The PureLuxe Guide to
The Netherlands
Windmills, tulips, and stroopwafels? They barely scratch the surface of the Netherlands’ charm. This is PureLuxe’s guide to creating an unforgettable experience, diving deep into everything this captivating country has to offer.
From picturesque canals and tulips spilling over bridge railings to the cheerful chatter of Nederlanders cycling by, the Netherlands delivers culture and appeal at every turn, even the locals stop to admire. In this land of rich architecture, history comes alive through the brushstrokes of Dutch masters like Rembrandt, Vermeer and Van Gogh.
There’s beauty in something as simple as a bike ride through tulip-filled fields with your companion. And as evening falls over Holland, champagne and cheese await on a tranquil canal cruise, while the sun paints the sky in orange hues. Uncover these magical moments here.
The Historics | Netherlands’ Iconic Museums
Walk through the country’s history, witnessing landmarks that revive the stories of a bygone time. Let each experience become an exciting turn for our PureLuxe traveller as you unveil a nook hidden in plain sight and strut through pathways designed by a creative mind.
Rijksmuseum
A treasure trove of Dutch mastery, the Rijksmuseum showcases icons of the Golden Age alongside the delicate blue-whites of historic Delftware.
A must-visit architectural marvel blended beautifully in a Neo-Gothic and Renaissance style.
PureLuxe Insider Exclusive: Get pre-booked access to this celebrated museum of art.
Kröller-Müller museum
Set within a 25-acre vibrant garden, Kröller-Müller museum is the home for the second largest collection of Van Gogh paintings, alongside Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, Georges Seurat, and Piet Mondrian.
It’s a perfect place to stroll or bike ride through a scenic garden landscape where art breathes in the open air.
PureLuxe Insider Exclusive: Book a private access tour showcasing large-scale sculptural works.
Van Gogh Museum
Curious to step into Vincent Van Gogh’s life? Venture into a museum dedicated solely to this Dutch artist’s story. Housing the largest collection of Van Gogh paintings Worldwide, curated in chronological detail. His personal letters, multimedia and exhibits enthrall you into the mysteries of his creative mind, turmoil and unforgettable genius.
PureLuxe Insider Exclusive: Grab a guided tour to understand Van Gogh’s story to deeper depths.
Anne Frank Huis
Dedicated to the Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. This historic home invokes an intellectual yet personal conversation through the life of Anne Frank and her family during the Holocaust and WWII.
Immerse yourself into history with a peek into her secret annexe hidden behind a bookshelf. Discover the original diary, memoirs, quotes and postcards that tell her story.
PureLuxe Insider Exclusive: Take a private tour of this historic abode, each room telling part of its story.
Stays in The Netherlands
Stay at some of the most luxurious hotels in the Netherlands. We’ve got you covered with a selection from staying in the bustling city to the edge of a canal. Check into these luxury hotels that stand as every discerning traveller’s pick.
De L’Europe
Nestled in the prime location of Amsterdam, surrounded by shopping spots to pamper yourself with. Admire mounted replicas of famous Dutch paintings in your bedroom, evoking a tranquil feeling that pays homage to the Dutch master. Satiate your appetite at the Michelin-star restaurant, The Flore. Indulge in their renowned conscious and seasonal fine dining.
Conservatorium
Placed within arm's reach of the cultural hotspots of Holland, this hotel is a Neo-Gothic style, must-visit for admirers of historical grandeur with a contemporary flair. Thrive in their lively atmosphere, which mimics the city’s charm and energy at the Taiko Bar. Spoil yourself at the Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre with massages, facials and hammams.
Rosewood
This newly opened hotel in Amsterdam boasts an unrestricted view of the Prinsengracht canal. Try the traditional Dutch Jenever-making at the Rosewood’s Distillery & bar Advocatuur. Step into a curated art journey, showcasing paintings from old and new artists, bridging Amsterdam’s creative past and admirable present.
The Dylan
The Dylan has a rich, storied past as Amsterdam's first stone theatre. Every single room has its unique charm, designed to appeal to every perceptive traveller. Savour contemporary French dishes from the two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Vinkeles, facing the beautiful private garden. Experience ultra-exclusive 6-seater fine dining at Até restaurant.
Sofitel Legend
Situated amid two canals, Sofitel Legend blends Dutch history with French elegance in a luxury setting. Enjoy personalised in-room butler service with every "Oui, Madame." Dine on modern Mediterranean cuisine at Oriole’s terrace. With a focus on sleep therapy, unwind at their spa, or get a good night's rest amid Sofitel’s special beds and custom room temperature and lighting.
Waldorf Astoria
Stay alongside the Herengracht canal at the Waldorf Astoria, where each room tells its own story. Designed with a range of exposed wood beams and rustic rooms, to elegant and glamorous suites that have bewitching views of the Canal or their private garden. Sip a glass of Champagne or tea as you delight in an afternoon tea at The Peacock Alley.
