Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht, by Hyatt

"How did it strike you on arrival?Housed in a former public library, the blocky building that is the Andaz Amsterdam sticks out among the gabled canal houses of the Prinsengracht. There's also no reception area—hotel staff greet you and escort you to one of three standing desks in the lobby for check-in. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Alice in Wonderland meets Dutch traditionalism inside the 122 guest rooms by renowned local designer Marcel Wanders. Features include bright yellow tulip-inspired chairs and walls decked out in Delftware-like blue and white tiles, all combined with lots of negative space. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies?Open the desk drawer and reveal a complimentary minibar with non-alcoholic beverages and snacks. Food: Worth it?Bluespoon Restaurant & Bar does on-site dining. Choose from three, four, and five-course with optional wine pairings. The dishes by executive chef Sander Bierenbroodspot often contain Dutch ingredients, such as the Old Amsterdam cheese in the gnocchi with truffle and egg or shrimp served with halibut, mashed potato, and roasted onion. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whatever stuck with you.Complimentary wine hour takes place in the library. Bottom line: worth it, and why?The Andaz stands out from other local hotels with the one-of-a-kind design by Wanders. You also can't beat the canal-side location." - Meredith Bethune

"The Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht is celebrated for its unique design and excellent service, making it a favorite among travelers." - Travel + Leisure Editors

"Once Amsterdam ’s main public library, the Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht looks like a 1970s block on the outside. But inside, renowned Dutch designer Marcel Wanders has transformed the space into a whimsical and grown-up homage to Alice in Wonderland . Decorated with oversized furnishings (including Wanders’ signature Tulip chairs and modern twists on chandeliers), Delft blue tilework and brocade upholstery (references to historic Dutch style), and avant-garde artwork, the design hotel hardly feels like part of a chain, even one as hip as the Andaz. Instead, with its serene herb garden full of quirky topiaries, a checkerboard mural, and chess-piece statues, the canalside hotel channels a fresh take on Amsterdam. But don’t worry, authentic Amsterdam is still out there—take the free bicycles for a spin along the waterways, and know that free snacks await you back in your room."

"Like so many of Amsterdam’s most impressive canal-side properties, the building currently occupied by this whimsical Marcel Wanders-designed hotel had a past life—in this case, as the city library. While one might be inclined to spend all their time in the dizzyingly beautiful lobby, the kitted out guestrooms—with their ample breathing room and generous views—offer a welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle outside. While the knowledgeable concierge team can point you in the direction of many incredible restaurants, the on-site Bluespoon and its namesake bar both deserve a visit. Same goes for the spa and lovely gardens. "