DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station

Description

Amsterdam is a city of canals, culture, and countless adventures. And right in the heart of it all stands the DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station. I’ve stayed at my fair share of hotels, but this one? It’s somethin’ special.

Perched just a stone’s throw from Amsterdam Centraal Station, this sleek and stylish hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. As soon as you step through those doors, you’re greeted with that warm DoubleTree welcome – and yes, that includes their famous chocolate chip cookie. Trust me, it’s worth the trip alone!

The hotel boasts 557 rooms, each a little haven of modern luxury. Floor-to-ceiling windows give you breathtaking views of the city or the IJ River. And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like waking up to the sight of Amsterdam coming to life in the morning light.

But it’s not just about the rooms. The DoubleTree Amsterdam Centraal Station is a destination in itself. With its rooftop bar, fitness center, and multiple dining options, you might be tempted to never leave the hotel. But then again, with the city’s main attractions just a hop, skip, and a jump away, you’d be missing out on all the fun!

Key Features

Alright, let’s dive into what makes this place tick. First off, location, location, location! You’re literally steps away from Amsterdam Centraal Station, which means easy access to trains, trams, and buses to whisk you away to any corner of the city—or beyond!

Now, let’s talk about those rooms. Each one comes equipped with an Apple iMac computer. Yep, you heard that right. It’s like having your concierge right at your fingertips. Need to check your emails? Plan your day? Or maybe just watch some Netflix? It’s all there, ready and waiting.

But the real showstopper? That’s must be the SkyLounge Amsterdam. Perched on the 11th floor, this rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the city that’ll take your breath away. I remember sipping a cocktail up there as the sun set over Amsterdam – it’s a memory I won’t forget in a hurry.

For the fitness buffs among you (and I’ll admit, I’m more of a ‘fitness buff’ in theory than in practice), there’s a 24-hour fitness center. So whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, you can squeeze in a workout whenever the mood strikes.

Oh, and did I mention the dining options? From the casual City Café to the more upscale Eastwood Beer & Grill, there’s something to satisfy every craving. And if you’re feeling lazy (hey, no judgment here), room service is available 24/7.

For those mixing business with pleasure, the hotel offers 19 meeting rooms and a business center. So you can close that deal and then celebrate with a canal cruise all in the same day!

Best Time to Visit

Now, when’s the best time to visit? Well, that’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? Amsterdam is one of those cities that has something to offer year-round. But if you’re asking for my two cents, I’d say aim for spring or early fall.

Spring in Amsterdam is nothing short of magical. The city bursts into color as tulips bloom in every park and garden. Plus, you’ve got events like King’s Day (April 27th) where the whole city turns into one big orange-clad party. Just be sure to book your stay at the DoubleTree well in advance – it fills up fast during peak times!

Early fall is another sweet spot. The summer crowds have thinned out, but the weather’s still mild enough for canal cruises and outdoor cafes. Plus, you might catch events like the Amsterdam Fringe Festival or the Amsterdam Dance Event.

That being said, there’s a certain charm to Amsterdam in winter. The city takes on a cozy, festive atmosphere. And there’s nothing quite like warming up with a hot chocolate at the DoubleTree after a day of exploring the snow-dusted streets.

Summer? Well, it’s peak tourist season for a reason. Long days, warm weather, and endless festivals. Just be prepared for higher prices and bigger crowds. But hey, if you don’t mind rubbing shoulders with fellow travelers, it can be a blast!

One pro tip: look for the hotel’s special offers. They often have seasonal packages that can make your stay even more memorable (and easier on the wallet).

How to Get There

Getting to the DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station is a breeze. I mean, it’s right there in the name – Centraal Station!

If you’re flying into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, you’ve got a few options. The easiest is probably the direct train to Amsterdam Centraal Station. It runs every 10-15 minutes and takes about 15-20 minutes. Once you’re at the station, it’s just a short walk to the hotel. You can’t miss it – just look for the tall, modern building with the DoubleTree logo.

If you’re lugging heavy bags or just feeling a bit lazy (hey, we’ve all been there after a long flight), you can always grab a taxi from the airport. It’ll take about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic and set you back around 40-50 euros. A bit pricier, but sometimes convenience is worth it.

For the budget-conscious traveler, there’s also a bus option. The Amsterdam Airport Express (bus 397) runs every 15 minutes and stops right near the hotel. It takes a bit longer – about 30 minutes – but it’s cheaper than a taxi.

If you’re arriving by train from another European city, the hotel is literally a stone’s throw from Amsterdam Centraal Station. Just follow the signs for the exit towards the city center, and you’ll see the DoubleTree right in front of you.

Driving? While I wouldn’t recommend having a car in Amsterdam (trust me, those narrow streets and numerous cyclists can be a nightmare), the hotel offers valet parking if needed. Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny – parking in central Amsterdam doesn’t come cheap!

Once you’re at the hotel, getting around Amsterdam is a piece of cake. You’re right in the heart of the action, with trams, buses, and metro lines all converging at Centraal Station. Plus, Amsterdam is a wonderfully walkable city. Some of my favorite memories are just wandering the canal-lined streets and stumbling upon quaint cafes and hidden gems.

And let’s not forget about bikes! Amsterdam is a cyclist’s paradise, and renting a bike is a great way to explore the city like a local. The hotel can help you arrange a rental if you’re feeling adventurous. Remember to follow the traffic rules and watch out for those tram tracks!