What to expect: A popular destination for travelers from all over the world, Amsterdam Marriott Hotel has a cosy lobby with potted plants, upholstered seating, a floral rug, and a gas fireplace built of copper and brick that features painted tiles depicting grand 17-century houses lining an Amsterdam canal.

Amenity highlights: A complimentary 24-hour fitness centre has cardio machines, weight machines, and free weights and also contains men's and women's locker rooms with saunas and a message room for use by an outside therapist with advance appointment. In addition to many nearby restaurants, the hotel includes its own European-Asian fusion restaurant and a sports bar with a separate glass-enclosed street-view section.

Insider tip: Across the street from the hotel is a leafy canalside park that includes a little house serving Dutch pancakes of both the small, puffy variety and the plate-sized sweet or savoury variety.

What to expect: This small, friendly hotel is located on a quiet street in the upscale Apollolaan neighborhood. The informal atmosphere of the hotel can be felt immediately in the lobby with its whitewash brick walls, Bordeaux fabrics, and open lounge bar. Its close proximity to the RAI Conference Center makes it a popular choice for business travelers, but guests can also walk to the museum district in less than ten minutes.

Amenity highlights: The Bilderberg Garden Hotel has an informal French-style restaurant, De Kersentuin (The Cherry Orchard), as well as a lounge bar, Bar de Kersenpit (The Cherry Pit) open onto the main lobby. There are three meeting rooms equipped with wireless Internet, ISDN lines and audio-visual materials.

Insider tip: Just five minutes’ walk from the hotel is the upscale shopping street, Cor. Schuystraat, with many fine boutiques and art galleries. Ask the hotel reception to circle it on the map.