XO Hotels City Centre

First Impressions

Walking into XO Hotels City Centre, you immediately get that “right in the thick of things” feeling that makes Amsterdam so addictive. The lobby has this clean, modern vibe without trying too hard — think sleek lines and warm lighting that actually works. What struck me most was how the staff seemed genuinely happy to see guests, not just going through the motions you sometimes get at three-star properties. The whole place feels like it knows exactly what it is: a well-run city hotel that doesn’t need to pretend to be anything fancier.

Location & Neighborhood

Honestly, the location is pretty much perfect if you want to experience Amsterdam without constantly hopping on trams. Beursstraat puts you right in the city centre — I mean, you can walk to Dam Square in about three minutes, and the Red Light District is literally around the corner (whether that’s a plus or minus depends on your perspective). The Central Station is close enough that you’ll hear the occasional announcement, but it’s not disruptive. What I really appreciated was being able to grab coffee at those tiny local cafés that tourists usually miss because they’re staying further out. You know what couples will love? Those romantic canal walks are right at your doorstep, and the evening strolls along the water feel magical when you don’t have to trek back to some distant hotel.

The Rooms

The rooms are compact — this is Amsterdam, after all, where space is at a premium — but they’re thoughtfully designed. Everything has its place, and the beds are actually comfortable, which isn’t always a given in city centre hotels. The bathrooms are small but functional, with decent water pressure that’ll wake you up in the morning. I particularly liked the large windows in most rooms; they let in plenty of natural light and give you glimpses of the bustling street life below. The soundproofing is better than expected for a building in such a busy area, though light sleepers might want to pack earplugs just in case.

Breakfast Experience

The breakfast setup is straightforward — continental and buffet style — but they do it well. Fresh bread, decent coffee (important in a city known for its café culture), and enough variety to fuel your day of canal-hopping and museum visits. The breakfast room gets busy around 8:30 AM, so if you’re an early riser, you’ll have more space and selection. Nothing fancy, but it’s filling and gets the job done without breaking the bank on expensive hotel extras.

Why Guests Love It

What really makes XO Hotels City Centre work is that it delivers exactly what most Amsterdam visitors actually need: a clean, comfortable base in an unbeatable location. You’re not paying for amenities you won’t use — instead, you’re investing in being steps away from everything that makes this city special. The staff genuinely seems to care about your experience, and there’s something refreshing about a hotel that focuses on doing the basics really well rather than trying to be everything to everyone. For couples especially, having this kind of central location means more time exploring together and less time figuring out transportation.