Frequently Asked Questions

General

COVID-19 INFORMATION

With 21 stand-alone bridge houses located all across Amsterdam, SWEETS hotel is a suitable option in the current situation.

Independent check-in
SWEETS hotel operates on a self-service system that requires no physical contact. Guests check in online and open the door of their bridge house with a digital key that is sent to their smartphone. Due to this way of operating, guests and staff can continue to comply with governmental regulations regarding COVID-19.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner
For breakfast, lunch and dinner, an incredible number of our favourite restaurants in Amsterdam have set up delivery and takeaway services. This enables guests to enjoy high-quality meals in their bridge house and at the same time support our local restaurants who are obviously hit hard too by the effects of corona.

Who initiated SWEETS hotel?

SWEETS hotel is an initiative and co-creation of Space&Matter architects (a.o. De Ceuvel and Schoonschip), project development partner Grayfield and Seven New Things (Otto Nan, Suzanne Oxenaar and Gerrit Groen), founders of Lloyd Hotel & Cultural Embassy (Amsterdam; 2004 – sold in 2018), Llove Hotel (pop-up hotel in Tokyo; 2010) and Hotel The Exchange (Amsterdam; 2011).

What is a bridge house?

Formerly, Amsterdam’s bridge houses accommodated the city’s bridge keepers who were responsible for opening and closing bridges for passing boat traffic on the busy canals. The bridge houses were built at different times between the 17th and 21st century and are therefore designed in various architectural styles. All bridge houses are perched on or next to the bridge, with a panoramic view of the surroundings.

How many bridge houses are there?

SWEETS hotel will eventually consist of 28 bridge houses transformed into hotel rooms. Only an exclusive selection of bridge houses is currently available to guests. Want to know when the next bridge house will open? Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to get the latest news, or check out our (rough) estimates at the bottom of the homepage.

What is the address of SWEETS hotel?

SWEETS hotel is a collection of 28 bridge houses in 28 different locations in Amsterdam. Each bridge house has a unique address – find details of each bridge house on the locations page.

What is the environment like?

Each bridge house offers a completely different environment. Some bridge houses are located in or close to the centre of Amsterdam, others are perched along rivers in North and West. Would you like having a lively shopping street around the corner, or do you prefer some peace and quiet? It’s up to you! Can’t decide? Scroll down to ‘Which bridge house should I book?’.

Since bridges are meant to connect neighbourhoods with each other, all bridge houses are mostly located in residential areas. We ask kindly to respect your neighbours by keeping the noise down; especially in the late evening and early morning hours.

How many people can stay in each bridge house?

Each bridge house accommodates a maximum of 2 people over the age of 21.

Can children stay at SWEETS hotel?

Due to the unusual locations of the bridge houses, only guests over the age of 21 can be accommodated.

Are pets allowed at SWEETS hotel?

Unfortunately, we are not able to accommodate pets at SWEETS hotel.

Is it allowed to smoke or use candles in the bridge houses?

SWEETS hotel is a smoke-free hotel, in accordance with Dutch law regulations. Also, the use of candles is prohibited. A cleaning fee of €150 is charged to guests in case of smoking or using candles in the bridge houses.

Can I use my own boat to visit the bridge houses?

Docking your own boat next to or close to one of SWEETS hotel’s bridge houses is not always allowed. In most cases, you will need explicit permission from Gemeente Amsterdam (municipality of Amsterdam). For more information, see this web page about docking rules in and around Amsterdam.

206 – Amstelschutsluis (which is located on an island in the Amstel river) can be visited with your own boat, after consultation with SWEETS hotel. The island has its own docking jetty.

Are any bridge houses wheelchair accessible?

Regrettably, none of SWEETS hotel’s bridge houses is suitable for wheelchairs.

What facilities do the bridge houses have?

In every bridge house you will find:

  • Double bed
  • Shower and toilet
  • Air conditioning and heating
  • Free WiFi
  • (Mini-)fridge
  • Electric kettle
  • Coffee (Freshdrip) & tea
  • Cutlery and crockery
  • Hairdryer
  • Towels and slippers
  • Eco hair & body wash
  • Eco hand soap
  • Earplugs
  • Safe
  • Bluetooth speaker
  • SuitePad (electronic tablet with information and entertainment)

Kitchen(ette)
Bridge houses 206 – Amstelschutsluis and 211 – Sluis Haveneiland are equipped with a kitchen, containing a ceramic hob, oven and large fridge. Amstelschutsluis even has a dishwasher!

