An insider guide to Amsterdam by Pillows Maurits at the Park Hotel

Amsterdam is a city of boundless charm, offering enough history, culture, and sophistication to fill a lifetime of visits. But the Netherlands holds treasures beyond the city limits that are just waiting to be explored. At Pillows Maurits at the Park, our Les Clefs d’Or Concierge team takes pride in crafting tailor-made experiences that reveal not only the wonders of Amsterdam but also the hidden gems of the Dutch countryside. Let us guide you on a journey through the very best of the Netherlands, filled with unique and unforgettable moments.

Sail Amsterdam’s Canals in Timeless Elegance

Amsterdam’s charm is embodied in its canals, a UNESCO World Heritage site that winds through the heart of the city. There’s no better way to experience this iconic feature than aboard an Antique Salon Boat—a floating treasure from the early 1900s. Step back in time aboard these beautifully restored vessels that once carried Amsterdam’s elite, now featuring luxurious details like velvet seats, copper lamps, and timeless craftsmanship. These intimate cruises offer a unique view of the city, revealing the beauty of Amsterdam’s canals, historic bridges, and charming canal houses, all while your captain shares captivating tales from the city’s rich past.

The boats are electric, climate-controlled, and equipped with a toilet and open-air area, ensuring comfort throughout the year. Each season brings its own charm—whether it’s the long summer evenings or the festive lights of the winter months.

Ideal for romantic evenings or special celebrations, these cruises can be enjoyed year-round, with optional catering to elevate the experience.

Floating Dinner or Lunch Aboard: Add a culinary twist to your journey with a floating feast through Amsterdam’s picturesque waterways. Your adventure begins right from the hotel, where your captain partners with the city’s finest restaurants along the canals to deliver a progression of exquisite courses directly to your boat. Indulge in gourmet dining, perfectly paired with champagne, wine, and a selection of other beverages, all while drifting along the scenic canals in the comfort of a climate-controlled cabin with an open balcony and private facilities.

The Sparkling Legacy of Amsterdam’s Diamonds

Embark on an exclusive journey into Amsterdam’s rich diamond history with a Private Diamond Factory Tour at Gassan Diamonds. Known as the ‘City of Diamonds’ for over 400 years, Amsterdam’s prominence in the diamond trade is closely linked to the exceptional craftsmanship of its Jewish community.

In the 16th century, Jewish artisans fleeing Southern Europe brought their diamond-cutting expertise to Antwerp, where they refined their skills. Facing religious intolerance, many then moved to Amsterdam, a city celebrated for its tolerance and welcoming atmosphere.

Despite restrictions that kept them out of traditional guilds, these artisans established independent workshops, laying the foundation for a booming diamond industry. Their mastery not only helped shape Amsterdam’s global reputation as a diamond hub but also transformed the art of diamond cutting worldwide.

Today, you can immerse yourself in this remarkable legacy at Gassan Diamonds, the city’s largest diamond workshop. Arrive by boat via a private dock and witness master craftsmen transforming rough stones into dazzling masterpieces. Enjoy access to a private collection of fine jewellery and luxury watches from iconic brands like Rolex, Omega, and Jacob & Co, complemented by a glass of champagne.

Located in the historic Jewish Quarter, the tour offers a unique blend of artistry, history, and culture, showcasing the enduring impact of the Jewish community on Amsterdam’s diamond trade.

Proeflokaal De Drie Fleschjes – Amsterdam’s Oldest Tasting Room

Hidden behind the Nieuwe Kerk, Proeflokaal De Drie Fleschjes, established in 1619, offers an immersive journey into Amsterdam’s rich history. At its heart is the unique drankorgel (liquor organ), an impressive wall of 50 wooden barrels. In days gone by, loyal patrons could fill and store their own personalized bottles or even entire casks here. Each barrel was carefully locked with a unique key, ensuring the valuable contents were accessible only to its owner — a tradition that reveals how deeply this tasting room was woven into the lives of Amsterdammers.

