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Astrid Taran, Forbes Staff
Forbes Vetted
With its scenic canals, plentiful windmills and numerous world-famous museums and attractions, Amsterdam is the cultural capital of the Netherlands and a beloved vacation destination for millions of travelers. Whether you plan to visit during its treasured tulip season or to spend time exploring the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, the city has no shortage of things to see. The best hotels in Amsterdam are also ripe for discovery—from canal-front grand dames to hip and modern boutiques, many are housed in restored buildings that contain deep wells of fascinating Dutch history.
Our top recommendation, Pulitzer Amsterdam, is a stylish escape set inside 17th- and 18th-century houses overlooking the Prinsengracht canal, while the unique Conservatorium Hotel offers a luxurious stay in a restored former music conservatory. Those searching for a boutique-style hotel not too far from the main attractions will love The Dylan, a reimagined former theatre where Rembrandt once worked, while young creatives will want to head to Volkshotel in Amsterdam East, which once served as the headquarters of a Dutch daily newspaper. Below, our selections for the best hotels in Amsterdam in 2024.
- Best Hotel In Amsterdam Overall: Pulitzer Amsterdam
- Best High-End Hotel In Amsterdam: Conservatorium Hotel
- Best Boutique Hotel In Amsterdam: The Dylan
- Best Value Hotel In Amsterdam: Volkshotel
- Best Historic Hotel In Amsterdam: Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam
- Best Hotel For Romance In Amsterdam: De L’Europe
- Best Hotel For Families In Amsterdam: Hotel Estheréa
- Best Hotel For Design Lovers In Amsterdam: Hotel TwentySeven
- Hotel With The Best Rooftop In Amsterdam: Pillows Maurits At The Park
- Best Spa And Wellness Hotel In Amsterdam: Hotel Okura Amsterdam
Best Hotel In Amsterdam Overall: Pulitzer Amsterdam
Pulitzer Amsterdam
Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for prime views and a prime location
All-Star Amenities: Le Labo toiletries; antique rotary telephones; some rooms with canal views; bike repair kits in every room (this is Amsterdam, after all)
What Not To Miss: A jenever co*cktail at the Art Deco Pulitzer’s Bar; an afternoon canal cruise on the hotel’s private boat, The Tourist
Location: Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets)
Overlooking the Prinsengracht canal in Amsterdam’s central Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets) shopping district, Pulitzer Amsterdam has a unique set-up: its rooms are spread across 25 historic canal houses from the 17th and 18th century. Despite the historic exterior, this property offers a completely modern feel—think muted colors accented by jewel tones and quirky touches like an archway built of books and a wall lined with brass trumpets. Canal view rooms offer direct views of Amsterdam’s most famous attraction, while Collector’s Suites each have their own private entrances. Luxe Le Labo toiletries and clever bike repair kits can be found in every room. Enjoy a tipple at the on-site Art Deco-style Putlizer’s Bar, followed by dinner at Jansz, named after 17th-century Dutch craftsman Volkert Jansz, who once called the space his home. The hotel owns its own private boat, The Tourist, which offers guests cruises on the canal every afternoon. A private cruise complete with a floating picnic can also be arranged.
Best High-End Hotel In Amsterdam: Conservatorium Hotel
Conservatorium Hotel
Who Will Love It: Luxury loving travelers who like their hotels with a bit of musical history; culture lovers who want to stay walking distance from prime attractions
All-Star Amenities: Floris toiletries; on-site Akasha Wellbeing Center
What Not To Miss: The chandelier made of violins
Location: Museum Square
This chic stay just steps from the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum has a storied history: it was built as a bank in the 19th century before it evolved into a music school, the Sweelinck Conservatorium. The property was later reimagined by Italian architect Piero Lissoni, transforming it into one of Amsterdam’s most stylish hotels—but it hasn’t forgotten its history. Guests will find many winks to the building’s past here, such as a chandelier made of violins and stone pigs carved into the staircases to symbolize piggy banks. Rooms are sophisticated, with dark hardwood floors, travertine stone bathrooms and rainfall showers; downstairs, guests can mingle in an impressive atrium lounge. On-site dining includes a brasserie with Dutch-inspired plates and the Asian-inspired Taiko, while the superb Akasha spa is among the best in the city.
Best Boutique Hotel In Amsterdam: The Dylan
The Dylan
Who Will Love It: Those who want a true canal-front experience in the middle of it all, but without the party crowds
All-Star Amenities: Aesop toiletries; Illy espresso makers; Frette bathrobes; bicycles for rent
What Not To Miss: Dinner at the Michelin-starred Vinkeles
Location: Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets)
Like other hotels on this list, The Dylan lived many lives—as a theatre that employed the famed Dutch painter Rembrandt as a production assistant, then as a children’s orphanage—before it became the elegant and intimate boutique hotel it is today. Although just a few blocks away from the city’s major museums and attractions, the guest experience is here is understated, elegant and sophisticated. That same aesthetic is reflected in each room’s design, with three different themes—copper and bronze Loxura, brown and grey Serendipity and brass and marble Amber—as well as more traditional Loft suites with exposed beams. The on-site Michelin-starred restaurant, Vinkeles, is helmed by chef Dennis Kuipers, and brasserie-style bites at OCCO can be enjoyed with views of the hotel’s charming courtyard.
