Amsterdam's iconic American Hotel is an Art Nouveau confection that dominates the buzzing plaza of Leidseplein, right in the heart of the city's bar-and-club action. Built at the turn of the 20th century, it enjoyed its heyday in the 1920s, when the fabled Café Americain, with its gorgeous, OTT décor, was the favored hangout of Amsterdam's literary set.

The hotel has survived the test of time; the vast rooms and suites are finely furnished in subtle blues, grays, and golds, with cozy sofas and armchairs. The bathrooms all retain original Art Deco features from the 1920s, combined with the very latest in luxury fittings. Today the Café Americain is as popular as ever with a heady mix of well-heeled locals and tourists who are enticed here for the fine cocktails and views over the splashing fountains in front of the hotel.