NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace

This TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Award winner has an exceptional location just next to the central train station, making it super convenient for both rail arrivals and airport transfers. This is also the best location to explore Amsterdam’s famous sights, from the canals to the markets and the sleazy streets of the red light district. Gay travelers are particularly well-served here: the city’s only gay sauna and two of its most beloved gay bars (The Queen’s Head and Cafe’ t Mandje) are all under five minutes away from the hotel.

Despite being originally made up of 15th and 17th-century buildings, the style is modern and subtle: rooms are decorated almost exclusively in crisp white and warm grey, many of them featuring original oak beams. Large windows and spacious layouts create an airy, relaxing atmosphere that is the perfect antidote to a day of intense sightseeing (or a night of intense partying).

Breakfast is particularly excellent, with that rare combination of quality and variety. There is a Michelin-starred restaurant on-site, as well as a bar that stays open until 1 AM (2 AM on weekends), so you can always get that last nightcap.

There is a good fitness room and a brand new wellness center, including sauna and Turkish bath, with massage treatments available. This gay friendly hotel also shines in the small extra details, such as late breakfast and check-out on Sundays, a private boat dock, and dedicated Guest Relations staff whose only job is to help you make the most of your time in Amsterdam.