Kruisherenhotel Maastricht Review: Inside the City’s Most Unique Boutique Hotel
“While Amsterdam is the obvious choice for travelers to the Netherlands, there is so much more on offer in the country beyond its worldly capital.”
If you're looking for a hotel that stands out from the typical city stay, Kruisherenhotel Maastricht is a one-of-a-kind discovery. Once a 15th-century monastery and Gothic church built for the Crosier monks (known as the Kruisheren), this historic building fell into military, administrative, and agricultural use after the monks left in 1797. Fast forward to 2000, when local entrepreneur Camille Oostwegel purchased the site and, over a bold three-year renovation, transformed it into a 60-room luxury design hotel, officially opening its doors in 2005.
The result? A blend of soaring Gothic vaults, ancient stained glass, and sleek contemporary design (think glass elevators, mezzanine lounges, and a shiny copper entrance tunnel). Whether you're in town for a weekend escape, a romantic getaway, or simply curious about this Limburg gem, the Kruisherenhotel is well worth considering. But is this unique stay worth your money? Well, you’re about to find out…
Here we go! Let’s determine if staying here is worth it while we cover all aspects, from the rooms to the location.
The Location
The location is one of the hotel’s biggest perks. Kruisherenhotel sits right in Maastricht’s historic city center, just a short stroll from Vrijthof Square — the city’s lively main square filled with cafés, terraces, and landmarks like the Basilica of Saint Servatius and St. John’s Church.
You’ll also be within walking distance of plenty of shops, local restaurants, and the charming old streets that make Maastricht so easy to explore. No need for public transport or taxis as most of the city’s highlights are nearby on foot.
Driving in? You can reach the hotel by car, though the city center does have those typical narrow European streets to navigate. Thankfully, there’s on-site valet parking, so you can hand over the keys and not worry about finding a space. Just note that the parking fee is on the steep side (€45 per day).
If you’re arriving by train, Maastricht Central Station is about a 15-minute walk or a short taxi ride away.
The Rooms
It's good to know before you book: while Kruisherenhotel’s show-stopping lobby, restaurant, and bar are set inside the beautiful 15th-century church, the rooms themselves are located in the adjacent, modern part of the building. It’s all connected—you can easily access the rooms via elevator and hallway without stepping outside, but visually, the contrast between the historic and contemporary areas is impossible to miss.
Once you step out of the historic spaces, the style changes completely. This is a design hotel, so the rooms are sleek, minimalist, and very modern. It’s the opposite vibe from the old stone walls and stained glass downstairs, but that mix of old and new is part of what makes this place unique. I stayed in a Superior Room, which felt spacious yet cozy. The style is simple and functional, with all the usual comforts.
One thing to keep in mind: the bedroom and bathroom are separated by glass, so there isn’t much privacy when it comes to showers or baths. Something to consider if you’re sharing the room.
The Restaurant
One of the best spots in the hotel is definitely the bar, tucked inside the stunning former church. There’s something truly special about sipping crafted cocktails beneath soaring Gothic arches and colorful stained glass. The atmosphere feels both historic and lively—a perfect place to relax after a day of exploring Maastricht or to start your evening in style.
While breakfast isn’t included with your stay, that’s actually a great excuse to dive into Maastricht’s vibrant café scene. Just steps from the hotel, you’ll find cozy spots serving fresh pastries, hearty brunches, and coffee. The hotel’s restaurant, Spencer’s, offers a refined menu that fits the chic design vibe, but many guests venture out to sample the city’s food scene (as did I).
The Amenities
At Kruisherenhotel, the little things add up to a really comfortable stay. The staff is friendly and ready to help with anything you need. In your room, you get the bonus of a Nespresso machine and tea setup, perfect for a morning caffeine boost or a cozy nightcap. While there’s no gym on-site, a nearby fitness center is just a quick 5-minute walk away if you want to squeeze in a workout (there’s an entry fee of €20 per person).
The Verdict
Kruisherenhotel Maastricht is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. The location couldn’t be better, right in the heart of the city, and the staff is genuinely friendly and attentive, making you feel welcome from the moment you arrive — especially with a glass of welcome champagne to start things off on a high note.
That said, before you book, it’s important to think about whether a design hotel fits your style. Having stayed at a few myself, I know it can take some getting used to, especially the glass bathrooms that offer very little privacy. It’s definitely a bold choice and not for everyone. If privacy is a top priority for you, this might not be the right fit.
But if you’re open to the aesthetic and appreciate the mix of historic charm and sleek modern design, Kruisherenhotel is absolutely beautiful. It’s a unique stay that’s hard to find anywhere else, making it a memorable part of your Maastricht visit.
Kruisherenhotel Maastricht
Stay where history and design meet
I hope this was helpful. If you have any more questions, you can always reach out here or on Instagram, and I’m more than happy to answer any of your questions. Happy Travels!
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