Only Friends

First Impressions

Walking into Only Friends feels less like checking into a hotel and more like being welcomed into someone’s incredibly stylish home. This four-star boutique property sits on Lange Leidsedwarsstraat, one of those narrow Amsterdam streets that locals actually use — you know, the ones where you’ll spot people heading to work rather than just tourists with cameras. The building itself has that classic Amsterdam charm, but inside it’s been transformed into something surprisingly modern and intimate.

Location & The Neighborhood

Honestly, the location is what initially sold me on this place. You’re in Amsterdam City Centre, but tucked away from the chaos of Leidseplein — though it’s literally a two-minute walk when you want that energy. I mean, you can hear the distant hum of the square, but your street feels residential and calm. The Vondelpark entrance is right there too, which I discovered makes for perfect morning runs before the city wakes up.

The Room Experience

The room design here actually surprised me — it’s minimalist but warm, if that makes sense. Clean lines, muted colors, but then they’ll throw in a vintage chair or some local artwork that gives it personality. The beds are seriously comfortable (I’m picky about this), and the bathrooms are compact but well-designed. What I really appreciated was the attention to lighting — they’ve got it figured out so you’re not squinting at harsh overhead bulbs or fumbling in the dark.

Dining & Social Spaces

The ground floor restaurant doubles as a social hub, and it works surprisingly well. Breakfast is solid — proper coffee, fresh pastries, and they do this Dutch take on eggs Benedict that’s become my go-to. Evenings, the space transforms into more of a wine bar atmosphere where guests and locals actually mingle. It’s not forced or artificial; people just end up chatting naturally, which you don’t always get at hotels.

Why Guests Love It

With a 9.6 rating, Only Friends clearly does something right, and I think it’s the balance they’ve struck. You get boutique hotel style and service without the pretension that sometimes comes with it. The staff knows your name by day two, they’ll give you actual neighborhood recommendations (not just tourist spots), and there’s free parking nearby if you’re driving — which, let’s be honest, is rare in this part of Amsterdam. It’s one of those places where you feel like you’ve discovered something special, even though it’s not a secret.