De L’Europe Amsterdam

This iconic property occupies a convenient spot on the Amstel river, a broad, bustling waterway in the city center, but the accommodations need freshening up.

• Rijksmuseum reproductions in every room, thanks to a partnership with the museum
• Canal-level indoor pool and gym
• Private jetty for exploring the city by boat

Overlooking the beautiful Amstel river, the De L’Europe originally opened in 1896, and though its 111 rooms now feature millennial tech amenities such as iPads, flat screen televisions and Bose sound systems, the overall vibe is that of an old fashioned era. Crystal chandeliers deck the bright red lobby, where guests are greeted by top-hatted doormen. And while the hotel was once the place to see and be seen, the De L'Europe has since been surpassed by newer properties.

Thanks to a partnership with the Rijksmuseum, each room at the De L'Europe features a different reproduction of a Dutch Master hanging in the museum. The color scheme in rooms can range from a heavy black and red to a softer mix of florals, and feature somewhat corporate furnishings. The best accommodations are the canal-view rooms in a newly renovated section of the hotel.

Owned by the Heineken family, the De L’Europe has a bar, Freddy’s, where regulars as well as the Heinekens themselves gather for after-work drinks. Fine dining restaurant Bord’Eau also draws a crowd, but my personal favorite was Het Terras, the expansive outdoor terrace that’s ideal for sipping wine and watching boats on a warm afternoon. There is also an impressive gym as well as an indoor pool, both facing the river, and a spa.

Location-wise, the hotel sits directly in the city center. Although the blocks just around the hotel feel a bit busy, it’s an easy walk to sights, museums and restaurants as well as quieter neighborhoods to wander and admire the historic homes (best at dusk when lights come on and you get an architectural peep show). There’s also a private jetty for exploring the city via boat, a must for first-time visitors.

Those who want to stay in Amsterdam's most historic property and don't mind outdated rooms.