The Dylan Amsterdam

My coworker Lisa booked The Dylan for her parents’ 30th wedding anniversary trip, and honestly, I wasn’t sure how it would go. But her mom actually got teary walking into the courtyard. I’m not making that up. It’s one of those places that just hits you. The building is from the 1600s, and it’s on Keizersgracht, which is widely considered the most beautiful canal in Amsterdam. They kept all the historic bones—the beams, the proportions, the old-world feel—but the inside? Pure modern luxury. It’s not stuffy or museum-like at all. The rooms feel like someone with incredible taste just finished decorating their own home. Lisa’s parents stayed in a canal-view room, and the photos they sent back were unreal. Huge windows looking out over the water, afternoon light pouring in, boats drifting by. The beds are top-tier—sleeping on a cloud level. Bathrooms have these deep soaking tubs and Bulgari amenities. Everything just feels considered.

The restaurant, Vinkeles, is a whole other story. It’s got a Michelin star, and my friend Daan, who’s a total food nerd, says the tasting menu there was one of the best meals he’s had in Amsterdam. It’s in this old bakery with original 18th-century wall paintings. Pretty wild to eat a seven-course dinner surrounded by that kind of history. It’s not just about the food, though—it’s the setting, the attention to detail, the way they make you feel like you’re part of something special.

But here’s the honest part: this place is expensive. Like, properly expensive. You’re paying luxury prices, and there’s no way around that. But Lisa said her parents felt like every euro was justified, which they almost never say about anything. The service is impeccable without being stiff. They remembered her dad’s name after hearing it once and had his favorite newspaper ready the next morning. That kind of attention matters.

The location is ideal. You’re right in the canal ring, walking distance to the Anne Frank House, the Nine Streets shopping area, and basically all of the Jordaan. It’s quiet for centrum too, because Keizersgracht is more residential than the main tourist streets. The hotel is small—only about 40 rooms—which means it books up fast, especially in summer. If you’re planning to stay here, book well ahead. I know a few people who tried to book last minute and missed out.

One thing I love is the courtyard terrace. It’s gorgeous in warm weather, and even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth knowing about for a drink. My neighbor Jeroen proposed to his girlfriend in the courtyard, and she said yes before he even finished the question. Might have been the setting doing half the work.

If you’re doing a special occasion in Amsterdam—anniversary, big birthday, honeymoon—this is the place. It’s not your everyday hotel. It’s for when you want Amsterdam to feel like a dream. And it delivers. I always tell people who are visiting Amsterdam that if they want to feel like they’re in a movie, they should stay at The Dylan. It’s not just a hotel—it’s a moment.

If you’re thinking about booking, check if that deal’s still on. It’s a place that’s worth the price, especially if you’re looking for something more than just a room. It’s a vibe, a memory, a story. And you’ll want to tell it for years to come.