Heritage hotels in Europe have a special kind of magic. The sort that whips the weight of the world from your shoulders, transporting you into simpler times. Roaring fireplaces, centuries-old beams and time-warp details tell a million stories without whispering a word. Want a peek inside their historic doors? Come on in…
1. Hotel Stefanie, Austria
Four centuries of guests have dined and rested within the walls of Hotel Stefanie, the oldest hotel in Vienna and one of the most charismatic heritage hotels in Europe. A stay here immerses you deeply in the spirit of the past, thanks to stunning antiques, traditional furnishings and buckets of charming Viennese ‘Schmäh’.
2. Waldhaus Sils, Switzerland
You’re not mad for thinking you’ve stepped into a Wes Anderson film: Waldhaus Sils is movie-style fantasy, come to life. Everyone from Bowie to Einstein has stayed here since its opening in 1908 and the award-winning stay has never lost its grand old spark. With five-star luxury and Sils-Maria as your playground, the worst part about this hotel is leaving.
3. Ghan House, Ireland
You can keep your super-deluxe, state-of-the-art pads: this old house in medieval Carlingford has more character than them all. It’s one of the oldest private heritage hotels in Europe, with 20 continuous years of awards under its Georgian belt. Built in 1727, Ghan House has been fully restored, with four-poster beds, chandeliers and old-fashioned furnishings throughout.
4. Heritage Avenida Liberdade Hotel, Portugal
You’ll immediately fall for the blue façade of Heritage Avenida Liberdade Hotel. A waltz inside may surprise you: while its 18th-century soul is carefully retained, this Lisbon-based haven is brought to life with inventive design by daring architect Miguel Câncio Martins.
5. Sierakow Manor, Poland
Huge but homely, Sierakow Manor is a peaceful retreat just south of Krakow. The 19th-century building has been gently restored, with traces of past life seeped into everything from its stonework and photographs to paintings and furniture. There are 30 rooms to pick from, decorated in quaint English style without any of the stuffiness.
6. Villa Lanna, Czech Republic
Villa Lanna, built in 1872 in the Neo-Renaissance style, is a unique Prague hotel offering 23 individually designed rooms. Its special charm comes from its historical significance as a former family mansion, now under the care of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, and its exquisite exterior frescoes by Viktor Barvitius.
7. Twr y Felin: Wales
Amid the endless countryside of north-west Pembrokeshire awaits four-star Twr y Felin, a former windmill from 1806 and one of the prettiest heritage hotels in Europe. After a century of harvesting wind, the building was reinvented, becoming Wales’ first contemporary art hotel. Inside, the hideaway is filled with over 100 specially commissioned artworks by 20 Welsh, British and international artists. The award-winning stay overlooks Britain’s dinkiest city, St Davids, which has prospered since the sixth century alongside its historic cathedral.
8. Kyrimai, Greece
Oozing with Deep-Mani-cool, Kyrimai is a waterside wonderland that pays full attention to local history and tradition. With award-winning cuisine, deluxe amenities and 18 gorgeous rooms and suites, this former warehouse from 1875 smatters all of the senses.
9. Hotel Cattaro, Montenegro
Hotel Cattaro, a 4-star boutique hotel in Montenegro, is housed within UNESCO-protected walls and comprises three historic buildings dating back to the 16th century. If you are seeking a luxurious stay immersed in Kotor’s rich history and culture, with easy access to local attractions and nightlife, Hotel Cattaro is an ideal choice.
10. Hotel Sveti Jakov, Croatia
Hotel Sveti Jakov, originally built in 1886, is a luxurious five-star boutique hotel in Opatija, Croatia, offering 26 rooms and suites. Its unique charm lies in its blend of historical elegance, having been renovated in 2020, and modern amenities, including some rooms with private terraces and jacuzzis, all within the serene St. Jakov Park.
11. Grand Hotel et de Milan: Milan, Italy
Immerse yourself in Milanese history and elegance at the Grand Hotel et de Milan, established in 1863. This iconic hotel boasts 95 luxury rooms and suites, many named after famous guests like Maria Callas and Giuseppe Verdi. Savor exquisite dining experiences in its renowned restaurants and bars.
12. Palazzo Bifora: Mdina, Malta
Discover the charm of Mdina, Malta’s Silent City, from this meticulously restored 14th-century Palazzo Bifora. Built in 1400 and renovated in 2020, this boutique hotel offers six individually designed rooms and suites. Enjoy a luxurious hotel experience with a rooftop pool, exceptional Mediterranean-fusion dining, and personalized service in a truly unique setting.
13. Dalen Hotel
The Dalen Hotel, built in 1894, is a fairytale-like 5-star hotel in Norway offering 49 rooms and suites, a renowned floating sauna, and fine dining at the Restaurant, all within a beautifully preserved historic setting. Escape in the Norwegian countryside, enjoying exceptional service and the hotel’s distinctive atmosphere devoid of modern distractions.