Hotel Jakarta Amsterdam

At the tip of Java Island, Hotel Jakarta sits surrounded by water, bold modern architecture, and the waterfront walks of the Eastern Docklands, once the city's busy harbour. It feels like a world apart, yet Centraal Station is just two tram stops away, and the nearest stop is a five-minute walk away. Dam Square is about 20 minutes by public transport, and the Museum Quarter about 25.

Ships once sailed from this spot to Jakarta, and the hotel celebrates that history. Bamboo interiors and Indonesian-inspired design run throughout. The showpiece is a soaring atrium filled with a subtropical garden.

Rooms start at a generous 30 square metres, with warm wood and bamboo interiors. Most have a balcony and views over the IJ river. Some rooms sleep three, and the suites at the building's glass end offer 180-degree views.

Café Jakarta blends Indonesian and Western flavours, and Westers Bakery serves pastries and coffee. At the top of the building, Malabar skybar pairs Asian-inspired bites and cocktails with panoramic views over Amsterdam and the IJ river.

Swimming lengths while boats pass outside is something most city hotels can't offer. Alongside the pool are a sauna, a fitness centre, and treatment rooms for massages and beauty treatments.