The Best Hotels in Amsterdam

The Dylan

Overview: Dating back to 1638, this historical building in the heart of Jordaan was once the first theatre in Amsterdam. (Rembrandt worked one of his first jobs here as an assistant.) It was bought by the Church in 1772 and became where those in need received bread — the old bakery now houses a renowned fine dining joint (more on this below). It later opened as a hotel called “Blake’s” but was criticized as too gaudy, and in 1999 was toned down to the gem we now know as The Dylan. 50 percent of the hotel will be renovated in the first half of 2024.

The words I’d use to describe this property are: cozy, welcoming, refined.

Best for: couples, anyone looking for an intimate escape that makes you feel right at home (with the added plus of luxury amenities). As Max, the lovely Sales Manager, put it: “This is not a seen and be seen hotel.” It’s a place for privacy and seclusion.

Rooms: 40 keys with four design styles: Loft, Amber, Luxura and Serendipity, which is described as “New York chic”. Book a Serendipity room to guarantee a canal view, though in my opinion, the courtyard garden view rooms are equally as lovely (and will save a few bucks). Check out the Luxury Suite with its original vaulted ceilings for an amazing honeymoon or long-term stay.

Highlight: The Dylan’s overall vibe takes the cake. Refined yet cozy, with an emphasis on the senses. There’s an in-house Dylan perfume. The lobby’s Spotify playlist is emailed to you post-checkout. You’ll notice high end products like Aesop, and enjoy honey gathered straight from the roof. I would have trouble leaving the property. This hotel truly feels like a dream home.

Tip: secure reservations far in advance of your stay at the fantastic two-Michelin Star Vinkeles — once the Church bakery — or their new, intimate six-seater dining concept: até.

Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam

Overview: The height of elegance in true Waldorf style, built from six canal houses on a quiet part of UNESCO-protected Herengracht — historically the wealthiest part of the canal ring. In this neighborhood you’ll find several Michelin spots and bespoke shops to browse at your leisure. If you don’t fancy leaving the building, make a reservation at Spectrum, the hotel’s in-house two-Michelin star restaurant.

For relaxing, the Guerlain spa (open 24 hours) is one of the nicest I’ve seen. Afterwards, get some fresh air the city’s largest privately owned garden, and enjoy a magnificent afternoon tea at lobby restaurant Peacock Alley. Night cap? Don’t miss the speakeasy-style Vault Bar, using the real vault from the building’s former use as a bank.

The words I’d use to describe this property are: crisp, classy, elegant.

Best for: a special occasion, VIP guests looking for refined luxury and top-notch service.

Rooms: Waldorf rooms are uniformly full of crèmes and beiges, creating a soothing city escape. 93 rooms in 25 (!!!) different categories. Signature suites are uniquely quirky due to the UNESCO-protected architecture. Seven connecting room possibilities. One house with nine bedrooms can be entirely privatized.

Highlight: The Waldorf’s tailor-made service and level of hospitality is hard to beat. This is best seen vis-a-vis their “scent service” — during check-in, you will choose what your room smells like at turndown. You can even change the scent every night.

Tip: Need an impossible restaurant reservation or coveted concert tickets while in town? Talk to the concierge desk. They’re known to be magicians.

Sofitel Legend The Grand

Overview: There are only six Sofitel Legends — historically significant buildings more than 100 years old — and this is the only one in Europe. The Grand dates back to 1411 when it was once a convent, then lodging for the royal family, and finally City Hall in 1966. Even following a 2021 renovation, it still gives guests a sense of being royalty.

There are two restaurants: French-influenced fine dining with local ingredients (i.e. their rooftop veggie garden), and Oriole, a casual all-day Italian bistro concept.

The words I’d use to describe this property are: historical, grand, luxurious.

Best for: history nerds, anyone looking for convenient access to all parts of the city.

