For anybody flying into Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, the most likely transit route to the city will be via train to Centraal Station. Central is accurate, the train station is just minutes away from the canals cafés and coffee shops of historic Amsterdam, where all the stories and action take place.
A stay at a hotel near Centraal Station in Amsterdam means staying in the thick of things. You’ll be close to the action and easy transportation, as well as having proximity to the free ferries that ply the Ij to the north side of the city. Therefore we have compiled a list of the best five hotel from the huge selection, taking into account everything from location to amenities.
A-TRAIN HOTEL
Privates from €149/ night
A more modest option, but worthy of this list, A-Train has the rare combination of a low price (relative to elsewhere in Amsterdam), and good facilities. Not only is it one of the closest hotels to Centraal Station but it continues the train theme in the common areas, with breakfasts, included in the price, served in a lounge designed like a train carriage. Rooms may have seen better days, but they are still cosy and have a TV, small desk and ensuite bathroom with free toiletries.
IBIS STYLES AMSTERDAM CENTRAL STATION
Privates from €242/ night
Of the number of ibis Styles properties across Amsterdam, the one at Centraal Station is one of the best, not only because of its proximity to the station. Rooms are bright and comfortable, there is air conditioning and free wifi, and the onsite steak restaurant means that you can always grab a bite at the hotel before running to catch that train. Breakfast is included in the room price and a tram stop right outside connects you to areas throughout the city centre.
ART‘OTEL AMSTERDAM
Privates from €340/ night
European kitsch is raised to a completely new level at Art’otel Amsterdam. There is hardly a surface or corner of the hotel that has not been given a unique touch or twist. This is especially true of the common areas, such as the excellent restaurant, library and games room. In fact there are tonnes of little extras here, such as an indoor pool and wellness centre, sauna and even a soundproofed nightclub. Bicycles are a popular mode of transport in Amsterdam, and rental is available from the front desk.
NH COLLECTION BARBIZON PALACE
Privates from €300/ night
NH Collection is always a reliable chain, and their Barbizon Palace property is no exception. The modern hotel, complete with elegantly furnished rooms has little streaks of the property’s historic origins poking through, such as the 17th century oak beams in some rooms, and the 15th century chapel inside as well. There are two restaurants on the site, which makes the fitness centre extra valuable for anybody looking to have their cake and eat it, so to speak.
INNTEL AMSTERDAM CENTRE
Privates from €221/ night
Rooms at the Inntel are especially praised by previous guests for their comfort and cleanliness. There is good free wifi throughout the property. Rooms have tea and coffee making facilities, a minibar, desk and a seating area, in addition to the common amenities like flatscreen TVs and air conditioning. It is possible to rent bicycles from the hotel too, but be warned that cycling in Amsterdam, although loads of fun, takes a little getting used to at first.