The Times Hotel

The three-star Times Hotel is a polished and professional act, with contemporary rooms with AC in a convenient location along the quiet Herengracht.

The 34 rooms at the Times Hotel are well-designed, if smallish, treats with plush, comfortable beds. Desks and chairs are sleek and modern, as are the simple yet tasteful art pieces that adorn the walls. For more space and a view, we recommend upgrading to one of the rooms facing the Herrengracht.

All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, coffee/tea kettle, and free Wi-Fi, and the large private bathrooms have showers (and a few bathtubs). We saw (and photographed) a fifth-floor attic room, which was made more interesting by the slanted ceiling.

Like most hotels on our list, the stairs here are comically steep, but an elevator is here to give you a lift. The lobby and lounge are as impeccably designed as any fussy café, and look out onto the canal.

A note about affordability: Room rates at the Times vary wildly, making it impossible to list as a predictable and affordable option. During our last visit, the receptionist explained that doubles can go from €90 (hooray!) to €250 (ouch!). So, if the price is right, the Times Hotel could be a great option.