Eye Hotel

Top choice in Utrecht


This fabulous 36-room boutique hotel has beautifully modernised a fine old mansion that became the Netherlands' first eye clinic in 1858 – hence all the ocular references and optician art photos. It has bright white decor, sculpted bowl-sinks and bedside tables shaped like mini school desks.

The smallest rooms lack coffee makers but have the curiosity of whitewashed original beam-work, and room 303, while forgoing real windows, is unique for its partial glass ceiling that allows you to shower in moonlight. The family rooms are just that, with cot, changing space and baby bath complete with thermometer. Staring down tree-lined Breedstraat, the convivial breakfast room counterpoints black furniture with assorted candles and a big if unused fireplace in the bare brick wall. It has 24-hour reception.