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11 Historical Hotels in Rotterdam with a rich History
by Marcel, 2024-02-17
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A city steeped in rich history and vibrant modern life, Rotterdam is home to a wealth of historic hotels that have stood the test of time and still shine with their own unique stories. These hotels are more than just places to stay; they are living witnesses of the past, where hospitality goes hand in hand with heritage.
From majestic buildings that reflect the glories of the past to charming boutique hotels that offer an intimate insight into a bygone era, each of these historic gems tells a unique story. From the port industry to the cultural revival after World War II, Rotterdam's hotels have reflected the city's ups and downs and contributed to its distinctive charm.
In this article we take a dive into some of Rotterdam's most intriguing historic hotels, where each room tells a chapter from the book of city history. From opulent interiors to fascinating anecdotes, these hotels embody Rotterdam's heritage and offer an unforgettable experience for travelers looking for a touch of nostalgia mixed with modern luxury. Get ready to step back in time as we open the doors to some of Rotterdam's most iconic accommodations.
Hotel New York
Hotel New York, an icon on the Kop van Zuid since 1901, embodies a rich history dating back to the glory days of the Holland America Line. Countless trips to the United States were planned and departed from this imposing building, which once served as the NASM administration center. The evolution of Hotel New York reflects the dynamic development of Rotterdam itself. From its humble beginnings as an administration building, designed by J. Muller and C.M. Droogleever Fortuyn, into the iconic hotel-restaurant that it is today, every phase of its transformation is imbued with meaning and memories. The building underwent several transformations, including the addition of the characteristic tower in 1913 and the later conversion into a hotel-restaurant in 1991. After a period of vacancy and the involvement of squatters, Hotel New York was revived thanks to the vision of catering entrepreneurs Daan van der Have, Hans Loos and Dorine de Vos, with support from the municipality of Rotterdam. Since its official opening in 1993, Hotel New York has played a central role in Rotterdam's cultural and social landscape, with highlights such as the establishment of the Water Taxi in 1993 and the celebration of its 25th anniversary in 2018. As guardian of memories of a bygone era and an embodiment of Rotterdam's resilience and innovation, Hotel New York remains an indispensable part of the city.
SS Rotterdam
The legendary former flagship of the Holland America Line, the ss Rotterdam, is a living witness of maritime grandeur and rich history. With its impressive dimensions of 228 meters long, 28 meters wide and 51 meters high, this ship has fascinated and inspired generations. From its construction in the 1950s to the recent renovations under the care of WestCord Hotels, the ss Rotterdam has made a journey that parallels the development of modern shipping. Once a symbol of transatlantic crossings and luxury cruises, the SS Rotterdam has found a new purpose after a period of inactivity as a vibrant cultural heritage and one of Rotterdam's most beloved landmarks.
Room Mate Bruno
Room Mate Bruno Hotel, located in the historic Pakhuismeesteren, a former tea warehouse of the Dutch East India Company, is a vibrant tribute to Rotterdam's maritime history. With its origins dating back to 1941, this iconic building embodies an era of trade and shipping that defined the city. Designed by interior designer Teresa Sapey, the hotel exudes a unique atmosphere of nautical heritage mixed with contemporary elegance. The name Bruno, inspired by an adventurous captain, invites guests to explore the city under the guidance of his character. Strategically located on the banks of the Maas, Room Mate Bruno offers not only a luxurious retreat, but also a tangible connection to Rotterdam's past, with Pakhuismeesteren's rich heritage coming to life in every corner of the hotell.
Grand Hotel Central
Grand Hotel Central, one of the two buildings on the Kruiskade that survived the bombing of Rotterdam in 1940, has a rich history dating back to its foundation in 1917 by Mr Allard. Originally with 64 rooms, a spacious kitchen and a large restaurant, it was known as the best fire-protected hotel in Rotterdam. After being taken over by the municipal mortgage bank and a period of vacancy, it was revived in 1935 by Mr A. Phillipsen, who expanded the hotel with 45 rooms. Unfortunately, this extension was bombed during the Second World War and was not rebuilt due to German restrictions. In the 1950s, the hotel underwent a modern renovation to meet guest demands. After several owners and adjustments, including closing the restaurant due to lack of profits, the hotel flourished again under the current operator, who took over at the beginning of the new century. With its monumental facade, Grand Hotel Central remains a historic jewel in the heart of Rotterdam.
Hotel Atlanta
Hotel Atlanta, built between 1929 and 1931 according to a design by architect Frans van der Togt in the Art Deco style, officially opened its doors on May 2, 1931 under the original name Grand Hotel Moderne. Run by hospitality entrepreneur Dirk Reese, the hotel offered luxurious accommodation with modern amenities such as central heating, telephone and radio in every room, and a glass dome on the roof terrace with sweeping views of the city. The building, virtually unscathed by the bombing of Rotterdam in 1940, was expanded and adapted after the war, including a modernist extension in 1965. During the 1960s the hotel also hosted events for the city's remaining Jewish public. In 1998, the hotel was designated a municipal monument, and in 2016 there were plans to renovate it and build a residential tower behind the hotel, although the realization of these plans remained uncertain.
