This past summer, I had the privilege of experiencing the epitome of luxury in the heart of Amsterdam. Nestled in the historic city center, the Pulitzer Amsterdam, a five-star Preferred Hotels & Resorts gem, provided an unforgettable stay. While every moment at the Pulitzer was a memorable one, the highlight of my visit was undoubtedly the experience of staying in one of their exquisite Canal Suites. Keep reading as I take you on a journey through this opulent canal-side oasis, sharing my firsthand account of what makes the Pulitzer Amsterdam Hotel an absolute must-stay for travelers seeking an indulgent and authentic Amsterdam experience.
Arrival & First Impressions
From the moment I arrived at the Pulitzer Amsterdam Hotel, I knew I was in for a special treat. The hotel’s facade, a row of twenty-five 17th and 18th century interconnected canal houses, is a sight to behold in itself. Upon stepping inside, I was greeted by a blend of classic elegance and contemporary design that set the tone for my stay. I loved the contrast of the mid-century modern furniture in these historic rooms.
The warm and attentive staff ensured a seamless check-in process, making me feel right at home. Fun fact: the Pulitzer Amsterdam was featured in the hit movie Ocean’s Twelve starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Matt Damon. It is here that the main characters stay during their trip to Amsterdam and where several notable scenes take place, including using the door to their restaurant Jansz as the hotel’s main entrance in the movie.
Canal Suite: A Room with a View
As I stepped into my Canal Suite, I was immediately struck by the breathtaking view of Amsterdam’s iconic canals through the large windows. The suite was a harmonious blend of modern comfort and historic charm, featuring high ceilings, period details, and a color palette that evoked the Dutch Golden Age. The spacious living area was elegantly furnished with plush seating, creating a cozy atmosphere that invited relaxation. One of my favorite touches? The walls in both the bedroom and living areas are covered in framed artwork and design books.
The living area included a kitchenette, dining room table & chairs, and a separate living space which made this suite certainly feel like a home-away-from-home. European hotel rooms, especially in Amsterdam, do not tend to be very large but this certainly blew away our expectations. The separate bedroom was not facing the canals, so it was darker, quiet, and cozy. The comfortable king-sized bed was adorned with sumptuous linens, ensuring a restful night’s sleep after a day of exploring Amsterdam’s bustling streets.
The pièce de résistance, however, was the private terrace overlooking the canal. Stepping outside, I was greeted by a scene straight out of a postcard: the tranquil water, charming canal houses, and the gentle hum of passing boats. The terrace became my personal oasis, a place to savor a morning coffee or unwind with a glass of wine in the evening, all while watching the city go by. But even when the weather wasn’t nice enough to sit outside, I loved the large windows with views over the canals and natural light illuminating our beautiful suite.
Luxurious Amenities
The Pulitzer Amsterdam Hotel left no stone unturned in ensuring that guests in their Canal Suites are pampered to the fullest. The suite boasted a well-stocked minibar, a Nespresso machine, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The bathroom, adorned with marble and stylish fixtures, featured both a tub and a rain shower, providing a spa-like experience that was a welcome respite after a day of sightseeing.
The hotel’s attention to detail extended beyond the suite itself. Each evening, a turndown service transformed the suite into a haven of relaxation. And, of course, the staff’s impeccable service was always at hand to cater to any additional needs or requests like guest bikes, or even providing a Pulitzer umbrella and tote bag for our daily adventures. There is also a duplex gym open 24 hours to all hotel guests over the age of 18.
Dining at Pulitzer Amsterdam
When it comes to dining at the Pulitzer Amsterdam, you could choose from a few options. Although we did not have time to have dinner at Janz, their main restaurant which boasts a modern Dutch menu in an intimate setting, we did enjoy breakfast here most mornings. I loved the breakfast buffet offerings which were generous, but I also liked how you could order off the menu as well. The Pulitzer Bar is dark and cozy, perfect for drinks before or after a meal. Lastly, we had a lovely lunch and dinner during our stay at the Pultizer Garden which is so wonderful to enjoy in the summer. Both the indoor and outdoor seating options at this restaurant are beautiful with tranquil surroundings, five-star service and delicious food.
Exploring the Surroundings
The location of the Pulitzer Amsterdam Hotel is nothing short of perfect for exploring the city. Situated in the historic Jordaan district, it is within walking distance of some of Amsterdam’s most iconic attractions, including the Anne Frank House, the Royal Palace, and the vibrant Nine Streets shopping district. The hotel even offers its own private boat tours, allowing guests to explore the city’s picturesque canals from a unique perspective. But the hotel property itself is a tranquil haven within the city with inner courtyards and gardens where you can enjoy a nice drink in or sit back with a book.
Lastly…
My stay in a Canal Suite at the Pulitzer Amsterdam Hotel was a truly magical experience that elevated my visit to Amsterdam to new heights. From the luxurious accommodations and impeccable service to the stunning canal views and convenient location, this five-star gem exceeded all expectations. If you’re seeking an unforgettable and indulgent Amsterdam getaway, I wholeheartedly recommend the Pulitzer Amsterdam for a quintessential Amsterdam experience that will leave you with cherished memories and a longing to return to this enchanting city.
