Hotel de L'Europe

Owned by the Heineken family, Amsterdam's 'other royal palace' blends classical elements (chandeliers, doorkeepers in top hats) with whimsical Dutch design. The 111 rooms are grand, with iPads, canal views, heated floors and white-marble bathtubs. Restaurants include the twin-Michelin-starred Bord’Eau; other highlights are the superb spa, on-site cigar lounge and Freddy's Bar, with brass-topped tables and leather chairs.