When the Waldorf Astoria opened its Amsterdam outpost in 2014, the iconic brand took six 17th- and 18th-century canal houses—two of which used to be official residences for the mayor, and at least three of which have architectural details by iconic artists—and transformed them into a distinctively Dutch version of world-class luxury. Located in the heart of the historic city, on the picturesque Herengracht canal, the color palette that runs throughout the four eateries (one of which received two Michelin stars within seven months of opening) and the 93 refined rooms were lifted straight from Vermeer’s famous Girl With the Pearl Earring painting. Soothing shades of lapis lazuli and ochre harmoniously complement the views through the large, white-framed windows, whether of the canal or the lush interior garden. The Waldorf also brought the brand’s signature superlative service and decadent spa, guaranteeing that the Amsterdam iteration would be just as beloved by the international elite as the original New York hotel.

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Live Like A Golden Age Merchant At Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam

As soon as your car pulls up to The Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam you are greeted politely and welcomed to the property with a smile. You are the one who should be smiling, because for the next few days you will be provided your own concierge, pampered like never before, and dine like royalty here. Six, 17 and 18th century patrician mansions along Herengracht (Gentleman’s Canal) have been joined together and restored to their sumptuous beauty replete with a curving masterpiece of a stairway, ballroom transformed into an event space, and the Waldorf Astoria’s signature “Peacock Alley” room. Every view to the outside gardens or canal is framed by spectacular rooms. The outstanding Michelin two-star restaurant, Librije’s Zusje Amsterdam is not to be missed ( see the write up on this site) and awaits your dining pleasure for a memorable multi-course meal with wine pairing. The Goldfinch Brasserie is a more elegantly casual spot where the food is still excellent. Have a libation in a bar tucked into an old bank vault room aptly named Vault Bar, and here and there throughout stop in a quiet spot to enjoy this lovely, historic property. If all of the sightseeing, art museums and diamond shopping tires you out, pop into the Guerlain Spa to become refreshed once more. Images credit: Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam

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