Best Historical Hotels in The Netherlands

The wellness centre here was voted the Netherlands’ Best Hotel Spa of 2020 and rooms come with Hermès branded products. The building itself has served many purposes as an ex-city hall, monastery, royal lodge and Admiralty. Inside, French interiors by Sybille de Margerie, complement an Art Deco extension and grand features dating back, in parts, to the 16th century. Dinner and organic wines are served in the Bridges restaurant, or garden bistro, with afternoon teas in the library lounge. Do take advantage of a local tour on the Sofitel’s private salon boat, horse-drawn carriage or one of its bicycles – a highlight of any stay here.

The 5-star InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam is not just another lavish hotel to be included in IHG Hotels & Resorts’ impressive Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio. The ‘Grand Dame of Amsterdam’ has provided an elegant and relaxing stay, overlooking the Amstel River, to guests from all over the world since 1867. Its central location facilitates the discovery of the iconic city while the hotel itself provides opportunities for fine dining with a stunning view in the Amstel Brasserie and a fully-equipped health & fitness club – complete with a sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and heated indoor swimming pool. The hotel’s 55 rooms and 24 suites are tastefully decorated with ornate furniture and Delft pottery to complement the exquisite décor and homely environment of the venue. Fit for any occasion, the hotel boasts 522m2 of meeting and event facilities, spread across 6 rooms. The InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam offers guests an exclusive opportunity to explore the Dutch capital in comfort and style.

No less than 25 linked canal houses make up the entirety of this 225 bedroom hotel. The contemporary bistro, Jansz, and casual restaurant Pause, both have large picture windows, so diners can take in the passing on-water activity from morning till night. The Pulitzer Old Fashioned (a pineapple twist on the original) is a favourite in the hotel’s vintage era bar. And a trip on the Pulitzer’s own teak salon boat is a must. Small dogs and children are welcomed, as are cyclists – you’ll find a puncture repair kit in every room, along with trendy Le Labo products.

As you walk into Andaz Amsterdam Prisengracht’s observatory themed lobby it soon becomes clear that this hotel is a design lovers paradise. The hotel occupies a former public library, and every inch of its spacious and welcoming interior is designed to convey stories of the capital and display Dutch heritage. The rooms are designed by Marcel Woods and many of them look out onto the canal or hotel garden. These rooms are light and friendly, they manage to skilfully combine Dutch history with a modern and playful atmosphere. The hotel boasts a spa, gym and even a canal boat on which guests can enjoy a fine dining experience all whilst cruising around the idyllic canals of Amsterdam. Andaz also hosts the unique Pris and Aap restaurant which serves locally sourced and avant-garde dishes which aim to not only delight the tastebuds but tell stories of Dutch culture and history.

The Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam is one of Amsterdam’s most renowned and historic hotels. It is so quintessentially Dutch that it even has cultivated its own Tulip. Located on the iconic Dam Square, it gazes upon the Royal Palace and is a stone’s throw from sites like Anne Frank’s House and the Van Gogh Museum. The hotel has hosted Royal parties and global conferences, one can easily see why due to its decadence and grandeur. Its 402 rooms seamlessly blend the hotel’s rich history with a modern design. The hotel has any amenities a guest may desire from a fully equipped gym which boasts its own climbing wall to an award-winning spa which allows guests the chance to relax after a busy day of exploring Amsterdam. The hotel is renowned for its gastronomic delights with the Grand Café Krasnapolsky providing guests with an exquisite culinary experience and Michelin-starred restaurant The White Room delivering one of the most luxurious dining experiences in Amsterdam. Guests are also welcome to enjoy a bespoke cocktail in the hotel The Tailor Bar after a night of fine dining surrounded by the Krasnapolsky’s historic grandeur.

Set in the very heart of the Jordaan district, Canal House is an uber-chic 23-bedroom boutique hotel that can be found right on the edge of the Keizergracht. This collection of former and seventeenth-century merchants’ houses have been fully revamped and features a glamorous contemporary design that is very comfortable. In addition to their own private spaces, guests are treated to large and lavish shared amenities such as the large garden. The Garden House and Summer House have been designed for private gatherings, while there are several on-site eateries to choose from.

This used to be the HQ of a charity and an almshouse, but post-millennium took on new life as a boutique hotel. It’s set back from the street, and entered via a peaceful courtyard, so guests instantly feel a sense of calm, exclusivity and elegance on arrival. The design is contemporary but fused with old-world charm, peppered with international antiques and oriental accents. Its 40 bedrooms are contained in two canalside buildings within the city’s shopping quarter. Meals are served in the Vinkeles restaurant (previously the house’s bakery) or the more relaxed Occo Brasserie. The vibe here is best suited to couples rather than families.