Best Value Hotel In Amsterdam: Volkshotel
Volkshotel
Who Will Love It: Those who want a value-driven stay in one of the city’s hippest hubs
All-Star Amenities: A Finnish sauna; three rooftop hot tubs; a lobby co-working space that makes it easy to meet locals; sweeping views of the city from top floors
What Not To Miss: A co*cktail at on-site Doka, open Thursdays through Sundays
Location: Amsterdam East
Amsterdam’s creative hub can be found in Amsterdam Oost—or East—and the stylish, social-forward Volkshotel is right at the center of it all. Once the headquarters of De Volkskrant, a Dutch daily newspaper, the building now houses Werkplaats, a creative co-working space, as well as a 172-key hotel that bills itself as “a place for everyone.” Those seeking an affordable stay can find rooms here beginning at less than $200 a night, with sizes varying from sleeping pods to the cozy “Miss Petite” and the family-sized “Mrs. Massive.” Despite having fewer bells and whistles (rooms don’t come with a minibar, coffee or tea makers or telephones), the stay here is still modern and sleek, with color palettes of red, black and grey and thoughtful touches, like illustrated toiletry bottles designed by artists in residence. Canvas, the hotel’s fun bar-restaurant hybrid, serves lunch, dinner and co*cktails; early nighters might want to avoid booking in on the weekends, when it transforms into a dance club.
Best Historic Hotel In Amsterdam: Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam
Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam
Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for a spacious stay in a quiet, central location with high-end amenities and top-notch service
All-Star Amenities: Aesop toiletries; Guerlain spa with pool, sauna and steam room; a scent menu for each guest room; all-day coffee and tea service; babysitting services
What Not To Miss: A tasting of some of the world’s rarest Scotch whiskeys at The Vault Bar, the on-site speakeasy
Location: Canal Ring
Located on a quiet street overlooking the UNESCO-designated Herengracht canal, Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam was once the 17th-century home of one of Amsterdam’s most influential mayors, Hendrik Hooft, during the Dutch Golden Age of art, commerce and trade. Noble families and royalty were frequent guests, making this hotel a true slice of Dutch history. Many of the building’s historic characteristics have been preserved—think marble fireplaces, exposed beam and high ceilings—and the 93 rooms are among the city’s most spacious. Spectrum, the two Michelin-starred restaurant from chef Sidney Schutte, is on-site, as well as The Vault Bar, a basem*nt speakeasy that was once a former bank vault and is now home to some of the world’s hardest to find Scotch whiskeys.
Best Hotel For Romance In Amsterdam: De L’Europe
De L’Europe
Who Will Love It: Couples; culture lovers
All-Star Amenities: Diptyque toiletries; Le Spa by Skins Institute; gym; pool; waterfront terrace; 24-hour concierge; on-site floral studio; two Michelin-starred Restaurant Flore
What Not To Miss: A drink at Freddy’s Bar, named after Freddy Heineken of the beer dynasty
Location: Amstel River
Although the city’s canals have earned it the nickname “Venice of the North,” Amsterdam can often go overlooked when it comes to romantic European destinations. Those skeptics haven’t stayed at De L’Europe, a true grande dame offering an intimate, picturesque stay perched upon the banks of the Amstel River, walking distance from many of the city’s main attractions. Guest rooms are decked out with luscious silks and velvets, beds are dressed with satin sheets and bathrooms feature marble finishings, heated floors and Diptyque toiletries. The property’s newly renovated ’t Huys wing offers an on-site floral studio where guests can purchase fresh bouquets for their sweethearts as well as book appointments for two at the spa, highlighting products from Skins Institute. In the evening, a fine dining experience is in order at Restaurant Flore, a recipient of two Michelin stars, followed by a nightcap at Freddy’s Bar, considered one of the best bars in the city.
Best Hotel For Families In Amsterdam: Hotel Estheréa
Hotel Estheréa
Who Will Love It: Families with children; design lovers
All-Star Amenities: Library; lounge; gym; L’Occitane toiletries; bikes and scooters available for rent; breakfast is free for children under 12
What Not To Miss: The free coffee, tea, hot chocolate and snacks available all day in the lobby
Location: Old Center
It only makes sense that one of Amsterdam’s most family-friendly hotels has family history of its own, and Hotel Estheréa delivers in spades. This design-forward boutique just a short walk from Dam Square was purchased by World War II widow Maria Flieger-Gruyters in 1942 and transformed into a guesthouse named after her daughters Esther, Elly and Ria. After several expansions, the hotel still remains under the same family ownership, with Flieger-Gruyters’ eccentric and poppy style reflected by the bold patterns and bright colors that fill each room. While Hotel Estheréa would also be an excellent option for couples or fans of interior design, children will have a particularly fun time here. The service is exceptionally child-friendly, with young ones often receiving small gifts at check-in, and perks like all-day hot chocolate and sweet treats available in the lobby that are sure to please. Family-friendly room configurations are readily available for large families—including eight interconnecting rooms—and daily breakfast is free for children under 12.
