NH Collection Amsterdam Doelen

The NH Collection Amsterdam Doelen claims to be the oldest hotel in the city, occupying a historic 17th-century building. Rembrandt’s “Night Watch” used to hang in what's now called the Rembrandt Suite, and past guests include Queen Victoria and The Beatles. Today, thanks to extensive 2016 renovations, the hotel lives up to its grand past, first showcasing its elegance in the magnificent lobby featuring ornately carved wood paneling edged with gilt, crystal chandeliers under a skylight, and a modern red patterned carpet running up to an elevator and adjacent marble staircase. Additional common areas are unfortunately limited to a breakfast room and bar. The latter has a living room-like feel with stylish armchairs next to curio-filled bookcases, while the breakfast room is bright, white-filled space with great views over the Amstel River. The hotel attracts primarily couples on vacation who want a decidedly upmarket place in central Amsterdam.

The hotel is situated in the heart of the Amsterdam Canal District, with the back of the hotel directly on the Amstel River, overlooking the old Dutch buildings on the opposite side. The picturesque location gives visitors a real taste of Amsterdam, with Dam Square, Rembrandt Square, and the Red Light District all within walking distance. From the hotel’s door, the Bloemenmarkt, Amsterdam’s great floating flower market, is a two minute walk away, and Dam Square is five minutes away. Over on the other side of the Grachtengordel, Anne Frank’s house is a 15 minute walk away. Numerous restaurants and shops are within a five- to 15-minute walk. The major transportation hub, Centraal Station, is within a 15-minute walk, while Schiphol Amsterdam Airport is about a 25-minute drive south out of the city center.

Renovated in 2016, the 81 rooms are bright, modern, and sophisticated. The design is fairly consistent across the board, consisting of beige carpeting, white walls and linens, two-tone wood furniture, and pale-pink velvet chairs. Red lamp stands, blue-and-white tiles, and distressed mirrors add personality. Big windows let in lots of light and some have lovely river views. The lower-category Superior Rooms are on the small side but sufficient, housing desks and chairs, wardrobes, and built-in nooks with minibars, kettles, and Nespresso machines. Higher-category rooms are larger, and Junior Suites and Suites add sitting areas. Suites also have more impressive decor. White-marble bathrooms are swish, equipped with rainfall showers, full hairdryers, and NH-branded toiletries. Air-conditioning, safes, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi come standard.

The Rembrandt Suite was allegedly where the artist’s most famous work, “Night Watch” hung for many decades, and now there is a full-size reprint of the work. Meanwhile, the Empress Suite has wood paneling, a fresco ceiling depicting the coats of arms of various historic noblemen, and a wooden fireplace embellished with Delft tiles. 

Surprisingly for a hotel of this caliber, the NH Collection Amsterdam Doelen lacks a full restaurant and wellness facilities of any kind -- there are no gym, spa, or pool. The only meal served is a breakfast buffet with a range of continental and hot fare, available for a fee. Additionally, the adjacent bar serves light meals and snacks all day, and the hotel’s location means that sustenance will not be hard to find. Evenings, the hotel serves free wine and cheese. A shuttle to the airport is available for a fee, while Wi-Fi is free throughout.