Amsterdam: A Perfect Pre or Post-Cruise Stop in 2025

Categories

 

When I talk to clients about Europe, Amsterdam always comes up as one of those "don’t skip" cities - and for good reason. It’s not just the starting or ending point for so many river cruises and Northern Europe itineraries. It’s also a destination in its own right, with charming canals, gorgeous historic buildings, world-class museums, and a culture that feels both Old World and modern at the same time.

 

If you’re planning a cruise that begins or ends in Amsterdam, I always recommend staying 2-3 nights before or after your sailing. It gives you time to settle in, adjust to the time zone, and truly experience the city instead of just rushing through it.

 

Think: canal-side hotels with views that make you pinch yourself, mornings spent wandering the Van Gogh Museum or Rijksmuseum, afternoons on bike rides or canal cruises, and evenings sipping cocktails in stylish lounges.

 

To give you some inspiration, here are some of the top hotels Cruise Planners advisors are booking for clients in Amsterdam this year:

 

• Hotel Estherea - Romantic boutique charm right on the canal. Perfect for couples who want cozy and elegant.
• Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam - A former royal palace turned 5-star luxury stay. A splurge-worthy choice for anniversaries or celebrations.
• Eden Hotel Amsterdam - Modern, central, and close to nightlife. Great for couples or solo travelers who want to be in the middle of it all.
• Kimpton De Witt Amsterdam - A stylish, design-forward option near Centraal Station with fun perks like bikes and cocktail socials.
• Pulitzer Amsterdam - Iconic and unforgettable, built across 25 canal houses. This one’s on a lot of bucket lists.
• Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre - Spacious rooms, river views, and super convenient for cruisers catching a ship.
• Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam - A classic across from Centraal Station with a spa and easy access to city highlights.
• DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station - Known for its SkyLounge rooftop bar with panoramic city views.
• Leonardo Boutique Museumhotel Amsterdam City Center - Steps from the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, perfect for art lovers.
• Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Landmark - Modern and design-forward with a local, less-touristy feel.

Whether you’re looking for boutique romance, big-name luxury, or something that puts you right in the heart of the city, Amsterdam has an option that fits.

 

If you’re considering a European cruise in 2025 or 2026, let’s make sure you plan enough time in Amsterdam. A little extra time here can turn a great vacation into something truly unforgettable.