Size of the bed
The size of the bed varies from 140×200 to 180x200cm.

Bicycles
Our Neighbourhood Guide on the SuitePad shows the nearest bicycle rental.

Will my bridge house be cleaned during my stay?

We provide cleaning service after the third night during short stays and once a week during longer stays.

If you do not wish to receive cleaning service, please contact us.

Who do I call in case of emergency?

Please call 112 for emergency services (police, ambulance and fire brigade). In case of other emergencies, call SWEETS hotel on +3120 740 10 10 (available 24/7).

Which bridge house should I book?

I am looking for a peaceful retreat. Which bridge house should I book?

Are you a light sleeper, or does your favourite book require all your undisturbed attention? Then pick one of the bridge houses categorized as ‘noise level – low’:

103. Buiksloterdraaibrug
On a cycle route in a rustic setting on a tiny lake in Amsterdam North, your neighbours are the local swans. With sunny weather, the terrace and leafy surroundings are perfect for a picnic. → Book bridge house Buiksloterdraaibrug

206. Amstelschutsluis
Best of both worlds: a peaceful private island in the heart of Amsterdam! No one will bother you here, except for the occasional boat, bird or duck. → Book bridge house Amstelschutsluis

211. Sluis Haveneiland
Modern and spacious bridge house built in 2009, with a magnificent, far-reaching view across the IJ lake. Watch flocks of birds floating about on the lake while making a puzzle or reading a book. (Both provided!) → Book bridge house Sluis Haveneiland

303. Willemsbrug
Charming little ‘Amsterdam School’ bridge house with panoramic view, located in between the city centre, the Jordaan area and the culture-friendly Westerpark. The crossing is vibrant during the day, but quiet during the night. → Book bridge house Willemsbrug

310. Theophile de Bockbrug
On the doorstep of the vibrant Vondelpark, perfect for watching locals on their daily bicycle commute. The bridge and local neighbourhood are pedestrian and cyclist-friendly; you won’t see many cars around here. → Book bridge house Theophile de Bockbrug

I want to explore Amsterdam’s city centre. Which bridge house should I book?

Whether you want to visit museums, shop on the Nine Streets or admire 16th-century canal houses, these bridge houses are perfect for the urban explorer:

202. Kortjewantsbrug
Learn about the rich history of Amsterdam from your hotel room! This bridge tower has a 360-degree view of Amsterdam’s most iconic buildings from different times, including the Maritime Museum (1656), NEMO Science Museum (1997) and ARCAM (2003). Free entrance to the Maritime Museum is included. → Book bridge house Kortjewantsbrug

203. Scharrebiersluis
A tiny character-filled bridge house in the centre of old Amsterdam neighbouring a traditional Dutch café. → Book bridge house Scharrebiersluis

204. Hortusbrug
Stay in a three-dimensional Mondriaan painting on top of a canal! A true icon in the middle of Amsterdam Centre, perfect for lovers of architecture and design. Free entrance to Hortus Botanicus included. → Book bridge house Hortusbrug

205. Walter Süskindbrug
This cosy bridge house is situated in the heart of the city, overlooking the beautiful water of the Amstel. During your stay, you can enjoy a central location that places many of the city’s sights within easy walking distance. → Book bridge house Hortusbrug

206. Amstelschutsluis
Book your dream destination: your own private island in the city center, with an incredible view of the famous Skinny Bridge! Let our captain sail you to shore for some city exploration. → Book bridge house Amstelschutsluis

301. Westerdoksbrug
A playful bridge house with wide-angle views across the river IJ and – on the other side of the water – the iconic Eye Film Museum and A’DAM Lookout. The bridge house is located at walking distance from Amsterdam Central Station. → Book bridge house Westerdoksbrug

Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? From these bridge houses, you’ll be in the city centre in no-time:

207. Nieuwe Amstelbrug
303. Willemsbrug
304. Kattenslootbrug

I am planning a romantic trip. Which bridge house should I book?

