Amsterdam Beyond the Canals: A Boutique Hotel Where a Picasso Hangs in the Bar

A neighborhood worth discovering

The hotel sits on the edge of Oosterpark in Amsterdam East—one of the city’s most elegant and genuinely livable neighborhoods. What immediately struck me about this location is how rare it is to find in Amsterdam: real peace, mature greenery, beautiful local cafés and restaurants, and a neighborhood atmosphere that feels authentic rather than curated for tourists—all while remaining just minutes from the main attractions by tram. The nearest tram stop is a one-minute walk away, and the city center is 15 to 20 minutes from the hotel.

For travelers who prefer not to stay in the middle of tourist crowds, this location is a genuine advantage. I always arrange private airport transfers for my clients directly—it makes for a much smoother arrival and sets the right tone from the moment they land.

The Living Room

Rather than a traditional lobby, guests are welcomed into the Living Room—a sophisticated residential-style space that feels like arriving at a very elegant private home. Check-in takes place while seated comfortably with a drink and small bites, surrounded by books, artwork, and soft lounge seating. Honestly, it’s the kind of arrival that immediately makes you want to cancel your plans and just stay in.

Photography and property inspection by Vera Vojvodic, Duchess Concept

Design and art

Design is where Pillows truly distinguishes itself. The atmosphere throughout is intimate and residential—high ceilings, oversized windows, warm neutral tones, curated lighting, and beautifully layered textures. The owners are passionate art collectors, and their private collection is displayed throughout the property, giving the entire hotel the feeling of a refined private residence rather than a conventional luxury hotel.

An original Picasso hangs in Fitz’s Bar, the hotel’s intimate speakeasy-style cocktail lounge. A Matisse graces the Pillows Grand Suite, a beautifully designed signature suite complete with a grand piano. For travelers with an interest in art and design, this level of curation is genuinely rare. The hotel was awarded Two Michelin Keys in 2025 —recognition that reflects exactly what it delivers: distinctive character and a quality of stay that is quietly exceptional.

Photography and property inspection by Vera Vojvodic, Duchess Concept

Photography and property inspection by Vera Vojvodic, Duchess Concept

Rooms

The rooms continue the same sophisticated aesthetic—exceptionally comfortable bedding, Diptyque amenities, Dyson clothes steamers, and a calming palette of soft greys, beige tones, and natural textures. Large windows and natural light make the spaces feel especially serene.

One important note for North American travelers: entry-level room categories are relatively compact by U.S. luxury hotel standards. I would strongly recommend upgrading to a higher room category, particularly for guests staying more than a couple of nights or traveling with larger luggage.

Photography and property inspection by Vera Vojvodic, Duchess Concept

Food and beverage

The hotel offers strong dining options across different moods. Spring Café Brasserie provides relaxed all-day dining overlooking the park—ideal for a leisurely breakfast or a casual lunch. VanOost delivers a more elevated fine dining experience, well-suited for food-focused travelers looking for a special evening.

Fitz's Bar became one of my favorite spaces in the hotel—moody, elegant, and quietly glamorous. An original Picasso on the wall, a perfectly made cocktail in hand. It doesn’t get much better than that. The rooftop bar and terrace is especially beautiful during warmer months, with views over the park in an atmosphere that feels far removed from the busier rooftop venues in central Amsterdam.

Photography and property inspection by Vera Vojvodic, Duchess Concept

Photography and property inspection by Vera Vojvodic, Duchess Concept

Urban Spa

The hotel’s Urban Spa is a genuinely calming space—compact but well-considered, and exactly what you want after a day of walking through the city. The sauna can be privately booked for up to four guests, which makes it especially appealing for couples. The hydromassage bed is one of those treatments that sounds simple but is surprisingly effective—you lie down fully clothed and the warm water does the work. After a day of walking through Amsterdam, it felt like a reset button. The treatment menu covers massages, Dermalogica facials, and beauty treatments, with reservations required.

Through Fora’s preferred partnership, guests receive a €75 credit toward the sauna or hydromassage bed—one of the more genuinely useful credits I’ve seen, because it covers exactly the kind of experience most guests would choose anyway.

Amenities

The hotel is pet friendly for smaller dogs up to 6 kg, with an additional fee. Thoughtful pet amenities—a dog bed, bowls, towels, and treats—are provided on arrival. I traveled with my dog and genuinely appreciated how well-executed this was. Valet parking is available for guests arriving by car. The Living Room is open exclusively to hotel guests around the clock, creating a quiet and comfortable space to decompress at any hour.

And perhaps the most charming detail of all: the hotel’s name actually comes from the owners' original bedding business. Guests can purchase the same pillows and bedding used throughout the property—so if you find yourself lying awake wondering how to recreate that cloud-like sleep at home, you’re in luck.

Photography and property inspection by Vera Vojvodic, Duchess Concept

Photography and property inspection by Vera Vojvodic, Duchess Concept

This hotel is ideal for design-conscious travelers, art lovers, and anyone who wants a sophisticated boutique experience with a genuine sense of place. It suits couples, solo travelers, and guests who prefer a quieter, more residential side of Amsterdam over the busy city center—while still being extremely well connected.

Fora Perks when booking through me:

• Continental breakfast daily

• Early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability

• €75 credit toward the Urban Spa sauna or hydromassage bed treatment

• Room upgrade upon arrival, subject to availability

• Locally inspired welcome amenity

• Glass of sparkling wine on arrival

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Amsterdam page.