Jenever, the undeniable star of the menu, has a fascinating history. Originating in the 16th century as a medicinal tonic made from grain and flavoured with juniper berries, it quickly gained popularity as a beloved drink. Amsterdam became a major hub for its production, and the spirit’s influence spread far beyond Dutch borders. In the 17th century, English soldiers discovered this “Dutch Courage” during military campaigns and brought the concept back to England, where it evolved into the gin we know today.

A visit to De Drie Fleschjes isn’t complete without experiencing a traditional Dutch kopstootje — a pairing of jenever and beer. Served in a small tulip glass filled to the brim, the jenever is sipped first, followed by a chilled beer, creating a delightful combination of flavours cherished for centuries. Complement your drink with traditional Dutch snacks, including smoked Amsterdam ossenworst (beef sausage), herring, cubes of aged cheese, or even a simple boiled egg, a nod to the room’s authentic past.

Adding to its charm is the collection of Burgemeestersfleschjes (Mayor’s Bottles), personalized flasks once created for prominent guests like city officials. Each flask tells a story, much like the tasting room itself, which has been a meeting place for conversation, camaraderie, and culture for over four centuries.

Proeflokaal De Drie Fleschjes is more than just a bar — it’s a living testament to Amsterdam’s heritage and the global legacy of jenever. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by history, flavour, and tradition in every sip and every story.

A Culinary Journey at VanOost

After a day of exploring Amsterdam’s treasures, elevate your evening with an unforgettable dining experience at VanOost, the fine dining jewel of Pillows Maurits at the Park. Chef Floris, inspired by French-Japanese techniques and local ingredients, crafts dishes that transport diners on a journey of vibrant flavors and artistry.

The restaurant’s setting, with fifteen-meter-high ceilings and a touch of old-world elegance, provides a striking backdrop to its location near the illustrious Tropenmuseum. The luxurious interior and cosmopolitan ambiance evoke the spirit of dining in cities like New York or London, making it a perfect destination for locals and travelers alike.

Guests are invited to indulge in Chef Floris’s signature dish, the “Indonesian” Langoustine, featuring sweet and soured vegetables, katjang pedis, and a sambal sauce—a harmonious blend of bold flavors and refined technique. For a perfect finale, don’t miss the carefully curated cheese selection from the fromager, a delightful way to end an unforgettable dining experience.

Whether for a relaxed two-course meal or an indulgent six-course menu, VanOost combines impeccable cuisine with sincere attention, offering a warm yet elevated experience for every occasion.

The Story of Rembrandt’s House

Step into the world of Rembrandt van Rijn at the Rembrandt House Museum, where you can explore the 17th-century home and workshop of this legendary artist. This beautifully restored house offers a captivating glimpse into the Dutch Golden Age, with rooms carefully reconstructed to reflect Rembrandt’s life and work. Highlights include his studio, where natural light once streamed in, and his collection of rare objects that fueled his creativity.

At Rembrandt’s House, the experience goes beyond admiring his legacy. You can immerse yourself in his craft with painting and etching workshops, guided by experts who will teach you the techniques Rembrandt used to create his masterpieces. Take home your own artwork as a lasting memory.

For an extraordinary and intimate experience, our concierge team can arrange a private dinner within this historic space. Surrounded by the ambiance of the 17th century, you and your guests can enjoy fine dining while immersed in the artistic legacy of one of history’s greatest masters. This unique setting combines culture, history, and gourmet cuisine, creating an unforgettable evening.

Explore the Dutch Countryside in Style

Escape the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam with a day trip tailored to your interests, designed to reveal the stunning beauty of the Dutch countryside. Experience the charm of windmills, historic villages, or tulip fields (season permitting) in the comfort of a luxury car, accompanied by a private chauffeur who doubles as your guide. The itinerary can be fully customized based on your preferences, whether you’d like to explore picturesque spots like Zaanse Schans, the iconic Keukenhof gardens, or the serene canals of Giethoorn.

