Imposingly situated at the confluence of the Amstel River and Rokin Canal, De L’Europe Amsterdam is elegance unbound—a sumptuous, storybook foray into the top-hatted luxury of a bygone era. Opened in 1896 and owned exclusively by the Heineken family since the 1950s, legend has it the hotel was so beloved by Freddy Heineken’s wife, Lucille, that he purchased it as a gift for her. Today, De L’Europe stands as one of Europe’s grandest stays, an icon of timeless opulence.

Guests are warmly greeted at check-in in the hotel’s monumental riverside lobby with a glass of Veuve Clicquot and surrounded by an awe-inspiring collection of Heineken family art. (You’ll find priceless pieces on loan from the Rijksmuseum on display throughout the hotel.) Following a multi-year renovation, the regal interior shimmers, draped in soft velvets and rich silks, with palatial palms and orchids dappled by the warm, reflective light of the waters below. Settle in window-side on a mid-century lounge chair to watch the passing boats, and you might just feel as though the hotel is floating too.

Elegantly appointed rooms with floor-to-ceiling marble en-suites exude princely charm, but the 14 intimate ‘t Huys Suites are a testament to Amsterdam’s creative diversity and authenticity. These recently unveiled immersive brand suites were imagined by local icons of art, style, and design. Stay in the chic Harper’s Bazaar suite, curated by editor-in-chief Miluska van ‘t Lam, or the rosy, velvet-clad Sisters Janssen suite inspired by the eponymous local artist duo.

Tucked away streetside, Freddy’s Bar—named for Monsieur Heineken himself, who reportedly installed a direct beer line from his factory—serves zippy cocktails in a classic setting. Meanwhile, the hotel’s three in-house restaurants are a masterclass in culinary innovation. Close out the evening with a post-dinner steam and soak at the canal-level Le Spa.