Frankly, having a tiny stand-alone bridge house all to yourself and your lover is incredibly romantic in itself! But some bridge houses outshine them all when it comes to romance:

103. Buiksloterdraaibrug
Situated in what is perhaps Amsterdam’s most idyllic area. You’ll be sleeping in between historic Dutch houses, a small lake and lots of green. Enjoy your breakfast on the sunny terrace! → Book bridge house Buiksloterdraaibrug

202. Kortjewantsbrug
Eye-catching bridge tower with a mind-blowing 360-degree view of Amsterdam’s city centre and waterways. Just like the exterior, the interior is round – even the bed! → Book bridge house Kortjewantsbrug

205. Walter Süskindbrug
This petite bridge house located alongside the Amstel has some spectacular water views. The ideal spot for a romantic getaway for two. → Book bridge house Hortusbrug

206. Amstelschutsluis
One bridge house to rule them all: a peaceful private island in the heart of Amsterdam! The perfect suite for a romantic honeymoon or wedding anniversary. → Book bridge house Amstelschutsluis

I'd like to sit outside in the sun. Which bridge house should I book?

With locations on top and along Amsterdam’s waterways, a picnic spot with beautiful view is never far away, but if you want to stay close, these are the bridge houses with outdoor lounging facilities:

103. Buiksloterdraaibrug
Take the foldable chairs outside for a lake-view picnic on the terrace or the grass. → Book bridge house Buiksloterdraaibrug

203. Scharrebiersluis
The old bench outside was put there for bridge keepers to enjoy the sun on their lunch breaks. Now you can do the same! → Book bridge house Scharrebiersluis

204. Hortusbrug
Enjoy a warm summer’s night on the large, roofed patio with a view of 17th-century canal houses. Even some unexpected raindrops won’t bother you here! → Book bridge house Hortusbrug

206. Amstelschutsluis
Book a once-in-a-lifetime experience on this private island in the middle of Amsterdam, including a sunny terrace with a wide-angle view of the iconic Skinny Bridge. → Book bridge house Amstelschutsluis

303. Willemsbrug
The windowsill of Willemsbrug is large enough to lounge in: open up de windows, stack the cushions and get comfortable. → Book bridge house Willemsbrug

304. Kattenslootbrug
The old bench outside was put there for bridge keepers to enjoy the sun on their lunch breaks. Now you can do the same! → Book bridge house Kattenslootbrug

310. Theophile de Bockbrug
Look in the cabinet above the sink – there’s a hammock inside! All there’s left to do is attach it to the porch outside and relax. → Book bridge house Theophile de Bockbrug

I prefer some space. Which bridge house should I book?

Not every bridge house fits the category ‘tiny house’. Have a look at our most spacious hotel suites:

101. Gerben Wagenaarbrug
Sit on high! A soaring 3-storey bridge house close to Amsterdam North’s favourite bars and cafés. All floors together count for a space of 59m2. → Book bridge house Gerben Wagenaarbrug

202. Kortjewantsbrug
Another tower, another spacious suite. With a 360-degree view, a round bed and a total floor size of 44m2, this bridge house feels luxuriously large. → Book bridge house Kortjewantsbrug

211. Sluis Haveneiland
Go larger than large! Modern bridge house built in 2009, with a total floor size of 81m2 and a magnificent panoramic view across the IJ lake. → Book bridge house Sluis Haveneiland

I’d like to cook my own dinner. Which bridge house should I book?

Two of our bridge houses are equipped with a kitchen(ette):

206. Amstelschutsluis
This incredible bridge house (on a private island!) includes a fully equipped kitchen with a steam oven, a dishwasher, an electric stove and a large fridge. → Book bridge house Amstelschutsluis

211. Sluis Haveneiland
A spacious suite equipped with a kitchenette containing a microwave/oven combination, an electric stove and a large fridge. Enjoy your meal with a view of the IJ lake! → Book bridge house Sluis Haveneiland

I am looking for one of the oldest bridge houses. Which bridge house should I book?

These bridge houses are perfect if you are looking for the ones with the oldest and longest history;

206. Amstelschutsluis
Built in 1673 – making it the oldest bridge house in Amsterdam. → Book bridge house Amstelschutsluis

203. Scharrebiersluis
A tiny character-filled bridge house in the centre of old Amsterdam is the second oldest bridge house SWEETS hotel offers. The house dates from 1906. → Book bridge house Scharrebiersluis

207. Nieuwe Amstelbrug
Bridge house 207 – Nieuwe Amstelbrug has been located at the Amstel river since 1912. → Book bridge house Nieuwe Amstel

Booking & Payment

There seems to be no availability on my selected dates. What to do?

