The Theatre of Van Campen, aka “Schouwburg”, was Amsterdam’s first theatre. Today, the historic site has been transformed into the luxury, 5-star boutique Dylan Amsterdam hotel.
Built in 1638 by Jacob van Campen in an Italian baroque-style, it welcomed prominent historical figures, including Maria de Medici (Queen of France, 1610-1617) and the Golden Age painter Rembrandt. In 1738, Vivaldi conducted the orchestra of the theatre in celebration of its 100th anniversary.
The original theatre burned down twice. First, during a performance in 1772, supposedly from the naked candles used to light the stage, and again in 1890, likely due to a firecracker used in a fireworks display. In 1999, it was reborn as a boutique hotel.
A few remains of the original structure survived the fires. The present-day “Van Campen’s’’ doorway (main entrance gate), for example, is still standing today, reminding guests of the location’s rich history. Inscribed on the gate is the quote: “The world is a play on stage, everyone plays his role and gets his part’’.
The Dylan Amsterdam hotel has additionally revived Amsterdam’s longest-standing theatrical tradition with annual performances of Gijsbreght van Aemstel. It has achieved Green Globe Gold certification with a commitment to preserving 17th-century architecture.
The hotel offers 41 rooms across four design styles and fireplace-facing lounges. It also houses Restaurant Vinkeles, a two-Michelin-starred culinary destination, situated in an 18th-century bakery with original ovens and exposed brick, offering one of the most atmospheric fine dining experiences in the city.
Located on the Keizersgracht in the heart of Amsterdam’s “9 Streets,” the hotel sits behind a historic canal-side gate and offers exclusive access to the city’s hidden treasures, both past and present.
Celebrating Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary this October 2025, a restoration by Studio Linse features refreshed interiors and historic details with reintroduced vintage elements and high-end fixtures that echo the building’s dramatic past.
Its Green Globe Gold certification reflects its commitment to low-impact design and heritage preservation while the revival of annual theatrical performances honuors its dramatic legacy.
Newly redesigned in 2025, the Jacob van Campen Suite — named for the architect of Amsterdam’s first stone theatre — is a duplex with canal views, a freestanding soaking tub, and curated art. It evokes the intimacy of a backstage dressing room, enriched by spatial precision and a quietly dramatic palette.