The Slaak Rotterdam, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
The Slaak Hotel Rotterdam, located on the historic location of the Gedempte Slaak, has a rich history in which freedom of expression, a free press and individuality were central. Two important newspapers were published here: "Voorvoor" and later "Het Vrije Volk". The name Slaak refers to the former Slaakvaart, a calm water where boats sheltered during storms, and after it was filled in in 1901 it was called the Gedempte Slaak. In 1907, the iconic People's Building of the Workers' Cooperative 'Voorsprong' was opened, designed by H.P. Berlage, where the newspaper of the same name was later printed. After the loss of part of the building during the bombing in 1940 and the reconstruction after the war, the printing house remained active and Het Vrije Volk was continued. In the 1950s and 1960s, Het Vrije Volk was a prominent newspaper associated with the socialist movement. After various changes and mergers, the building had various functions, including as the Slaakhuys, before being transformed in 2019 into the design boutique hotel The Slaak Rotterdam, a tribute to the rich history of the location.
Hotel van Walsum
Hotel van Walsum, located in three buildings on Mathenesserlaan from 1895, embodies a tradition of hospitality and modernization. Originally founded as a boarding house in 1936 by widow A.E. van Walsum, it was taken over by Teun van Dam in 1955, after which his son Frans van Dam took over the hotel in 1964, followed by the third generation, Anton and Jos, in 1998. Since then, the hotel has undergone a continuous cycle of renovation and modernization , where innovations were implemented annually. Recently, in 2010, the entrance, bar, restaurant and lobby were modernized, and a new elevator was installed. Located on historic land with a rich history dating back to the year 1276, Hotel van Walsum embodies both tradition and progress, an example of timeless hospitality in the heart of Rotterdam.
Savoy Hotel
The Savoy Hotel Rotterdam, located in the characteristic post-war Hoogkwartier district, is a contemporary city hotel with a rich history dating back to the reconstruction period. As an iconic part of this special neighborhood, the hotel is imbued with the atmosphere of reconstruction, which is both the common thread of its history and its current character. With a view to preserving this unique ambiance, all 95 rooms have been thoroughly renovated and provided with a touch of post-war nostalgia. The building itself also dates from that period and, as a four-star hotel, offers modern amenities and a charming look back at Rotterdam's past.
Bilderberg Parkhotel Rotterdam
The Bilderberg Parkhotel, located on the Westersingel since 1922, exudes classical grandeur that dates back to its origins in 1865 as a city villa. For decades it was a haven for Rotterdam's wealthy bourgeoisie, and even during the Second World War it was spared, along with some of the private property of the original owners, including classical oil paintings that still adorn the bar, lobby and restaurant. After a large-scale renovation in 2014/2015, in which contemporary art and modern furnishings merge with the old grandeur, the hotel houses a unique combination of international appeal and historic character. Not only does it boast an impressive art collection inside, but also a striking artwork on the outside of the building, called "The Individual Parallel" by artist Willem Oorebeek, while it is surrounded by several museums, including the Boijmans Van Beuningen. p>
Suite hotel Pincoffs
Suite hotel Pincoffs is located in a monumental building that was completed in 1879 and has now been restored to its former glory, previously serving as a customs office and now as a luxury hotel. The building, designed in eclectic style by architect J.S.C. van der Wall, marks the corner of the Koningshaven and the Binnenhaven/Entrepothaven with representative facades on both quays. As part of the trading area of the Rotterdamsche Handelsvereeniging, it played a crucial role in the development of Rotterdam into a world port under the leadership of RHV director Lodewijk Pincoffs. After years of vacancy and neglect, the building was transformed into Suite Hotel Pincoffs in 2008, a project made possible by Stadsherstel, Wessel de Jonge Architects, and subsidies from various government agencies. The hotel offers 17 luxury suites, a meeting room, a hotel bar and a living room, where the history of the customs office and Lodewijk Pincoffs is highlighted in various ways. As one of the best-rated hotels in Rotterdam, Suitehotel Pincoffs remains a tribute to the city's past and its role in global trade.
Bed, Bites & Business Hotel
The Bed, Bites & Business Hotel is located in the historic Fenix warehouses in Rotterdam, which were originally built in 1923 as 'San Francisco', at the time the largest port storage warehouses in the world. After a devastating fire during the Second World War and the subsequent reconstruction, Heijmans redeveloped the Fenix I warehouse into a versatile complex with apartments, offices, shops, restaurants and a boutique hotel. The hotel itself, with luxurious rooms that combine modern elegance with a nod to the warehouses' industrial past, offers guests a unique experience with stunning views of Rotterdam's metropolitan skyline and an atmosphere that reflects the history of the location.< /p>
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