Hotel Prins Hendrik

This small, traditional hotel occupies an old Dutch townhouse that dates back to the 16th-century. It has plenty of character and maintains some of its original features, such as old windows and exposed wooden beams in the attic rooms. It has an authentic Dutch feel, with old-fashioned decor and a shabby-chic furnishings. The lobby is small and cozy, with tiled floors, black leather armchairs, and black-and-white photographs of jazz legend, Chet Baker. In fact, the musician reportedly spent his last days in the hotel before ultimately passing away. These days, there's a much coveted room named for him. The adjoining restaurant and bar are both free-standing establishments linked to the hotel, offering lively local atmospheres and an authentic Dutch feel. The hotel mostly attracts tourists, especially small groups and families. 

The Hotel Prins Hendrik is conveniently located on busy Prins Hendrikkade, just across the street from Amsterdam Centraal Station. There are plenty of shops, cafes, pubs, and theaters in the immediate area, and the city center is around a 10-minute walk from the hotel. It's a prime location for tourists, as many attractions are easily accessible by tram, train, bike, or foot. The Red Light District, Dam Square, Royal Palace, and the Anne Frank House are all within walking distance, while the Museum Quarter -- home to the Stedelijk Museum, Van Gogh Museum, and Rijkmuseum -- is a 20-minute train ride from the hotel. Schiphol International Airport is 20 minutes away by train from Centraal Station, or a 15-minute drive, depending on traffic.

Like the rest of the hotel, guest rooms are budget-style and basic. The decor is plain and the furnishings are simple, but all 42 rooms have authentic character, especially the attic rooms with original wooden beams and sloping walls. Room vary in size, with some offering additional seating areas and space to sleep up to six people. Front-facing rooms have lovely views of Centraal Station and the streets below, and a bit of road noise should be expected. All do have some wear and tear, particularly in the older fabrics (like frumpy bedspreads). The Chet Baker Room, named for the musician who passed away while staying here, is highly coveted, but not overtly advertised by the hotel. All rooms come with basic amenities, such as air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, phones, and free Wi-Fi -- though minibars, safes, and electric kettles are absent, which may be disappointing for some. Bathrooms are small and clean, if old school, with shower/tub combos (a rarity for city hotels), heated towel racks, and free basic toiletries. 

The Hotel Prins Hendrik shares its ground floor with a traditional Dutch-style restaurant and bar, which are both located next to the lobby. The bar is popular with locals as well as guests, giving it a lively and authentic atmosphere. It serves cold beverages and small snacks throughout the day, and has a small library, billiards table, and outdoor terrace for smoking. The restaurant next door serves classic Dutch and international cuisine, as well as a free breakfast buffet, consisting of fresh pastries, eggs, baked beans, cereals, juices, and coffee. The hotel has a couple of vending machines in the lobby, and the front desk is open around the clock. There is also a small computer station in the lobby, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.