As you walk through the 17th-century portico you can feel the history that surrounds this landmark canal mansion. However, nothing quite prepares you for the sensual delights that await within. Originally a theatre, then a Catholic poorhouse and bakery, The Dylan was created by London hotelier and designer Anoushka Hempel as a heady mix of traditional and modern, yin and yang, light and dark, East meets West. Design is the mantra here, and you can choose between various different styles of room - from the traditional creams and beiges of a classic 'Loft' room to a pared down aesthetic in the black and white 'Serendipity' rooms, or a flamboyant raspberry red in the 'Klassbol' rooms.
The Dylan's lounge and bar, redesigned and extended by the award-winning company FG Stijl, have become one of Amsterdam’s hippest hangouts, with open fires, velvet chairs and Fendi sofas. And the cuisine at Vinkeles - French-based, with modern twists - is a match for the setting: impeccably presented and delicious. All in all, it's a stunning urban sanctuary for style-seekers who fancy splashing out a bit.
Why we chose this partner
- Perfect location - along one of Amsterdam’s most beautiful canals with many of the city's best museums, shops and cafés nearby
- Our latest revisit was a truly spoiling experience and we loved all the thoughtful little touches - like a different gift with each evening's turndown)
- Immaculate food at Michelin-starred Vinkeles restaurant, and a charming brasserie for less formal dining
- Dramatic, ultra-chic décor - a rarity among olde-worlde Amsterdam hotels
- Peace and tranquillity in a bustling city
Please be aware
- It's almost too immaculate - you might feel guilty disturbing the perfectly piled cushions
- Style doesn't come cheap here - and breakfast (which is excluded from the rates) costs the same as a modest dinner elsewhere
- Some guests say service can be a little frosty, though we found it warm and welcoming
- Some bedroom items seem to prioritise style over function test
Best time to go
Our top tips
The hotel garden is seen as a secret gem by locals; a lovely, quiet place for a drink after shopping in the 9 streets.
Lodging
Activities
- The concierge can arrange just about anything, from visits to a diamond factory to private boat rides along the canals
- Museum lovers are spoilt for choice here - the famous Van Gogh and Rijksmuseum museums just a 15-minute stroll away, and there are modern galleries dotted around the city centre
- Amsterdam is made for walking. Stroll along the canals, stopping off regularly at some of the wonderful cafés and shops
- Go shopping at the trendy little boutiques in De Jordan (dubbed The Nine Streets) and the designer shops in the Museum Quarter. Most are open on a Sunday, which means you can shop till you drop
- Get yourself a soothing in-room massage
- The health club Splash is just around the corner if you want a workout
- Relax in the lovely courtyard garden, the bar or the lounge, flicking through the wonderful collection of coffee table books on style and design
Activities include:
- Cycling
- Nightlife
- Shopping / markets
With Kids
Children are welcome and the staff will go out of their way to accommodate them. However, this is a designer hotel and some of the other guests might not appreciate noisy or boisterous children running around.
Best for:
Babies (0-1 years), Toddlers (1-4 years), Teens (over 12)
Family friendly accommodation:
An extra roll-out bed or a cot can be added to most rooms for an additional charge. Eight rooms can interconnect, creating a total of 4 family rooms (Junior Suite - Canal View and Luxury Suites only).Babysitting: Babysitting is available by arrangement.
Baby equipment: Baby cots, high chairs and small toys are available on request.
Children's meals: Smaller portions of the existing menu can be served on request.
Distances:
- Airport: 25 minutes
- Shops: 2 minutes
For more family-friendly places, see our Kids Collection
Remember baby and child equipment may be limited and can sometimes go astray, so if it is crucial to you, please check with the hotel that it is still available
Location
The Dylan is centrally located in the middle of Amsterdam, on the Keizersgracht canal in the heart of the 9 Straatjes area. test By Air: Schiphol (15km away) is the nearest airport and has many international links. From the Airport Amsterdam Central Station is a 20-minute direct train ride from Schiphol Airport. From there it's a 5-minute taxi ride or a 20-minute walk to The Dylan. Alternatively, you can take a taxi straight from the airport, which will set you back around €35. By Train: If you prefer to travel overland from the UK, Eurostar operates direct trains from London St Pancras to Amsterdam. Alternatively, take a ferry and train combination from Newcastle, Hull or London (via Harwich). By Car: Amsterdam is easily explored by bicycle, public transport and on foot so you won't really need a car. However, if you want to hire one to see the surrounding region, see our car rental recommendations. Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.