Ambassade Hotel

The Ambassade occupies a quiet stretch of the Herengracht, one of Amsterdam's grandest canals. The Nine Streets begin just around the corner, with their independent boutiques, vintage shops and cosy cafés. Dam Square, the Anne Frank House and the Jordaan are all within walking distance. The Spui tram stop is about three minutes away, and Museumplein is a short tram ride away.

Since the 1980s, the Ambassade has welcomed writers, artists and intellectuals, and this has become central to its identity. Works from the CoBrA movement hang in the public spaces and the rooms. The Library Bar holds more than 5,000 books, each signed by an author who stayed at the hotel.

Rooms span a row of historic canal houses and vary in size and layout. They feature classic Louis XV and XVI style, with colourful fabrics, gilt mirrors, and original artworks. Most overlook the canal, and a few have French balconies. Not every room can be reached by lift, so mention it when booking if stairs are a concern.

Brasserie Ambassade serves classic French dishes with a modern twist, surrounded by CoBrA oil paintings and views over the Herengracht. It is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Library Bar is a comfortable spot for drinks and small plates among the books.

The hotel's own spa, Koan Float, is a few doors along the canal. It offers flotation tanks and massages, and hotel guests receive a discount on treatments.