Buzzing central Amsterdam location
Within easy walking distance of Dam Square and major sights
Well-known restaurant with plush decor and covered patio
Fresh, clean rooms with flat-screen interactive TVs
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Valet parking available
General ambience lacking in style or character
Some areas in need of refreshing
There's little in the way of wow factor at The Hotel Amsterdam - De Roode Leeuw besides its buzzing central location. The hustle and bustle right on its doorstep might be too much for some, but the hotel's position makes exploring Amsterdam a breeze. Don't expect too much in the way of interior design, but the on-site restaurant does provide some plush, traditional surrounds as well as street views from its covered patio. Rooms are contemporary if not quite luxurious. Ultimately, the hotel is light on the features you might expect from an advertised four-star property, but for those who want to be in thick of it, the price is right for what you get and the location is hard to beat.
Scene
A modern, functional property that's a bit lacking in character
There's little to impress the eye upon arrival at the Hotel Amsterdam - De Roode Leeuw. Past the mostly traditional exterior, the lobby is neat and modern, furnished functionally, and entirely devoid of any pizzazz. Past reception, corridors appear to have undergone a bit of a makeover, and decor is tasteful, but overall the caliber of decor could described as IKEA quality -- clean-lined and contemporary, but a bit simple and using materials that aren't of the highest quality. The De Roode Leeuw restaurant fronting the hotel is a bit of a departure decor-wise from the rest of the property, offering a riot of crimsons, dark wood paneling, and mullioned stained glass.
Location
Smack-bang in the buzzing historical center
Located right on the Damrak -- a busy road connecting Centraal Station to Dam Square -- this hotel could hardly be better positioned amid the hubbub of central Amsterdam. It is located perfectly for tourists who are happy to stay among the city's hustle and bustle, with most attractions no more than a five-minute walk from the hotel. Passing pedestrians, cars, trams, and bikes might make the location bit too hectic for some, but many will enjoy the buzz of the Dutch capital on their doorstep.
Rooms
Fresh contemporary decor and free Wi-Fi
The hotel's 79 rooms continue the theme of functionality with fresh, muted decor and simple, contemporary furnishings. The layout is clean and uncluttered, with small corner desks, compact minibar units, and soft seating. Pine flooring leads to simple modern bathrooms with hairdryers and showers or tub/shower combos. In-room technology includes free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, while refreshments are provided from minibars and tea and coffee facilities. Considering the location, rooms are generally quiet.
Features
Traditional Dutch fare and people-watching
The property's key feature is the hotel's De Roode Leeuw restaurant. Known as a bit of an Amsterdam landmark, this eatery has a reputation for serving up fine Dutch regional specialties in its plush traditional surrounds. A covered patio terrace at the front of the restaurant means diners can also enjoy their meal watching the constant stream of passing street life. A business center is also available to guests, and those arriving by car can arrange valet parking.