The Hoxton, Lloyd Amsterdam located on the Eastern Docklands of Amsterdam, transforms a century-old landmark originally built by the Royal Dutch Lloyd Shipping Company into a vibrant hotel. This second Hoxton location in Amsterdam features 136 rooms, including unique offerings like the top-floor Tower Room and musically-themed Tune Room. The hotel celebrates the building’s Art Deco heritage while integrating bold, contemporary designs and local Dutch artwork, maintaining a connection with the area’s artistic scene. Guests can enjoy the Breman Brasserie for European and South American-inspired dishes, the Barbue cocktail bar for a mix of European and Argentine flavours, and The Apartment for events. With a south-facing terrace and partnerships with local brands and artists, the Hoxton Lloyd aims to be a cultural hub in its neighbourhood, enhancing both guest and local experiences through its aesthetic and community-focused initiatives.

A converted canal-house, Seven One Seven sits at the heart of Amsterdam’s action. And it offers a distinctly homely experience, akin to being hosted as an aristocratic house guest, rather than a tourist. You won’t see a reception desk, restaurant or bartender here, rather a discreet domestic staff who’ll cater to your every need (including food and drinks) in a more bespoke fashion. Public areas come in the form of a drawing-room, library and breakfast room, in addition to the nine bedrooms. The back of the mansion dates all the way to the 17th century, with the frontage having been added in the early 19th.

Amsterdam’s Grand Hotel Amrâth is a five-star hotel which occupies a unique location in the city’s historic heart. Inhabiting the former 20th-century Scheepvaarthuis (Shipping House), the building is a perfect example of the Amsterdam School architecture, putting a Dutch twist on Art Nouveau. Discovering the city couldn’t be easier thanks to the hotel’s bus, tram and metro connections and its proximity to Amsterdam Central Station (500m), and a private parking garage is available for those exploring by car. Among the 205 rooms are 22 suites, family packages, and deluxe rooms with canal views. Decorated in Art Deco style, the high ceilings and large windows let in plenty of light and provide scenic views of the city. Inside, The Bar Lounge serves lunches, high-tea, and evening meals, as well as cocktails both classic and inspired by Amsterdam’s character. The complimentary Spa & Wellness Centre allows guests exclusive access to a pool, gym and massage service – the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring the concierge’s top recommendations.

The Hoxton is a perfect hotel for travellers seeking to explore Amsterdam’s vibrant culture and thriving gastronomic scene. Situated on the Herengracht canal in the centre of Amsterdam’s Nine Streets area, the streets surrounding the Hoxton are lined with picturesque cafes and exquisite restaurants. Yet the Hoxton is a cultural hub in its own right with its modern and welcoming interior currently hosting an exhibition by painter Anne Stocker. The hotel’s 111 rooms are all unique with many boasting views of the canals. Many of the rooms reflect the history of the old canal houses allowing guests to feel immersed in Amsterdam’s heritage. The hotel’s restaurant, Lottis, is perfect for any occasion as whilst it boasts a brasserie-style menu, it also serves coffee throughout the day and cocktails in the evening. Whether you are off on a luxurious family holiday or a cultural city break, the Hoxton is the perfect hotel for any traveller wishing to immerse themselves in the delights of Amsterdam.

Rosewood Amsterdam is located in the historic heart of Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed Canal District, occupying the meticulously restored former Palace of Justice, dating from 1665. The hotel presents 134 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, including five exceptional signature suites, thoughtfully designed by Studio Piet Boon. Many rooms offer stunning views over Amsterdam’s iconic canals, tranquil courtyards, and picturesque townhouse rooftops. The hotel’s design seamlessly blends historic grandeur with contemporary sophistication, honouring Dutch craftsmanship through modern interpretations of traditional aesthetics.

Dining at Rosewood Amsterdam showcases refined culinary artistry with three distinctive restaurants and bars, complemented by a unique in-house distillery, creating an immersive gastronomic experience deeply connected to Dutch heritage. Wellness seekers will appreciate the luxurious Asaya® Spa, a serene space offering tailored treatments, alongside a state-of-the-art fitness centre and an elegant indoor swimming pool.

Highlight experiences include the opportunity for guests to explore Amsterdam’s canals aboard the hotel’s private Salon Boat, beautifully styled by Studio Piet Boon, offering an exclusive and elegant journey through the city’s waterways. With its combination of exceptional service, culturally enriching experiences, and stylish comfort, Rosewood Amsterdam promises a truly distinctive luxury stay in the Netherlands’ vibrant capital.