If you are planning to stay more than one night but there seems to be no availability, try splitting up your preferred dates across different bridge houses and explore more of Amsterdam! Please be sure to make separate bookings for each bridge house.

Contact us if you need help with planning your trip.

Can my reservation include stays in different bridge houses?

Of course! Please be sure to make separate bookings for each bridge house. SWEETS hotel will seamlessly connect check-out and check-in times, so that you won’t have to carry your luggage around. We will keep you posted about our schedule!

Why do the prices differ per bridge house and date?

SWEETS hotel determines its prices on the demand for certain dates (depending on the season, day of the week, etc.) and the features of each separate bridge house (size, shape, location, design and facilities).

Are taxes included in my booking?

All rates exclude Amsterdam city tax of 12,5 % on the room night(s). This tax is calculated after completing your booking.

Living in Amsterdam and exploring your city from a bridge house? Then you are not obliged to pay the city tax.  After finalizing your booking, please contact us for reimbursement.

Which payment methods are accepted?

Payment is gladly accepted online, with a credit card. Not in possession of a credit card? Contact us so we can help you further.

Which credit cards are accepted?

All credit cards are accepted.

Check-in & Check-out

How and when do I check in?

SWEETS hotel operates on a convenient self-service system for check-in. By the use of a simple application called ‘FLEXIPASS’, your smartphone becomes the key to your bridge house!

Right after you have made your reservation, a confirmation email with instructions on how to access your bridge house will be sent to your email address. This is how it works:

BEFORE ARRIVAL
CHECKING IN

1. Download the app FLEXIPASS on your smartphone via the App Store or Google Play Store. (The app has an orange logo with a grey cross.)

(Your personal key code will be sent to you on the day of arrival – see below.)

2. In the confirmation email, click the ‘Check in online’ button and complete the form.

DAY OF ARRIVAL
ACCESSING BRIDGE HOUSE

On your day of arrival, at the latest at 4 PM, your personal key code for the app ‘FLEXIPASS’ will be sent to you via email. Keep an eye on your inbox; we might surprise you earlier!

1. Once you have received the code in your email, open FLEXIPASS on your phone.

(If Bluetooth and GPS are not yet activated on your phone, FLEXIPASS will prompt you to do so.)

2. Enter your personal key code in FLEXIPASS and click ‘GET ROOM KEY’. The app will now generate your mobile key.

3. Hold your phone against the black lock cover on the door until a green light flashes, your phone vibrates and the lock makes a ‘click’ sound. Now push down the door handle.

GOOD TO KNOW:

Your key code can be used on one device only. If you want to use more than one device, please contact SWEETS hotel.

A key card is provided in the bridge house. During your stay, you can use both the key card and your mobile phone to unlock the door.

You only need internet access to validate the key in FLEXIPASS. Once you have generated your mobile key in the FLEXIPASS app, you do not need an internet connection to open the door.

Do I need an internet connection to open the door?

Once you have generated your mobile key in the FLEXIPASS app (see ‘1. How and when do I check in?’ → ‘day of arrival’), you do not need an internet connection to open the door.

No key and already at the front door? In most cases, we can provide you with the Wi-Fi code of the bridge house. Just give us a call! Our telephone number is +3120 740 10 10 (available 24/7).

I do not have a smartphone. What to do?

No worries! There are more ways to access your bridge house. Please contact us (in case of emergencies, our telephone service is available 24/7).

I cannot open the door (with my smartphone). What to do?

Please call SWEETS hotel on +3120 740 10 10 (available 24/7).

I want to arrive earlier. Can I change the check-in time?

On the day of arrival, the key code for your bridge house will be sent to you as soon as the bridge house is ready – at the latest at 4 PM. Keep an eye on your inbox; we might surprise you early!

BOOK AN EARLY CHECK-IN

In case you would like to check-in from 1 PM, we ask for an additional charge of €75,-.

If you would like to extend your stay, please contact SWEETS hotel directly in advance. Your request for an early check-in will be granted if possible (subject to availability), only after confirming with SWEETS hotel and paying the extra charge at the time of request.

How and when do I check out?

  • Check-out is till 11 AM on your day of departure. At 11 AM, your FLEXIPASS key and key card expire, and you will no longer be able to access your bridge house.
  • Let us know when you check out by selecting the [check-out] option on the electronic tablet in your bridge house.
  • Leave the key card in the bridge house.

