The Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam is an architectural masterpiece, seamlessly blending six historic canal palaces dating back to the 1650s. It is also home to the largest private courtyard in the city. For my first visit to Europe, I chose this stunning property as my home base — and it sparkled in all the right places.
The Vibe
Set along the UNESCO-listed Herengracht Canal — one of Amsterdam’s three main waterways encircling the city center — the Waldorf Astoria exudes understated elegance. Warm décor and a signature scent punctuated my arrival, setting the tone for the impeccable service that followed. At check-in, I was invited to select a personalized fragrance to be used in my room for the duration of my stay — a luxurious touch that immediately made the experience feel curated and special. Meanwhile, my luggage was seamlessly transferred to my room, waiting for me before I even finished the check-in process.
Beyond the lobby lies Peacock Alley, a striking dining space serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea. Nearby, the Maurer Room, adorned with painstakingly restored 18th-century wall paintings, offers a private dining experience for up to twelve guests.
The guest room corridors weave together the six historic palaces, leading to 93 rooms with either canal or courtyard views. Every detail whispers luxury, reinforcing the hotel’s well-earned reputation.
How I Felt
Despite its grandeur, the Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam felt oddly like a home away from home. My typical travels lean toward more modest accommodations, but this splurge felt like the perfect way to experience the opulence of Amsterdam on my first visit to the city — and to the European continent.
The hotel’s renowned service was effortlessly woven into every moment, from daily breakfasts and spa visits to evening cocktails in the courtyard and a memorable dinner at Spectrum, its two-Michelin-starred restaurant. Every need was anticipated with an ease that many luxury hotels attempt but few truly master.
The Digs
For three nights, I stayed in a Grand Premier King Room with a courtyard view. Infused with the custom scent I had chosen at check-in, the room was adorned with the finest fabrics, an in-room espresso machine and elegant furnishings. The bathroom was an indulgence in itself — flooded with natural light, featuring a separate soaking tub and shower, and stocked with Salvatore Ferragamo bath amenities.
The neutral palette of soft grays and warm beiges created a serene ambiance, punctuated by fresh pink Gerbera daisies in the sitting area. Come evening, the turndown service included a delightful nod to Dutch culture — a tiny chocolate clog left on my pillow.
The Agenda
The hotel’s prime canal-side location made Amsterdam’s historic center entirely walkable. Before my arrival, the concierge arranged a private walking tour, tailored to my interests — highlights of the city, the Van Gogh Museum and the most photogenic spots. My guide, Helen, effortlessly blended history, fun facts and scenic views, giving me a perfect introduction to the city. Over the following days, I revisited neighborhoods that had caught my interest for a deeper dive.
No visit to Amsterdam is complete without coffee or cocktails along the canals. I made sure to do both, soaking in the city’s charm from its waterside terraces. Helen also recommended experiencing a canal cruise both by day and at night. The evening tour, in particular, provided a fascinating glimpse into Dutch culture — many Amsterdammers eschew window coverings, a long-standing tradition symbolizing openness and honesty.
The Eats
Breakfast at the Waldorf Astoria was a daily indulgence, offering everything from classic American staples like eggs and bacon to my personal favorite — a simple waffle dusted with powdered sugar, paired with a latte and fresh juice.
Dinner at Spectrum remains one of my most memorable culinary experiences. I opted for the seven-course tasting menu with wine pairings, which culminated in a playful and fitting nod to Amsterdam’s liberal culture — a dessert called the Amsterdam “Dame Blanche,” featuring pure chocolate and a subtle infusion of cannabis, a tribute to the city’s progressive stance on recreational marijuana use.
Why I Would Go Back
In a word: luxury. The Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam fully deserves its five-star distinction. Its location is ideal — close enough to Amsterdam’s liveliness yet tucked away from the noise. The stunning architectural details, steeped in Dutch history, add an extra layer of charm. But what truly sets this hotel apart is the way it weaves local culture into the experience, from the chocolate clogs at turndown to the canal-side ambiance.
When you stay within the walls of a 17th-century palace, you can’t help but feel a deep appreciation for the history that surrounds you. The Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam isn’t just a hotel — it’s an experience, one that I would gladly relive.
Cole Sjoholm
comments