Hotel National Antwerp

This hotel offers exceptional value for money and boasts a prime central location in Antwerp, making it an ideal choice for sightseers and budget-conscious travelers looking to explore the city on foot. Its signature feature is its ability to provide a convenient and affordable base right in the heart of the city. Many guests highlight the comfortable beds and the generally friendly staff as key positives, contributing to a pleasant stay for short-stay visitors and those on a business trip who prioritize accessibility. While the hotel provides a basic yet functional experience, some guests note that the property could benefit from updates. To ensure a smooth experience, it is advisable to be aware of the limited reception hours and the potential for noise levels from other guests or the street, which can occasionally impact sleep quality, especially for light sleepers.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's facilities receive mixed feedback from guests. The elevator is frequently mentioned as being small, sensitive, and occasionally problematic, sometimes getting stuck, which can be inconvenient. Most rooms are equipped with a Nespresso machine, which is a welcome amenity for many guests. However, the televisions in the rooms often receive criticism for having limited channels or not functioning properly, with some only offering streaming services like Netflix. Several guests note the absence of a mini-fridge or microwave in the rooms, which can be a drawback for longer stays. A significant point of feedback revolves around the limited reception hours and the reliance on self-check-in after certain times, which has led to issues for some arrivals, particularly those without a local phone number. The hotel's bar also has early closing hours, typically shutting by 8 PM.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is notably varied. While many guests describe their rooms as clean and even spotless, a significant number report issues such as stains on walls, bedding, and towels, as well as visible mold in bathrooms and on window sills, and general signs of wear and tear indicating a need for renovation. The beds are frequently praised for being comfortable, though some found them too soft or noted that single beds were pushed together. A recurring concern is the high noise levels due to thin walls, allowing sounds from neighboring rooms, hallways, and the street to be easily heard, which often disrupts sleep. The bathrooms are generally functional with good showers, but some guests encountered issues like sewage smells, slippery floors, or a lack of shower curtains, leading to wet floors.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a breakfast option, which garners mixed reviews. Many guests find the breakfast to be good, with some describing it as delicious, extensive, and offering a wide variety of choices, including the unique ability to make your own waffles. However, a notable number of guests feel the breakfast is overpriced for what is offered, or that the selection is meager. Some specific complaints include undercooked bacon, unreplenished eggs, and a lack of variety in general. There were also instances where breakfast was unexpectedly unavailable due to staff illness, leading to disappointment and issues with refunds. Despite these varied experiences, guests appreciate the abundance of cafes, bars, and restaurants located conveniently close to the hotel, providing ample alternative dining options.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as its strongest asset, receiving universal praise from guests. It is described as being very well-situated in the heart of Antwerp, making it exceptionally convenient for exploring the city. Guests appreciate its proximity to major attractions such as the Cathedral and Grote Markt, as well as numerous shops, restaurants, and bars, all within easy walking distance. The hotel is also well-connected to public transportation, with metro and tram routes easily accessible. For those arriving by car, the availability of a parking garage directly next door is a significant advantage, offering convenience for vehicle access, though some guests note that parking can be expensive. This prime position allows guests to effortlessly immerse themselves in the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the hotel receive varied feedback. Most guests commend the friendly staff for their helpfulness and attentiveness, noting a warm welcome and willingness to assist with requests. However, the check-in process can be problematic, particularly for late arrivals, as the reception is often unmanned after certain hours, relying on self-service kiosks or phone calls that are not always answered promptly. Some guests have experienced issues with key cards not working or rooms not being ready. While housekeeping is generally scheduled every two days, some guests reported rooms not being cleaned at all during their stay or only receiving partial service like towel changes without vacuuming. There are also significant complaints regarding unresponsiveness to emails and phone calls, and instances of rude or unprofessional interactions with management, especially concerning booking issues or refunds.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of several important operational aspects of the hotel. A key point is the limited reception hours, with the front desk often being unmanned after 7 PM or 8 PM, requiring guests to use a self-check-in system or contact a phone number for assistance. This policy has led to significant frustration for some, particularly those arriving late or experiencing issues with key card access. Furthermore, there are recurring complaints about the hotel's handling of refunds, with guests reporting difficulties in receiving money back for services like pre-paid breakfast that was not provided or for cancelled bookings. The hotel's cleaning policy typically involves room servicing every two days, which some guests found insufficient. Additionally, the elevators are frequently noted as being small and temperamental, and the televisions in rooms often have limited functionality.