The first word that comes to mind when thinking about the Mercure Hotel in Nijmegen is convenient. The main entrance is an easy walk to the Nijmegen (Centraal) train and bus station. It is also a five-minute walk to either the city center or down the hill to the Waalkade. Some hotels may be closer to these sites, but this is good if you're using Nijmegen as a travel hub or just waiting the night for a train.

The building is interesting. It is one tower, shaped in a hexa- or octagon (I forget how many sides it has). The rooms are a little small, but comfortable and clean, and maybe slightly antiseptic or unimaginative. Because of the location on top of the hill, having no buildings too close to the hotel and being taller than many buildings in the region, the hotel offers some neat views - especially if you're looking at the station building, seeing the platforms and clock tower. If train sounds bother you, you may want to keep your window shut.

The restaurant downstairs is nice and a little pricey. I had a decent salmon dish there once, although when I feel strapped for cash, I might walk into the city center (or in an extreme money pinch or fit of tiredness, I'll hit the Pizza Hut kiosk at the station).

The price I list is about what it was when the U.S. dollar was strong against the guilder and then the Euro. With the weak dollar, this place may be upwards of $100 now... Personally, I couldn't imagine spending $100 to stay here. It's a nice place, but it lacks character.