Best Hotel For Design Lovers In Amsterdam: Hotel TwentySeven
Hotel TwentySeven
Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for a spacious stay in a suites-only boutique; those looking to stay near Dam Square; fans of interior design
All-Star Amenities: Personal butler service; Lanvin and Lalique toiletries; each suite features a steam room, whirlpool bath and fitness equipment
What Not To Miss: The opulent décor found in each suite; dinner at Michelin-starred Bougainville
Location: Old Center
The brainchild of hotelier Eric Toren and Dutch design stars Wim van de Oudeweetering and Cris van Amsterdam, Hotel TwentySeven is a suites-only boutique hotel that fully understands and embraces the term “more is more.” Every inch of the property is draped and adorned with high-end furnishings, decorative tiling, hand-blown chandeliers, bold patterns and sumptuous fabrics. Suites feature plush velvet sofas and crystal bedside lamps alongside marble bathrooms stocked with luxe Lanvin and Lalique toiletries. The property is set on the upper floors of a landmark building across from busy Dam Square, but all suites are fully soundproof, so foot traffic will go unnoticed. While the hotel does not have a gym, spa or pool, its other on-site perks more than make up for it: third-floor restaurant Bougainville is a hot ticket and a recipient of a Michelin star, while Bar TwentySeven’s creative co*cktail list has made it a favorite amongst the city’s movers and shakers.
Hotel With The Best Rooftop In Amsterdam: Pillows Maurits At The Park
Pillows Maurits At The Park
Who Will Love It: Travelers seeking an urban oasis in the city; those looking for a great spot for drinks with a view
All-Star Amenities: Gym; sauna; guests-only lounge serving snacks and hot beverages; on-site gardens; free bike rentals; an expansive art collection with pieces by Klimt and Picasso
What Not To Miss: The views of Oosterpark at Fitz’s Bar on the hotel’s rooftop
Location: Amsterdam East
Set on the edge of one of the city’s favorite green spaces, Amsterdam East’s leafy Oosterpark, Pillows Maurits at the Park feels like an intimate escape from the hustle and bustle while in reality being just steps away from lively shops, cafés, restaurants and bars. Occupying what was once a medical university, the hotel’s building has been completely reimagined, with guest rooms that feel airy and tranquil and a new wing built to connect the spaciousness of the property with the verdancy of the outdoors. The many on-site nesting boxes lend to frequent birdsong, and guests can choose from rooms with a bucolic view of the park or a more classic view of the famed canals. For spring and summer days that call for kicking back with a co*cktail, the rooftop at on-site Fitz’s Bar—which combines park views with elegant plant-forward design—is one of the best places in the city to enjoy sunny weather with friends.
Best Spa And Wellness Hotel In Amsterdam: Hotel Okura Amsterdam
Hotel Okura Amsterdam
Who Will Love It: Spa lovers; mothers and daughters; fans of Japanese hospitality and design
All-Star Amenities: Fragonard toiletries; rainfall shower heads; on-site Nagomi Spa & Health featuring saunas, a Turkish steam room, a sun bed, a pool and a Jacuzzi; four restaurants, three of which are Michelin-starred
What Not To Miss: A treatment at Nagomi Spa & Health; panoramic views at Twenty Third Bar
Location: De Pijp
Located on the outskirts of the trendy De Pijp neighborhood, lined with cafés, bookstores and wine bars, the serene Hotel Okura occupies a 23-story building overlooking it all. This Japanese-owned property dishes out exceptional Asian hospitality with warm, attentive service and zen-like calm; its location in one of the city’s only high-rise buildings also lends itself to ravishing panoramic views. Travelers seeking a winning combination of a great neighborhood, superb on-site dining options (three of the four on-site restaurants at Hotel Okura—Ciel Blue, Yamazato and Sazanka—are Michelin-starred) and a sublime spa experience will be more than delighted by the many offerings found here. Nagomi Spa & Health offers a long menu of both Western and Eastern treatments using products from French skincare brand Sothys; afterwards, guests can indulge in the spa’s many amenities, ranging from a tea lounge and Japanese stone garden to a Turkish steam room and a gym equipped with on-call personal trainers.
About Astrid Taran, Your Amsterdam Guide
I have covered travel for almost a full decade as both a writer and editor. Along with extensively writing about hotels and airlines, I have also written multiple destination guides as well as long-form features on luxury travel, adventure travel, wellness travel and more. As a lifelong New Yorker, I always feel happiest in an urban setting, and my favorite thing to do while traveling is to take in the art, culture and culinary gems of a new city. Amsterdam was the first European city I ever visited, and I have returned dozens of times to visit friends, take in the city’s excellent museums and indulge in fresh stroopwafel. Currently, I am the senior travel editor at Forbes Vetted, where I oversee all things hotels, cruises and travel accessories. You can read more of my Forbes Vetted stories here.
