Amsterdam Hotels

Amstel InterContinental Amsterdam
One of Holland's most luxurious and prestigious hotels occupies a tranquil, scenic location on the banks of the River Amstel. Since its opening in 1867, it has played host to countless kings, queens and celebrities, such as Princess Diana, Audrey Hepburn, Madonna and members of The Rolling Stones. With opulent, traditional-style rooms of stately grandeur containing Delft porcelain, spacious conference facilities, an impressive health club and swimming pool, magnificent riverside terraces, and limousine service, the hotel fully lives up to its motto 'tradition meets excellence'. Even the restaurant, La Rive, boasts two well-deserved Michelin stars.

Professor Tulpplein 1
Tel: (020) 622 6060.
Website: www.amsterdam.intercontinental.com

Hotel de l'Europe
Over the years this grand old dame has watched challengers come and go, but through attention to detail and well-trained staff it manages to stay the address in town for lavish old-world luxury. The Hotel de l'Europe oozes class with 19th-century paintings adorning the public areas. Each bedroom is equipped with full mod cons to suit the most discerning professional or leisure traveller and many afford magnificent views over the River Amstel. The hotel offers top-notch business facilities, as well as an indoor heated swimming pool and a fitness centre.

Nieuwe Doelenstraat 2-14
Tel: (020) 531 1777.
Website: www.leurope.nl

The Dylan
The Dylan remains one of the most fashionable places to stay in town. Located in the trendy Jordaan district, this small boutique hotel is the epitome of style and sophistication, housed in a former 17th-century theatre, which, in its heyday, staged concerts conducted by the great Italian composer Antonio Vivaldi. Today, the minimalist East-meets-West designer décor of the 26 guest rooms, combined with an intimate courtyard garden, spectacular canal views, efficient staff and an excellent restaurant, ensures a luxurious stay.

Keizersgracht 384
Tel: (020) 530 2010.
Website: www.dylanamsterdam.com

Hotel Okura
The Hotel Okura is a top-notch Japanese-owned tower hotel between the airport and the city centre and only a short distance from the RAI. Guest rooms have all mod cons with Internet connection through TVs and large, well-lit desks. There is a spa and the high-tech gym has a good selection of exercise equipment, as well as a pool and sauna. There are myriad dining outlets as well as a sprinkling of bars. The Okura's Grand Ballroom can seat 1,050 (or 1,200 standing).

Ferdinand Bolstraat 333
Tel: (020) 678 7111.
Website: www.okura.nl

NH Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky
The dazzling list of former guests at this well-respected city centre hotel includes Brahms, Mahler, Conrad, Joyce and President Mitterand. And it was here that Omar Sharif worked for a short spell as a porter, having lost at the poker table. Located on Amsterdam's Dam Square, opposite the Royal Palace, there is a great atmosphere of calm, efficiency and comfort. A popular business choice, this 468-room hotel is one of the largest congress hotels in Benelux. It also offers excellent dining options, including the celebrated art deco Winter Garden.

Dam 9
Tel: (020) 554 9111.
Website: www.nh-hotels.com

Seven Bridges
This delightful, quiet guest house counts among the city's best value options, where guests are assured a warm welcome. It is ideally located on one of the loveliest canals with a view of seven bridges, just a stone's throw from lively Rembrandtplein. Each room is a comfortable, stylish double, individually furnished and filled with antiques and there are hand-painted tiles in the en-suite bathrooms. All the rooms have a TV, telephone and free Internet access. Breakfasts are served on fine china in the guest rooms. As there are only 11 bedrooms, it is vital to book in advance.

Reguliersgracht 31
Tel: (020) 623 1329.
Website: www.sevenbridgeshotel.nl

Bicycle Hotel
It would be difficult to miss this hotel, because the outside walls are decorated with bicycles. Situated in the lively De Pijp district, yet only 10 minutes by tram from the city centre, this clean, basic bed and breakfast hires out bikes. On arrival, guests receive maps showing the city's main cycle routes and the young, friendly staff can also provide advice on how to discover hidden Amsterdam. Rooms are light, airy and simple, although not all are en suite. There is a relaxing communal area and Internet access is available in the breakfast room.

Van Ostadestraat 123
Tel: (020) 679 3452.
Website: www.bicyclehotel.com

Hotel Vondel
Close to Amsterdam's lively centre but hidden in a quiet street, this small boutique hotel offers a unique ambience with its stylish, recently refurbished interior and new expansion. Hotel Vondel is made up of several houses so rooms have different styles, with executive rooms particularly spacious. The hotel is named after Joost van den Vondel (1587-1679), the 'Shakespeare of the Netherlands'.

Vondelstraat 26
Tel: (020) 515 0455.
Website: www.hotelvondel.nl

The Quentin Hotel
The Quentin Hotel is a newly renovated 50-room hotel, ideally located in the heart of Amsterdam. The Quentin is known for its unique atmosphere, hosting throughout the year many of the city's young music bands on a regular basis. Bars, shops, markets and museums are all within short walking distance. The RAI congress centre (Amsterdam Exhibitions and Fairs centre) is also within easy reach.

Leidsekade 89
Tel: (020) 626 2187.
Website: www.quentinhotels.com