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The summary
Best Overall: See Rates for The Toren on TripAdvisor “From the moment you walk through the front door, you are transported into an age of old world opulence and mystery.”
Best Budget: See Hotel Clemens Rates on TripAdvisor “Although small, each of the 14 rooms is clean, comfortable and stylishly decorated.”
Best Boutique: See Ambassade Hotel Rates on TripAdvisor “It has 57 rooms spread across 10 original canal houses and is a favorite hole for traveling authors.”
Best for families: see Hotel Aalders rates on TripAdvisor “There are 32 simple but elegant rooms, all of which are good value for money.”
Best for Romance: See Hotel Estherea Rates on TripAdvisor “Known for its quirky décor, this charismatic boutique is the perfect choice for couples with a penchant for over the top romance.”
Best Luxury: See Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam Rates on TripAdvisor “The hotel exudes timeless elegance, with a cool blue and cream palette, grand Louis XIV staircase, and original ceiling paintings.”
Best for Nightlife: See St. Christopher’s at The Winston Rates on TripAdvisor “The perfect choice for those who don’t mind sacrificing luxury to be in the center of the action.”
Best for business: see Crowne Plaza Amsterdam South rates on TripAdvisor “All rooms and suites offer a Sleep Advantage program, with guaranteed wake-up calls, rooms in quiet areas and high-quality bedding.”
Best B&B: Check Rates for Boutique B&B Kamer01 on TripAdvisor “Its fascinating past is evident in the original spiral staircase as well as the 18th century wallpaper in the breakfast room.”
01
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Best Overall: The Toren
Direction
Keizersgracht 164, 1015 CZ Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 622 6033
Web
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Historic hotels
4.8
The four-star boutique The Toren enjoys an exclusive location on the edge of the famous Keizersgracht canal. It is made up of two separate buildings, both of which are original 17th century canal houses. From the moment you walk through the front door, you will find yourself transported into an age of old world opulence and mystery. Interiors are defined by decadent fabrics in rich shades of purple, red, black, and gold, while the hotel staff pride themselves on their high level of service.
Choose from 38 unique rooms and suites, ranging from cozy (very) compact rooms to indulgent superior rooms with whirlpool tubs and breathtaking views. All rooms include minibars, Nespresso machines, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. The heart of the hotel is The Toren Bar, where a sparkling chandelier and plush armchairs continue the whimsical theme. Breakfast is served here each morning, while a simple bar menu provides sustenance in the afternoon and evening. After dark, unwind with an indulgent cocktail or glass of champagne.
02
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Best budget: Hotel Clemens
Direction
Raadhuisstraat 39, 1016 DC Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 624 6089
Web
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The Clemens Hotel puts you in the center of the action at an affordable price. From the Clemens Hotel, you can walk to the Anne Frank House in just four minutes. It’s also an easy walk to the Red Light District, as well as downtown. This family-run hotel complements its enviable location with a cozy, boutique atmosphere. Although small, each of the 14 rooms are clean, comfortable and stylishly decorated, overlooking the garden or Raadhuisstraat. Choose a single, double, triple or twin and enjoy free Wi-Fi, an LCD TV and a rain shower in the private bathroom.
People with mobility problems should be aware that there is no elevator at Hotel Clemens and that the stairs are steep and numerous (a common feature of traditional Amsterdam architecture). However, low-cost room rates include a welcome drink and a generous continental breakfast. The light-filled breakfast room features large windows and picturesque molded ceilings; and you can enjoy free tea and coffee throughout the day on the spacious lobby balcony.
03
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Best Boutique: Ambassade Hotel
Direction
Herengracht 341, 1016 AZ Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 555 0222
Web
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The 17th century Ambassade Hotel is surrounded by the historic monuments and romantic waterways of the Canal District, an area established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the beauty of its architecture. The hotel has 57 rooms spread over 10 original canal houses and is a favorite hole for traveling authors and publishers. Its impeccable décor offers a tantalizing combination of antique furniture and carefully preserved modern art.
Whether you choose a spacious Classic Room or a stunning apartment with a canal view, all rooms include a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and Bvlgari toiletries. In the morning, head to the elegant breakfast room for Dutch pancakes and champagne. The Brasserie serves delicious French cuisine in the evening, while the Library Bar is adorned with the signed works of more than 4,000 visiting authors. Other amenities include a spa, free Wi-Fi, and 24-hour room service.