Gastronomy in the Netherlands
Fine Dining
Treat your palate to delectable European dishes as you journey through Amsterdam’s Michelin-starred restaurants.
De Librije
De Librje is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant. Partake in their seasonal dishes, namely the Succulent Ijsselmeer made with a pike perch glaze and drizzle of apple syrup and cured bacon garnish. Dine beneath an open glass roof, where the natural light and serene ambience awaken all your senses.
Vinkeles
The wood and stone, exposed brick, and refined decor provide a sense of warm, understated elegance to anyone who dines there. Indulge in their highly personalised and intimate experience. Feast your eyes on their 7-course vegetable menu, considered a rarity among fine dining restaurants of this calibre.
BAK
Witness the gleaming IJ River while you indulge in their adventurous menu combined with exciting flavour combos. Take a sip from their eclectic European-produced wine collection. Exposed wooden beams and vibrant locally made art on the walls add to the rugged and funky vibe of the place.
De Kas
A historic greenhouse, with an ever-changing menu, determined by the produce picked for that day. De Kas offers a surprising experience on every visit, with an open kitchen concept that showcases their preparation process transparently. This farm-to-table restaurant holds both Red & Green Michelin Stars, demonstrating dedication to quality and sustainability.
Restaurant Moon
Relish in views as dynamic as the food in this eternally rotating restaurant. Apart from expert wine pairing, indulge in exceptional tea pairing prepared by the tea sommelier. Indulge in chilled tea from various regions of India, Sri Lanka and Japan, curated to enhance your overall experience, making it a thrilling yet romantic brunch.
Haricot
Head over to Haricot in Maastricht for lunch after a shopping spree in Roermond. Have a meal at this sophisticated French restaurant that infuses international accents with surprising contrasts and creative twists. Founded by three friends who once worked at De Librije, Haricot offers a fixed six-course menu that’s less of a guessing game and more of a true culinary experience.
Brunch and Cafe picks - Dutch edition
A curated selection of locally approved culinary hotspots to taste the true flavour of the Netherlands.
Cafes:
Back to Black: Founded by two local women, this chic, cosy haven of a cafe is merely 5 mins from the Rijksmuseum. Don't forget to greet the local cafe cat as you enjoy sustainably sourced coffee and hearty homemade cakes like Dutch apple pie and carrot cake.
Cafe de Jaren: Rent a cycle or a boat after a visit to the Rijksmuseum and ride to this Cafe adored by locals. Read at a shared table, taking in the flair of a cafe + library. Experience a classic European breakfast spread on the balcony facing the Amstel River during a lovely, sunny day.
Hanno, Groots Cafe: Walk over for a refuel from the Royal Delft museum at Hanno. This relaxed, welcoming cafe is a charming space that draws inspiration for its design from the worldwide travels of its owners, Hugo Zonneveld and Kim. To top it all off, this earthy and personality-filled cafe promises friendly service and delicious food to fulfil your cravings.
Vlot Grand Cafe: Perched along a charming canal in Leiden, this cafe is the perfect spot to sip a warm coffee while watching boats drift by or have a Tête-à-tête with a friend. Indoor seating fills up fast, but the outdoor tables offer just as much charm, especially on a sunny afternoon after a morning of exploring the city.
Authentic and Fresh Stroopwafels:
Hans Egstorf: A mere 5-minute walk from The Dylan Hotel, stop by at Hans Egstorf Bakkerij for a taste of their delicious sourdough breads, crispy croissants and their famous Stroopwafels. Take an extra trip to their Authentic bakery at Spuistraat 274, right behind the store, and breathe in the delicious whiff of baked goods in the making.
Rudi's Original Stroopwafels: Take a tram from the Keizergracht and stroll down this road till you catch a whiff of sweet sugary goodness arising from a particular food truck/stall. Dig into these delectable stroopwafels on site or take a packet home to savour later.
Van Holland Stroopwafels: Stroll 3 minutes down the road from Hotel De ‘Europe to grab a freshly baked batch of sweet stroopwafels filled with creamy caramel syrup. Rest assured, you will be getting stroopwafels made in the most authentic traditional methods; they've been around since 1971.
Dutch Fries:
Fabel Friet: Close to The Dylan, grab a quick midday snack at Fabel Friet. Pick your favourite topping to go with these fries and indulge in a delicious savoury snack. While you're there, don't miss out on their Frikandel (deep-fried sausage-like meat) and Cheese Souffles.
Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx: This small “hole in the wall” shop is adored for its wide selection of delicious, exciting sauces that might as well highlight, if not outshine, these crispy Belgian fries.
Manneken Pis: This all-rounder fast food chain arguably has the best-rated fries in Holland. With certain food items available only at specific locations, this Dutch Fry centre is popular for its crispy fries alongside its infamous curry sauce.
