Are you thinking of booking a room at the citizenM Hotel in Rotterdam? Then you’ve come to the right place. I stayed there and am excited to share this first-hand citizenM Rotterdam hotel review.
It could be for you if you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Rotterdam that won’t break the bank. citizenM, a Dutch “new breed of hotel,” claims to create “affordable luxury for the people.”
But does citizenM live up to this claim of luxury accommodation for less? I spill the beans in this hotel review.
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citizenM Rotterdam in a Nutshell
In a hurry? Let’s cut to the chase. This is why I think you should book a room at citizenM Rotterdam.
My Experience at citizenM Rotterdam (Review)
Location
citizenM’s 151-room hotel is in an excellent location adjacent to Rotterdam’s Old Harbour (Oude Haven) and the iconic cube houses. Rotterdam Blaak station with mainline trains, metro and tram connections is less than a five-minute walk.
Check-in
Check-in at citizenM Rotterdam was quick and super-techy.
I entered my name on one of the touchscreens and, hey presto, my reservation was generated. I could select where Id like my room – harbourside or overlooking a courtyard – and indicate if I wanted their optional breakfast.
citizenM ambassadors were on hand if needed.
My room
Some may consider this room compact. At a mere 151 sq ft, others will find it a little too claustrophobic. It reminded me of a cabin on a cruise ship.
citizenM’s room had an unusual design. The sink was in the room itself, not in the bathroom.
The large king-size bed had decent linen and was very comfortable. However, as it was pushed up against the window, it was accessible from one side only. Not a problem for a solo traveller like me, but not ideal for couples sharing.
As an alternative, you could turn 90° and use the headboard against the window instead. But as you would then need to shimmy down the bed to get out of it, this is not great either.
Although the room does not have tea and coffee-making facilities, citizenM Rotterdam provides two complimentary bottles of mineral water daily.
There was one small workspace and plentiful European two-pin sockets, one UK three-pin socket and an American three-pin socket.
Storage space comprised one large drawer under the bed to store luggage. Your wardrobe is a hanging rail by the entrance. A large room is safe is provided.
citizenM hotels embrace smart technology. Room controls are operated by an iPad anchored in a docking station at the bedside. This controls lighting, air-conditioning, blackout blinds, curtains and the TV.
Lighting in a hotel room is important to me and Rotterdam’s citizenM hotel did not disappoint. All bases were covered with a selection of wall-lights, spotlights and recessed downlighters.
The toilet and shower room had funky mood lighting. Spin the wheel on your room’s iPad to select your preferred shade.
The TV was impressive. There was a good choice of channels and a free movie library. It was also possible to throw the content of your tablet or smartphone onto the screen.
Wi-fi was fast and reliable during my stay.
However, room temperature regulation was not so impressive.
My original room, on the side of the building facing Rotterdam’s Old Harbour, was like a furnace. Cranking up the air conditioning had no effect.
This was a recognised problem here. At hotter times of the year, the rooms with the best views (facing the Old Harbour) resemble tropical greenhouses that refuse to be cooled down.
The helpful staff tried adjusting the temperature centrally with no luck. Eventually, I switched to a room on the other side of the building.
If you are sharing a room, pray that you know your roommate well.
The toilet/shower and main room were separated by an opaque glass housing. A nylon curtain was thoughtfully provided on its exterior wall to afford additional privacy.
Whilst the shower was powerful, and there was a choice of handheld and rainfall shower, it featured a nasty nylon curtain. Not what I would expect in a self-appointed luxury hotel.
Towels were plentiful and fluffy. A powerful hairdryer, liquid soap and a choice of two shower gels were also provided.
>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK THE PRICES OF ROOMS AT CITIZENM ROTTERDAM
Breakfast
Breakfast at citizenM Rotterdam was served in the bar area.
Although the choice was limited it was of good quality and plentiful. There was freshly squeezed orange juice and barista coffee. For me, these are quality markers for a hotel breakfast.
Eggs and bacon were available. The buffet also included smoked salmon, Dutch cheeses, artisan bread, yoghurts, fruit and warm pastries.
My one quibble is that seating was limited and it was a bit of a bunfight to find somewhere to sit on a busy Easter weekend. If you are not keen on communal dining, this breakfast may not be for you.
Public areas
The main public area is located on the first floor of Rotterdam’s citizenM hotel, incorporating the self-service check-in desk, bar area and the hotel’s so-called living rooms. It is. Large windows on two sides of this area give you great views of the Old Harbour.
Created to resemble a home environment, its living rooms are furnished with cabinets filled with books and pieces of art, with a focus on Rotterdam’s maritime history. Relax on one of the stylish Vitra-inspired seats in front of the area’s fireplace after a busy day exploring Rotterdam’s highlights.
There is also a bank of computers for guests’ use.
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Should You Stay at the citizenM Rotterdam Hotel?
Whilst I don’t consider citizenM Rotterdam a luxury hotel, it is comfortable and affordable.
citizenM Hotel is in an excellent location in Rotterdam and is perfect for a solo traveller for a few nights. As its rooms are small, they will be cosy for two people sharing.
The enthusiastic young staff were super helpful and, without exception, friendly and cheerful. When I was forced to change rooms they offered me a complimentary drink as a thank you for my patience.
citizenM Hotel Rotterdam is located at Gelderseplein 50.
>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK PRICES & BOOK
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About Bridget
Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.
Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.
To get in touch, email her at hello@theflashpacker.net or follow her on social media.