Jenny Packham on Amsterdam why is truly magical at Christmas time

The designer gets lost in the cobbled streets and is entranced by the city’s twinkling lights and unique spirit

When were you last in Amsterdam? In November, to celebrate the launch of my Christmas tree collaboration with The Pulitzer Hotel. The tree found its home in the hotel’s garden, a hidden gem within the bustling city. We celebrated the occasion with a stunning candle-lit dinner in the Saxenburg Room, a space steeped in Golden Age grandeur. Beneath its glittering chandelier and surrounded by walls adorned with Dutch heritage, we enjoyed a feast that perfectly captured the magic of the season. The city, a Unesco World Heritage Site, truly comes alive during the festive season.

My lasting memory of the city is… Allowing myself to get deliberately lost in the characterful Jordaan and Nine Streets neighbourhoods. There’s something poetic about wandering through these picturesque streets, discovering hidden gems, and embracing the city’s blend of history and modernity. At night, the canals reflect a constellation of city lights, creating an almost ethereal beauty. I love how the locals glide effortlessly along the cobbled streets on their iconic upright bicycles. It’s a city that balances serenity and energy with such ease.

The best thing about Amsterdam is… The fusion of art, history and architecture at every turn. It’s a city where heritage meets innovation — whether it’s a 17th-century building transformed into a boutique, or a cup of coffee enjoyed in a café that marries old-world charm with modern aesthetics. Galleries showcasing Vermeer, Rembrandt, or contemporary artists only enhance this interplay of tradition and creativity.