After my weekend in Paris, I was home for just four days before jetting off to Amsterdam. Funny enough, it was actually while I was in Paris that I decided to cancel my original Amsterdam hotel and rebook at the Van der Valk Hotel Amstel – all because it had a pool.
Yes, I booked a hotel purely for one feature.
It was so hot in Paris that I knew I wouldn’t cope without somewhere to cool off, so I jumped on Booking.com and filtered for hotels with a pool.
And honestly? That turned out to be an incredible decision.
First Impressions of the Van der Valk Hotel Amstel
The hotel was absolutely stunning – it had that unmistakable luxe hotel scent (iykyk). I was immediately impressed by its grandeur. You’re welcomed by a spacious, beautifully designed lobby, with a sleek restaurant to the left and a cosy, inviting bar to the right. Everything felt modern, clean, and effortlessly elegant.
How much did Van der Valk Hotel Amstel cost?
The hotel definitely lived up to its price tag – and by that, I mean we scored an incredible deal. Two nights at the Van der Valk Hotel Amstel came to £257. That’s just £64 per person, per night. But wait, there’s more.
If was actually cheaper than the previous hotel we had booked for Amsterdam, and a little bit more luxe.
Wellness Amenities at Van der Valk Hotel Amstel
Guests get free access to the hotel’s wellness centre, which includes a Turkish steam bath, Finnish sauna, infrared swing (I know, wtf?), herbal sauna room, foot spa, and an outdoor pool. Yep – all included in your stay.
In-Room Perks
Each room comes with a Nespresso machine (pods replenished daily), plush bedding, and modern furnishings – small touches that make a big difference after a long day exploring Amsterdam.
Room Type: Comfort Double Room with Open Bathroom
I booked a room I wouldn’t usually go for – the Comfort Double Room with Open Bathroom. And listen, I’m the type of person who wouldn’t even notice if I’d accidentally booked a shared-bathroom situation, because I rarely check the finer details. So, imagine my surprise when I realised the bathroom was… open plan.
I mean really open. You’re lying in bed, and there’s a booty reflecting in the wardrobe mirror from the shower. Zero privacy. Thankfully, I was travelling with my partner, so the boundaries were already pretty thin – but still, something to be aware of before booking.
Location: Van der Valk Hotel Amstel
The hotel’s located at 20 Joan Muyskenweg, Oost, 1096 CJ Amsterdam, Netherlands. It’s a little outside the city centre, but honestly, it wasn’t a big deal. And perfect if you’re wanting somewhere that is a bit further afield. We took the metro from the centre to the hotel each day, and the journey was under 15 minutes.
We also had a concert at the AFAS, which was super easy to get to!
There’s not much happening in the immediate area around the hotel, but thankfully, the on-site restaurant and bar are both stunning. We were more than happy to spend an entire evening there without feeling the need to venture out.
How did I sleep at Van der Valk Hotel Amstel?
Wonderful. It’s as simple as that. The bed was huge. And given the location of both the hotel and the room, everything was as silent as a mouse.
Public transport near Van der Valk Hotel Amstel
Your best bet is to use Metro Overamstel – it’s less than a five-minute walk from the hotel and although not signposted, it’s a literal straight line.
Dining & Drinks
There’s a restaurant onsite, Restaurant Amstelle, which is open for lunch and dinner. But if you’re wanting pizzas, bar food, or cocktails, then you can check out Bar Moqum which is also onsite!
What if I’m starving at 3am? Well, there’s a self-serve kiosk in the lobby that has stropwafels, pringles, and everything else you’d need for a 3am snack.
Would I stay at Van der Valk Hotel Amstel again?
100% yes. It would actually be my first choice if I’m going back to Amsterdam. And it would be absolutely amazing to go in the autumn when the weather is a little chilly, and using that outdoor pool. Oooph.
