Description
Amsterdam is a city of canals, culture, and countless adventures, and DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station puts you close to it all. I’ve stayed at my fair share of hotels, but this one’s got something special about it.
The hotel sits just a stone’s throw from Amsterdam Centraal Station, so getting around is easy. Step inside and you’ll get that warm DoubleTree welcome, complete with the famous chocolate chip cookie. Honestly, it’s a pretty good start to a stay.
The hotel has 557 rooms, each with a modern, comfortable feel. Floor-to-ceiling windows look out over the city or the IJ River. Waking up to Amsterdam in the morning light is hard to beat.
There’s more here than just the rooms: a rooftop bar, fitness center, and several dining options. You could easily spend most of your time at the hotel, but with so much of the city within easy reach, you’d be missing out if you did.
Key Features
First up, the location. You’re just steps from Amsterdam Centraal Station, with trains, trams, and buses ready to take you across the city or beyond.
Each room comes with an Apple iMac computer. It’s handy for checking email, planning your day, or watching Netflix, all from your room.
And then there’s SkyLounge Amsterdam. Up on the 11th floor, this rooftop bar has panoramic city views. I once sipped a cocktail there as the sun set over Amsterdam, and it’s a memory that’s stuck with me.
If you like to keep up with your workouts, the hotel has a 24-hour fitness center. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, you can fit in a session whenever you like.
For food, there’s the casual City Café and the more upscale Eastwood Beer & Grill. Room service is also available 24/7, which comes in handy when you’d rather stay in.
The hotel also has 19 meeting rooms and a business center, so you can wrap up a workday and still have time for a canal cruise.
Best Time to Visit
So, when’s the best time to visit? Amsterdam has something going on year-round, but I’d pick spring or early fall if you can.
Spring is a lovely time in Amsterdam, with tulips blooming in parks and gardens across the city. King’s Day on April 27th brings an orange-clad party to the streets, so book your DoubleTree stay well in advance. Rooms can go quickly around then.
Early fall is another good bet. The summer crowds have eased, but the weather’s often still mild enough for canal cruises and outdoor cafes. You might also catch the Amsterdam Fringe Festival or Amsterdam Dance Event.
Winter has its own charm, too. Amsterdam gets a cozy, festive feel, and a hot chocolate at the DoubleTree after a day exploring the streets is a welcome treat.
Summer brings long days, warm weather, and plenty of festivals, but it’s also peak tourist season. Expect higher prices and bigger crowds. If you don’t mind sharing the city with fellow travelers, though, it can be a lot of fun.
It’s also worth checking the hotel’s special offers. Seasonal packages can make your stay more memorable and a little easier on the wallet.
How to Get There
Getting to DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station is straightforward. The hotel’s right by the station, just as the name suggests.
Flying into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol? The direct train to Amsterdam Centraal Station is probably the easiest option. Trains run every 10-15 minutes and take about 15-20 minutes. From the station, it’s a short walk to the hotel; look for the tall, modern building with the DoubleTree logo.
If you’ve got heavy bags or just want a simpler trip after a long flight, take a taxi from the airport. The ride takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs around 40-50 euros. It’s pricier, but sometimes the convenience is worth it.
For a cheaper option, take the Amsterdam Airport Express, bus 397. It runs every 15 minutes and stops near the hotel. The trip takes about 30 minutes, a bit longer than a taxi.
Arriving by train from another European city? The hotel is just a stone’s throw from Amsterdam Centraal Station. Follow the signs for the city center exit, and you’ll see the DoubleTree right in front of you.
If you’re driving, keep in mind that a car isn’t much use in Amsterdam. The narrow streets and constant stream of cyclists can be a challenge, though the hotel does offer valet parking. Central Amsterdam parking doesn’t come cheap, so be prepared for the cost.
Once you’ve checked in, getting around is easy. Trams, buses, and metro lines all meet at Centraal Station, and Amsterdam is a wonderfully walkable city. Some of my favorite memories are from simply wandering the canal-lined streets and finding quaint cafes along the way.
And then there are the bikes. Amsterdam is a cyclist’s paradise, and renting one is a great way to explore like a local. The hotel can help arrange a rental if you’re up for it. Just follow the traffic rules and watch out for the tram tracks!
