A New Way to Choose Hotels in the Netherlands
What do you usually consider when booking a hotel? Price? Location?
While those are important, why not add design to the mix—especially when you’re traveling in the Netherlands, home of the globally admired Dutch Design movement.
This creative country is full of innovative and aesthetic stays that go beyond the typical hotel experience.
Discover 15 unique hotels in the Netherlands that combine comfort with creativity—and turn your stay into something truly unforgettable.
Crane Hotels in the Netherlands
For construction lovers, thrill-seekers, and design fans—how about sleeping in a crane?
Faralda Crane Hotel, Amsterdam – The Ultimate Crane Experience
Once a 50-meter-high industrial crane at Amsterdam’s harbor, Faralda Crane Hotel has been transformed into a five-star luxury stay with three exclusive suites located 35m, 40m, and 45m above ground.
Each suite offers stunning views and bold, modern interiors. And yes—it gently sways on windy days, adding an adventurous twist.
YAYS Crane Apartment, Amsterdam – Comfort Meets Quirk
Originally built in 1958 and saved from demolition by local residents, the YAYS Crane Apartment blends historic character with four-star comfort.
Though labeled an “apartment,” this stay is a full-service boutique experience perched high above the city.
Havenkraan, Harlingen – A Private Crane All to Yourself
Located in the coastal town of Harlingen, Havenkraan is a one-room crane hotel that’s all yours. Yes, your own private crane stay! It’s a cozy, exclusive escape with harbor views and a totally Instagram-worthy setting.
Vehicle-Inspired Hotels in the Netherlands
Rediscover your childhood dreams—stay in a ship, a plane, or a houseboat!
Amstel Botel, Amsterdam – Like a Cruise Without Leaving the Dock
Docked in Amsterdam and just a 15-minute free ferry ride from Central Station, Amstel Botel offers ocean-liner vibes at a wallet-friendly price.
This three-star floating hotel is perfect for those who want something different but convenient.
Houseboat B&B: Room with a View, Amsterdam – A True Canal Life Experience
Staying in a Houseboat is a classic Dutch experience. This stylish B&B floats on the Amstel River and features modern interiors with panoramic canal views.
Plus, it’s within walking distance of Albert Cuyp Market for local shopping.
Vliegtuigsuite Teuge – Sleep in a Private Jet
A dream stay for aviation enthusiasts, the Vliegtuigsuite is a 40-meter-long private jet turned luxury suite—complete with the original cockpit.
Parked next to Teuge Airport, the plane offers runway views and unexpected comfort.
Stay in Dutch Landmarks: Monument Hotels
These are the kind of hotels that make you say, “Wait… I can stay there!?”
Mondriaanmolen, Amsterdam – Sleep in a Real Windmill
Built in 1874, this fully restored three-story windmill, Mondriaanmolen offers a peaceful retreat just outside Amsterdam.
Surrounded by green meadows and waterways, it’s an idyllic setting for a relaxing Dutch getaway.
Seintoren Gooizicht B&B, Almere – A Lighthouse With a View
Saintoren Gooizicht B&B, Located on the shores of Lake Gooimeer, this converted lighthouse B&B offers panoramic 360° views and cozy, romantic accommodations.
Watertoren, Gouda – The Tiniest Hotel in the Netherlands
Formerly a factory water tower, Watertoren is now a compact hotel with a room just 2 square meters in size.
It’s quirky, charming, and yes—a little dizzying if you’re not careful on the stairs.
Hotel de Vrouwe van Stavoren – Stay Inside a Giant Wine Barrel
Live out your hobbit dreams in a 23,000-liter wine barrel at this three-star hotel, Hotel de Vrouwe, in Stavoren.
Rustic charm meets fantasy-style fun in this one-of-a-kind lodging.
Modern Dutch Design Hotels
These hotels are the best examples of contemporary Dutch architecture and interior design.
Hotel nhow Amsterdam RAI – Modern Marvel in the Sky
Hotel nhow Amsterdam RAI, The largest hotel in the Benelux region, this striking 4-star property opened in 2019 and features a unique design inspired by a nearby advertising tower.
With bold architecture and sleek interiors, nhow Amsterdam RAI is a must for design lovers.
Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Zaandam – A Stack of Traditional Dutch Houses
Inntel Hotels, This iconic 4-star hotel looks like a surrealist painting come to life.
Its exterior mimics stacked green houses from the Zaan region, creating one of the most photographed buildings in the Netherlands.
Cube House Stayokay, Rotterdam – Tilted Living, Redefined
Cube House Stayokay, Located in Rotterdam’s architectural hotspot, this three-story hostel features houses tilted at 55 degrees.
Originally designed to be a “village within a city,” it now offers guests a unique spatial experience with stylish, shared living spaces.
Castles and Churches Turned Hotels
Step into a fairy tale—these hotels offer old-world charm with modern luxury.
Kasteel Kerckebosch, Zeist – A Romantic Castle Retreat
Kasteel Kerckebosch, This beautifully restored 4-star castle hotel offers a rich contrast between its historical stone walls and contemporary interiors.
Perfect for weddings, romantic getaways, or anyone who’s ever dreamed of staying in a castle.
Kruisherenhotel, Maastricht – A Gothic Monastery Turned Luxe Hotel
Once a 15th-century monastery, now a stunning five-star design hotel, Kruisherenhotel is a masterpiece of contrasts: gothic architecture meets avant-garde furnishings.
Dine in the awe-inspiring church-turned-restaurant, and don’t miss staying here during Maastricht’s magical Christmas market season.