BitterBallen:
De Ballen bar - Foodhallen: Amid the vast market of Foodhallen in Amsterdam’s west neighbourhood, Step into a hub of Bitterballens done right, both traditional and innovative. If you're feeling adventurous, grab a shrimp or Thai-inspired Thom Kha Kai. Unsure about which one to get? Grab their tasting platters that include 5 different types of bitterballen.
Cafe 't Smalle: An 18th-century distillery, 20 minutes from The Sofitel legend hotel, now a hub for locals and visitors to enjoy a classic combination of Bitterballen and Beer while watching boats drift past on the nearby canal. This cafe is not just a tourist spot; it's a locally loved hotspot for Amsterdam's social culture.
Proeflokaal A. Van Wees: Proeflokaal A. Van Wees is a historic jenever (Dutch gin) distillery that has since been transformed into a bar serving a range of unique flavoured bitterballen and other quick bites, like its cheeseboards and liquor tasting bar.
Unforgettable Structures & Experiences
Take a deep dive into awe-inspiring activities to explore and experience across Holland. Whether you combine nearby spots for quick day trips or indulge in your favourites in a leisurely way, this mix is perfect for shopping on the go among the most Instagrammable experiences.
Markthal
A lively, but giant social market to visit, conveniently accessible from any public transport or car. Select from a wide array of stalls housing delicacies from all over the world, their Asian, Mediterranean and Caribbean food spots are their specialities, and of course, grab some Dutch classics to go.
Royal Delft
The last remaining Delft Blue factory from the 17th century. Wander through the museum, where blue hues bloom on white clay and porcelain, and admire a collection of antique and modern Delft Blue pieces. Witness the authentic handmade production process, and complete the experience by joining a painting workshop.
PureLuxe Insider Exclusive: Skip the line and explore the only remaining Delftware museum in Delft.
Kijk-Kubus Museum-house
Just a 5-minute walk from the Markthal, step inside these architecturally unique houses tilted at a 53.5-degree angle. Complete with furnishings, they offer a peek into these abstract, architectural shapes that can be moulded into liveable spaces.
PureLuxe Insider Exclusive: Enter these angular houses and gain a view into the architectural uniqueness of the interior.
Euromast
Want a full view of Amsterdam’s sunrise or sunset from every angle? This 360 rotating tower makes it possible. Enjoy a romantic dinner at their fine dining restaurant, or, if you’re an adrenaline junkie, try abseiling or rope sliding from the sky deck!
PureLuxe Insider Exclusive: Gain entry tickets to this 185-meter tower. Jump from the top for an adrenaline, blood-pumping adventure.
A’DAM tower
After an evening at the NXT Museum, head to the A’DAM Tower and experience this swing over the edge, 100 meters above the ground, for an adrenaline rush like no other. Safely harnessed, enjoy views of Amsterdam’s historic centre, ports, and canals. After a thrilling ride, unwind with a drink or meal while taking in the stunning skyline.
PureLuxe Insider Exclusive: Get an entrance ticket inclusive of the Swing - over the edge and VR ride.
Nxt museum
NXT Museum is a must-visit for art and technology enthusiasts. Its large-scale installations engage your senses, offering radical experiences through the fusion of art, science, tech, and sound. It explores how technology shapes the images we see and how we process movement, light, and sound to create meaning.
PureLuxe Insider Exclusive: Receive entry tickets to this interactive museum of art and technology.
SkyView de Pier
A must-visit 45-meter-tall Ferris wheel offering a ride best enjoyed at night, with stunning bird’s-eye views of The Hague’s nightlife. Sit inside the air-conditioned gondolas, perfect for a romantic date, family fun, or a bonding moment with friends.
PureLuxe Insider Exclusive: Skip the hassle of acquiring tickets and enjoy a 15-minute ride in these relaxing, air-conditioned gondolas.
Giethoorn Canal Cruise
A dreamy sunset cruise through Giethoorn’s canals is one of the most fairy tale-like experiences in the Netherlands. Glide past peaceful villages with thatched roofs, listen to birdsong and the gentle swish of water, a perfect escape from the bustle of city life.
PureLuxe Insider Exclusive: Tickets to experience a Giethoorn Day trip, including a Boat and walking tour.
Image credits: discoverholland.com
Bike to the Windmills in Zaanse Schans
Pedal onwards to the windmills of a 17th-18th-century village, known as historic Holland. Drift along the lush green fields, and if you're lucky, you'll spot some vibrant bulbs of tulips along the way. This relaxing activity is an essential Dutch experience for families.
PureLuxe Insider Exclusive: Get tickets to an E-bike day trip, inclusive of a visit to the windmills, clog maker and cheese farms.
Image credits: domcycling.com
