Stayed at the Sofitel Grand in Amsterdam for a 2 night weekend break with my boyfriend. The hotel is in the perfect location but not next door to any noisy bars or cafes.
Hotel staff were very friendly, not one problem while we were there. Only thing which was a bit disappointing is that we were put in one of their older rooms which has seen better days and the bed was too soft for our liking. All in all the room was very clean and had a lovely view to the canel behind the hotel, just a shame about the decor. Room was quiet, couldn't hear any of the other hotel guests which was nice because I'm a light sleeper and normally in hotels I can hear other room doors stamming shut late at night or early morning.
The pool, steam and sauna was nice after a long day sight seeing, very clean.
Highly recommend but would advise that you ask for a nice newer room.

we (2 couples) stayed at this hotel for one night in mid march - a brief weekend stay in Amsterdam to celebrate my wife's recovery from illness.

we checked in at 11 a.m; it was somewhat disappointing to be told that neither of our rooms were ready despite asking in advance for at least one room to be prepared for an early check in, but it didn't really matter and our bags were put aside whilst we went out for lunch. as we checked in, we asked if our rooms were nice, and one of our party requested the availability of refurbished rooms; we each secured these for a €40 premium, and went out for lunch.

when we returned at about 3.30 pm, our rooms were ready, and they were spectacular. beautifully decorated, immaculately clean and a fantastic bathroom, with a good sized walk in shower; really top notch.

at the same time, my wife and I each booked a treatment in the spa; she opted for a reflexology session, and I chose a deep tissue massage. we then wandered over to dam sq (300m away) for a bit of people watching in the cafe there.

we also asked the concierge for a good steak restaurant; he recommended the informal torro de rado where we enjoyed the best steaks we have ever had in our lives and the most tender ribs. it was however well more than a 10 minute walk from the hotel as the concierge thought; it was especially difficult for our ladies in high heels; next time we'd get a taxi. incidentally, the next day the same concierge suggested we went to the bakerswinkel for breakfast. it too was spot on, just across dam sq from the hotel.

we returned to the hotel in time for our treatments. my wife emerged from her reflexology session with Dan looking 10 years younger and glowing; my hour long massage with Sarah shot by in what felt like 20 mins and I felt fab. If both ladies read this review, many thanks. we have both had treatments in many other places, but both agreed that these 2 were the tops

I also went for a swim before my massage; nice pool, nice changing rooms; adequate to stretch off any jet lag. There is also a small reasonably equipped gym, and a couple of sauna cabins.

the hotel is located just on the edge of the red light area, and you have to go through this area to get to Dam Sq, but its not threatening as it once was several years ago, and there were plenty of police in evidence. prostitution is clearly legal in Holland, and the site of scantily dressed women touting for business in the infamous Amsterdam glass doorways is not for the faint hearted.

When we returned to the hotel at about 12.30 a.m, we asked if there was a bar open. We were directed upstairs to a comfortable lounge (the bar is apparently being refurbished) and we were well looked after by the pleasant barman 'til about 1.30, tho we were the only ones in the lounge.

At the heart of any of our stays is the question of cleanliness; we will not be happy with anywhere which is dirty or grubby. This hotel was immaculate, with crisp bed linen and towels, and clean bedrooms, bathrooms and common areas. Coupled with a wonderful location, brilliant concierge and well organised (our masseuses came into the hotel to meet our bookings; they seem to be 'sub contracted' by the hotel) and of the highest standards massage treatments, we would immediately and happily stay here again.

this hotel wasn't cheap, but for 1 night the price wasn't the be all and end all of our stay. it was beautiful and we have no criticisms to make; we'll be back

The Grand is possibly my favorite hotel in the world, having worked in 25 countries.

But, nevertheless:

I confess to being somewhat... disappointed with my stay November 12 - 15, 2008.

I have repeatedly recommended the hotel in the past to my firm's clients over the past decade.

Now... I am not so sure.

The stay was OK, but just that... OK.

I had room 8, I believe.

In the room, in the shower, the tray to hold toiletries was missing. So, all of the toiletries had to be picked up off the floor. The drawer in the table was broken. It stuck out and made sitting at the table uncomfortable.

Both issues were reported, a staffer came and nothing was done, the tray was not replaced, the drawer was not fixed.

I was advised, that "yes" the desks have that problem, and it has been pointed out, and can't be fixed.

The breakfasts were as always spectacular, the "chocolate" dinner was revolting. My friend tried the alternative dishes and liked them, I months later still shudder at the not wholly supressed memory of chicken or squab with (ugh) chocolate sauce.

Overall, a decent stay, but not a Sofitel Grand experience.

The staff, were, as always, absolutely excellent.

Just stayed for 8 days at The Amsterdam Grand. We stayed in an updated room (they are about halfway done with the refurbishing) and I cannot say enough about it. The exterior of the hotel is amazing - the entry way majestic and private. The room was beautiful, the service even better. Our seven year old had her cot already set up in a convenient place in the room with bedding and everything upon our check in. They brought us afternoon snacks of dried fruit, plums and m&m's (with our daughter in mind;-) The room was spotless and spacious. Neils (the person who we booked our reservation with) was so friendly, hospitable and gracious. It was a treat to see him behind the counter on our comings and goings A real asset to the hotel indeed! Upon our arrival our taxi from the airport tried to overcharge us - a few guys from the hotel acted on our behalf and intervened (without us even asking!) and we ended up paying the correct amount. On the way back to the airport they made sure we got an honest taxi driver and a nice cab. That's service! My only gripe would be that the concierge was a bit inconsistent. They certainly tried hard but sometimes the advice on where to eat with our seven year old was a bit off (more bar like that we wanted) BUT when I asked for a list of toy and clothing stores for children he did some research and complied a list (some places which were great - others not so much). A for effort! When I asked for something to be brought to my room, they were there within 1 min of hanging up the phone. I also like that when you received phone messages, they delivered your message to you in a sealed envelope upon your arrival back to the hotel. Very old world. And every person was delightful to our seven year old and genuinely so!