206 – AMSTELSCHUTSLUIS
Visitors of this romantic private island get a standard late check-out until 12 PM.

Please note:
As a guest of SWEETS hotel, you have the responsibility to leave the bridge house in the same condition as upon arrival. Please make sure to close the bridge house’s door and windows upon leaving. Thank you!

I want to stay a little longer. Can I change the check-out time?

Usually, check-out is till 11 AM, but we are happy to arrange a late check-out for you:

BOOK A LATE CHECK-OUT

In case you would like to check out at a specific time after 11 AM, we ask for an additional charge:

  • Late check-out before 12 PM: €35,-
  • Late check-out between 12 PM and 2 PM: €75,-

If you would like to extend your stay, please contact SWEETS hotel directly in advance. Your request for a late check-out will be granted if possible (subject to availability), only after confirming with SWEETS hotel and paying the extra charge at the time of request.

206 – AMSTELSCHUTSLUIS
Visitors of this romantic private island get a standard late check-out until 12 PM.

An item got damaged or lost during my stay. What to do?

Lost & Found
We regularly find items that were left behind and contact the owner as soon as possible. Haven’t heard from us yet? Let us know what you are looking for by contacting us.

In case of damage to or loss of SWEETS hotel’s property
Accidents can happen! But please let us know as soon as possible whenever something in our around your bridge house got damaged or lost, so we can solve the issue quickly and make arrangements for repairment or replacement.

Liability
For information about liability when staying at SWEETS hotel, read our terms & conditions.

Preparing for your stay

Where can I store my luggage?

Our colleagues at Hotel The Exchange will happily store your luggage free of charge! Hotel The Exchange is located at a 5-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station. Just drop by at a time that suits you! The address is Damrak 50 in Amsterdam.

Is parking available at my bridge house?

We recommend travelling by public transport in Amsterdam, since most bridge houses are easiest to get to by tram, bus and/or metro.

Since SWEETS hotel’s bridge houses are scattered through Amsterdam, there are different parking options for every bridge house. Not sure where to park? We are happy to help you find a good spot! Simply contact us.

Where do I park my bicycle?

Always park your bicycle in a designated bicycle stand – never on the bridge. Bridge keepers often commuted to their workplace by bicycle. Therefore, most of the bridge house have a designated bicycle stand next to it, or a special bicycle platform.

How do I get around?

We highly recommend exploring Amsterdam by bike. Check out the SuitePad in the room for options, or contact us before your stay.

Not a fan of cycling? Then make use of Amsterdam’s convenient public transport system, or step into a taxi: Uber is available in the city and one of the most trusted local taxi services is TCA: +3120 777 77 77.

Who do I call in case of emergency?

Please call 112 for emergency services (police, ambulance and fire brigade). In case of other emergencies, call SWEETS hotel on +3120 740 10 10 (available 24/7).

Extras & Special Occasions

Does SWEETS hotel issue gift vouchers?

Looking to surprise a SWEET someone? We offer gift vouchers in all shapes and sizes! Contact us directly to discuss the possibilities.

What extras can I add to my booking?

Make your stay even more special by adding these extras during the booking process! You can always contact us afterwards, in case you forgot.

  • Decorated bridge house – €15
  • Bottle of wine (red or white) – €25
  • Bottle of cava – €35
  • SWEETS hotel book – €15
  • SWEETS hotel tote bag (green or purple print) – €10

Can SWEETS hotel decorate my bridge house for a celebration?

Surprise your SWEET companion with a festively decorated bridge house! Simply add ‘Decorated bridge house’ (€15) during the booking process or contact us afterwards. We can decorate for different occasions; just let us know what you’re celebrating!

If you would like to decorate the bridge house yourself, please note that the following items are not permitted due to safety and environmental regulations:

  • balloons
  • confetti
  • candles

For detailed information about our house rules and liability, please read our terms & conditions.

Can I make a special request?

Contact us to find out!

Amstelschutsluis (206)

I have questions about bridge house 206 - Amstelschutsluis. Where can I find answers?

All answers to frequently asked questions about our most exclusive bridge house can be found here: SWEETS hotel Amstelschutsluis.

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YOU’RE ALMOST DONE!

We’d like to ensure your stay in Amsterdam has no unexpected surprises. Please review and accept our SWEETS hotel house rules below.

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