Set along the elegant Keizersgracht canal in Amsterdam’s historic Jordaan district, The Toren is a boutique hotel that feels more theatrical set piece than mere accommodation.
Housed in two 17th-century canal houses once owned by Dutch trade merchants and one rumoured to have served as a WWII safe house – the property is steeped in layered history. Today, it’s part of The Pavilions Hotels & Resorts collection, and its transformation is nothing short of decadent.
One of the hotel’s most intriguing features is a ceiling painting in the bar, attributed to a pupil of Rembrandt. This quietly remarkable artwork adds a layer of cultural depth to the already dramatic interiors, anchoring the hotel in Amsterdam’s rich artistic legacy.
Interior designer Wim van de Oudeweetering has created a visual feast: rich velvets, gilded ceilings, dramatic chandeliers, and exotic wallpaper patterns evoke a sense of baroque fantasy. The public spaces are intimate yet opulent, with a sultry lounge bar offering cocktails and light bites in a setting that feels part boudoir, part salon. There’s no full-service restaurant, but breakfast is served daily and is generous in both quality and atmosphere.
The hotel comprises 40 individually styled rooms and suites, spread across the two canal houses just seconds apart. Room categories range from compact singles to lavish Royal Suites, each with its own personality. Expect four-poster beds, whirlpool baths with mood lighting, and canal or garden views. Even the smallest rooms are dressed in dramatic textures and jewel tones, with thoughtful touches like Nespresso machines, plush robes, and smart TVs.
Bathrooms are sleek and indulgent, often featuring double vanities and whirlpool tubs. Toiletries are by Scapa Home, a luxury Antwerp brand, and some suites include smart toilets with heated seats and integrated bidet functions. A complimentary minibar is standard across all room types, and direct bookings come with perks like welcome drinks, upgrades, and discounts on bike rentals and massages.
While The Toren doesn’t offer wellness facilities or meeting rooms, its appeal lies in its immersive atmosphere and prime location. Steps from the Anne Frank House and a short walk to Dam Square, it’s ideal for travellers who want to explore Amsterdam’s cultural heart without sacrificing comfort or style.
Guests tend to be couples on romantic getaways, solo travellers seeking a refined retreat, and business visitors who prefer boutique charm over corporate gloss. The Toren is not just a place to stay – it’s a place to revel.
For those who appreciate history wrapped in velvet and a canal view with their morning coffee, this is Amsterdam at its most seductive.