Nestled within a whimsical maze of 25 interlinked canal houses, the Pulitzer Amsterdam offers an experience that feels less like a conventional hotel and more like a secret portal into the rich history of Amsterdam itself. This enchanting property is packed with crooked staircases, unexpected corridors, and delightfully higgledy-piggledy rooms that evoke a sense of timeless charm.
Rooms and Facilities
No two rooms in this labyrinthine layout are quite alike, each boasting its own unique character. My top-floor room provided a stunning view straight onto the canal, the kind of vista that makes you pause mid-unpacking just to watch boats drift peacefully past. The décor masterfully blends classic Dutch touches with contemporary design, featuring rich fabrics, polished wood, and subtle nods to Amsterdam's illustrious trading past.
Come evening, I found my happy place sitting at the window, watching late-night cruises cast shimmering lights across the water as hardy locals whizzed by on bikes, their cagoules billowing against the wind and rain. Only the super-soft double bed could rival this serene experience.
Facilities are thoughtfully woven into the historic setting, including a peaceful inner garden, a well-equipped gym spread across two floors, and a private boat just steps from the front door that whisks guests along the iconic canals. We also loved the adjoining beauty salon, The Beauty House, which offers excellent massages, facials, manicures, and hair appointments.
Food and Drink
Dining at the Pulitzer Amsterdam is as stylish as the surroundings. Jansz., the hotel's main restaurant, offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, serving beautifully presented modern European dishes. Breakfast is a particular highlight, with fresh pastries, excellent coffee, and a calm start to the day before the city fully wakes.
We were impressed by the attentive staff; my daughter made such good friends with our charming waitress that she was still talking about her long after we departed. For something more intimate, Pulitzer's Bar is a destination in itself, with a dimly lit and richly atmospheric setting perfect for late-night cocktails.
Hotel Highlights
A real standout is the hotel's prime location. You're not just near the canals; you're living within them. Overlooking the Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht canals, the hotel is situated in one of Amsterdam's chicest neighbourhoods, close to numerous attractions such as Dam Square, the Van Gogh Museum, and The Anne Frank House.
Most of all, I enjoyed exploring the nearby Jordaan neighbourhood. Once a traditionally working-class area earmarked for demolition, it has transformed into Amsterdam's trendiest district. Highlights include shopping at Noordermarkt, grabbing coffee at Nu Coffee, and visiting Pazzi for excellent pizza.
Best For
The Pulitzer Amsterdam is ideal for travellers who want to immerse themselves in the authentic character of Amsterdam rather than simply visit it as a tourist. Rates for a standard room start from £412 per night.
