Publication date: 1 April 2026

In April 2026, Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Centre will celebrate its 30th anniversary. Since opening on 1 April 1996, this hotel in the heart of Amsterdam has grown into a much-loved place for visitors who wish to stay right in the city centre. In this article, we take you on a journey back in time. Discover interesting facts about the hotel, read how its design has evolved over the years, and meet employees who have been working here for decades. Such as Ali, who has been welcoming guests from all over the world at the entrance for nearly 30 years.

The beginning of Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Centre in 1996
Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Centre opened its doors on 1 April 1996. Hoteliers Michel Geurts and Peter Houniet realised their fourth four-star hotel here.

With 239 rooms and a central location in Amsterdam, the hotel was an ideal base for a city break from the very beginning. Its location remains one of its greatest advantages. From the hotel, you can walk to Amsterdam Central Station in around five minutes. The famous canal belt is also just a short distance away, making many well-known sights easy to reach.

A hotel in Amsterdam with a remarkable history
According to historians, the hotel’s location has a special historical background. Many believe that this site was once home to the castle of Gijsbrecht van Amstel, a historical figure in Amsterdam’s past.

During the construction of the hotel, several archaeological finds were discovered. These objects can now be seen in display cases in the hotel lounge, bringing together the city’s past and the modern hotel.

From Face Amsterdam to the current design
Over the years, Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Centre has undergone several changes. In 2008, the hotel introduced the Face Amsterdam theme. Throughout the hotel, large portraits of employees and their family members were displayed. Together, they represented 177 nationalities, each with their own perspective on Amsterdam.

Between September 2018 and May 2020, the hotel underwent a major refurbishment. During this renovation, the hotel was expanded with 38 additional rooms. The Face Amsterdam concept was retained, but given a new look. Instead of portraits, you will now find elements such as Amsterdam’s bridges and well-known landmarks reflected in the hotel rooms.

The corridors were also given a distinctive design. The black-and-white wallpaper features icons of the city, and the room numbers resemble authentic Amsterdam street signs. Even the flooring contributes to the experience: the carpet has the pattern of traditional Amsterdam cobblestones, creating the impression that you are walking through the city’s historic streets.

The people of Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Centre
The Amsterdam hotel is not only about rooms and design, but above all about the people who work there. Many employees have been part of Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Centre for many years.

Ali, a porter and doorman, has worked there since shortly after the opening in 1996. Every day, he meets new guests from all over the world. What he enjoys most is the first contact at the entrance. Sometimes guests even return to the hotel especially to see him again, bringing small souvenirs for him. He still finds that very special.

Selvina, Assistant Housekeeping Manager, has also been working at the hotel for more than twenty years. Together with her team, she ensures every day that the rooms and public areas are clean and well maintained. According to her, you can best experience the atmosphere of the hotel in the lobby, where guests arrive, depart, and come together.

There are also colleagues who experience the hotel in a different way. Patrick, Head of Technical Services, has been working at the hotel for nearly eleven years and goes everywhere in the building. It is precisely this variety and the contact with colleagues that he enjoys most about his work. Major moments, such as the renovation and expansion of the hotel or the unique period during the coronavirus pandemic, have always stayed with him.

For Jenny, General Manager, everything revolves around the team. According to her, the diversity of cultures and personalities makes the hotel feel like one big family. “We are proud to have stood for hospitality, quality and personal attention for 30 years,” she says.

Looking ahead to the future
After 30 years, Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Centre remains a place where guests from all over the world come together. Thanks to its central location in Amsterdam, its distinctive design, and above all its dedicated staff, the hotel continues to evolve.

As Jenny nicely puts it: “Without our loyal guests and enthusiastic employees, we would not have reached this milestone. Here’s to the next anniversary!”

Would you like to experience for yourself why guests have been returning to our hotel for 30 years? Book a stay at Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Centre and discover the comfort, unique atmosphere, and perfect location in the heart of Amsterdam. Perhaps you will soon find yourself walking through our corridors, which feel like a stroll through the city. Become part of the next chapter of our story!