Hotel Estherea - Amsterdam

Hotel Estherea is a luxurious boutique property, housed in an historic building alongside one of Amsterdam’s oldest major canals. This gorgeous UNESCO-protected building first opened its doors in the 1940s, and is still lovingly run by the same family today. Service is highly notable, with a warm welcome at check in or after a day of exploring. The charming interiors also garner a mention. Spot eclectic curios, admire fabrics in every texture and shade and note the myriad of lighting – from tussled lampshades to ornate chandeliers.

Hotel Estherea sits beside the Singel canal, with plenty of restaurants, shops and museums within easy reach. Dam Square is just 400 metres away, where you’ll find the Royal Palace, the National Monument and the Magna Plaza shopping centre. Feast your eyes on artistic masterpieces at Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum – both less than a mile away. Then prepare to be moved at the Anne Frank Museum, which is half a mile from the hotel. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is 14 miles away.

No two rooms are the same here, but most have bold wallpaper, quirky cushions and a stylish chair. Butterflies adorn the walls in one, while another sports peacocks and purple furnishings and another offers soothing pastels and zany flamingo cushions. If you’re travelling light, Classic rooms are a great option – though some can be a tight fit as small as 13 m2. For more space, Deluxe rooms start at 20 m2 and provide more storage options. Plus, some come with canal views. All rooms have L’Occitane toiletries, a TV, a fridge and a Nespresso machine.