The InterContinental Amstel is one of the old grandes dames of Amsterdam hospitality. It stands at Professor Tulpplein 1, on the bank of the River Amstel, in a building the hotel's page dates to 1867, and it has only 79 rooms spread over four floors, which is small for a five-star hotel and gives it a calm, almost residential feel. The page lists a five-star class under the Hotelstars Union rating. The setting is the main draw: instead of the bustle of Dam Square, you are beside a broad, quiet stretch of river, within a short walk of the Weesperplein metro and tram links, and still only a few minutes from the heart of the city. The facilities are those of a full-service luxury hotel. There is an indoor pool with sun loungers, a hot tub, a sauna, a steam room and a Turkish bath, together with a full-service spa and a gym that is open around the clock. You can eat in the Amstel Bar, the Amstel Lounge or The Dining Room, and there is a terrace, a coffee shop, bike rental and boat tours and eco-tours arranged by the hotel. Free WiFi is listed, with in-room speeds of 50 Mbps or more, and the page notes a business centre and conference space. Check-in begins at 3:00 PM and check-out is before noon, with fees for early check-in and late check-out subject to availability.
Who it suits
Couples, honeymooners and anyone marking a special occasion, as well as travellers who value quiet over nightlife. It is a good choice for visitors who intend to spend time in the spa and pool, and for business travellers who want a formal atmosphere. Families are welcome, and the page lists extra beds, but the character of the hotel is adult and refined. Pets are not allowed except service animals.
Living in it
The hotel is on the edge of the centre rather than in the middle of it. The page lists Rembrandt Square as an eleven-minute walk, ARTIS zoo as twelve minutes, the Flower Market as fifteen and Weesperplein station as four minutes on foot. Dam Square is around five minutes by car, and Schiphol Airport is about 28 minutes by car.
Many guests use taxis or the nearby metro for evenings out, and the Amstel itself is excellent for a morning run or walk. Be aware of the extras listed on the page: cooked-to-order breakfast is charged separately and is high priced, valet parking is listed at 90 euros a night and the airport shuttle is a per-vehicle fee. The local tax rate of 12.5 per cent also applies.
Value
This is a luxury hotel, and rates reflect that, rising sharply in spring, summer and around major events. The value case is the combination of the river setting, the tranquillity, the spa and the small scale, which are hard to find together in Amsterdam. Guest ratings on the page are exceptional, though based on a smaller number of reviews than larger hotels. Book early for peak dates, check the cancellation terms on your rate and consider a river-view room, which is the highlight of a stay.
Why stay here
- ✓Indoor pool
- ✓Full-service spa
- ✓Sauna, steam room and Turkish bath
- ✓24-hour gym
- ✓Three restaurants and bars
- ✓River terrace
- ✓Bike rental and boat tours
- ✓Valet parking
Good questions
What is the InterContinental Amstel like?+
A small, five-star hotel of 79 rooms in an 1867 building on the River Amstel, with an indoor pool, spa, three dining venues and a terrace.
How close is it to the sights?+
The hotel page lists Rembrandt Square as an eleven-minute walk, ARTIS as twelve minutes and the Flower Market as fifteen. Weesperplein station is a four-minute walk.
Is breakfast included?+
The page lists cooked-to-order breakfast at 39 euros per person, charged separately from the room rate unless your rate includes it. Check your rate details.
