Amsterdam Hotels:
De Jonker Urban Studios and Suites
Neighborhood: Hotel area, about 30 minutes walking from Central Station
Vibe: Modern, efficient
What I liked: There was so much space! We had a small sitting area upstairs with a kitchenette. The kitchenette had a Nespresso (the far superior cousin of the Keurig) with a variety of pods. The bathroom was INCREDIBLE - a huge waterfall shower, a modern sink area, and HEATED FLOORS. I feel as though the heated floors are a selling point for this place alone. And it was one of the few places we could find that had air conditioning. This was a priority for us because it was the first place we were staying in Amsterdam, so we wanted to ensure we could get a good night's rest after our red eye flight to set us up for success on the rest of the trip.
What I didn't like: Our room had some physical damage - the walls were scratched in a few places. Also, the decor in some places was spot on, but in other places it was a little odd. The neighborhood is also a little bit further out as well, which wasn't the most convenient. Lastly, our room was 2 stories, which wasn't an issue for me - but could be for others with mobility issues.
Things to know: There is no front door staff. You're emailed a QR code to get you into the hotel itself and also the room. This stressed us out a little bit because we had to find somewhere with Wifi to get the email with our QR code.
Overall impression: We liked this place! It was comfortable, clean, and in a good neighborhood, so what else can you really ask for?! I give it a pretty solid recommendation.
Linden Hotel
Neighborhood: Jordaan, which is my favorite neighborhood in Amsterdam. It's a young, hip area without too many tourists, but still close to any tourist spots you'd want to hit up. The hotel itself is also right on the canal!
What I liked: Well, the location can't be beat. Also, the vibe is very cute. It's the "we are trying to be slightly high end but also not take ourselves too seriously" vibe. The decor was generally very nice looking without being over the top. The staff were friendly (all young and cool seeming) and ready to give out recommendations.
What I didn't like: Our room was the smallest hotel room in existence anywhere. That might be a stretch, but it was pretty darn small. For 2 people, we were fine, especially since we only were sleeping there, but I would venture to say that others would find it uncomfortable. Also, the shower drain is OUTSIDE of the shower, so you just plan to flood the bathroom then clean it up when you're done. I literally had to open the shower door to have enough room to wash my hair.
Things to know: There is no AC here, but being on the canal we had a breeze and could open our window. Also, noise travels like crazy over here, so if you're a light sleeper you may want to consider somewhere else. Also, the stairs are very narrow and windy. It wasn't a problem for me, but definitely could be for someone else (even just someone after a long night out!) I cautiously recommend.
Tillburg (Efteling) Hotel:
The Guesthouse Hotel
Neighborhood: Not sure what to call this area other than "5 minutes from Efteling"
What I liked: Almost everything. The hotel is new, so everything felt super clean. Also, the decor is generally minimalist, but still trendy. There was no assault to the eyes, which was especially nice after being at an amusement park all day. The continental breakfast was fabulous, and they give you tokens for a free coffee when you check in as an added perk. The staff was incredibly friendly as well! The hotel is also next to a grocery store.
What I didn't like: I really can't think of anything... The Guesthouse nailed it!
Things to know: This is a great option if you're going to be at Efteling. It's only a 5 minute walk to the park entrance and really reasonably priced. It's cheaper than the Efteling offered accommodations and probably of higher quality. I highly recommend!
Brussels Hotels:
Hotel Hygge
Neighborhood: Close to Ixelles. Definitely a more local area, about 20 minutes walking from the city center.
What I liked: The hotel decor is really beautiful. Understated yet upscale. It isn't as "hygge" as I expected being that it is in the name, but still modern and beautiful. The bathroom is also really pretty, having a blue and white backsplash across one entire wall. Also, the breakfast is pretty good.
What I didn't like: The hotel staff was fine... but for a hotel named "Hygge" I expected them to be really friendly. The room is also pretty small (not nearly as small as the Linden Hotel), but it's definitely functional. There is no central air and we were on a ground floor, so I didn't feel safe opening my window.
Things to know: This is a fine, modern option outside of the city center. I liked it, but I didn't love it. It gets an unenthusiastic recommendation from me, but a recommendation nonetheless.
Metropole Hotel
Neighborhood: In the city center, really close to the Grand Place and other shopping areas!
What I liked: The outside of this place is like a castle. The inside is like a palace. It's unbelievable! Definitely "grand hotel" vibes. The location is also incredible, if you want to be in the hustle and bustle of it all. The room was large and had a ton of bathroom space, which I really appreciated! Finally, we got FREE MINI BAR DRINKS, which totally blew my mind - 2 waters, 2 cokes, and 2 beers!
What I didn't like: The room itself was pretty underwhelming. Minimal decor and definitely felt dated. The hotel services were also crazy expensive - I think breakfast was close to 30 Euros!
Things to know: If you want to be close to the Grand Place and feel like you're checking into a castle, then this is a cool place to stay. The rooms are a little bit underwhelming, but when you are paying so little for what seems like such an extravagant place, you can't be too disappointed. I recommend as long as you know what you're paying for!
Final thoughts
Each place had their pros and cons, but I do recommend each place on this list. Some get a more glowing recommendation than others, but none of these places gave us a bad experience. When searching, we prioritized price, then neighborhood, then aesthetics. I feel like this is a strong sampling of those priorities. Do you have any favorite hotels in Amsterdam or Brussels? What do you prioritize when searching for hotels?
