Apartments De Hallen

We had a great stay in March. The apartment was spacious, clean, and quiet at night. During the day it could get a bit noisy because the windows faced the shopping hall, but we were usually out then. Getting around was easy: the centre, public transport, a food shop, and lots of tasty food options were all nearby. The disappointment was the air conditioning. It wasn't working while we were there, and telling the staff didn't get it fixed during our visit. A couple of fans were available and the weather outside was cool, so it didn't spoil everything, but we like cooler rooms. Even with the windows open overnight, the temperature stayed at 25°C or above, and it was hotter when we returned in the evening. Without the A/C problem, I'd give the place a perfect score. I'd still recommend it, but check that the amenities are working before you arrive.

The location was the only real highlight. The room was spacious, but clearly needed upkeep: the headboard was scratched up and the furniture in general needed maintenance. Cleanliness was mixed. The bedding and toilet were very clean, while the floors were filthy. Our 17-month-old's socks turned black from walking around. We smelled weed outside every night. Staff could be friendly or not, depending on who was there, and the service was poor. Nobody helped with luggage, even though check-in and checkout were at the hotel reception about 100 metres away. Managing bags along with a stroller or carrying a baby was difficult. The microwave was broken; we reported it on day two, but it wasn't fixed until day five, after we contacted them through Booking.com. Calling their number didn't work, so we had to walk to the hotel whenever we needed help.

The room was clean and well equipped, and the staff were very helpful and accommodating. We rented bikes at a fair price, and they were in good condition. Keep in mind there's no elevator; we had to go up three flights, so the stairs could be tough if that's an issue for you.

We spent two weeks here and the apartment made a great base. After 36 hours of flying, arriving there was a relief. The centre was walkable, with a tram stop close by for when our legs got tired. The Food Hallen was next door, a supermarket across the road, and another across the canal for nights when we wanted to cook in the apartment. We also found plenty of little hidden-gem spots nearby. I can't imagine staying elsewhere on future visits. Check-in at the hotel was quick and easy, followed by a short walk through a pedestrian passage to the Hall. The glass sliding doors outside the hall could be noisy at night, though it was easy to tune out, and city places can be noisy anyway. Cleaners came weekly and were very friendly. I was so impressed I took videos instead of photos, so I can't add any pictures.