Hotel Schimmelpenninck Huys – Why This Is the Place to Stay in Groningen for Style and Authenticity

Anyone strolling through the Oosterstraat in Groningen will find their eyes wandering in every direction. Among the shops, cafés, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee stands a building that has defied time for nearly a millennium: Hotel Schimmelpenninck Huys. A monument that tells the story of the city itself — from medieval settlement to modern student hub, from patrician residence (a stately townhouse once home to wealthy and influential citizens) to a beloved hotel today.

Where a simple wooden house once stood, a stone patrician residence rose in the 15th century. Over the centuries, it was expanded, redesigned, and inhabited by jurists, French officers, and prominent citizens. It even hosted meetings of members of the Batavian Republic, including Rutger Jan Schimmelpenninck — the figure who gave the house its enduring name and reputation.

Throughout its history, the building has known periods of prosperity and decline. From luxurious residence to auction house, later to trading office. Until, in the 1980s, it experienced its grand rebirth: a restoration that brought back its brilliance and laid the foundation for the hotel as we know it today. Read more about the history of Hotel Schimmelpenninck Huys here.

A Living Legend in the Heart of Groningen

Today, Hotel Schimmelpenninck Huys still breathes that centuries-old elegance — but now combined with modern comfort. It is precisely this unique blend of authenticity and contemporary hospitality that makes this hotel one of the most extraordinary places to stay in Groningen.

And that’s exactly why we at StayinGroningen were incredibly excited to explore the latest transformation of this historic hotel.

Our Visit from StayinGroningen: A Reborn Schimmelpenninck Huys Led by Jordi Vedder

In October, we visited the renovated Hotel Schimmelpenninck Huys, which has had new ownership and a new manager since May 2024: Jordi Vedder. And in our opinion, the hotel undoubtedly belongs in the category of authentic hotels in Groningen.

From the moment Jordi welcomed us in the beautiful café downstairs, one thing became immediately clear: something special is happening here. The hotel feels warm, cozy, and refined — as if the soul of the monument shines through more clearly than ever.

Goodbye Red Carpet, Hello Fresh Elegance

We remembered it well: the red carpet, the marble floors, the golden taps. Iconic, but ready for renewal. And renewed it is. Under Jordi’s leadership, the hotel has undergone a tasteful and fresh transformation over the past months. The red carpet? Gone. The beautiful marble floor? Thankfully preserved. The bathrooms? Fully updated and modern.

The result is a hotel that looks modern and comfortable, without losing a trace of its history. In fact: the authenticity shines through more than ever.

Bistro Dolly’s – The New Culinary Heart of the Hotel

One of the most eye-catching updates is the opening of Bistro Dolly’s, the new hotspot within the hotel. The bar immediately impressed us: warm, inviting, and the perfect place to unwind after a day of shopping in Groningen with a glass of wine or a small bite.

The bistro offers a classic French menu — ideal for lunch, an intimate dinner, or even a private evening with friends or family. And with the holiday season approaching, this is definitely a spot to keep in mind for a Christmas dinner in the heart of Groningen.

Four Stars for a Hotel That Truly Deserves It

On November 28th, the festive ceremony took place: Schimmelpenninck Huys can now officially call itself a 4-star hotel. And honestly? You can feel it in every detail.

The rooms offer high-quality toiletries, optional bathrobes and slippers, and thanks to the room service, you can enjoy your stay for even longer — a luxury you often miss in 3-star hotels. The lobby is a wonderful place to relax, and the culinary upgrades elevate the entire experience.

A Team That Feels Like Family

A beautiful hotel cannot thrive without a strong team — and Schimmelpenninck Huys certainly has one. After the initial start-up phase, everyone now works seamlessly together. There is hard work, but also space for fun and camaraderie. Jordi’s leadership shines through: clear, energetic, and detail-oriented.

Youp… Are You Ready?

After everything we’ve seen, it seems like the next logical step: Youp van ’t Hek, it’s time for another night at Schimmelpenninck Huys. Maybe without a crew this time — just privately enjoying the charm of this remarkable hotel.

Why We Are Proud of Our New Partner

At StayinGroningen, we take great pride in helping visitors discover the most beautiful and authentic places in the city. That’s why we’re proud to add the renewed Hotel Schimmelpenninck Huys to our list of partners.

A hotel with a rich history, a beautifully refreshed interior, and a future that shines brightly.