Municipality of Nieuwkoop Vacations & Trips from $1,212

It was so noisy, felt I was in a cardboard box.

I've been staying at the Conservatorium regularly for 12 years now, and it is remarkably consistent: great location, awesome people, striking architecture, and the best gym of all the 5-star hotels in Amsterdam. This year, though, there was one welcome change and one not-so-great one: the breakfast has improved, with the addition of a buffet, which is convenient. But they also seem to have started letting local residents use the gym, so it's now super-packed at all hours, and you have to wait for machines. The gym has always been a big part of why I stayed there, so that's disappointing.

The entire experience at The Toren was exceptional. The hotel was cozy, comfortable and located in a great area close to restaurants, museums, shopping and the central train station. Breakfast food selections tasty and filling. All interactions with the hotel team members were pleasant and helpful.