I adore Amsterdam, and visit regularly--on my own and with my family (we have two young kids). I have, at last, found my favourite hotel in this charming city.
The Hotel Fita is located on a quiet pedestrian street within a stone's throw of the Van Gough and Rijksmuseum, and in the other direction, close to one of the city's exclusive shopping streets (perfect for window-shopping). The Concertgebouw is no more than 6 mins' walk; the stunning Vondelpark is within a 2-min walk, and Bus-197 stops very close by--so you can get to/from Schiphol in 15 minutes for 4 euros. Within 10 minutes of my arrival, the owner Roel had done the following: arranged for me to rent a bike (good idea); booked dinners are nearby restaurants (they were excellent and inexpensive); handed me an annotated map; had my speedy wifi working (no extra charge). Was I happy? Delighted.
What's unique about this hotel? First, this building is a typical charming canal-house that is _not_ typically cramped and awkward. There is a lift (if you're not keen on steep stairs), and the energetic family who owns the hotel has not spared any expense to ensure everything works, everything is spotlessly clean, and that the guests' needs are paramount.
Second, the rooms (I have stayed in two and seen three) are bright, newly-refurbished, and have Nespresso machines at our disposal. The showers are hot and powerful. The beds are new and the sheets are probably Egyptian cotton. The breakfast is excellent (eggs and pancakes in addition to cold options); the "honesty bar" is open 24hrs and has whatever cold drinks you can think of--for just 2 euros each. Yes, a glass of wine for 2 euros. Where else would you find that in Amsterdam? There is a large grocery store nearby. I should add that there are two primary schools nearby too--but that only adds to the neighbourhood atmosphere: it's nice to step outside and see kids running around. The street feels more like the Upper-West side in Manhattan than the stereotypical cold polish of an exclusive European quartier.
I will be back, and next time I'll bring my kids. That's another bonus: Roel says that he charges just a nominal extra kids' beds in their parents' rooms--this will add up to a big savings. In my experience most European hotels require a full second room at a full second price.
What a great stay. Go Fita!
Room Tip: I stayed in room 22 which was large and had a charming balcony. When I decided to stay for any extra...
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