There are many things to love about Amsterdam, from its rich history to its beautiful architecture.
Amsterdam is a beautiful city, if only you dared to look past its red light district and the people getting baked by the riverbank. It’s full of history and culture, evident by the many small museums such as the Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, and Rijksmuseum (an art museum with European artefacts).
Nature too is in abundance, with the Vondelpark being a must-visit for its expansive park and picturesque weeping willows, and also the open-air theatre.
Finally, need we mention the romantic canals at all? Venice might be at the top of everyone’s minds, but the canals of Amsterdam are no less beautiful. With most of the luxury hotels in Amsterdam situated by the canal, it’s going to be one of the best stays you’ve had in this part of the world.
(Hero image: Unsplash/ Azhar J)
This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Kuala Lumpur.
The Hotel De L’Europe is almost synonymous with the old history of Amsterdam itself, having been around for more than a century and known as the creme de la creme of luxury accommodations in the city. Not only is the location exceptional – right on the Amstel river – its suites are also extremely luxurious and it houses a two-Michelin-starred restaurant: Bord’Eau. The Rondeel building also home to a spa and Freddy’s Bar, named after Freddy Heineken of the beer brewing family.
(Image credit: Booking.com)
The hotels in Amsterdam are either extremely historic or extremely contemporary. It’s difficult to come across a hotel such as this one that offers such a sumptuous, boudoir-looking interior. Its location is right in the middle of the fray at Dam Square, yet it’s still a quiet sanctuary despite that. There are 16 suites, all decked in opulent silks and velvets, Roman-style bathrooms, and even copper-threaded wallpaper. It’s perhaps not surprising to know that the hotel also boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, Bougainville.
(Image credit: Booking.com)
Conservatorium Hotel is one of the aforementioned contemporary-style hotels to dot the banks of Amsterdam. Named after the music conservatory that once stood in the same spot, the sleek and glassy redesign is architect Piero Lissoni’s work of art. 129 rooms span across eight floors, with an underground spa, a pool, and a Hammam. There’s a restaurant and brasserie over in the glass atrium, while Tunes restaurant is located at the historical part of the property. Its location on the museum square (close to Rijksmuseum, Vondelpark, and the Van Gogh Museum) is a convenient one, making it a prime spot.
(Image credit: Conservatorium Hotel)
The InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam may have been around since 1867, but it’s definitely not outdated or old fashioned. In fact, it’s still very much relevant today because it retains its classic, understated luxury that is fitting throughout the times. More than several big names have stayed here, including Queen Elizabeth II herself. The white marble lobby with its grand double staircase is iconic, its rooms are large with high ceilings and antique French furniture, while the La Rive riverside restaurant is not to be missed.
(Image credit: InterContinental Hotels Group)
For something a little different, try staying at the Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam. Instead of rooms that span upwards, it spans across several connected buildings: six 17th-century double-front canal palaces, to be exact. Its room types range from standard ones to lofts and penthouses, with views of the canal and courtyard. Within the hotel is also a Guerlain spa, a fantastic Librije’s Zusje restaurant, as well as the Peacock Alley lobby lounge for a fancy afternoon tea.
(Image credit: Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam)
For something more contemporary, luxurious yet not too grand, and with a slightly cool and creative vibe, definitely stay at the Pulitzer hotel. Its surroundings also echo the same aesthetic with cool shopping areas and amazing eateries. Similar to the Waldorf Astoria, the Pulitzer is also a horizontal hotel, spanning across 25 different buildings and two major canals in the city. Art enthusiasts will be delighted at the hotel’s collection of modern art dotted throughout the property. As for dining options, there’s Restaurant Jansz for international cuisine, and the iconic Pulitzer’s Bar that has an extensive wine list and a penchant for good classic cocktails.
(Image credit: Wallpaper)
With 40 rooms all boasting its own individual decor, regulars to The Dylan will soon have their own favourite rooms to check in to. Otherwise, wait to be surprised at which room you’ll get. Its location is a convenient one, right in the middle of where most of the attractions in the city are. One of the stars of the hotel is definitely the Michelin-starred Vinkeles restaurant. The same kitchen also handles Occo Brasserie for more casual dining, al fresco in the secluded garden area.
(Image credit: Booking.com)
Here's where you can read the latest news and stories from Lifestyle Asia and our sister titles PrestigeOnline and Augustman, curated from all of our editions in Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok and India.