A Fresh Wave of Historic Hospitality in Europe
Europe’s hotel scene is buzzing with new openings and grand re-openings that blend classic architecture with today’s luxury comforts. From restored palazzos in Italy to boutique hideaways in France and Portugal, these hotels let you savor old-world charm with modern amenities. Whether you love baroque detailing, Art Nouveau facades, or centuries-old courtyards, there’s a fresh stay waiting that feels timeless and welcoming.
1. Les Lumières – Versailles, France
Set to open in 2025 in the heart of Versailles, Les Lumières occupies a 17th-century building right near the famous palace, giving you a dose of French history from the moment you arrive. Its interiors showcase exquisite tea room spaces with soaring ceilings and glittering chandeliers that evoke royal elegance. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time while still enjoying modern luxury.
2. Amyth of Nicosia – Nicosia, Cyprus
Opening in a beautifully restored historic villa in the old town of Nicosia, Amyth blends Mediterranean light with classical character. The decorative ceilings and sweeping staircase add grace and a welcoming vibe that’s hard to beat. It’s intimate and feels like staying in a friend’s elegant home rather than a hotel.
3. AlmaLusa Alfama – Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s AlmaLusa Alfama opened in late 2023 within a 12th-century building that overlooks the Tagus River, marrying ancient history with laid-back Portuguese style. Its 25 rooms are infused with local art and heritage elements while still feeling fresh and inviting.
4. Romègas Hotel – Valletta, Malta
Romègas is a new boutique stay crafted within a 500-year-old palazzo in Malta’s baroque capital. The meticulously restored facade and traditional balconies give you a feel for old Valletta life, while terrazzo floors and artistic interiors bring contemporary comfort.
5. Rosewood Amsterdam – Amsterdam, Netherlands
Housed in the former Palace of Justice, Rosewood Amsterdam opened with preserved features like original tiled staircases and crown moldings that celebrate Dutch heritage. The lobby evokes Amsterdam’s artistic legacy with curated artworks that connect to the city’s cultural vibe.
6. Fairmont Golden Prague – Prague, Czech Republic
After a historic building’s reinvention, Fairmont Golden Prague re-opened in 2025 on the banks of the Vltava River with its classic exterior intact. Guests can enjoy sweeping views of the city’s skyline and an elegant interior that bridges mid-century heritage with modern luxury.
7. Mandarin Oriental Vienna – Vienna, Austria
This eye-catching new addition opened in late 2025 inside an Art Nouveau courthouse in the center of Vienna’s first district. With richly appointed rooms and polished public spaces, it honors Vienna’s imperial past while offering top-tier contemporary comforts.
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8. Waldorf Astoria Helsinki – Helsinki, Finland
Waldorf Astoria Helsinki opened in late 2024 and was fully completed in 2025, blending Nordic heritage with luxury hospitality elements. Though inspired by Nordic design, its details and common areas nod to classic European traditions of refined comfort.
9. Hotel Gabrielli – Venice, Italy
Scheduled to reopen in August 2025 after a meticulous restoration, Hotel Gabrielli sits on the Riva degli Schiavoni with classic Venetian flair at every turn. The grand public rooms and elegant woodwork evoke the city’s golden age.
10. Orient Express La Minerva – Rome, Italy
Opened in spring 2025 in a 17th-century palazzo near the Pantheon, Orient Express La Minerva brings historic Roman architecture together with Art Deco and bespoke interiors. Its rooftop restaurant and spa, inspired by Roman baths, make it a destination in itself.
11. Collegio alla Querce – Florence, Italy
This revival of a 16th-century property above Florence’s historic core marries old stones and frescoed walls with sumptuous guestrooms and extensive gardens. You’ll feel like you’re staying in the Italian Renaissance countryside while still being minutes from the city’s iconic art and architecture.
12. Palacete Severo – Porto, Portugal
Located in the Boavista district, Palacete Severo is a restored early 20th-century building that keeps original stained glass and architectural flourishes intact. Its intimate 17 rooms and vibrant courtyard pool offer both old-world aesthetics and boutique charm.
13. Le Grand Hôtel Cayré – Paris, France
In the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Le Grand Hôtel Cayré opened in 2024 with interiors that nod to its artistic 1920s history. Cozy nooks, classic French brasserie vibes, and a hidden bar give it true personality and an unbeatable vibe.
14. Sir Prague Hotel – Prague, Czech Republic
Set to open in early 2025 along the Vltava River, Sir Prague combines Art Nouveau and Modernist architectural cues with cinematic design. It’s all about sensual interiors, an indoor courtyard, and sophisticated public spaces that echo Prague’s cultural heritage.
15. Les Lumières Tea Room Experience – Versailles, France
While technically part of the Les Lumières hotel, its tea room deserves a mention on its own for channeling old Versailles elegance with nearly 20-foot ceilings and lavish chandeliers. You’ll enjoy pastries and tea in a space that feels lifted from a royal garden.
16. Hotel du Couvent – Nice, France
Opened in 2024, Hotel du Couvent occupies a beautifully restored 17th-century convent tucked away in Nice’s Old Town. The property keeps its cloistered courtyards, stone arches, and quiet garden atmosphere, making it feel like a peaceful step back in time.
17. Romègas’ Artistic Touch – Valletta, Malta
Romègas doesn’t just preserve historic architecture; it invites local art into its spaces with commissioned pieces and original design features. Balconies and rooftop pool areas give guests a sense of old city life with Mediterranean flair.
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18. Six Senses Rome – Rome, Italy
Opened in 2023, Six Senses Rome is housed inside the historic Palazzo Salviati Cesi Mellini, just steps from the Pantheon. Original stone columns, marble staircases, and centuries-old architectural details give the hotel a deeply Roman soul.
19. Maison Barrière Vendôme – Paris, France
Maison Barrière Vendôme opened in 2024 inside a stately 18th-century townhouse near the Tuileries Garden. The hotel blends Parisian apartment-style elegance with historic moldings, fireplaces, and classic proportions throughout the rooms.
20. Hôtel Château des Fleurs – Paris, France
Opened in 2023 near the Champs-Élysées, Hotel Château des Fleurs channels Belle Époque Paris through curved lines, floral motifs, and refined detailing. The interiors feel romantic and nostalgic without tipping into stuffiness, which makes the historic inspiration more approachable.
