art'otel amsterdam

Step off the train, and you're practically at the door. art'otel fills a grand historic building on Prins Hendrikkade, directly opposite Centraal Station, where trains, trams and the metro fan out across the city. Dam Square is a short walk down Damrak, and the Nine Streets, with their independent boutiques and canal-side cafés, are within easy reach.

The Rotterdam studio Atelier Van Lieshout created the sculptures, installations and furniture found throughout the hotel. The 5&33 gallery also hosts changing exhibitions by contemporary Dutch artists.

The rooms are modern and understated, in shades of grey, white, and black. Each features original laser-cut artwork by Atelier Van Lieshout, mood lighting, and a rain shower. Some rooms offer canal views, while others overlook Centraal Station or the inner courtyard.

ARCA is led by Portuguese chef Henrique Sá Pessoa. It serves modern Portuguese cooking with Asian influences and is popular with locals and guests alike. The 5&33 bar hosts a daily aperitivo hour, with DJs from Wednesday to Saturday.

Guests can use the indoor pool, sauna, and Technogym fitness centre for free, and massages are available. A pool is a rare find this close to the station.