Marnix Hotel

The main highlight of this budget property is its prime location that attracts tourists and groups looking to be conveniently situated in the city center. Interiors are simple and functional, with not much going on decor-wise. The small lobby offers conveniences like a vending machine, tourist brochures, and computers for guest use. A small flight of stairs leads down to a common kitchen and dining area that is the main gathering space for guests. Overall, the property feels tired and is in need of updates, plus many guests complain that it's not clean, citing mold on the walls and even rodent problems. Decor is also lacking and spaces don't feel particularly inviting. Nevertheless, the central location attracts budget travelers looking for a short stay. Note that there is no elevator here and several steep flights of steps with which to contend.

The hotel occupies a convenient central location that's just a three-minute walk down the street to Leidseplein Square, which is full of bars and restaurants and is a popular nightlife destination. It's also close to plenty of shops and is well serviced by public transportation, with trams and busses stopping within a minutes' walk away of the hotel. The Museum Quarter, home to the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, is about a 15-minute walk away. Other popular tourist destinations nearby include the Anne Frank House (15-minute walk) and Dam Square (20-minute walk). Amsterdam's central train station is about 20 minutes away via public transport or a 15-minute drive. Schiphol Airport can be reached in about 20 minutes by car (depending on traffic) or a half-hour via public transit.

The hotel offers a variety of rooms with either private en-suite or shared bathroom facilities. Room categories include Twin, Triple, and Quadruple Rooms with bunkbeds. The no-frills spaces are simply furnished and fairly dreary, with not much else beyond the beds; some have desks and chairs as well as flat-screen TVs and in-room sinks. Towels and bedding are included. Both the shared and private bathrooms are small and in need of updates. They're equipped with showers with old fixtures. Body wash and wall-mounted soap dispensers are provided. Note that rooms are poorly soundproofed and noise can be an issue, plus many guests complain that rooms aren't clean, citing stains, mold on the walls, various critters, and unpleasant smells.

Features are mostly limited at this budget hotel. There's a kitchen and dining area for guest use, which is equipped with a microwave, toaster, toaster oven, electric kettle, fridge, and coin-operated coffee machine. This room also functions as a luggage storage space, plus there are lockers here. A breakfast buffet is available for an extra charge, or guests can also opt for a to-go option. Breakfast includes breads, cereals, yogurt, fresh fruit, ham, cheese, and coffee/tea. Other amenities include bike rentals, self-service laundry facilities for guest use, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.