In a city that is constantly evolving, where cranes shape the horizon and architecture almost feels like a religion, nhow Rotterdam is a hotel that captures that energy perfectly. We stayed for one night, high above the Maas, and discovered a place where design, hospitality, and urban flair come together.
A Living Concept
The nhow hotels of the NH Hotel Group are not your average chain locations. They feel like creative hubs, where the city serves as the backdrop and the hotel is the stage. Each nhow has its own theme. In Rotterdam, it’s all about architecture and progress.
The concept is contemporary, energetic, and yet personal. No excessive luxury, but plenty of character. nhow is a hotel for people who want to feel where they are. Not just sleep, but immerse themselves in the city’s dynamics.
Rotterdam
Rotterdam is raw and international with boldness. From the Kop van Zuid, the peninsula where nhow is located, you look out over the Maas and the Erasmus Bridge. The combination of water, steel, and the changing light throughout the day is almost hypnotizing.
The location is perfect for the business traveler: ten minutes from Rotterdam Central, twenty minutes from the airport, within walking distance of the city center, with a metro stop right outside, and surrounded by culture. The brand-new and impressive Fenix Coast Museum about migration and countless dining options are also within walking distance. The area feels like a mini-metropolis, with nhow as its shining anchor point.
Urban Chic with a Rotterdam Soul
The building housing the hotel, De Rotterdam, is designed by architect Rem Koolhaas. Upon entering, you immediately understand why it’s iconic. High ceilings, steel lines, huge windows—impressive without being cold. The lobby is spacious, light, and lively. People check in, drink coffee, or work behind their laptops with a view over the Maas.
What stands out is the energy. Here, you can feel the hotel is alive. The staff greets you not formally, but genuinely warmly. It feels less like a hotel and more like a club of like-minded travelers.
Rooms
The hotel has 274 rooms spread over 23 floors. We stayed in a Premium Room with a Skyline View, high above the city. As soon as the door opens, a sense of calm and happiness washes over you. The windows stretch from floor to ceiling, with views of the Erasmus Bridge and the stunning Rotterdam skyline. The view seems almost designed by Koolhaas himself. A handwritten welcome note makes it feel personal and complete.
Inside, everything is sleek but comfortable. A king-size bed with perfect linens, a large desk, a comfortable armchair, and an open bathroom with a rain shower. The lighting is warm, the colors soft. We open the curtains all the way (they don’t close again), make a fresh espresso, and let the city sink in. Rotterdam breathes deep into the night, and we watch in awe.
Culinary
In the evening, we dine at the hotel’s Gastrobar, called Elvy, located on the seventh floor with yet again the same spectacular view. The atmosphere is relaxed. The staff makes excellent recommendations for both the food and cocktails and knows exactly when to appear. It feels again very personal. The menu is simple with various small dishes that match the season and have an international twist.
Around us, guests chat in various languages. Outside, the city lights reflect in the Maas. This is exactly the kind of moment you hope for when traveling: urban, elegant, yet intimate.
The breakfast the next morning exceeds expectations. There’s truly everything in abundance: fresh fruit, smoothies, hot dishes, bread from local bakeries. What especially stands out is the attention to allergies and dietary preferences. Everything is clearly labeled and beautifully presented. We taste a ginger and mint smoothie while the morning sun glides over the Maas. A better start to the day is almost unimaginable.
Service & Facilities
The service at nhow is exactly what the modern traveler desires: efficient but with personality. No exaggerated formalities, but attention. During checkout, the receptionist doesn’t just ask how we slept but also if we saw the skyline at sunrise. It’s these kinds of details that make the difference.
For those staying longer, the hotel offers everything you expect: a fitness room (open 24 hours), fast wifi, comfortable workspaces, and various lounges where you can escape the hustle and bustle. Everything exudes calm and design.
Meetings & Events
nhow Rotterdam is also an excellent venue for meetings, conferences, or creative sessions. The meeting rooms are flexible, light, and modernly designed, with, of course, that unbeatable view. On the top floor, there are 11 flexible spaces, and a 700 m² conference room for up to 400 people. The rooftop terrace is included and ideal for a drink at sunset. Meeting here is an experience.
Conclusion
nhow Rotterdam is more than just a hotel: it’s an experience that perfectly matches the city it’s housed in. Modern, bold, and surprisingly friendly. It combines business efficiency with personal warmth, making it an ideal place for the traveler who sees a lot but also wants to be personally surprised.
