Inside Hans Brinker The Worst Hotel In The World

Rather than skewing away from bad press Hans Brinker embraces its reputation as ‘the worst hostel in the world’ and offers guests knowingly substandard accommodation in the heart of Amsterdam.
The hostel in question lies within Amsterdam’s historic canal belt and edges onto Leidseplein — a square that’s renowned for its popular nighttime hangouts. This superb location means that guests are within walking distance from dozens of clubs, bars and cannabis coffeeshops as well as many other famous local hotspots like Dam Square, Vondelpark or Heineken Experience.
Despite its centrality Hans Brinker manages to keep its prices surprisingly low and charges around €25 for beds in shared dorms and roughly €70 to €100 for private rooms. The hostel also allows large groups to rent out their facilities (although bachelor parties will have to look elsewhere) and offers package deals for people travelling together. Aside from basic accommodation Hans Brinker features a restaurant, bar and nightclub, which stay open until late, every day of the week.

Even though these perks might seem enticing, or even aboveboard for a budget establishment in Northern Europe, Hans Brinker emphasises that guests should always expect subpar service during their stay. The hostel styles itself as the friendly face of crappy accommodation and consciously panders to cash-strapped travellers, who probably care more about having fun than complimentary bathrobes or chocolates on their pillows.
For instance the hostel encourages guests to check out their basement club and regularly organises parties for their residents. Their bar is also geared toward socialising and keeps a collection of beer pong cups stashed away for guests.

This unusual approach towards hospitality has allowed Hans Brinker to carve out a unique place within Amsterdam’s hostel scene. While this type of service certainly isn’t for everyone, travellers that are willing to tolerate grimy rooms, loud roommates and hard mattresses have the chance to discover one of the best party hostels on the continent.