Rotterdam is such a fun city, filled with cool buildings and amazing food. But let’s be honest, finding a good place to sleep without spending half your budget can be tricky in the Netherlands. Don’t worry though, Naivedya has tested the beds for you. Here are his favorite budget-friendly stays in Rotterdam for 2025!
What to expect in this article:
About Rotterdam
Hi there, my name is Naivedya, I am from India, and I moved to the Netherlands just over a year ago. As you may know, I am the shadow of my partner Seyamie a.k.a Aborntraveller, who loves to travel, experience the world, eat cuisines and create financial holes in our pockets until the next travel plan comes. Jokes apart, she’s doing what she loves and she’s happy.
So back to me. Because my office is far from home, I often stay over in Rotterdam at least two nights a week. Over the last 9 months, I’ve tested different places, sometimes hostels, sometimes budget hotels, and I’ve built a little list of favorites. These aren’t necessarily the most famous stays, but they are affordable, safe and comfortable options for budget travelers, students or anyone visiting Rotterdam on a budget.
Rotterdam is known for its modern architecture, buzzing nightlife and huge port, but it can get expensive quickly. That’s why I thought it would be useful to share my 4 go-to budget-friendly stays in Rotterdam.
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1) A&O Hotel Rotterdam
This one has a soft spot in my heart, since it was my first stay and is close to my workplace. You can choose between dorm-style bunk beds or private rooms. Back when I had just started working, I went for the bunks and it was only €16 a night! Later, I tried private rooms, which I managed to book for as low as €45.
If you’re in a group of four, you can even get a room with four bunks, which makes it both social and affordable. There’s also a lounge and a bar where you can grab a cheap beer in the evening. The location isn’t smack in the center, but you can easily take the tram or metro into the city within 10–15 minutes.
Best for: Solo travelers, students and small groups who want a cheap but reliable stay.
Address: Schiekade 658, Rotterdam Noord, 3032 AK Rotterdam
Booking.com link
Don't forget to book an activity in Rotterdam
2) CityHub Rotterdam
CityHub is one of the coolest budget stays in Rotterdam. Instead of regular hostel bunks, you get your own “pod” with enough privacy to feel like a mini-hotel room.
Bathrooms and showers are shared, but the location more than makes up for it: restaurants right opposite, a metro station just 5 minutes away, and grocery stores nearby. For me, it was a good mix of affordability and comfort, great for solo travelers but also fine for a couple. That’s why I stay here more regularly. Seyamie even wanted to stay here badly once, because she loved the idea.
They even give you a wristband that works as your room key and to pay at the self-service bar. And you can choose your own music, while no one else can hear it. Techy and fun which I love!
It reminds me a lot of Málaga (Spain): Good Vibes Only Hostel
Best for: Travelers who like a bit of privacy, digital nomads, and couples on a budget.
Address: Witte de Withstraat 87, Centrum, 3012 BN Rotterdam
Booking.com link
3) Cool Docks Rotterdam
I tried Cool Docks recently (June 2025) and it’s a fairly new spot close to Rotterdam Central Station. The rooms are quite small (think minimalist student room), which wasn’t perfect for me, but it’s definitely budget-friendly.
The bonus? You get 10% off at their restaurant downstairs, which is great if you don’t want to wander far after work or a long day of sightseeing. Wi-Fi was solid and the staff were super friendly. For short stays or quick business trips, this works well.
Best for: Business travelers, weekend visitors and people who value location over luxury.
Address: Eendrachtsplein 16, Centrum, 3012 LA Rotterdam
Booking.com link
4) Stadsklooster Dordt Hostel & Hotel (Dordrecht)
Okay, technically not in Rotterdam, but worth mentioning. If Rotterdam is fully booked or too expensive, hop on a quick train to Dordrecht (only 15 minutes away).
I stayed here twice and loved the vibe. It has a cozy lounge, a terrace bar and even group activities like yoga or cultural nights. It’s located inside a former monastery, so the atmosphere is warm and unique. Plus, Dordrecht itself is a charming little city where you can shop, walk along canals, or grab a coffee before heading back to Rotterdam.
Best for: Travelers who want a quieter, cultural stay with quick access to Rotterdam.
Address: 117 Vriesestraat, 3311 NP Dordrecht
Booking.com link
Extra tips for budget travellers in Rotterdam
Transport: Get an OV-chipkaart or a day ticket to save money on trams, buses and metro. Most of the budget stays are well connected, so you won’t need taxis.
Food: Eating out in Rotterdam can be pricey, but check out Markthal, street food stalls, or local bakeries. Budget supermarkets like Albert Heijn, Dirk (my favorite) and Lidl are everywhere.
Safety: Rotterdam is generally safe, but like any big city, watch your belongings especially near the station!
When to book: Prices can jump in summer or during events (Rotterdam Marathon, King’s Day). Book early for the best deals.
Final thoughts
Rotterdam of course has many other stays, from the famous StayOkay Hostel to the luxurious Marriott. That’s the beauty of this city, as it has something for everyone, whether you’re after budget hostels, mid-range comfort or five-star hotels.
Do you have any questions? Have you been to Rotterdam? I would love to know, so make sure to message me on my social media or leave a comment below.
*Some of the links in the article are affiliate links, so I may receive a commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link.
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