If you haven’t worked it out from the name, art’otel Amsterdam is all about the creative side of life – and it doesn’t take its concept lightly. Throughout this city-centre hotel, you’ll find 120 sculptures by Atelier Van Lieshout, making up a massive concept artwork inspired by the theme of life and death. It’s not for everyone – there’s a lamp imitating a giant phallus, and make sure to check out the peculiar but fun giant sperm installation in the centre courtyard – but it sure makes for a statement. And if that’s not enough creativity for you, there’s also a gallery in the basement with a resident artist.
The rooms follow a similar suit, each having its own unique artwork and bold décor featuring jazzy purple lighting, gold sculptures in the bathroom and pops of primary colours. Props for kitting out each room with all the tech you could need, including a sizeable flat-screen TV (with Chromecast), a Bluetooth Marshall speaker and Illy espresso machine.
art’otel has the full shebang for a chic city break: there’s a great bar; Arca, a fabulous Portuguese and Asian fusion restaurant from Henrique Sá Pessoa; and a serene Finnish sauna and swimming pool. What more could you need for a ’Dam good weekend?
Neighbourhood:
Right in the thick of it by Centraal Station and the red-light district, this is a pretty ideal base for any trip to Amsterdam. Within five minutes you can be wandering through the frankly gorgeous canals or at Dam Square. You’re in the vicinity of all your museums and culture – it’s only a 15-minute walk to the Anne Frank house (make sure to book in advance) – but also to all the fun stuff Amsterdam has to offer. You know what I’m talking about.
Nearby:
1. STRAAT Museum (entry included in the City Break Experience Package): A massive street art gallery with a 160-strong piece collection in an uber cool former shipyard.
2. Tozi: A delectable Italian sharing restaurant. Make sure to order the Cacio e Pepe, which is elaborately tossed in a giant wheel of cheese in front of you.
3. IJ Hallen: The biggest flea market in Europe. Think kooky memorabilia, unique homeware and loads of vintage.
Time Out tip:
Don’t miss out on Amsterdam Noord. Walk five minutes from the hotel to the free 24-hour NDSM ferry that will whizz you across the River IJ. Here you’ll find STRAAT, top-tier techno clubs like Shelter and The Loft, a cafe-slash-bar-slash-skate park and much more. It’s even better explored by bike, which you can rent at the hotel and take over on the ferry.
