Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam Hotel – An Authentic Review (2024)

The Tivoli Doelen Hotel Amsterdam Hotel is a true testament to luxury with a storybook setting by the canal, whispers of tales of yore, and modern-day sophistication. With its roots stretching back to the era of Rembrandt, it’s not just a stay; it’s an immersion into the city’s rich tapestry of history and culture.

I have a special affinity for this hotel. I spent a week at this amazing hotel before moving into my first flat in Amsterdam to live in the city full-time.

With the move and everything going on, I didn’t have a chance to learn about the hotel before getting there, and I was blown away to find out the significance of the Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam Hotel and the building itself.

Every time I bike past it, it reminds me of my goal to live in Amsterdam, how I accomplished that, and why I chose to live here. So, even in the toughest moments, I can walk by the Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam Hotel, which instantly gives me a sense of grounding purpose.

Most importantly, it also provides the memories of my first arrival here with just a few suitcases, my family, a small dog, and a complete life left behind in the Twin Cities. This place became the turning point for a new chapter in my life.

Here’s the first picture I took when I walked in the door. Not pictured is a giant suitcase full of my wife, my toddler, and my belongings.

Situated within the heart of Amsterdam, the Tivoli Doelen gracefully marries the allure of historic grandeur with contemporary elegance. Its prime location offers a canvas of experiences right at your doorstep, allowing you to weave your narrative in the Venice of the North.

A Portal to the Past and Present

Walking through the doors of Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam Hotel, you step into a world where each corner tells a story. It’s a place where the echoes of the past meet the pulse of the present. The hotel’s storied past, highlighted by its role as host to icons like The Beatles and Empress Elisabeth of Austria, adds intrigue and charm to your stay.

Not only this, but the history goes beyond who stayed here. It’s the building itself. Ladies and gentlemen, this is the spot that held The Nightwatch by Rembrandt van Rijn.

Why was it there? The building is a part of the old wall that surrounded the old town, and the street it is located on, Nieuwe Doelenstraat, is where the city guards would practice shooting. Hence, The Nightwatch is a painting of the city guards defending the city.

Here is the plaque located outside the entrance:

Doelen means “goals” or “target” in English, so the street was named after that where target practice would occur.

Also, here’s a fun fact: Rembrandt and his wife, Saskia, lived on the street briefly.

An Unbeatable Locale

Picture yourself greeting the morning with a stunning canal-side spectacle, the gentle ripples reflecting Amsterdam’s daybreak. The Tivoli Doelen isn’t just a place to stay; it’s your gateway to the very heart of city life.

We did not book a canalside room since we were staying here for a week. Those command a premium price. However, we still afford excellent views of Kloveniersburgwal, which, like Doelenstraat, is named after the Kloveniers city guards, and Burgwal means “defense wall.”

So yeah, continuing on the history lesson. This place is special. Also, you’ll see views of the incredible tower of the Zuiderkerk and its iconic bells.

I also find it highly ironic that on the other side of this street lies the De L’Europe, an iconic 5-star hotel owned by the Heineken family. Like the Tivoli Doelen, De L’Europe is a building that is part of the original defense wall for the old city center of Amsterdam.

This hotel is your golden ticket to an adventure uniquely Amsterdam. With the city’s myriad hidden gems and celebrated spots at your doorstep, the Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam becomes your ideal base camp. Here’s a summary of the key characteristics of the hotel:

Sanctuaries of Comfort and Style

After a day of adventures, retreat to rooms with a harmonious blend of comfort, elegance, and historical charm. Each space is a haven of tranquility, designed to provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection.

With thoughtful amenities and refined decor, your room at Tivoli Doelen becomes a personal sanctuary where luxury and comfort cradle you.

Dining Options

Dining at Tivoli Doelen is a voyage of the senses. From the sumptuous breakfast spread that readies you for a day of exploration to the inventive cuisine at Senses Restaurant, each meal is an affair to remember.

Here is a brief table of the dining experiences available at Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam Hotel, including the unique aspects of each option.

The hotel’s coffee shop and bar provide the perfect settings for casual meetings, quiet moments, or an evening nightcap, blending impeccable service with an inviting ambiance.

Beyond what’s offered at the hotel, you’ll find the iconic Cafe de Jaren right next door, which features canalside (I guess riverside seating since it’s on the Amstel River) seating that is so close to the water you can touch.

Also, a good brown bar, Cafe de Doelen, is right over the bridge. I’m a frequent visitor to this spot for beer and people-watching on the weekends.

Tailored Experiences and Unmatched Hospitality

With services that cater to every need and a team that speaks the language of hospitality fluently, Tivoli Doelen ensures your Amsterdam narrative is as enriching as it is effortless. From secured parking to pet-friendly policies, every detail is thoughtfully curated to enhance your stay.

This hotel isn’t just a place to lay your head; it’s a gateway to experiencing Amsterdam in ways that resonate with the cultured and the curious. It’s where history is lived, luxury is embraced, and every guest’s story becomes part of the Tivoli Doelen’s intricate mosaic.