Citadines Connect Fifth Avenue New York

Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to the Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam, you’re immediately struck by this imposing brick building that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. I mean, the architecture is absolutely stunning — it’s actually a former shipping house from 1916, and honestly, they’ve done an incredible job preserving that maritime heritage while turning it into a five-star luxury experience. The location on Prins Hendrikkade puts you right in the thick of things, just steps from Central Station.

The Heart of Amsterdam

You know what I love about staying here? You’re literally in Amsterdam City Centre, but somehow the hotel feels like this quiet sanctuary despite being surrounded by all the action. The Red Light District is a five-minute walk (which, let’s be honest, most visitors want to see anyway), and you can reach the main shopping streets or the museum quarter easily. What really impressed me was how the staff seemed to know all these little shortcuts and local spots that you’d never find in a guidebook.

The Room Experience

The room I stayed in had these massive windows overlooking the historic harbor — and I’m talking floor-to-ceiling views that make you feel like you’re on a luxury ship. The design perfectly balances that maritime theme with modern comfort, though I’ll admit the layout can feel a bit unique (it’s an old building, after all). The bathroom was spacious with this gorgeous rainfall shower, and honestly, the bed was one of those where you just sink in and don’t want to get up.

Dining and Amenities

The ground-floor restaurant serves this fantastic fusion of Dutch and international cuisine — their seafood dishes especially make sense given the building’s shipping history. There’s also this cozy bar area where locals actually hang out, which always feels like a good sign to me. The spa facilities are solid, though not huge, and there’s a fitness center that gets the job done if you need to work off all that Dutch cheese.

Why Guests Love It

What sets this place apart is how it manages to feel both grand and intimate at the same time. The service strikes that perfect balance — attentive without being hovering, and they really know their stuff about the neighborhood. Sure, it’s not the newest hotel in town, but that’s actually part of its charm. The parking situation is handled through valet service, which is honestly a relief in this part of Amsterdam where finding a spot yourself would be a nightmare.