Art in the background, canals in Waterland Amsterdam for art enthusiasts, in two parts

Designing a trip around Amsterdam is an artistic process. And the subject matter too. You can transform a canvas into a work of art, and shape your itinerary just like an architect designing an extension to a renowned museum. But first, you have to decide on a subject matter, which isn’t straightforward because there’s so much choice. Art lovers wander around the Museumplein, torn between the Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum and Van Gogh Museum. We've taken care to include the latter two in your itinerary, saving you from a Cornelian dilemma. “One stirs my heart, the other holds back my arm”. In Amsterdam, both are allowed to express themselves. That is true for the artists before us, whose soulful and talented works have distinguished Dutch painting throughout the centuries. The STRAAT Museum, dedicated to street art, proves that the city still has more to say and more art to create. As for you, you can try out your budding talent in a painting workshop with a professional artist. The exercise is fascinating and makes you want to see more. That’s good because in the Dutch capital more than anywhere else, art breaks out of its confines to infuse every aspect of life. In hotels, it takes the form of a room redesigned down to the smallest detail to highlight a concept. In restaurants, it breathes new life into everyday products. You will get an opportunity to experience this at the restaurant we have reserved for you. In terms of architecture, art resides as much in the avant-garde extension of the Stedelijk as in the lines of traditional houses in Waterland, the “land of water” next to Amsterdam, where you can escape to on a bicycle. However, this trip only explores and sketches a tiny part of Amsterdam. If you would like to explore the art of living like a local, just let us know, either in advance or once you have arrived. Finally, if you have a sudden change of heart or if you experience any minor setbacks, our Concierge is there to give you a helping hand.

Your two places to stay

This trip combines two sides of Amsterdam: the canals of the city centre and the neighbouring Waterland. One is urban, the other more rural. Originating from different eras and having different styles, these two places showcase the full range of Amsterdam's expertise. What do they have in common? They are both in an idyllic setting by the water. And they are both stunning, needless to say. In the city centre, your hotel has a story behind it, as well as a polished façade. Built in the late 19th century, it was occupied by the Germans during the Second World War before being bought by the Heineken family in the 1950s. Since then, it has been used to showcase the Heineken family’s impressive art collection. Their love of beautiful things is combined with their keen business sense. Just a few years after buying the hotel, they unveiled suites inspired by the paintings of Dutch artists, followed by others designed by big names in the contemporary art scene. As for the restaurants, there are three in total, and one has even been recognised in the Michelin Guide. Hats off to the artist! Your second hotel takes you out of the urban environment and encourages you to slow down. Located on the shore of Lake IJ, it has no more than fifteen rooms. You feel as if you have stepped into a painting: the grass dances around the pontoon, the materials reflect the light, and the moiré effects seem unreal. The restaurant easily rivals those in the capital. It is renowned for its expertise and imagination and uses impeccable ingredients to paint a gustatory picture of Holland that you never tire of enjoying.