Sam’s Place

Sam’s Place Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to Sam’s Place on Mathenesserdijk, you immediately get the sense this isn’t your typical chain hotel. It’s tucked into the Delfshaven neighborhood of Rotterdam — honestly, one of those spots that feels like a well-kept secret. The building has character, and you can tell someone actually cares about this place rather than just running it as a business. This three-star property might not scream sophistication, but it has something better: genuine personality and that rare quality where everything just feels right.

The Delfshaven Advantage

Here’s what I love about staying here — you’re in Delfshaven, which is basically Rotterdam’s historic heart that somehow survived the war. You know how most of Rotterdam is all modern architecture? Well, this area actually has those classic Dutch canal houses and cobblestone streets you came to see. The location gets a 9.9 rating from guests, and I totally get why. You can walk to the historic harbor in about three minutes, and there’s this great little cafe around the corner that locals actually use (not just tourists). Plus, getting into Rotterdam’s city center is super easy — the tram connection is really solid.

Your Room and Space

The room I stayed in was exactly what you’d want from a place like this — clean, thoughtfully designed, and comfortable without trying too hard. Sam clearly knows that travelers want practical amenities that actually work. The bed was genuinely comfortable (I’m picky about this), and the bathroom had good water pressure — you’d be surprised how often hotels mess this up. What struck me most was the attention to small details, like having enough outlets near the bed and blackout curtains that actually block light.

The Local Experience

Sam’s Place really shines because of how it connects you to the neighborhood. The staff — and I think Sam himself — know the area inside and out. They pointed me toward this amazing Indonesian restaurant about a five-minute walk away that I never would have found otherwise. Delfshaven has this perfect mix where you feel like you’re experiencing authentic Rotterdam life, but you’re not stuck in some residential area with nothing to do. The old church and the historic windmill are practically on your doorstep, and the Saturday market is something special.

Why Guests Love It

Look, couples absolutely rave about this place — they give the location a 9.8 rating for romantic trips, and I can see why. There’s something really appealing about staying somewhere that feels intimate and personal rather than corporate. You’re getting excellent value for money, a genuinely great location that most tourists miss, and that rare hotel experience where you feel like you’re staying with someone who actually cares about your trip. The 8.9 overall rating tells the story — this isn’t about fancy amenities or marble lobbies, it’s about getting everything right in a way that makes your Rotterdam experience better.

To book a hotel in Rotterdam during major events like Architecture Month, travelers need early planning as this dynamic city draws visitors eager to experience its cutting-edge skyline and world-famous urban innovations.

Sam’s Place Accommodations

Reviews of Sam’s Place

• Nelly from Canada (9/10)

  Sam was really nice. Nice apartment and well equipped. Clean and close to main road. Neighbours are very nice.

• Sandra from Australia (8/10)

  The location was excellent & the host was very obliging and helpful. The view over the canal was lovely.

• Fitzpatrick from Ireland (9/10)

  Communication with Sam was very good and he was there to greet us on arrival and was so kind to let us leave our luggage at the place after check-out. The apartment is spacious and very bright. Lovely views over the river. The bathroom was quite special with the jacuzzi bath. The location was perfect for us as it was just around the corner from our daughter's place. Delfshaven is a lovely part of Rotterdam.

• Janeski from Germany (9/10)

  This apartment has everything you need to rest your body and soul.
  I hope we will come again, it is on our wish list.
  Everything was exactly perfect!
  Recommendation for Sam's apartment!

• Motta from Netherlands (9/10)

• Buat from South Korea (9/10)

  Great location, just 5 min from tram or metro station, plenty restaurants, supermarket, McDonalds. Apartment itself is located on the first floor with view to the canal, calm during the day and night, safety and nice neighbourhood, clean and cozy design inside, with necessary kitchen appliances, temperature is easily regulated – all in line with description.

• Cat from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Great location and Sam was excellent at communicating. The blankets in the living area were appreciated!

• Melissa from Hong Kong (8/10)

  The location is lovely, overlooking the canal and close to public transport.

• Vicki from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Cute little apartment with a fantastic view! Really comfortable beds and a great shower. There is a spa bath too. The apartment is in a quiet residential area with two small balconies overlooking the river. The host was really friendly and around most mornings if you need anything (he lives downstairs). There is a great restaurant at the end of the road and food shops only a couple of minutes walk away. Rotterdam is lovely and the centre is just over half an hour walk away or you can get a water taxi just down the road (highly recommend- lots of fun)

• Alex from Canada (9/10)

  Sams place is in a great area, close to trains, several AMAZING local restaurants and bars. Sam is also a very lovely host, easy to communicate with, and ensured that we had a comfortable stay. The view is amazing, the apartment is very cosy, hot water works great, everything you need for a comfortable stay in Rotterdam.

Surroundings

Facilities