Hotel Washington

The Hotel Washington is split across three beautiful 20th century Dutch townhouses which were once a large family home. While not luxurious, the old, homey family residence vibe is maintained with golden chandelier lighting, wood wainscoting, and vintage accents like dark wood furniture and antique art. It's all clean, but there's lots of wear-and-tear throughout. There's no real lobby, either, just a large wood desk and crowded office area that serves as reception and extends directly into what becomes a fairly homey and bright breakfast room. Like in many Amsterdam hotels, there's no elevator and steps here are steep. Compared to hostels, there's a more private, family friendly vibe. With rooms that sleep one to four guests and some with shared bathrooms, this hotel attracts tourists, including solo travelers, couples, and small families or friend groups.

The hotel is situated on a quiet, mainly residential street, made up of tall, traditional Dutch terraced town houses, which are more recently used as apartments. Shops, cafes, and restaurants can be found on the next street. The location is ideal for tourists who want to be on the cultural side of the city. Museumplein, home to the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and other attractions, is just a six-minute walk. The area is well-connected to public transportation -- the nearest tram stop is just a two-minute walk, and guests can use it to get to Dam Square in less than 15 minutes. Amsterdam Centraal is about 15 minutes away via public transit, and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is about 20 minutes. Note that there's no on-site parking. 

Guest rooms at the Hotel Washington vary in size, shape, and decor, ranging from Single Rooms to Quads -- all are private, though some have shared bathrooms. Decor also varies from room to room as well -- dark wall-to-wall carpeting and cream-colored walls are standard. But there are charming details in tune with the old family home atmosphere such as floral drapes, chandelier lighting, button-tufted headboards, and vintage seating. Upgraded rooms add extras like balconies. Rooms are clean, though sometimes a bit tired. Bathrooms are usually white-tiled and may include anything from wet-room showers to combination showers and tubs. Some shared bathrooms are split with the entire floor. Bedding, towels, and toiletry dispensers are provided. Amenities are pretty good for a budget hotel: in-room safes, work desks, coffee/tea service, and flat-screen TVs. Wi-Fi, though, costs an extra fee. Some guests note thin walls, though the neighborhood itself is fairly quiet. 

While the hotel has no real lobby, there's a pleasant breakfast room that runs into the reception area and a small courtyard at the back with a table and a few chairs. The continental breakfast is pretty good (cold cuts, breads, cereal, fruit, scrambled eggs), but it costs an extra fee. The front desk is opened during limited hours, though staff are helpful and can arrange laundry service, store luggage, and offer recommendations. Cribs are available, airport transfers can be arranged, and bike rentals are offered on-site, too. Do note that guests paying with a credit card are charged an added fee. Wi-Fi is not free anywhere on the premises -- it costs a small but extra daily fee.