Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is renowned for its scenic canals, historical architecture, and vibrant culture. However, for those seeking a serene and relaxing vacation, the city also offers a number of tranquil accommodations that provide peace amidst the urban charm. From boutique hotels nestled along picturesque canals to hidden retreats surrounded by lush gardens, these scenic stays in Amsterdam offer a perfect blend of comfort and calm.
Here’s a guide to 10 beautiful and peaceful stays in Amsterdam for a memorable, restful vacation.
1. Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam
Located in the heart of the city’s iconic canal district, the Pulitzer Amsterdam is a luxurious hotel that combines the charm of 25 interconnected Golden Age canal houses. Despite being close to the city’s attractions, such as the Anne Frank House and the Jordaan neighborhood, the Pulitzer offers a peaceful escape with its serene inner gardens and chic, thoughtfully designed rooms.
The hotel’s tranquil canal-side location makes it perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of Amsterdam’s waterways while having easy access to the city’s cultural sights. The hotel also offers canal boat tours, allowing you to soak in the scenery from the comfort of a private vessel.
2. Conservatorium Hotel
The Conservatorium Hotel is a magnificent fusion of modern luxury and historic architecture. Situated in the Museum Quarter, just steps from the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, this five-star hotel is known for its elegant, minimalist design and tranquil ambiance.
The hotel’s Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Center is a highlight for those looking to unwind. With a luxurious spa, an indoor pool, and meditation rooms, it provides a sanctuary of relaxation. The glass-covered inner courtyard offers a calm setting where guests can enjoy a quiet meal or drink away from the bustling city streets.
3. Hotel Estherea
Set in a historic building along the Singel, Amsterdam’s oldest canal, Hotel Estherea offers an intimate and peaceful retreat. The hotel’s interior is a delightful mix of opulent decor, including chandeliers, velvet furnishings, and warm wood finishes.
Despite being centrally located, the hotel exudes a quiet charm, and its position along the canal offers stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The cozy library, complete with comfortable chairs and a fireplace, makes it the perfect spot to curl up with a book after a day of sightseeing.
4. The Dylan Amsterdam
Tucked away in the vibrant Nine Streets neighborhood, The Dylan Amsterdam is a boutique hotel that combines elegance, history, and tranquility. Housed in a 17th-century building, the hotel offers a serene atmosphere with its minimalist yet luxurious rooms and a quiet courtyard garden.
The hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Vinkeles, serves gourmet dishes in a peaceful setting, making it a great choice for food lovers seeking an intimate dining experience. The Dylan’s location along the Keizersgracht canal provides beautiful views, and its proximity to charming boutiques and cafes ensures a relaxing stay.
5. Ambassade Hotel
The Ambassade Hotel is a family-run gem located along the Herengracht canal, one of Amsterdam’s most beautiful and quiet waterways. The hotel is housed in a series of 17th-century canal houses, offering a unique and peaceful setting for guests.
What sets the Ambassade Hotel apart is its impressive collection of art and literature. The hotel is home to the Ambassade Art Gallery, featuring works from the CoBrA movement, and its library boasts over 5,000 signed books from authors who have stayed at the hotel. The tranquil reading room overlooking the canal is perfect for book lovers seeking peace and quiet.
6. Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam
For those seeking the ultimate luxury experience in a serene setting, the Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam offers just that. This five-star hotel is located along the Herengracht canal and comprises six historic 17th-century townhouses.
The hotel’s Guerlain Spa, with its indoor pool and treatment rooms, offers a haven of relaxation. The private garden, one of the largest in Amsterdam, provides a peaceful retreat where guests can unwind. With its elegant rooms, impeccable service, and stunning views of the canal, the Waldorf Astoria is ideal for a serene, luxurious stay.
7. Zoku Amsterdam
Zoku Amsterdam offers a modern, minimalist take on city living, perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful, home-like environment. The hotel’s loft-style rooms are designed to feel like micro-apartments, with fully equipped kitchens and cozy living spaces.
Located near the Amstel River, Zoku provides a quiet retreat away from the more tourist-heavy areas of Amsterdam. The rooftop terrace, with its panoramic views of the city, is an ideal spot to relax with a book or enjoy a glass of wine at sunset.
8. De L’Europe Amsterdam
De L’Europe Amsterdam is a grand hotel situated along the Amstel River. Its location provides stunning views of the water, and its luxurious interior offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The hotel’s riverside terrace is a lovely spot for a quiet meal, and the on-site spa offers a range of treatments designed to help you unwind. De L’Europe’s combination of old-world charm and modern luxury makes it an excellent choice for travelers seeking both tranquility and elegance.
9. Morgan & Mees
For a more laid-back, boutique experience, Morgan & Mees offers a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere in the quieter Oud-West neighborhood. The hotel’s minimalist design and calming color palette make it a peaceful place to stay, and its location in a quieter part of the city ensures a more serene experience.
The rooftop terrace offers views of the surrounding neighborhood, and the restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced dishes. It’s the perfect spot for those looking for a peaceful retreat away from the city center, but still within walking distance of major attractions.
10. Hotel Okura Amsterdam
Located in the De Pijp district, Hotel Okura Amsterdam offers a luxurious and peaceful stay in a quieter part of the city. This five-star hotel is known for its impeccable service, spacious rooms, and panoramic views of Amsterdam.
The hotel’s wellness facilities include an indoor pool, sauna, and a serene Japanese garden, perfect for moments of relaxation. The Michelin-starred restaurant, Ciel Bleu, offers fine dining with breathtaking views, making it an excellent choice for a peaceful and indulgent stay.
Conclusion
Amsterdam is often thought of as a lively city, bustling with activity, but it also offers plenty of peaceful hideaways. From luxurious canal-side hotels to charming boutique stays, these 10 scenic accommodations provide the perfect blend of relaxation and beauty. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat to unwind or a quiet place to explore the city’s rich history and culture, these stays will help ensure a peaceful and memorable vacation