If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam and are on the lookout for a fun, affordable, and centrally-located place to stay, let me introduce you to my favorite hostel in the city: St. Christopher’s Inn. For frequent visitors and newcomers alike, choosing the right accommodation can significantly enhance your overall experience. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of staying at St Christopher’s Inn in Amsterdam multiple times, and each visit has reaffirmed why this hostel remains a top pick for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on comfort or location. In this post, I’ll share some personal insights and tips to help you make the most of your stay at St Christopher’s Inn.
St. Christopher’s Inn At The Winston Location
St Christopher’s Inn boasts one of the best locations in Amsterdam, situated right in the middle of the Red Light District. This central spot places you within walking distance of almost everything you’d want to see and do in the city.
- Proximity to Transport: The hostel is just a 10-minute walk from Centraal Station, making it incredibly convenient if you’re arriving by train or need easy access to the airport. The station also connects you to trams, buses, and ferries, so exploring other parts of the city or day-tripping to nearby towns is a breeze.
- Nearby Attractions: Staying here means you’re mere minutes away from iconic Amsterdam landmarks. Dam Square is about a 5-minute walk, and the Anne Frank House is a 15-minute stroll through picturesque streets. The canals are right at your doorstep, perfect for a spontaneous boat tour or an evening walk.
- Local Amenities: The area surrounding the hostel is packed with a variety of dining options, from cozy Dutch cafes to international cuisine, so you’ll never go hungry. The Red Light District itself offers a unique blend of history and modern entertainment, with something interesting around every corner.
For those who want to experience the true essence of Amsterdam, staying at St Christopher’s Inn places you right in the thick of it, offering both convenience and excitement at your fingertips.
Ready to book your stay? Check availability and rates at St Christopher’s Inn here.
St. Christopher’s Inn At The Winston Rooms and Facilities
St Christopher’s Inn offers a variety of accommodations that cater to different types of travelers, whether you’re looking for a social dorm experience or the privacy of your own room. Having stayed in several different room types over the years, I can confidently say that each offers its own set of advantages depending on what you’re looking for during your visit.
- Dorm Rooms: The dorms are a great option for solo travelers or groups looking to meet new people. They range from 4 to 16 beds, so you can choose the level of interaction you’re comfortable with. Each bed is equipped with a privacy curtain, a personal reading light, and a power outlet, which are thoughtful touches that make a big difference in comfort. The dorms are cleaned daily, and the under-bed lockers are spacious enough to fit a medium-sized suitcase or backpack. I recommend bringing your own padlock for extra security.
- Private Rooms: If you prefer more privacy, the private rooms at St Christopher’s are a solid choice. These rooms are simple but comfortable, featuring a cozy bed, a small desk, and an ensuite bathroom. They’re ideal for couples or travelers who need a quiet retreat after a day of exploring. On one of my stays, I appreciated the fact that while the hostel maintains a strict no-smoking policy inside, I was able to smoke in the private room without issue, which was a nice perk for those who prefer this convenience.
- Bathrooms: Shared bathrooms are located on each floor and are cleaned multiple times a day. They’re modern, with plenty of hot water and good water pressure, which is always a plus. The ensuite bathrooms in private rooms offer a bit more space and privacy, which I found particularly useful on longer stays.
- Common Areas: The hostel’s common areas are well-designed to cater to both relaxation and socializing. The lounge area is furnished with comfortable seating, making it a perfect spot to unwind with a book, catch up on emails, or chat with other guests. The bar area, Belushi’s, is where the hostel’s social scene really comes to life. I’ve spent many evenings here, enjoying the lively atmosphere and meeting travelers from all over the world.
- Smoking Area: While the hostel itself is non-smoking, there is a designated smoking area outside. However, if you’re staying in a private room, as I did on several occasions, you’ll find that smoking in the room is discreetly tolerated, which is a rare and appreciated convenience.
St. Christopher’s Inn At The Winston Food and Drink
One of the highlights of staying at St Christopher’s Inn is undoubtedly Belushi’s Bar, located right on the premises. This isn’t just a hostel bar; it’s a local hotspot that draws in a mix of travelers and Amsterdam residents alike.
- Menu: Belushi’s serves a variety of comfort food that hits the spot after a day of sightseeing. The menu includes everything from burgers and wings to salads and vegetarian options. If you’re staying in and don’t feel like venturing out for a meal, Belushi’s has you covered with hearty dishes that are both tasty and affordable. During my stays, I’ve found the burgers to be particularly satisfying, especially when paired with one of the local beers on tap.
