Damrak 96, Amsterdam, Netherlands | 3 (120) 522-3000
Central, safe location close to many sites
Room perks include Nespresso machines, flat-screen TVs (in most), iPod/iPad docks, and pillow menus
In-room massages are available upon request
Spacious fitness center has modern equipment and street views
Business center has 3 computers with free Internet and snacks; open 24 hours
Bikes are available to rent -- a great way to explore the city
Suites come with additional amenities such as free Wi-Fi and modern, spacious bathrooms with soaking tubs
Babysitting available upon request
24-hour room service and concierge
No official hotel restaurant or lounge
Suites have glass-walled bathrooms that lack privacy
Hotel lacks Dutch character
Some rooms are dark and lack views
Some rooms have older tube TVs
Rooms facing Dam Square can be loud
Wi-Fi isn't free in standard rooms
Swissotel may be a chain name, but this particular property in the heart of Amsterdam, across from Dam Square, feels more like a boutique hotel. With 109 rooms and suites donned in contemporary decor, it is a friendly option in a popular setting -- though it's a bit more upscale, and consequently more expensive, than some of the nearby hotels. Overall, it's simply decorated with neutral tones and minimalistic, contemporary furniture (though standard rooms feel more generic than the suites). Rooms include amenities such as a pillow menu, iPod/iPad docks, and spacious bathrooms -- of course, the glass-walled bathrooms in the suites seriously lack privacy. The main floor has a small lobby, business center, and bright fitness center, but the narrow setting lacks communal areas and dining options. There is a restaurant, Dam Plaza, in the same building, that is not officially part of the hotel, though it does offer a breakfast buffet. The red rental bikes strategically placed in front make the Swissotel easy to spot on the busy street, and they also offer a great way to tour around "the Venice of the North" -- a top priority for guests who typically stay here.
Location
A central and busy area of Amsterdam -- great for walking or biking to nearby sites
Swissotel Amsterdam boasts a great location, right at Dam Square in the heart of the city center. It is a short walk from Central Station, and most major sights and attractions are within walking distance. The area can be touristy though, so guests in search of more local neighborhoods can rent one of the hotel bikes. In addition, the tram stops practically at the hotel's front door, or it's a quick walk to the train station.Marked by cobblestone roads, street-level canals and an abundance of coffee shops (which are most often known for something other than coffee), Amsterdam is both a quiet and lively city without the pretention of European metropolises.In the summer, visitors can enjoy live music at the Openluchttheater, an open-air venue at the Vondelpark, or the Roots Music Festival. The Gay Pride parade also takes place in the summer, and the city's many museums -- including the Van Gogh Museum or the Anne Frank House, where Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during World War 2 -- are popular year-round. Visitors in April can experience Queen's Day, which celebrates the queen's birthday and includes a massive flea market, parties, and outdoor concerts.Noordermarkt is known for its antiques, and Brouwerij de Prael is a recommended stop for beer enthusiasts. Fun dining spots include the famous sandwich spot Van Dobben, as well as Pancake Bakery, which offers more than 70 types of pancakes and a slew of other breakfast goods.- 24-minute drive to Schiphol Airport
Classic Room
Junior Suite
Premium Room
Swiss Business Advantage Room
Damrak 96, Amsterdam, Netherlands
3 (120) 522-3000