Gay Rotterdam Rotterdam City Guide

Curation by Bastiaan Ellen, words by Casey Siemasko

For many travellers, a visit to the Netherlands is synonymous with a trip to the ever-beloved and free-spirited city of Amsterdam. But don’t let Rotterdam—the country’s second-largest city—fall off your radar. Long revered for its innovative outlook, Rotterdam is brimming with world-class modern architecture, a thriving coffee culture, and an edgy art and underground club scene. Add to that Europe’s largest port and the Netherland’s most dramatic skyline, and you’ve got the backdrop for an idyllic yet contemporary urban escape. At the heart of Rotterdam’s arts culture is the vibrant neighbourhood Witte de Withkwartier, with a plethora of theatres, galleries, avant-garde boutiques, and trendy bars and cafes. Whether you’re strolling along the picturesque port, admiring the state-of-the-art architecture or relaxing over freshly brewed coffee, Rotterdam offers an inspiring travel experience that should not be missed. For your definitive Rotterdam gay guide, you’ve come to the right place.

The best hotels in Rotterdam

Let’s start this gay Rotterdam travel guide with a roundup of the best places to stay in Rotterdam. Easily one of the most luxurious hotels in Rotterdam, The Mainport Hotel is perched on the banks of the Maas River, promising spectacular views of both the water and Rotterdam’s signature skyline. The chic global design concept merges influences from both East and West. Luxury amenities include butler service, a five-star spa (complete with Turkish steam room and Hammam complex), and a Green Key gold sustainability certification. Also located in central Rotterdam, the citizenM Hotel is a smart choice for those who appreciate design but can forgo ultra-luxury services and bellboys. Expect comforts such as extra-large king beds, blackout blinds, and free WiFi. The trendy common areas—complete with bookshelves, fireplaces and Dutch artwork—ensure ample space for leisuring. Architecture and history buffs shouldn’t miss Room Mate Bruno, a luxury boutique hotel nestled in what once served as a 19th-century tea warehouse for the Dutch East India Company. Located in the area of Kop Van Zuid, this neighbourhood is revered for its famed buildings by renowned architects such as Rem Koolhaas and Renzo Piano. Inside Room Mate Bruno, nautical designs and Dutch paintings pay tribute to Rotterdam’s rich past. When hunger strikes, head downstairs to Foodhallen, a large market featuring 15 themed food stands.

The Suitehotel Pincoffs

Another fascinating 19th-century building turned boutique hotel, The Suitehotel Pincoffs is a small sustainable hotel with easy access to all of Rotterdam’s main attractions and lovely views of the Erasmus Bridge.

If you’re spending more than a few nights in Rotterdam, Hotel Light is a short stay hotel just a stone’s throw from Museumplein and Central Station. The lobby areas, communal kitchen and laundry area provide ample space to wind-down or get some work done; the 16 rooms are basic but comfortable, with home-away-from-home amenities.