04
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Best for families: Hotel Aalders
Direction
Jan Luijkenstraat 13-15, 1071 CJ Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 662 0116
Web
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The Aalders Hotel is ideally located just a few minutes walk from Amsterdam’s top attractions, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Vondelpark (perfect for fun, free family outings). Having been owned and managed by four generations of Aalders, it has a strong family ethic. There are 32 simple but elegant rooms, all of which offer good value for money. Opt for a triple room or a family room with two double beds.
Cots are available on request, while all rooms include a private bathroom, TV and free Wi-Fi. A complimentary breakfast ensures guests of all ages are well fed before exploring the city. To do this, you can rent bicycles at the reception. Other highlights include a lift for small legs, as well as a bar for a quiet evening drink. Although there is no restaurant, there are many family options nearby.
05
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Best for romance: Hotel Estherea
Direction
Singel 303-309, 1012 WJ Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 624 5146
Web
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Romantic hotels
4.4
The Hotel Estherea’s row of 17th-century buildings overlook the Singel Canal, Amsterdam’s oldest main canal. Known for its quirky décor, this charismatic boutique is the perfect choice for couples with a penchant for over the top romance. Expect floral wallpaper, crystal chandeliers, seductive mahogany paneling, and a captivating fish tank in the hotel lobby.
All rooms include TVs, minibars, and luxurious L’Occitane toiletries, but for the ultimate romance, choose the Rose Suite, a lush pink cabinet with beautiful courtyard garden views. Spend relaxing moments with your loved one in the library or in the decadent lounge overlooking the canal. Breakfast is served in the dining room, while the 24-hour bar offers handcrafted cocktails and international gourmet snacks.
06
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Best luxury: Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam
Direction
Herengracht 542-556, 1017 CG Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 718 4600
Web
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Luxury hotels
4.7
The six 17th-century palaces that make up the Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam overlook the Herengracht canal and put it within walking distance of cultural attractions such as the Dutch National Opera and Ballet. The hotel exudes timeless elegance, with a cool blue and cream palette, a grand Louis XIV staircase, and original ceiling paintings. With a personal concierge assigned to each guest, the service here is impeccable.
All rooms and suites offer Salvatore Ferragamo toiletries, a state-of-the-art entertainment system, and free Wi-Fi. Choose a suite for panoramic canal views, a luxurious separate living room, and authentic period design elements. There are four restaurants and bars, including two Michelin-starred Librije’s Zusje Amsterdam. Guerlain Spa, valet parking and 24-hour room service round out the hotel’s list of five-star services.
07
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Best for Nightlife: St. Christopher’s at The Winston
Direction
Warmoesstraat 129, 1012 JA Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 623 1380
Web
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Art hostel St. Christopher’s at The Winston is the perfect choice for those who don’t mind sacrificing luxury to be in the center of the action. It’s a three-minute walk from Dam Square and surrounded by the bars of Amsterdam’s Red Light District. Kick off your festivities with afternoon drinks at the beer garden or Belushi’s bar downstairs. At the latter, you will receive a 25 percent discount on 2-for-1 food and drink specials throughout the day. Later, head next door to the famous nightclub and live music venue, The Winston Kingdom. Artist-designed dormitory and private rooms include free Wi-Fi and a free continental breakfast. And there is a smoking room for those planning to experience Amsterdam’s famous cannabis culture.
08
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Best for business: Crowne Plaza Amsterdam South
Direction
George Gershwinlaan 101, 1082 MT Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 504 3666
Web
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Crowne Plaza Amsterdam South is located in the Zuidas business district, just a 10-minute drive from the RAI Amsterdam Convention Center. Take advantage of six on-site meeting rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour business center. All rooms and suites offer a Sleep Advantage program, with guaranteed wake-up calls, rooms in quiet areas, and premium bedding. Reserve a Club Room for complimentary refreshments and quiet workspaces in the Club Lounge. The restaurant serves fresh international cuisine throughout the day, while the Manhattan Lounge Bar invites you to relax with a glass of wine on the terrace. There is also a mini gym and 24 hour in-room dining.
09
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Mejor B&B: Boutique B&B Kamer01
Direction
Singel 416, 1016 AK Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 6 54776151
Web
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Located near the Flower Market in the historic Canal District, the building that houses Kamer01 dates back to 1585. Its fascinating past is evident in the original spiral staircase as well as the 18th century wallpaper in the breakfast room. Choose one of four exquisitely appointed rooms and suites, each including an iMac and decadent rain shower. In the morning, enjoy a five-course champagne breakfast at a silver table overlooking the canal. There is a roof garden, and the welcoming atmosphere created by hosts Peter, Wolter and the beagle Tommie is legendary.