- Breakfast: Each morning, you can start your day with a continental breakfast served at the bar. The spread includes cereals, toast, fruit, yogurt, and coffee – simple but sufficient to fuel up before a day of exploring. It’s worth noting that breakfast is often included in your stay, but if not, it’s reasonably priced, and hostel guests receive a discount.
- Social Scene: Belushi’s is also the epicenter of the hostel’s social life. With regular events like pub quizzes, karaoke nights, and live music, there’s always something happening here. The bar’s laid-back vibe makes it easy to strike up a conversation with fellow travelers or even locals. Over the years, I’ve met some fascinating people at Belushi’s, and it’s always a highlight of my stay.
Curious about the food and drink at Belushi’s? Book your stay at St Christopher’s Inn and check out the menu.
St. Christopher’s Inn At The Winston Atmosphere
The atmosphere at St Christopher’s Inn is one of the main reasons I keep coming back. The hostel strikes the perfect balance between being lively and laid-back, making it an ideal choice whether you’re a solo traveler, a group of friends, or even a couple looking to soak up Amsterdam’s energy.
- Socializing: The staff at St Christopher’s Inn go above and beyond to create a welcoming environment. They organize a variety of events and activities that make it easy to meet other guests and form connections. From the nightly pub crawls that take you to some of Amsterdam’s best bars to the free walking tours that offer a local’s perspective on the city, there’s always something to do.
- Diverse Crowd: The hostel attracts a wide range of guests, from young backpackers to older travelers, which adds to the inclusive and friendly vibe. Whether you’re looking to party all night or just relax and enjoy the city, you’ll find like-minded people here.
- Staff: The staff at St Christopher’s are another highlight. They’re friendly, knowledgeable, and always willing to help with recommendations, directions, or just a chat. Over the years, I’ve seen many of the same faces behind the reception desk, which speaks to the positive working environment and adds a sense of familiarity to each visit.
Want to experience the vibe for yourself? Reserve your spot at St Christopher’s Inn today.
St. Christopher’s Inn At The Winston Check-In and Check-Out
Understanding the check-in and check-out process is crucial, especially when you’re managing flights or trains. Here’s what you can expect at St Christopher’s Inn:
- Check-In: The official check-in time is 2:00 PM. If you arrive early, which I often do, the hostel offers a secure luggage storage service. This allows you to drop off your bags and start exploring the city without having to wait around. The check-in process is smooth and efficient, and the staff are always ready to answer any questions you might have.
- Check-Out: Check-out is at 11:00 AM. On several occasions, I’ve needed to store my luggage for a few hours after checking out, and the hostel has been very accommodating. The staff can securely store your bags, giving you one last opportunity to explore Amsterdam before heading to the airport or train station.
Plan your stay around these times and book your room at St Christopher’s Inn here.
St. Christopher’s Inn At The Winston Value for Money
St Christopher’s Inn offers exceptional value for money, making it a top choice for budget travelers who still want to enjoy some perks. The rates are competitive, especially considering the prime location and the range of facilities available.
- Booking Tips: I’ve found that booking directly through the hostel’s website often yields the best rates, and you might even score some exclusive deals or discounts. Plus, booking directly can sometimes include perks like free breakfast or discounts at Belushi’s.
- Free Walking Tours: One of the perks I always take advantage of is the free walking tour offered by the hostel. It’s a fantastic way to get to know the city, especially if it’s your first visit. The guides are knowledgeable, and you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of Amsterdam’s history and culture.
- Guest Discounts: As a guest, you’re entitled to discounts at Belushi’s, which can add up over the course of your stay. Whether it’s a discount on food or drinks, these little savings contribute to the overall value for money at St Christopher’s Inn.
Looking for a budget-friendly stay? Check out the latest deals and book your stay at St Christopher’s Inn.
Final Thoughts On St. Christopher’s Inn At The Winston
Having stayed at St Christopher’s Inn multiple times over the years, I can confidently say that it continues to deliver on all fronts – location, comfort, value, and atmosphere. Whether it’s your first time in Amsterdam or you’re a seasoned visitor like me, this hostel offers a reliable and enjoyable experience that’s hard to beat.
With its central location, comfortable rooms, social scene, and friendly staff, St Christopher’s Inn has earned its reputation as one of the best hostels in Amsterdam. And with so many memories made here, it’s no surprise that I keep coming back.
Ready to experience St Christopher’s Inn for yourself? Book your stay now and discover why it’s a favorite among travelers.
