Fodor's Expert Review Hotel de l'Europe

Movie buffs may remember this gracious 1896 landmark, overlooking the Amstel River and the Muntplein, as the setting of Hitchcock's Foreign Correspondent. Today, lovers of classic décor relish the reproductions of Dutch masters, doormen in top hats, handsome carpets, and all sorts of other luxuries.

room

With 111 nicely sized guest rooms, including 63 suites and a six-bedroom Penthouse Suite, there is plenty to choose from. Standard rooms combine a clean, timeless design in vivid colors–royal blue, daffodil yellow-and a “dedicated piece of art” (a premium reproduction of a Dutch Master) with modern amenities such as comfy Coco-Mat mattresses, Apple TVs, Nespresso coffee makers, Bose surround sound systems and free WiFi.

The most luxurious accommodations are in the Dutch Masters wing, comprising 23 suites, in an adjoining building.

Photo: Oh this room. I can't get over our bathroom with a hot tub and floor heating. I need both in my life. Good night Amsterdam. / @designandhappiness

bathroom

Furnished in Arabesco-Carrara marble, the luxe bathrooms are spacious with bathtubs, separate showers, and heated floors. They also feature handy back-lit shaving/make-up mirrors and bathroom products exclusively developed for Hotel De L’Europe by Blaise Mautin.

Photo: Oh this room. I can't get over our bathroom with a hot tub and floor heating. I need both in my life. Good night Amsterdam. / @designandhappiness

lobby

The chandeliered lobby is aglow with a gold-trimmed ceiling, the perfect setting for high tea (served in full glory here).

pool

Have a swim in the indoor heated swimming pool with a jet stream and jacuzzi while enjoying stunning river views.

spa

The noted Le Spa by Skins Institute offers bespoke beauty- and body treatments using organic products for a “multi-sensorial experience”. Wellness options include an infra-red sauna, traditional Finnish sauna, and a Turkish steam-bath.

gym

Yes, there is a fitness studio with Technogym resistance- and cardio equipment, as well as free weights and work out balls. Personal trainers are available by request.

dining

Michelin-starred Bord’Eau** has long been famed for some of the city's finest food. For a more casual meal, there’s the Bib Gourmand-awarded Hoofdstad Brasserie and from April through October, Hèt Terras, the hotel’s waterside restaurant offers gorgeous views of the river Amstel and Munttoren, which was once part of one of the three Medieval city gates.

YOU SHOULD KNOW The recent departure of chefs Richard van Oostenbrugge and Thomas Groot (to start their own restaurant) may spell an uncertain future for Bord’Eau.

drinking

Freddy's Bar, named after Freddy Heineken, of the beer dynasty that owns the hotel, is a landmark Dutch pub. With its gentleman’s club vibe (there’s even a smoking room, called Freddy’s Fumoir) and old-school cocktails (the Bloody Mary’s are famous), it’s perhaps no surprise that it was awarded “Best Classic Bar” by Red & Grey 2017.