The College Hotel

Roelof Hartstraat 1, Amsterdam, North Holland 1071 VE, The Netherlands
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Why We Like It

Architecture rich in period details, atmospheric public spaces and a good restaurant make The College Hotel a solid choice for those savvy enough to avoid the overcrowded center.

Fodor's Expert Review

This stylish 1895 landmark retains many of its original features, including a neo-Renaissance patterned brick façade, tall paned windows, romantic staircases and soaring ceilings. Situated in the moneyed Zuid district, south of the Canal District, it is ideally situated for museum hopping and high-end shopping.

You Should Know Once an educational institution, the hotel continues the tradition as a training ground for students of the country's top hotel-management programs, which accounts for the fresh-faced staff and eager though sometimes hit-or-miss service.

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Room

Rooms are decorated in a restrained palette of greys, browns, and blacks, punctuated with jewel-toned velvet accents and still lifes. Comfortable beds are outfitted with cognac-colored leather headboards and fluffy duvets.

Most modern comforts are provided for, including a turn-down service, free Wi-Fi, Nespresso coffee makers with Peeze coffee pods (and Newby teas), however, air-conditioning wasn’t installed everywhere when we visited and maintenance and servicing isn’t always seamless: The door of our mini bar didn’t close properly, the trash can hadn’t been refreshed and there were quite a few scuffs and dents on the walls.

Tip Suites and larger rooms feature free (!) minibars generously stocked with beer, wine, and snacks.

Bathroom

Darkly decorated bathrooms (think chocolate brown marble, taupe tiles, gold wallpaper, black-framed mirrors) feature Fair Trade-certified Fair CosmEthics bathroom products and fluffy robes. Some feature the dreaded shower-in-tub combo with shower curtains, and some suites show wear.

Lobby

Guests are greeted with a glass of bubbly to enjoy in the jewel-toned sitting room next to the small lobby, richly decorated in damask and velvet.

Dining

There are many Italian eateries in Amsterdam, but few are as chic and accomplished as recently opened Ferilli’s Ristorante, where elegant Italian staples are served on pristine plates by Executive Chef Donatella Zampoli (ex-Mas del Saugo, ex-Cantinetta Antinori). From stone Travertine floor tiles to walls with vintage mirrors, handmade furniture in understated olive hues, and antique brass and Venetian glass lamps, it’s all in the details. A Continental breakfast, which includes a selection of Italian cheeses, is served, as well as lunch and dinner.

Drinking

At Ferilli’s Caffé you’ll find all-day patisserie, traditional homemade cakes, classic Italian cocktails, -wine and -beer(homemade focaccia and olives are served along with your drink during aperitivo hour), as well as San Pellegrino and espresso-based drinks. Weather permitting, the garden terrace is very lovely indeed, with subtle jazz in the background, but the fireplace is an equally lovely place to nurse your drink.

What's Nearby

Getting Around

Located in a quiet, residential neighborhood near the big-three museums, this hotel offers good access to the Eastern Canal District, Zuid and De Pijp on foot. There’s a tram stop right in front, where you can catch trams that’ll take you anywhere you need to go. The hotel does not provide parking, but public parking can be arranged at a charge. Alternatively, do as the Dutch and rent a bicycle (€16 per day) or a scooter (€55 per day).

Restaurants

When you’re at The College Hotel, there are many compelling reasons to stay. But, if you’re so inclined, why not try a twenty-tens take on local cuisine at Restaurant Floreyn (6-minute walk)? Looking for something simple yet restorative? The city’s best tonkatsu ramen is served at Sapporo Ramen Sora (4-minute walk). Or, if you’re in the mood for a casual, beachy vibe, try CT Coffee & Coconuts (7-minute walk), where craft coffee and wholesome coconut-inspired food & drink is served from early to late.

Bars

When you’re at The College Hotel, there are many compelling reasons to stay. But, if you’re so inclined, why not try a twenty-tens take on local cuisine at Restaurant Floreyn (6-minute walk)? Looking for something simple yet restorative? The city’s best tonkatsu ramen is served at Sapporo Ramen Sora (4-minute walk). Or, if you’re in the mood for a casual, beachy vibe, try CT Coffee & Coconuts (7-minute walk), where craft coffee and wholesome coconut-inspired food & drink is served from early to late.

Quick Facts

HOTEL INFO

Phones: +31 (0)20-571–1511