De L'Europe Amsterdam

One of just a few hotels that uphold the tradition of the classic European grand hotel, De L’Europe Amsterdam has been in business since 1896. And while it’s kept itself continually updated throughout the decades — most recently undergoing a thorough renovation in 2020 — the intent was never to reinvent the place, but to maintain the sense of timeless luxury that’s long been its signature. In fact a guest from a century ago might feel right at home here, once certain high-tech amenities had been adequately explained.

The rooms and suites come in a dizzying variety of plans and styles; all are rich with detail and rich with functionality, including an uncommon flexibility in connecting rooms for families and large parties. The ‘t Huys suites are particularly distinctive, each one the unique result of a collaboration with a different creative partner, all of them full of unique art and objects and uncharacteristically contemporary design.

Its position on the waters of the Amstel river makes the De L’Europe an unmistakable local landmark, as do its restaurants, which include a French brasserie, an Italian trattoria, and a Michelin-starred modern Dutch kitchen. A well-equipped spa and fitness center complete the package, and the hotel’s central location places it within easy reach of Amsterdam’s museums and the rest of the city center’s sights.