XO Hotels Blue Square

First Impressions

Walking into XO Hotels Blue Square, you immediately notice how they’ve managed to create something fresh and modern in what could easily have been another forgettable business hotel. The lobby has this clean, contemporary vibe with pops of blue that tie into the name — it’s not groundbreaking design, but it works. What struck me most was how efficiently everything flows, from check-in to finding the elevators. This three-star property doesn’t try to be something it’s not, and honestly, that’s refreshing in a city where so many hotels oversell themselves.

Location & Getting Around

Here’s the thing about the Geuzenveld-Slotermeer area — it’s not the canal-lined Amsterdam you see on postcards, but it’s got real advantages if you know how to work it. You’re actually well-connected to the city center via public transport, and the neighborhood feels authentically Dutch rather than tourist-heavy. The hotel offers private parking, which is honestly a game-changer in Amsterdam where finding a spot can cost you both time and a small fortune. I mean, couples seem to particularly appreciate this location according to other guests, and I can see why — it’s quieter than the center but you’re not stranded out here.

The Rooms

The rooms follow that same clean, unfussy approach as the lobby. Everything you need is there — comfortable bed, decent workspace, and a bathroom that’s compact but well-designed. The blue accents continue throughout, and while it might sound gimmicky, it actually creates a cohesive feel that’s quite pleasant. What I appreciated most was the attention to practical details — good lighting for reading, enough outlets for your devices, and blackout curtains that actually work. It’s not going to wow you with opulent touches, but you’ll sleep well and have space to spread out your things.

Breakfast & Dining

The buffet breakfast is where XO Hotels Blue Square really shows its understanding of what travelers actually want. There’s a solid mix of Dutch and international options — proper coffee, fresh bread, local cheeses, and enough variety that you won’t get bored if you’re staying multiple nights. The breakfast area gets good natural light, and they’ve managed to avoid that cramped feeling you sometimes get at smaller hotels. You know what impressed me? They seem to keep everything well-stocked even during busy periods, which suggests they’ve got their operations figured out.

Why Guests Love It

This hotel succeeds because it delivers exactly what it promises without any pretense. The 7.9 rating makes perfect sense when you consider the combination of reliable comfort, practical amenities like that private parking, and a location that works especially well for couples looking to experience Amsterdam without being in the thick of tourist chaos. It’s the kind of place where you can actually relax after a day of sightseeing, and the staff seems genuinely focused on making sure the basics are done right. Sometimes that’s exactly what you need.

Amsterdam’s apartments welcome families with Vondelpark playgrounds, canal path scooters, and stroopwafel-scented kitchens.