Located in the city center of Amsterdam, there’s a particular hostel that caught my attention as soon as I read about it online – the Hans Brinker Budget Hostel.
Considering one of its most famous slogans, which is “It can’t get any worse, but we’ll do our best,” I had high expectations.
Is the Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam the cheapest, the worst, and the best as the website claims it is?
Well, I’m not surprised to say that it actually is. This hostel manages to offer “the best” at a low cost in a fun, attractive, and promising way.
I’ll go over everything I loved and hated about this cozy yet vibrant place below, which I ranked in the top hostels in Amsterdam after my stay.
Why Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam Receives Rave Reviews
The Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam has earned many positive reviews recently. Why is this happening? Is this hostel a good option if I visit the commercial capital of the Netherlands?
To help you understand why this hostel gets rave reviews, I’ll list its pros and cons.
Pros of Staying at The Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam
- Good location: The hostel is located in the heart of Amsterdam, providing easy access (a three-minute walking distance, most of the time) to the city’s most popular tourist attractions, including the Van Gogh Museum!
- Underground club: If we pay for a night at this hostel, we get access to a vibrant basement nightclub exclusively for guests. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy Amsterdam’s world-renowned nightlife.
- Cheap rooms and overall low prices: Besides affordable rates, this hostel offers several freebies, including Wi-Fi in public areas, access to lockers for our personal belongings, and basic breakfast.
- On-site restaurant: There are daily happy hour specials that help us save even more money while trying some local classics.
Cons of Staying at The Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam
- Dorm rooms aren’t so comfortable, and a bunk bed is never my favorite option, to be honest. However, the hostel also offers some private rooms.
- The bathrooms are so tiny. Also, multiple guests use them.
- Noise from the nightclub can reach rooms on lower floors.
- There are strict early check-out time rules.
Unbeatable Value: Amsterdam’s Best Budget Accommodation
Let’s start with one of the most important things that every traveler and adventurer should consider – the budget.
According to the information on its official website, the Hans Brinker is one of the cheapest places you can find if you’re looking for accommodation in Amsterdam.
I can’t calculate an average nightly price because costs aren’t fixed but can vary over time. However, I paid less than $30 (around 25 euros) for a bed in a large dormitory.
Although it sounds a little disappointing, the truth is that those $30 were enough to get a simple but comfortable bed, a shared shower, and a locker.
Additionally, the hostel offers free Wi-Fi, breakfast, 24-hour reception, luggage storage, and access to the Hans Brinker Club for the same price.
However, all the rooms were basic. There are only military bunk beds that may not be comfortable enough for most people and a few old, metal lockers.
I know I didn’t pay for accommodation in a five-star hotel. Therefore, I honestly believe that these drawbacks mean nothing when we consider the price and all the benefits it includes.
Authentic Amsterdam Experience: What Guests Love About Hans Brinker
There are many impressive things about Hans Brinker. One of them is that I’m not the only person who really loved this hostel.
Can you guess what guests love about it?
Well, it has no swimming pool, gym, spa, bridal suite, or room service. However, the Hans Brinker offers 500 beds, a nice bar, a comforting restaurant, affordable prices, a vibrant club, and other benefits.
Also, we can get to Hans Brinker in no time. It’s located near the famous entertainment area Leidseplein and many popular museums at Museumplein. The walking distance is only 2 minutes and 5 minutes, respectively.
There’s public transportation close to the hostel. You can take tram lines 1, 2, or 5 from the Amsterdam Central Station from the Keizersgracht stop and reach the hotel in just 10 minutes.
Thanks to its low prices, the Hans Brinker is an excellent option for people who love to travel alone, groups, students, backpackers, adventurers, and more.
This hostel offers single, double, or triple rooms and dorms for up to eight people. Although I didn’t love them, each space has a private bathroom.
While your in town, make sure to read my guide on when to visit the famous Red Light District. A must see attraction while in Amsterdam!
Social Vibes and Friendly Staff: A Review of Hans Brinker Hostel
Amsterdam is known for its captivating nightlife and fun clubs. That’s one of the things I loved the most about this hotel.
The Hans Brinker Budget Hotel has captivating social vibes that I haven’t found anywhere else I’ve visited.
Also, the staff is so friendly! If you have any questions before or after visiting this hostel, you can contact reception and get all the information you need.
Local Recommendations: Exploring Amsterdam from Hans Brinker Hostel
Free Wi-Fi, complimentary nightclub access, delicious low-cost breakfast, and an excellent location seem not to be enough to live a wonderful experience. So, the Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam adds another impressive perk: local recommendations.
When I chose Amsterdam, I had no idea what to do when I got to the city. I knew certain attractions, and I found information online about a couple more tourist sites.
However, I didn’t have a clear plan to explore the commercial capital of the Netherlands, and I didn’t want to spend more money paying for the services of a tour guide.
Luckily, the Hans Brinker Hotel Amsterdam offers this amazing solution. It provides tickets for many activities, including boat tours!
Honestly, between the tourist activities and the attractive hotel nightclub, you’ll always have something to do and have fun with!
Other Hostel Reviews I’ve Published:
Comfort on a Budget: What Travelers Say About Hans Brinker
After reading many Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam reviews, I must say that this hostel isn’t for everyone. As mentioned, the hotel itself says it’s the best and worst hostel in Europe.
Many things can be a bit uncomfortable for some guests. However, it’s definitely a great option for those who seek comfort and are interested in witnessing the majesty of Amsterdam firsthand but are on a tight budget.
About Peter C.
Peter is a digital nomad who largely writes from Asia, Europe, and South America. Always following the "vibe," he sets up shop in hostels and AirBNB's and continues to entertain us with wild stories from life abroad. Ask him anything in our community forum.
