Amsterdam is a city where historic charm meets contemporary creativity. For travelers who appreciate art, architecture, and design, these handpicked boutique and design hotels in Amsterdam offer unique stays across a range of styles and price points. From beautifully restored canal houses turned boutique hotels to cutting-edge, design-forward properties, each one reflects the city’s artistic spirit—whether you’re looking for high-end luxury or stylish, affordable accommodations.

Pulitzer Amsterdam

Pulitzer Amsterdam spans 25 interlinked 17th and 18th-century canal houses, situated along the Prinsengracht in the heart of Amsterdam’s historic canal district. Once home to Dutch merchants, craftsmen, and aristocrats, these meticulously restored buildings now form a luxurious hotel where each room has its own story. Designed by Jacu Strauss, the interiors seamlessly blend original architectural elements—like wooden beams and marble fireplaces—with contemporary Dutch design, creating an atmosphere that is both timeless and inviting.

Guests can enjoy tranquil canal views, inner courtyards, and the hotel’s restaurant and bar. A standout feature is the hotel’s private salon boat, which offers an intimate and elegant way to explore the city’s canals.

Perfectly located, Pulitzer Amsterdam places visitors within walking distance of the Anne Frank House and the Jordaan neighborhood—one of Amsterdam’s most beloved quarters, known for its art galleries, historic charm, and lively local character. Just around the corner lies De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets), a delightful network of narrow lanes filled with independent boutiques, vintage shops, and cozy cafés.

Sir Adam Hotel, Amsterdam

Set within the iconic A’DAM Tower in Amsterdam North, Sir Adam Hotel channels the city’s creative energy with an industrial-chic aesthetic and a strong musical soul. Designed by New York-based studio ICRAVE, the interiors feature raw concrete, floor-to-ceiling windows, curated local artwork, and stylish, minimalist decor. Each room is equipped with a Crosley record player, a vinyl collection, and a Gibson guitar—inviting guests to immerse themselves in a uniquely personal and musical experience.

The hotel shares its striking vertical home with major music industry offices and the renowned A’DAM Lookout, offering panoramic views over the city skyline and the IJ River. On-site, guests can enjoy THE BUTCHER Social Club—a lively space combining gourmet burgers, cocktails, and retro arcade games, making it a hub for both travelers and locals. It sits adjacent to cultural attractions such as the Eye Filmmuseum and the A’DAM Lookout, making it a fitting choice for guests seeking a more alternative, creative corner of Amsterdam.

Sir Adam Hotel is located in Amsterdam North, across the IJ River from the historic city center. While just a three-minute ferry ride from Central Station, the hotel’s location is distinctly separate from the city’s central neighborhoods and requires a short crossing via the free Buiksloterweg ferry.

The Hoxton Amsterdam

The Hoxton Amsterdam is set within a row of five elegant townhouses on the Herengracht canal—once home to wealthy Dutch merchants—right in the heart of the city’s historic canal district. The hotel blends heritage charm with contemporary design: each room features wooden floors, vintage furnishings, high ceilings, and thoughtful details, with some offering enchanting canal views.

Guests enjoy a dynamic mix of perks, including a lively restaurant and bar, a rotating program of cultural and art events, and complimentary bike rentals—perfect for exploring the city like a local.

The Hoxton is ideally situated within De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets), a picturesque neighborhood known for its independent boutiques, cozy cafés, and creative atmosphere. From this prime location, guests can walk to iconic landmarks such as the Anne Frank House and Dam Square.

Zoku Amsterdam

Zoku Amsterdam offers a fresh take on hotel living, combining smart design with a community-driven atmosphere. Located near the Eastern Canal District, the hotel centers around its signature Zoku Lofts—ingeniously designed micro-apartments that feature elevated sleeping areas, sleek kitchens, and adaptable spaces for work or dining. The interiors, created by Dutch design firm Concrete in collaboration with architectural photographer Ewout Huibers, reflect a modern, modular approach that suits both short and extended stays.

Photos credit: Ewout Huibers & Concrete. Courtesy of: Zoku Amsterdam

Guests enjoy access to a rooftop terrace with sweeping city views, vibrant co-working areas, meeting rooms, and a welcoming communal restaurant that fosters a sense of connection among travelers, professionals, and locals alike. With its blend of functionality and comfort, Zoku is particularly ideal for creatives, digital nomads, and remote professionals seeking a live–work–play environment.

Zoku is located in Amsterdam’s Weesperstraat neighborhood, on the edge of the Eastern Canal District and just a short walk from Artis Zoo, the Hermitage Museum, and the Plantage area. While not directly in the city’s central canal ring, it offers quick access to public transport and bike paths, making it easy to reach major attractions and business hubs.

SWEETS Hotel, Amsterdam

SWEETS hotel offers one of the most original ways to experience Amsterdam—by staying in a repurposed bridge house. Scattered across the city, these 28 former homes of Amsterdam’s bridge keepers have been transformed into stylish, compact suites for two guests, each reflecting the character and architectural quirks of its original structure. Some date back to the 17th century, others are striking examples of mid-century or modern design, and many are now listed monuments.

Here are three bridge houses in the SWEETS collection:

SWEETS – Oosterdoksdraaibrug

This unit is located in the Oosterdok area, close to Amsterdam Central Station, and offers views of the IJ River and the harbor. It includes a bedroom with a double bed, a bathroom with a shower, a toilet, and a kitchenette.

SWEETS – Sluis Haveneiland

This unit is located in the IJburg neighborhood and offers panoramic views of Lake IJ. Designed in a contemporary style, it features a double bed, a bathroom with a shower, a toilet, and a fully equipped kitchenette.

SWEETS – Hortusbrug

An architectural gem located near Amsterdam’s botanical gardens. The design reflects the influence of the De Stijl movement and the work of Gerrit Rietveld. The unit overlooks the canal and includes a double bed, a bathroom with a shower, a toilet, and a kitchenette.

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For our comprehensive cultural guide to Amsterdam, please refer to the designated link provided.