De L'Europe Amsterdam: Where Luxury Meets Dutch Charm (and Yes, Cookie Croissants)

De L'Europe is known as Amsterdam's original luxury hotel. I can tell you from experience that it is so luxurious and unique, it makes my Stockholm apartment look like a college dorm room (and not in a cool, retro way). Perched on the Amstel River like a crown jewel, this place is more central than a stroopwafel in a Dutch breakfast. With 111 rooms and suites, it's been the go-to spot for luxury since 1896, owned by the Heineken family. That's right, “Freddy” a beloved local establishment in the De L'Europe hotel, is named after Alfred “Freddy” Heineken.

Food-wise, De L'Europe doesn't mess around. It has five dining options. Bord'Eau flaunts two Michelin stars (fancy!), while Marie brings a touch of French elegance. Freddy's Bar serves up Heineken to locals and very good bitterballen. For riverside dining, Het Terras is your go-to, and Hèt Café lets you pretend you're a local.

Now, let's talk about the ‘T HUYS Suites. Forget your run-of-the-mill hotel rooms — these are more like livable art galleries. One of De L'Europe's most captivating features is its collaboration with renowned Dutch artists and cultural institutions to create truly unique suite experiences. The hotel has partnered with the prestigious Rijksmuseum to adorn select suites with stunning replicas of Dutch Master paintings. Allowing guests to literally sleep under a Rembrandt or Van Gogh. The Bibi van der Velden suite showcases the eponymous jewelry designer's avant-garde creations, transforming the space into a wearable art gallery. In the Marcel Wanders suite, guests are surrounded by the iconic designer's whimsical and elegant touches, from custom furniture to bespoke wallpaper. The hotel's commitment to showcasing Dutch creativity extends to partnerships with contemporary artists like Jasper Krabbé, whose vibrant works add a modern flair to the classic elegance of the suites. I stayed in the Gloobles Room and it was amazing. Cute, girly, comfy and so chic. Highly recommend. These collaborations not only provide an unparalleled aesthetic experience but also offer guests an intimate connection to the rich artistic heritage of Amsterdam, making each stay a cultural journey in itself. Each room has its own luxury experiences, too, such as museum tours and VIP shopping experiences.

For art enthusiasts, De L'Europe offers an exclusive treat: a tour of the world-famous Van Gogh Museum. This isn't your average museum visit — it's a VIP experience that'll make you feel like you're personal friends with Vincent himself. Skip the lines and enjoy an intimate, guided journey through Van Gogh's life and works, led by an expert curator. You'll gain insights into the artist's techniques, inspirations and the stories behind his most iconic paintings. From "The Potato Eaters" to "Sunflowers," you'll see these masterpieces in a whole new light. It's like having the entire museum to yourself. This tour is the perfect complement to your stay in the Van Gogh-inspired suite. Creating a fully immersive art experience that you won't find anywhere else in Amsterdam. And let's not overlook the Coco-Mat beds. They're so comfortable!

I also really recommend the private canal boat tours from the hotel's own dock. Forget those touristy canal cruises where you're packed in like herring in a jar. This is comfortable, private, and you can order food on board.

While Amsterdam isn't just about luxury hotels (though it should be), staying at De L'Europe elevates your entire experience. It's the difference between watching "The Night Watch" on your phone and seeing it in person at the Rijksmuseum.

Now, for some insider tips to make your Amsterdam adventure even better:

• Cornerstore and Cafe Binnenvisser are must-visits for foodies.

• For vintage shopping and cute cafes, head to De Pijp. It's like Brooklyn, but with more bikes and better cheese.

• Albert Cuyp market is where you'll find the best stroopwafel from Rudi.

• Don't leave without trying a cookie croissant from Lourens cafe.

• Grab one of De L'Europe's bikes and pedal your way to the Van Gogh Museum.

So there you have it, folks. De L'Europe Amsterdam: where luxury meets quirkiness, where canals meet croissants and where you can sleep in a work of art. It's not just a hotel stay — it's an Amsterdam experience.

Until next time, keep your bikes locked!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Amsterdam. In need of further inspiration? Check out Lola Banjo’s guide, A 2-Day Pre-Cruise Guide to Amsterdam.