XO Hotel Inner

Despite not being right downtown, this property is central to the city's Museum Quarter, and world-famous galleries are around the block. Fully renovated in 2017 for a sleek, modern finish, the XO Hotel Inner has come a long way from its hostel origins. The lobby's wood floors and taupe leather armchairs are accented by decorative white orchids and smart floral wallpapers, while hallways have vibrant city photo murals. A carved wooden staircase retains old charm, although there is an elevator. Note, the elevator serves all but the top, fifth floor. Given the lack of a full restaurant and wellness facilities, this is a good pick for those that will be exploring nearby museums and parks.

Home to some of the most renowned art pieces in Europe, Amsterdam's Museum Quarter sits south of the city's main Centrum district. It's bordered by Vondelpark's greenery on one side, and scenic canals on the other -- both under a 10-minute walk from the hotel. All within a three- to seven-minute walk, are the Stedelijk, Van Gogh, and Rijksmuseum, and the Museumplein square here is the drop-off point for airport busses. The immediate surrounds are residential, although bars, restaurants, and upscale shopping are within a 10-minute walk. The hip De Pijp neighborhood is also nearby. Bicycles are the traditional way to get around, but trams shorten the 35-minute walk downtown, and they run to Amsterdam Centraal train station in 20 minutes. Schiphol Airport is 30 minutes away by car or the 397 airport bus.

Fresh from their 2017 renovations, rooms are modern, albeit small. Neutral palettes in tan walls, drapes, and wood furnishings have some pizzazz from geometric-patterned carpets, plus some rooms have headboard photography showcasing the city's sunsets. Although most rooms are a bit underwhelming and bland, they're contemporary and well-maintained. Singles are a minuscule 86 square feet (eight square meters), and too small for cribs, while Twin and Double Rooms aren't much larger. Still a squeeze, Triples and Quads are bigger, making for a decent family and group option. Beds are two twins pushed together, which is common throughout Europe.Phones, desks, satellite flat-screen TVs, Nespresso machines, safes, AC, and free Wi-Fi come standard. Rooms lack fridges though. It's worth making enquiries to avoid the six rooms that have tiny loft windows. Compact bathrooms in dark matte tiling have rainfall showers, toiletries, and hairdryers. Street or backyard views are nothing to write home about, and some past guests have complained of noise from the street and other guests.

In keeping with its small setting, features are limited here. With plenty nearby, and guests mostly spending their days outside the hotel, this isn't too problematic. For a reasonable fee, the property serves an all-you-can-eat breakfast of scrambled eggs, continental breads with jams, cold meats, cereals, fruits, and yogurts. Tea, coffee, and juice are included. Despite its basement setting, the breakfast room is attractive, comprising wood floors, crushed-velvet chairs, and chic, earth-toned wallpaper. Unfortunately, no other meal is offered. Vending machines in the lobby sell snacks and drinks, however. No gym or pool are available, but there's a free-to-use lobby computer. The 24-hour front desk offers luggage storage after check-out, alongside laundry services and bike rentals (both at a fee). Pets are not permitted and no parking is offered. Travelers tend to be without vehicles, although a paid parking lot is nearby. Wi-Fi is free throughout.