Amsterdam: Smart Splurges

Ambassade Hotel This historic hotel's 59 rooms and suites span ten 17th- and 18th-century townhouses along the Herengracht, one of the city’s most picturesque canals (within walking distance of medieval Dom Square and the Royal Palace). You'll want to linger in the majestic, sun-lit breakfast room overlooking the canal. Historic Center; Herengracht 341; 011-31-20-555-0222; www.ambassade-hotel.nl
luxury | hotel | art | expensive | spa | jim's pick

Amstel Intercontinental Old world elegance attracts stars and royalty to this legendary hotel on the Amstel River featuring a spa, indoor pool, Turkish bath, and Michelin-starred restaurant.   Medieval Center; Professor Tulpplein 1; 011-31-20-622-6060; www.amsterdam.intercontinental.com
luxury | hotel | historic | landmark | expensive

Bimhuis Branford Marsalis has lauded the Bimhuis as one of the world’s three best venues for live Jazz. Nightly concerts in all styles from mainstream to avant garde are complemented by improv sessions held in an acoustic (and contemporary architectural) gem. Oostelijk Havengebied; Piet Heinkade 3; 011-31-20-788-2188; www.bimhuis.nl
architecture | jazz | nightlife | live music

Canal Cruise “De Tourist” De Tourist isn't the only company providing daily group canal tours to the general public, but they’re the only one that eschews the touristy canal boats in favor of a stunning restored, salon boat. Jordaan; c/o Pulitzer Hotel, Prinsengracht 315-331; 011-31-20-627-6753; www.de-tourist.nl
family | culture | things to do | history

De Kas When a restaurant is located in a functioning greenhouse – albeit a designer one – you know you can expect the freshest ingredients. This local foodie-favorite is renowned for sophisticated meals assembled from organic ingredients; some of which were grown just steps from your table. Watergraafsmeer; Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3; 011-31-20-462-4562; www.restaurantdekas.nl
restaurant | expensive | organic

Hotel 717 Classic romance defines these eight large, elegant suites along the canal. Extras elsewhere (ironing, shoe shines, house wines, afternoon tea and pastries, in-room refreshment cabinets, and sumptuous made to-order breakfasts) are included here, making it a sophisticated (and convenient) choice for those in the know. Leidseplein; Prinsengracht 717; 011-31-20-427-0717; www.717hotel.nl
luxury | hotel | boutique | historic | expensive

Tempo Doeloe Aromatic Indonesian food isn’t hard to find in Holland but it is difficult to find it this skillfully and authentically prepared. Opt for the Rijstafel Istemewa; the 25-dish tasting menu is the perfect immersion into the delicious cuisine. Centrum; Utrechtsestraat 75; 011-31-20-625-6718; www.tempodoeloerestaurant.nl
restaurant | expensive | indonesian