• Zaanse Schans: Step back in time at this enchanting open-air museum where you can witness traditional Dutch life in action. Marvel at the iconic working windmills, visit authentic wooden houses, and explore local artisanal crafts such as cheese making and wooden clog carving. The picturesque landscapes, dotted with green pastures and waterways, provide a quintessentially Dutch experience.
• Giethoorn: Often called the “Dutch Venice,” this idyllic village is known for its tranquil canals, thatched-roof cottages, and charming footbridges. Glide through the serene waterways on a guided boat tour or take a leisurely stroll to soak in the peaceful ambiance. Giethoorn’s timeless beauty makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a picturesque and relaxing escape.
• Broek in Waterland: Nestled in the Waterland region, this hidden gem offers a serene retreat just outside Amsterdam. Stroll through its tranquil streets lined with pastel-colored wooden houses, surrounded by lush greenery and reflective waterways. This charming village is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the peaceful countryside while enjoying stunning views and a slower pace of life.

Enhance your journey with exclusive dining at family-run restaurants or visits to secret galleries. Designed to your preferences, these countryside escapes combine natural beauty, culture, and luxury for an unforgettable experience.

The Iconic Keukenhof Gardens & Tulip Experience

Experience the world-renowned Keukenhof Gardens like never before, with private transport and a personal guide for exclusive access. Each spring, the gardens come alive with over seven million blooming flowers, showcasing vibrant tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. This breathtaking display is complemented by themed gardens and artistic flower arrangements that attract visitors from around the globe.

Beyond Keukenhof, the surrounding flower fields of the Bollenstreek (Bulb Region) offer a quintessential Dutch experience. Stretching from Haarlem to Leiden, these fields are a patchwork of colorful blooms—perfect for a scenic drive or bike ride.

To elevate your Tulip Experience, our team can arrange either a Helicopter Tour over the flower fields for a bird’s-eye view of the vibrant landscapes or a return trip in a Mercedes S-Class, with the driver also acting as your guide. This ensures a comfortable, luxurious journey while providing insightful commentary on the area’s rich floral heritage.

Also, immerse yourself in the Aalsmeer Flower Auction, the world’s largest flower market, or visit Dutch flower farmers who offer unique experiences, from guided tours of their fields to workshops on flower arranging.

Visit in mid-April for the peak bloom, and enjoy the full celebration of nature and Dutch culture. Whether you choose the stunning gardens, flower fields, or exclusive experiences, this is a trip you won’t forget.

Helicopter Escape & Oyster Adventure

Embark on an extraordinary journey through the Netherlands with the Helicopter Escape & Oyster Adventure. Your experience begins with a private Mercedes S-Class transfer to the heliport in Amsterdam, where you’ll take off in style, soaring above the vibrant city and scenic countryside on your way to Inter Scaldes in Zeeland.

Upon landing at the renowned Inter Scaldes, take in the stunning surroundings before heading to De Oysterery in the nearby fishing village of Yerseke. Here, you’ll get a unique, behind-the-scenes look at the oyster farm that supplies some of Europe’s finest restaurants, offering an exclusive insight into the delicate art of oyster farming.

After your oyster adventure, retreat to your guestroom at Pillows Hotel Inter Scaldes to freshen up and prepare for a spectacular 7-course fine dining experience by Chef Jeroen Achtien at the 2-Michelin-starred Inter Scaldes. Savour local specialties and oysters as the highlights of the menu, followed by a restful overnight stay.

The next morning, enjoy a delicious breakfast before being picked up in your Mercedes S-Class for a smooth return journey to Amsterdam, concluding your adventure. 

For the Avid Traveler: Discover NORTVI

For those who travel often and appreciate high-quality essentials, NORTVI, a premium Dutch luggage brand, offers a perfect blend of style, innovation, and sustainability. Designed in Amsterdam and crafted with recycled materials, NORTVI’s luggage combines sleek aesthetics with thoughtful environmental responsibility. Their designs reflect a modern traveler’s needs—durability, elegance, and practicality.

Whether it’s their award-winning Front Pocket carry-on suitcase, designed with a recycled PET lining and a waterproof fold-out front pocket, or their robust full-size suitcases, NORTVI’s pieces are made to last and cater to both functionality and style.

At Pillows Maurits at the Park, we understand that travel plans can evolve unexpectedly. That’s why we always have a NORTVI carry-on and full-size suitcase available at the hotel, ensuring our guests have access to top-quality luggage should the need arise. It’s just one more way we aim to make every journey seamless and stress-free.

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