Fodor's Expert Review Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam

The understated elegance that defines this canalside hotel, created from six 17th-century houses, can be seen in such details as its fine dining restaurant, the first Guerlain spa in the Benelux, and what’s purportedly the largest private garden in Amsterdam. Spacious rooms are sophisticated if a tad bland, although the beam-ceilinged loft rooms offer a little more character; all rooms have either a canal or garden view, and most feature a separate shower and tub, some with a Jacuzzi. Reserve well in advance to dine in the top-notch Spectrum restaurant, or at least try an exquisite cocktail or rare Scottish whiskey in the subterranean Vault Bar. After a full day of wandering the canals, the luxe spa's indoor pool, steam room, and sauna are the perfect treats.