Rooms: 178 rooms including 52 suites. 70 percent of rooms are canal view (book a Luxury room to guarantee it). 100 percent of rooms have a walk-in shower. Apartment-style rooms are great for families or longer stays, lending to the traditional cozy canalhouse experience. Some have a private balcony. Some are two stories. There are even three suites with a private entrance via the back of the hotel. Best part: all rooms have huge floor to ceiling windows. The natural light is beautiful.

Highlight: The history. Beloved, late Queen Beatrice got married in what is called “The Marriage Room” and now serves as a meeting space. The original painting and stained glass work is incredible. There is also a mural in the restaurant by artist Karel Appel with a fascinating history.

Tip: Take a short walk to The Book Exchange, a massive, used English-language bookshop. Also nearby is Blin Queen, an Eastern-European inspired pancake spot. Highly recommend.

Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht

Overview: Andaz is Hyatt’s luxury brand with 25 properties worldwide. Each property is unique and inspired by local culture, making for a one-of-a-kind stay. Once Amsterdam’s public library, this stylish spot opened in 2012 on a perfect stretch of Prinsengracht and has been a hit ever since. The lobby bar is undergoing a little rebrand/remodel set for February 2024; with a focus on craft cocktails and small bites, they aim to attract a more local crowd.

The words I’d use to describe this property are: design-forward, playful, colorful.

Best for: art and design lovers, anyone looking to have a particularly Dutch-inspired stay.

Rooms: 122 rooms, five suites. Standards are identical save for the view — each 27 m, all King or Queen beds. To note: these Standards are big by Amsterdam standards. Connecting rooms possible.

Highlight: Design. All Andaz properties are curated by a local, in this case artist Marcel Wanders. The playfulness and mix between old and new styles is super unique. No detail is left unnoticed.

Tip: take advantage of the numerous excursion offerings (private museum visits, walking tours, canal cruises, etc..) and don’t miss dinner at Bluespoon with their open-concept kitchen.

Pestana Riverside

Overview: Located on the Amstel river, Pestana was formerly the Amstelveen town hall. This considered, the interior offers a stateliness that only such high ceilings can — but not in a cold way! Pestana is a Portuguese brand that has since expanded abroad, and the Portuguese vibes can be felt in the restaurant as well as the lobby, where you’ll find a large sun-like orb and wave carpet modeled after a street in Lisbon.

Pestana is great for groups. There are several large spaces for events such as weddings and baby showers (their beautiful “Town Hall” room overlooks the Amstel and can connect to two junior suites for large groups or artists/businesses needing to host guests.). There is also a lovely glass atrium attached to the restaurant for private receptions.

The words I’d use to describe this property are: lofty, airy, minimalist.

Best for: repeat visitors looking to be out of the main tourist fray, families/large groups (many connecting room options)

Rooms: 154 keys total. Clock Tower building has very unique rooms as it’s a protected monument and cannot be modified, whereas other rooms are more typical. (Check out The Clock Tower Suite for a special occasion. It has a bathtub in the middle of the room — super fun.) Executive rooms are uniform and have nice working areas for those on business. (Pestana has a corporate reputation.) Tip: Looking for a Standard room? Let me help you get the one and only corner option — it’s the only Standard overlooking the canal.

Highlight: location, location, location. In Oost at the edge of de Pijp, this is a nice change of scenery, removed from the hustle and bustle. Great for anyone looking to spend time in a different neighborhood.

Tip: While staying in De Pijp, you can’t miss Albert Cuyp Markt; take the 15 minute walk for some great street food options. Make sure to go hungry. For your R&R, check out the Cocoon Wellness Spa with its tranquil indoor pool. Guests are raving about their products.

My guarantee: you cannot go wrong with any one of these beautiful hotels in this beautiful city. Whether you’re looking for something cozy and quiet or a bit more opulent, there’s a place for everyone. If you’re thinking about traveling to Amsterdam, contact me to arrange a free consultation call and I will help you decide which hotel is right for you and your trip. Onwards! - Maggie

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Amsterdam. In need of further inspiration? Check out Travis Tanner’s guide, Discover Amsterdam: A Guide to the Best Sights and Food.