Hotel ibis Styles Amsterdam Central Station

Amsterdam’s popularity as a premier European tourist destination means hotels in the city are always in demand.

The good thing about the city is that there is something for every budget. Be it a backpacker looking for a cheap hostel, a couple on a romantic getaway, a businessman in need of the basics or the experimentalist who doesn’t mind sleeping on a boat, one can find all sorts of residences in Amsterdam.

For most of us, the budget plays an important part. For me mainly, the location and overall cleanliness are two factors that are equally essential.

During my last visit, I had a chance to stay at ibis Styles in Amsterdam. Situated across from the central station, it is a three-star hotel, petite in appearance but still impressive.

I have to be honest though, while booking I didn’t pay much attention and actually thought I was making a reservation at the “main” ibis hotel that is situated right next to the station. Furthermore, there is another ibis Styles that is a bit more in the centre of the city and should not be confused with this one.

Ibis Styles Central Station might be small, but it is situated a short hop across the station on a busy street that runs parallel to Damrak (one of the main roads originating from the train station that takes you straight into the city centre and the central shopping district).

Location wise, it can’t get any better. The train station is nearby and so is a tram stop. A short walk and you have an array of restaurants to choose from as well as shops for souvenirs, clothes, and other stuff that we all end up buying while on holidays that we wouldn’t when at home.

What I personally liked was the lively, hip, and colourful ambience of the hotel with chic interiors that are guaranteed to impress the Millennials. The staff is all smiles and welcoming making the check-in experience a breeze. Space, being a premium in this area, is used to the max, but even then, the lobby area doesn’t feel too crowded.

Photo – AccorHotels

The rooms are typically small but good enough to accommodate two adults comfortably. The hotel is situated next to a busy road and crossing, and although our room was facing that very section, it didn’t really bother us regarding disturbance or noise thanks to the double-glazed windows.

The décor right across the hotel is quite modern with sleek and contemporary furniture. I do appreciate that it manages to walk the somewhat blurry line between being a business and boutique hotel.

Ibis Styles also shares the space with an Argentinian restaurant called Flame. During the day it is the perfect stop to have a nice cup of coffee or a lovely lunch. They were kind enough to go off the menu to accommodate a vegetarian request. Evenings are quite alive and energetic thanks to the music and bar.

The breakfast at the hotel is in the basement and is limited but comparable to what one would expect at any similar establishment. There’re scrambled eggs, omelettes on order, sausages, bread, cheese, hash browns, beans, cold cuts, bacon and of course tea and coffee. The dining space keeps up with the stylish interiors of the hotel, enough to cheer you up, especially before an early train ride.

Besides the name that Ibis is, internationally, I do believe their “Styles” brand adds a bit of fun and a lot of colour in the hotel experience which is always cherished.

Ibis Styles Central Station, Martelaarsgracht 10, 1012 TP Amsterdam, The Netherlands