Ambassade Hotel

Housed in a row of houses dating back to the 17th century, the Ambassade Hotel feels tasteful and inviting even from the outside. Its brick facade and big windows overlooking one of the city’s most famous canals offer a taste of traditional Amsterdam, while interiors are elegant and refined, with handsome wooden floors, leather and velvet accents, and warm lights. Two of the most outstanding features of the hotel are its impressive collection of art and extensive library. The aptly named Library Bar is lined with shelves bursting with books, while eye-catching paintings and sculptures from the influential CoBrA artist collective dot common areas and rooms. These dashes of contemporary art balance out the more ornate decor details, such as embroidered fabrics and period furniture, giving spaces a unique feel and look. Rates at the Ambassade are average for an upscale hotel in the Canal Ring, but those wanting to check out other options may want to consider The Toren or the Banks Mansion, the latter of which offers great freebies that add tons of value, including breakfast, drinks and snacks, and minibar items. Middle-aged and older couples rave about the Ambassade’s elegant vibe and classic style, but younger travelers may prefer the W Amsterdam, which has a hip atmosphere and top-notch amenities. Travelers seeking something cheaper a little bit away from the hustle and bustle of the historic center may want to consider the 377 House - Amsterdam, which is a charming, design-conscious boutique located within walking distance of the Rijksmuseum. 

The hotel is located directly on the edge of the Herengracht canal, one of the innermost waterways in the Canal Ring. There are dozens of small cafes, bars, and restaurants within a short walk, and the Nine Street shopping area is just across the canal from the hotel. Most major attractions in the historic center can also be reached on foot within 10 minutes, including Dam Square, the Anne Frank House, and the Flower Market. The Museum District -- home to the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, among many others -- is about a 15-minute walk away, as is the beautiful Vondelpark. There are several tram and bus stops within three short blocks of the Ambassade, allowing for easy access to attractions farther afield. The hotel is about a 20-minute walk (or 15-minute tram ride) from Centraal Station and a 30-minute drive from the airport.

The Ambassade’s 56 air-conditioned rooms were all renovated between 2011 and 2015, and are decorated in an ornate, classic style that combines elegant Louis XV/XVI furniture, rich fabrics, and gilded mirrors with eye-catching CoBrA art and modern chandeliers. Though all rooms are decked out in a similar style, each unit has its own palette that ties in with the displayed artworks’ color scheme, and all rooms are different in size and layout, which is common in old buildings. Some rooms have original architectural elements such as exposed wooden beams, and others feature small balconies with street or canal views. Unfortunately, some past guests in street-facing rooms have complained of noise issues. Classic Rooms are the smallest here, with just enough space for a double bed or two twins, a desk, and when the layout allows, a small seating area. There are also larger Duplex units with spiral staircases, Grand Suites with separate living areas, and even an 861-square-foot (80-square-meter) apartment with its own private entrance and kitchenette.Amenities are the same in all room types, and include free Wi-Fi, well-stocked minibars, flat-screen TVs, and safes -- some with power sockets inside. Note that all rooms aside from the apartment lack coffee- and tea-making facilities, but kettles can be requested. Quality beds come with several pillows and soft duvets, and slippers are provided in all rooms. Bathrooms vary in style: while some were renovated in 2015 and have walk-in showers, heated towel racks, radiant floors, and contemporary round sinks over black counters, others are a tad plain (albeit spotlessly clean), with basic shower/tub combos and white tiles throughout. Guests with mobility issues should be aware that some units lack elevator access.

Housed in a beautiful, light-filled space with picturesque views of the canal and elegant herringbone floors, the brasserie serves excellent French cuisine for lunch and dinner, made with fresh, seasonal produce. A varied, tasty breakfast of hot and cold options is also served here every morning, but it is not always included in the room rate. Library Bar serves hot and cold drinks in a cozy, elegant space full of books and comfy seating. Though the hotel lacks wellness facilities, guests are offered discounted rates at Koan Float, a spa with floating sessions and massage services located just a few doors down. Five meeting rooms are outfitted with full audiovisual equipment, and the hotel has two parking spots nearby, but they have to be reserved in advance and are an extra fee. Bike rentals can be arranged at the front desk.