has a beautiful winter garden where you can enjoy a peaceful moment. They also offer bicycle rentals, which is a great way to explore the city like a local.
Booking Platforms
You can book your stay directly through the hotel’s official website for the best rates and special offers. Alternatively, platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com also feature this hotel, often with competitive pricing.
Recommended Hotels in the Center of Amsterdam
1. The Dylan Amsterdam
Overview:
Nestled along the picturesque Keizersgracht canal, The Dylan Amsterdam exudes a blend of historic allure and contemporary sophistication, appealing to discerning travelers seeking a unique and intimate retreat.
Advantages:
- Elegant Rooms: Each of the hotel’s rooms showcases unique, elegant designs adorned with luxurious furnishings and equipped with modern amenities such as plush bedding, Nespresso machines, and marble bathrooms. Some rooms feature stunning canal views, enhancing the overall ambiance.
- Restaurant Vinkeles: Boasting a prestigious Michelin star, Vinkeles offers a culinary journey through refined French cuisine with innovative twists. The restaurant’s intimate setting within a 18th-century bakery adds to its charm, making it a sought-after dining destination for guests and locals alike.
- Location: Situated in the heart of Amsterdam, The Dylan enjoys a prime location near notable attractions including the Anne Frank House, the charming Nine Streets shopping district renowned for boutique shops and cafes, and the picturesque Jordaan neighborhood known for its historic houses and art galleries.
Price: Rooms at The Dylan start at approximately €300 per night, reflecting its luxury status and unique offerings in Amsterdam’s competitive hospitality scene.
Booking Platform: Guests can make reservations directly through the hotel’s official website for exclusive offers and packages tailored to enhance their stay. Alternatively, Booking.com and Expedia also provide booking options with flexibility in rates and cancellation policies.
2. Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam
Overview:
Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam is a distinctive collection of 25 interconnected canal houses dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. This unique layout offers guests a historical yet stylish ambiance, seamlessly blending Amsterdam’s rich heritage with modern comfort.
Advantages:
- Unique Architecture: The hotel’s charm lies in its maze-like layout, where each canal house has been meticulously restored to retain its original character while incorporating contemporary design elements. Guests can explore the interconnected corridors and staircases, discovering hidden nooks and crannies that add to the hotel’s allure.
- Garden and Terrace: A highlight of Hotel Pulitzer is its tranquil inner garden oasis and terrace. Nestled among the canal houses, this serene space provides a peaceful retreat where guests can unwind amidst lush greenery and historic architecture. It’s an ideal spot for enjoying a quiet moment or savoring a drink from the hotel’s bar.
- Central Location: Located in the heart of Amsterdam’s Nine Streets district, Hotel Pulitzer enjoys a prime location within walking distance to major attractions such as the Anne Frank House, Westerkerk (Western Church), and the bustling Jordaan neighborhood. The Nine Streets area itself is renowned for its boutique shops, cozy cafes, and picturesque canals, offering guests a quintessential Amsterdam experience.
Price: Rooms at Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam start at approximately €350 per night, reflecting its premium status and unique charm in Amsterdam’s competitive hotel market.
Booking Platform: Guests can make reservations directly through the hotel’s official website, where they can find exclusive offers and packages tailored to enhance their stay. Additionally, Booking.com and Hotels.com provide convenient booking options with detailed information on room types, amenities, and guest reviews.
3. Kimpton De Witt Amsterdam
Overview:
Kimpton De Witt Amsterdam blends modern comfort with local charm, offering a vibrant stay experience near Amsterdam’s Central Station, ideal for travelers seeking both convenience and style.
Advantages:
- Stylish Interiors: The hotel features contemporary and chic decor throughout its rooms and public spaces. Each room is designed with comfort and functionality in mind, featuring amenities such as luxury bedding, spacious work desks, and sleek bathrooms with designer toiletries.
- Evening Social Hour: One of Kimpton’s signature offerings is its evening social hour held in the lobby. Guests can enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks, fostering a lively and social atmosphere perfect for mingling and unwinding after a day of exploring Amsterdam.
- Proximity to Transportation: Situated just steps away from Amsterdam Central Station, Kimpton De Witt Amsterdam provides easy access to trains, trams, and buses, making it convenient for guests to explore the city’s attractions, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Price: Rooms at Kimpton De Witt Amsterdam start at around €200 per night, offering competitive rates for a centrally located hotel with modern amenities and personalized service.
