Are you considering a Viking River Cruise that begins or ends in Amsterdam? With travel delays becoming increasingly common, it’s a smart idea to arrive a day or two early or stay an extra day or two after your cruise. This gives you time to rest, reduce stress, and explore one of Europe’s most vibrant cities.
While Viking offers convenient pre- and post-cruise extensions, planning your own stay independently can provide significant savings and unique perks. Based on our Grand European Tour experience from Budapest to Amsterdam in May 2024, here’s how we crafted a memorable Amsterdam extension at the #1 hotel in Amsterdam on Tripadvisor—the Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Maurits—and saved money compared to Viking’s extension packages.
Why Plan Your Own Pre- or Post-Cruise Stay?
Viking’s Extension Options
For Amsterdam, Viking offers two post-cruise packages:
- Standard Package: Two nights at the Hilton Amsterdam for $749 per person.
- Premium Package: Two nights at the Pulitzer Amsterdam for $1,249 per person.
Our DIY Extension
Instead of booking through Viking, we used American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts to secure a stay at the luxurious Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Maurits for $645 per person. This rate included daily breakfast, a $100 food and beverage credit, and additional amenities like early check-in, which made our stay more enjoyable and stress-free.
We even found that booking directly with the Pulitzer Amsterdam, included in Viking’s premium package, cost about 32% less than Viking’s price.
Transportation: Stress-Free and Cost-Effective
Since we didn’t know our docking location in advance, we arranged a taxi through Viking the day before disembarkation. The cost for a large minivan from the dock to our hotel was $68—comparable to Uber in Amsterdam.
For our trip to the airport, we used Uber, which cost $67. This approach gave us flexibility and comfort at a reasonable price.
Exploring Amsterdam: Our Stay at the Top-Ranked Hotel
Our hotel, the Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Maurits, is set in a beautifully restored 1908 building near Oosterpark. Here’s what made our stay special:
The Hotel
- Ranked #1 on Tripadvisor for its exceptional service and amenities.
- Located in a quieter part of Amsterdam, away from the hustle of the city center and the Red Light District.
- Features a serene setting with direct access to Oosterpark—a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
The Room
- Elegant, tranquil decor with earthy tones and soft furnishings.
- Luxurious amenities like a king-sized bed, USB outlets, a mini bar, and a spacious safe.
- A bathroom with dual sinks, a soaking tub, and a rain shower.
- Complimentary wellness perks, such as a 30-minute hydro massage or a 60-minute private sauna session.
Viking includes for QuiteVox for use on excursions. We recommend the AirFly Duo to connect your Bluetooth headphones, keeping your hands free and allowing one device for two users.
Dining
- Breakfast and dinner at the on-site Spring Café Brasserie, offering delicious and relaxed meals.
- A 24-hour living room lounge with complimentary tea, coffee, and snacks.
- While the rooftop bar was closed due to weather, it’s worth a visit in better conditions.
Nearby Attractions
Tips for Booking a Luxury Hotel
Here’s how you can secure the best deals for your pre- or post-cruise stay:
- Start Early: Begin searching about a year in advance, especially if your trip is already booked.
- Use AMEX Fine Hotels & Resorts: Even if you don’t have an American Express Platinum card, you can browse options for inspiration.
- Check the Hotel’s Website: Compare prices and look for discounts like AAA or military rates.
- Recheck Rates: Keep an eye on prices periodically and closer to your stay for better deals.
- Choose Refundable Rates: These provide flexibility in case of changes or cancellations.
Currency in Amsterdam
We brought both Euros and dollars but found credit cards were widely accepted. Cash was only occasionally needed for markets, tips, or public restrooms.
Final Thoughts
Planning your own Amsterdam extension is a fantastic way to enhance your Viking River Cruise experience while saving money and enjoying personalized perks.
Have you ever booked your own pre- or post-cruise extension? Share your experiences in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!
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