Hotel Matelote
Historic-minimalist boutique. Think dark wooden beams, bare stone, and sharp modern furnishings. Quiet cobblestone street, intimate courtyard, fireplace lounge. Feels personal, not corporate.
Book directly on the hotel website to get breakfast included in your rate
Why It Matters
One of the few truly small, owner-run boutique hotels in Antwerp's historic core. The two 16th-century buildings were converted with genuine design intent — each room individually crafted under the creative direction of architect Peter Deelen — rather than the typical chain formula. Tablet Hotels listed. Ranked #18 of 88 hotels in Antwerp on TripAdvisor with 448 reviews.
Hotel Matelote is a 10-room boutique hotel carved out of two 16th-century buildings in the dead center of Antwerp's old town, 200 meters from the Cathedral of Our Lady. Founded in 2004, the property was designed by interior architect Peter Deelen, who gave each room its own character by weaving original period details — exposed wooden beams, stone facades, original pegged timbers — into a clean, contemporary framework. The result is genuinely minimalist without feeling cold. No elevator, no spa, no pool. But the location is about as good as it gets in Antwerp, and the owner-run hospitality is the real draw.
Where You'll Stay
4 room types available
Deluxe Cosy Comfort
A meaningful step up from the entry room at 25m². More space to breathe, same design sensibility of 16th-century architectural details blended with clean modern decor. Includes all the standard in-room amenities: flat-screen TV, in-room safe, mini-fridge, coffee/tea, complimentary water, and bathroom essentials. In-room safe and work desk included. Good for couples who want a bit more comfort without going full suite.
25 sqm
Junior Suite
At 32m², this is a proper suite with a separate seating area — useful for both longer stays and those who work while travelling. Guests consistently pick this as a standout: one review described it as 'a large and very comfortable room' with a 'roomy bathroom and quite large shower.' Includes all standard amenities plus the seating zone. Good balance of space and value in this property.
32 sqmMatelote Suite
The top room in the house at approximately 40-45m², with a separate living area for guests who want genuine space. The bathroom steps up too — both a bath and a shower, plus premium toiletries. Rooms at the top of the building (this is the largest category) have the original 16th-century exposed timber beams with the original wooden pegs still visible — a striking detail that no amount of renovation budget can replicate. Ideal for longer stays or two guests who want to spread out.
42 sqmSmall Cosy Comfort
The entry-level room — and at 15m² it is genuinely compact. Good for solo travelers or couples who plan to spend most of their time exploring the city. Despite the size, it comes properly fitted out: free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV with cable, in-room safe, mini-fridge, coffee and tea facilities, complimentary mineral water, and a well-appointed shower bathroom with hair dryer. Some rooms in this category offer patio access to the courtyard.
15 sqmThe Property
Eat & Drink
1 venue on property
Restaurant
On Property
How you'll actually spend your days.
The hotel's location makes it an ideal base for walking the old town. Cathedral of Our Lady (200m), Grote Markt (200m), Vlaeykensgang hidden alley (steps away), Plantin-Moretus Museum (5-minute walk), MoMu Fashion Museum (5-minute walk), Het Steen castle (5-minute walk).
The entire hotel — all rooms, common areas, courtyard, and breakfast space — can be rented exclusively for corporate retreats, family gatherings, or special events. The courtyard/patio can be configured and heated. Guests may bring their own beverages. Special group rates available on request.
Amenities & Practical Info
The details that matter for planning.
A shared lounge area with a fireplace — a genuinely atmospheric spot in a 16th-century building, especially during Antwerp's colder months.
Free unlimited broadband Wi-Fi throughout all rooms and common areas. Wired internet also available in rooms.
A virtual tour of the hotel — guest rooms, common areas, and outdoor spaces — is available on the hotel website.
Complimentary coffee and tea available to guests throughout the day. A 24/7 espresso and tea area is noted by guests as a consistently appreciated touch.
Laundry services available for guests.
The owner and multilingual staff assist with restaurant reservations, event tickets, and local recommendations. Guests repeatedly highlight the owner personally spending time going over a city map and making tailored suggestions.
Guests arriving before 3pm check-in can leave luggage at the hotel and explore the city.
Express check-in and check-out available. Front desk staffed Monday–Sunday 7:30 AM–8:00 PM.
A serene enclosed courtyard around which several rooms are oriented. Used for al fresco breakfast in good weather and available as a customizable outdoor space for private events. The patio can be heated for cooler months.
Air conditioning available in all rooms.
Daily housekeeping provided.
No on-site parking — hotel is in a pedestrian zone. The nearest secure underground parking is 'Parking Grote Markt', approximately 200 meters away.
Ample space for bicycle storage on-site.
BUILD YOUR HOTEL MATELOTE PLAN
Rooms, dining, spa, and resort experiences — organized into one trip plan.
Start Planning