Booking Platform: Guests can book their stay directly through IHG’s official website, where they can access exclusive member rates and benefits. Additionally, Booking.com and Expedia offer convenient booking options with detailed room descriptions, guest reviews, and flexible booking policies.
4. Ambassade Hotel
Overview:
The Ambassade Hotel is a distinctive boutique hotel occupying ten beautifully preserved historic canal houses along the prestigious Herengracht canal. It offers a unique blend of literary charm, artistic elegance, and a central location, making it a preferred choice for travelers seeking a cultured and memorable stay in Amsterdam.
Advantages:
- Literary Theme: A standout feature of the Ambassade Hotel is its extensive library, boasting over 4,000 books signed by renowned authors who have stayed at the hotel. Guests can immerse themselves in a literary journey amidst plush surroundings, enjoying quiet reading corners and the ambiance of a literary haven.
- Art Collection: The hotel showcases an impressive collection of CoBrA art (Copenhagen, Brussels, Amsterdam), a renowned avant-garde movement. Original artworks adorn the hotel’s walls and public spaces, adding to its cultural allure and providing guests with an enriching visual experience.
- Location: Ideally situated in Amsterdam’s city center on the prestigious Herengracht canal, the Ambassade Hotel offers easy access to major attractions such as the Anne Frank House, the vibrant Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt), and the picturesque Jordaan district. Guests can explore Amsterdam’s cultural landmarks, museums, and charming streets on foot or by convenient public transport nearby.
Price: Rooms at the Ambassade Hotel start at approximately €250 per night, reflecting its luxurious accommodations, unique character, and prime location along one of Amsterdam’s most iconic canals.
Booking Platform: Guests can book their stay directly through the Ambassade Hotel’s official website to access exclusive offers and packages tailored to enhance their experience. Additionally, Booking.com and Hotels.com provide convenient booking options with detailed room descriptions, guest reviews, and flexible booking policies.
5. Banks Mansion
Overview:
Banks Mansion offers a luxurious all-inclusive experience in a historic building situated along the prestigious Herengracht canal. This boutique hotel caters to travelers seeking both comfort and convenience in the heart of Amsterdam.
Advantages:
- All-Inclusive Amenities: A standout feature of Banks Mansion is its all-inclusive concept, where rates include daily breakfast, a stocked minibar (replenished daily), afternoon snacks, and a selection of drinks including alcoholic beverages served in the hotel’s cozy lounge. This inclusive approach enhances guest satisfaction by providing a seamless and indulgent experience throughout their stay.
- Comfortable Rooms: The hotel boasts elegantly appointed rooms equipped with modern amenities such as complimentary movies on demand, luxurious bedding, and upscale toiletries. Each room is designed to offer a serene retreat amidst the bustling city, ensuring a restful and enjoyable stay.
- Central Location: Banks Mansion enjoys a prime location on the Herengracht canal, offering easy access to Amsterdam’s iconic attractions. Guests can stroll to nearby landmarks such as the lively Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt), cultural hubs like Rembrandt Square, and world-renowned museums including the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum.
Price: Rooms at Banks Mansion start at approximately €270 per night, reflecting its premium offerings and inclusive amenities that contribute to a memorable and hassle-free stay in Amsterdam.
Booking Platform: Guests can conveniently book their stay through Banks Mansion’s official website, where they can find exclusive offers and detailed information about room types and amenities. Additionally, Booking.com and Expedia provide flexible booking options with comprehensive reviews and transparent pricing.
Finding the perfect place to stay in the center of Amsterdam can significantly enhance your visit to this enchanting city. From my delightful experience at the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky to the luxurious and unique offerings of The Dylan Amsterdam, Hotel Pulitzer, Kimpton De Witt, Ambassade Hotel, and Banks Mansion, there’s an ideal accommodation for every traveler.
Whether you prioritize historical charm, modern amenities, central location, or all-inclusive luxury, Amsterdam’s hotel scene offers something for everyone. By booking directly through the hotels’ official websites or trusted platforms like Booking.com and Expedia, you can often secure the best deals and packages.
So, pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and scenic beauty of Amsterdam, knowing that you have a comfortable and welcoming place to rest your head at the end of each exciting day.