The fact that Rotterdam has Europe's biggest port, but that honor isn't the most noteworthy thing about it, is testament to this Dutch city's essential cool. Also home to Erasmus University, Rotter-dam is the new design mecca of Europe, welcoming innovation in architecture, industry, art and more. This philosophy is found no matter where you go in the city, but some hotels and accommo-dations are especially renowned for their forward-looking approach. Though the city is sprawling, Rotterdam has a good public transportation system, so pick the neighborhood to stay in based on the atmosphere, and not necessarily proximity.
Where to stay
in Rotterdam
Where to Stay for Design
See, or stay in, buildings designed by some of the world's most renowned architects by booking a room in Kop van Zuid - an area that overflows with art and design, not to mention a famous photography museum. Be inspired every time you step outside your hotel by basing yourself near the quirky boutiques and hip restaurants of Oude Noorden. Experience Rotterdam's famous inno-vation firsthand by staying in the restored warehouses, now rife with start-ups, of the Lloydkwartier. If you need a culture fix, the only way to even attempt to visit all the museums is to book accommodation in the Museumkwartier.
Kop van Zuid
Unique features of Kop van Zuid include the bars and river views. Make a stop by World Port Centre or KPN Telecom Building while you're exploring the area.
Recommended hotels in Kop van Zuid
Best Neighborhoods for Nightlife
Rotterdam's progressive attitude to life extends into the night hours, when the city's restaurateurs and bar owners serve up innovative food and drink offerings. Stay in accommodation in the for-merly sailor-filled neighborhood of Katendrecht for an abundant supply of cafes, bars, and live music. The Pilgrims may have left from Delfshaven, but today the small inner-city harbor is a place you'll want to linger a little longer to explore its gin bars and panoramic tower. Be in the heart of the action when you book a hotel in the Centrum, with rooms that look onto striking architec-ture and a thriving nightlife.
Delfshaven
You'll enjoy the museums and churches in Delfshaven. You might want to make time for a stop at Windmill or Ceramic Museum Pablo Rueda Lara.
Recommended hotels in Delfshaven
Centrum
Travelers come to Centrum for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Rotterdam City Theatre and Witte de Withstraat while you're in town.
Recommended hotels in Centrum
Best Areas for Parks and Canals
For such a modern city, Rotterdam is also full of green neighborhoods perfect to relax in after a day in the concrete jungle. Book a hotel in chic Kralingen-Crooswijk and be close to the Botanic Garden. Get an authentic Dutch village feeling by staying in a hotel in Noord, which is zigzagged by canals. A more low-key family atmosphere reigns in Blijdorp, home to a historic zoo, or let the kids run free in the Netherlands' largest public park during a stay near Zuiderpark in Charlois. Get a room in one of the townhouses in the Scheepvaartkwartier to enjoy the park's atmosphere and the panoramic tower.
Kralingen-Crooswijk
Kralingen-Crooswijk is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Kralingse Bos Park and Rhine.
Recommended hotels in Kralingen-Crooswijk
Noord
Shopping and restaurants are notable features of Noord. You might consider a stop by Blijdorp Zoo while you're exploring the neighborhood.
Recommended hotels in Noord
Scheepvaartkwartier
You'll enjoy the bars and parks in Scheepvaartkwartier. You might want to make time for a stop at Mill Network at Kinderdijk-Elshout or Historic Garden Schoonoord.
Recommended hotels in Scheepvaartkwartier
The most popular accommodation types
More Hotel Options in Rotterdam
- Non-Smoking Hotels (109)
- Hotels with Restaurants (98)
- Business Hotels (91)
- Golf Hotels (90)
- Historic Hotels (88)
- Hotels with Bars (82)
- Family Hotels (78)
- Hotels with Laundry Facilities (76)
- Hotels & Resorts for Couples (72)
- Pet-friendly Hotels (67)
- Casinos (64)
- Hotels with Air Conditioning (61)
- Hotels with Free Parking (51)
- Hotels with a View (34)
- Hotels with Room Service (33)
- Green Hotels (32)
- Cheap Hotels (32)
- Hotels with Balconies (31)
- Hotels with a Gym (27)
- Hotels with Connecting Rooms (19)