Rotterdam, with its vibrant architecture, bustling harbor, and dynamic cultural scene, is a city that deserves to be explored in depth. My recent trip to this remarkable city was enhanced by my stays at some of the best hotels it has to offer. Each hotel brought something unique to the table, whether it was breathtaking views, luxurious amenities, or exceptional service. In this blog, I’ll share my personal experiences staying at Rotterdam’s top hotels, along with tips to help you choose the perfect accommodation for your visit.
1. The Mainport Hotel: Luxury on the Waterfront
As I arrived at Mainport Hotel, I was immediately struck by its sleek, modern design. Located right on the Maas River, this five-star hotel boasts one of the most enviable locations in Rotterdam. The moment I stepped into the lobby, I was greeted with a sense of tranquility, thanks to its minimalist decor and the soft glow of ambient lighting.
Room with a View
The highlight of my stay was undoubtedly the room. I opted for a Waterfront Spa Room, which offered stunning views of the river and the Erasmus Bridge. The floor-to-ceiling windows allowed natural light to flood the room, creating a serene atmosphere. The king-sized bed, draped in luxurious linens, was incredibly comfortable, making it difficult to get up in the morning!
The room also featured a private sauna and a whirlpool bath, which was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the city. I spent a considerable amount of time soaking in the tub, with a glass of wine in hand, while gazing out at the boats gliding along the river.
Exceptional Amenities
Mainport doesn’t skimp on amenities. The hotel’s Spa Heaven is a sanctuary of relaxation, offering a variety of treatments, a Turkish steam bath, and a Finnish sauna. I indulged in a deep tissue massage that left me feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on the rest of my trip.
Dining at Mainport was another highlight. The on-site restaurant, Down Under, offers a menu that fuses global flavors with local ingredients. I enjoyed a sumptuous dinner here, featuring perfectly cooked seafood and an exquisite dessert selection.
Booking Tip
I booked my stay at Mainport through Booking.com, which offered a seamless reservation process and competitive rates. I highly recommend checking out their deals, especially if you’re looking to stay in a luxury hotel like Mainport.
2. Hotel New York: A Blend of History and Elegance
Staying at Hotel New York was like taking a step back in time while still enjoying all the modern comforts of a luxury hotel. This historic building, once the headquarters of the Holland America Line, is now one of Rotterdam’s most iconic hotels.
Historic Charm
The moment I arrived, I was captivated by the hotel’s grand facade and its prime location on the Wilhelmina Pier. Inside, the hotel has preserved much of its historical charm, with high ceilings, vintage decor, and a nautical theme that pays homage to its maritime past.
My room was spacious and elegantly appointed, with large windows offering views of the bustling harbor. The combination of antique furnishings and modern amenities created a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance. I particularly loved the vintage writing desk, which added a touch of old-world charm.
Culinary Delights
One of the most memorable aspects of my stay at Hotel New York was dining at the hotel’s renowned restaurant. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, and it did not disappoint. I started with a platter of oysters, followed by a perfectly grilled lobster. The atmosphere in the restaurant was lively, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying their meals.
For breakfast, the hotel offers a generous buffet, featuring a wide variety of dishes, from traditional Dutch pastries to freshly squeezed juices. I found myself lingering over breakfast each morning, soaking in the warm, sunlit dining room and planning my day ahead.
Booking Tip
I made my reservation for Hotel New York through Hotels.com, which often has exclusive deals and offers for this property. The platform made it easy to compare room options and included useful reviews from other travelers.
3. The James Hotel: Affordable Luxury in the Heart of the City
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option without compromising on style or comfort, The James Hotel is an excellent choice. Located in the heart of Rotterdam, just a short walk from the bustling shopping streets and major attractions, The James offers a boutique experience at a reasonable price.
Modern and Stylish
The hotel’s design is sleek and contemporary, with a welcoming lobby that features comfortable seating areas and an open-plan layout. My room was a pleasant surprise—spacious, tastefully decorated, and equipped with all the modern amenities one could need, including a Nespresso machine, a flat-screen TV, and high-speed Wi-Fi.
The bed was one of the most comfortable I’ve slept in, with plush pillows and a duvet that felt like a warm hug. The bathroom was equally impressive, with a walk-in shower and luxury toiletries that added a touch of indulgence.
