Just 45 minutes from Rotterdam in the southern part of the Netherlands, Breda is a fascinating historic city. A wonderful weekend destination for heritage aficionados, the city was founded as a fortified town in the Middle Ages. Renaissance and medieval buildings now jostle for space in the old town centre, with striking urban edifices rising up around them. Whether you’re curious about military history or the particular culture of the Dutch-Belgian border, you’ll find the best places to stay in Breda an ideal springboard for a few days of discovery. We've whittled the options down to a handful of great properties, from a grand heritage stay to a couple of boutique gems.

Begin your explorations at the imposing Grote Kerk, in the old town centre. Amble around independently, or take a guided tour to see the magnificent Breda Castle, as well as various well-preserved squares, centuries-old fortifications, and excellent museums. The Breda Museum is a particular highlight, as are the city’s leafy parks. Rise early on market days to fill your bags with seasonal produce and delicious cheeses from local growers and makers. 

Head out into the North Brabant countryside for cycling and walking opportunities galore. Mastbos, one of the oldest forests in the Netherlands, is stunning, and also popular with keen bird watchers. Breda’s proximity to the border with Belgium has also influenced its food, and you’ll find delicious regional specialities to savour at family-owned eateries around the city, or at your pick of the best places to stay in Breda.

The Best Places to Stay in Breda

For Boutique Chic

• Bliss Boutique Hotel has just nine guest rooms, each individually decorated yet reflecting a cosy, intimate mood, with big beds, sink-into armchairs, fireplaces, Netflix subscriptions and free-standing bathtubs. Dine in style at the onsite eatery, enjoy rejuvenating massages, or head out to explore. A lovely boutique bolthole. 
• Hotel Botanique boasts sleek, minimalist interiors with bold wallpapers and warm textiles. Auping beds and high-tech amenities will delight fans of modern comforts. There's also an onsite fitness centre and garden. Hearty breakfasts are great to kickstart the day. 

For Heritage Grandeur

• Hotel Nassau boasts 94 opulent guest rooms and suites set behind an impressive collection of period monuments. Step inside neo-Gothic buildings to discover elegant spaces with exposed wooden beams, velvet upholstery and modern art prints. There's a chic bar and generous breakfasts, and you're moments from the lively old centre. 

For an apartment or holiday house

• For a self-catering spot, we recommend visiting our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Rotterdam-The Hague Airport, 45 minutes by road or an hour and 20 minutes by rail from Breda. Alternatively, most hotels will be happy to organise an airport pickup in advance.  
• The Netherlands is great for exploring with the freedom of your own transport! If you would like to hire a car, we suggest that you contact our online partner Rentalcars.
• Travel during the summer for temperatures ranging between 11 and 23ºC, although this is the busiest time of year. The spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) are ideal for those seeking fewer crowds and great hotel offers.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to explore our list of the best places to stay in Cadzand. 
• Alternatively, see our pick of all the best places to stay in the Netherlands. 
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.