In the heart of the city
Walking distance to popular bars, cafes, and sights
Some rooms have great city views
Historic 17th-century buildings
Snack and beverage vending machines
Free breakfast and free Wi-Fi
Range of rooms can sleep up to five people
Flat-screen TVs and air-conditioning in rooms
On a busy road with heavy foot traffic
Small rooms with no mini-fridge or coffeemaker
Worn, dated rooms could use better housekeeping
No full restaurant or bar
No fitness center
Fee for parking
The Avenue Hotel's Old Center location is ideal for exploring Amsterdam on foot, experiencing the city's nightlife, and perusing the city's popular boutiques without having to venture far from the small but reasonably priced rooms. It's geared toward budget-minded tourists and young couples; with a few larger loft-style bunk rooms, it's also suited to families and groups of friends who don't mind staying in close quarters. Light on amenities and with worn decor in rooms, the hotel is not the best choice for business travelers or those looking for more on-site conveniences. The hotel contracts with an outside parking company, and parking fees in the area are high -- but you don't need a car here, with public transportation plentiful and most of the major sights within walking distance. Both breakfast and Wi-Fi are free.
Scene
The 17th-century building mixes contemporary and classic decor
Despite its fascinating historic origins as a warehouse for the Dutch East India Company, the Avenue Hotel is composed of small spaces that are disappointingly devoid of character. The lobby makes an attempt at grandeur with striped wallpaper, big bright windows, old globe-style lighting fixtures, and leather chairs, but more contemporary elements (as well as the vending machines) diminish the effect. The breakfast room is below street level and thus is a bit dark, but it at least never gets too busy in the mornings when the tourist guests fuel themselves before a day of exploring on foot.
Location
On a busy street in the heart of Amsterdam's city center
Situated on one of Amsterdam's major streets, right in the city center, Avenue Hotel is close to Dam Square and Amsterdam Centraal station, and is within walking distance of many other tourist attractions. It's near the famed red light district and surrounded by lively pedestrian streets packed with shops, restaurants, and cafes that wind all around the area; outward-facing rooms do get noise from the street. To access other areas of the city, you can catch the major tram line that stops right outside the hotel. Rembrandtplein square and the Anne Frank House are within walking distance and well worth the visit. Schiphol Airport is a 21-minute drive away.
Rooms
Small and dated, with basic amenities
The rooms at the Avenue Hotel are decorated in plain, contemporary decor, with neutral carpets and nearly bare white walls. They're clean and simple, with just the basics -- minus mini-fridges and coffeemakers. Most have twin beds (pushed together for doubles), but there are some queen beds available, as well as larger rooms that have a precariously lofted bunk area which may not be suitable for small children and those with mobility issues. All rooms have small work desks and chairs. The bathrooms are dated, with cream and yellow tile and shower/tub combinations, many of which could use an extra scrubbing. Some of the rooms have noticeably uneven floors, due to the lean of the aging building, and overall maintenance is a minor issue throughout, but the rooms do have air-conditioning, which is a rarity in Amsterdam for a hotel in this price range.
Features
Lounge, vending machines, and free breakfast
The hotel has few facilities other than a breakfast room and lobby lounge. The breakfast room is only open in the mornings, serving a free continental breakfast with hot options like bacon and eggs. The 24-hour lounge provides ample seating where guests can gather or eat snacks from the vending machines, which also dispense tea and coffee. There's a computer with Internet for guests' use, and the hotel does offer free Wi-Fi.