Convenience and Comfort
One of the things I appreciated most about The James was its 24/7 self-service food market. After a long day of sightseeing, it was incredibly convenient to grab a quick snack or a late-night coffee without having to leave the hotel. The hotel also offers a well-equipped fitness center, which I found to be a great way to start the day.
Despite being located in the city center, my room was remarkably quiet, allowing for a restful night’s sleep. The staff were friendly and always ready to offer tips on the best places to visit or dine.
Booking Tip
I booked my stay at The James through Expedia, which offered a great deal on a superior room. The platform also provided useful information about the hotel’s amenities and nearby attractions, making it easy to plan my stay.
4. CitizenM Rotterdam: High-Tech Comfort with a View
For a modern, tech-savvy stay, CitizenM Rotterdam was an ideal choice. This hotel is perfect for travelers who appreciate innovative design, smart technology, and a vibrant atmosphere. Located right next to the Oude Haven (Old Harbour), the hotel offers fantastic views and easy access to some of Rotterdam’s most popular sites.
Smart Rooms
The rooms at CitizenM are compact but brilliantly designed to maximize space and comfort. Everything in the room, from the blinds to the lighting and temperature, can be controlled via an iPad, making it easy to customize your environment to your liking. The bed was incredibly large and comfortable, positioned right next to a wall-to-wall window that offered stunning views of the harbor.
The bathroom is cleverly integrated into the room with a futuristic pod design, featuring a powerful rain shower and mood lighting that can be adjusted to suit your preference. I loved the sleek, modern aesthetic of the room, which was both functional and stylish.
Vibrant Social Spaces
One of the standout features of CitizenM is its emphasis on social spaces. The lobby is more like a living room, with plenty of cozy seating areas, bookshelves, and communal tables where you can relax, work, or socialize. The hotel’s 24-hour canteenM offers a variety of snacks, meals, and drinks, which is perfect for grabbing a quick bite on the go.
I also appreciated the hotel’s focus on sustainability, from the use of eco-friendly materials to energy-saving technologies throughout the building.
Booking Tip
CitizenM offers direct booking on their website, citizenM.com, where you can often find the best rates and exclusive offers. The booking process was straightforward, and I enjoyed the added perks that came with booking directly, such as flexible check-in and check-out times.
5. nhow Rotterdam: A Trendy Stay with Spectacular Views
For a stay that combines cutting-edge design with incredible views, nhow Rotterdam is a top choice. Situated in the iconic De Rotterdam building, this hotel is known for its trendy vibe and panoramic views of the city and river.
Design and Comfort
The design of nhow Rotterdam is ultra-modern, with a sleek, minimalist aesthetic that’s evident as soon as you walk into the lobby. My room was spacious and bright, with floor-to-ceiling windows that provided a breathtaking view of the Erasmus Bridge and the Rotterdam skyline. The bed was large and comfortable, and the room included thoughtful touches like a Nespresso machine and a well-stocked minibar.
The bathroom was equally impressive, featuring a large rain shower and high-quality toiletries. I spent my mornings enjoying a cup of coffee while taking in the view, which was a wonderful way to start the day.
Culinary Excellence
One of the highlights of my stay at nhow was the breakfast buffet, which was served in the hotel’s trendy restaurant with panoramic views. The selection was extensive, featuring everything from fresh fruit and pastries to hot dishes and made-to-order omelets. I particularly enjoyed the fresh juices and the selection of Dutch cheeses.
In the evenings, the hotel’s rooftop bar is the place to be. With its stunning views, creative cocktails, and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
Booking Tip
I booked my stay at nhow Rotterdam through The Fork, which made it easy to reserve a room and explore dining options in the area. The site also offered useful reviews and recommendations, which helped me plan my stay.
Rotterdam is a city that offers something for everyone, and the hotels I stayed in during my visit each provided a unique experience that added to the overall enjoyment of my trip. Whether you’re looking for luxury on the waterfront, a historic stay with a story, or a modern hotel with all the latest amenities, Rotterdam has it all.
I found that booking through reliable platforms like Booking.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, and The Fork not only made the reservation process easy but also helped me find great deals and discover hotels that suited my travel style. Each of these hotels offered something special, and I hope this guide helps you find the perfect place to stay during your visit to this incredible city.
