For travelers seeking more than just a comfortable bed, historical hotels provide an immersive experience by blending luxury with centuries-old architecture, unique stories, and cultural heritage. Staying in these landmark properties connects guests to the past in a way modern hotels simply can’t replicate. From restored castles to converted palaces and former manor houses, here are 12 exceptional historical hotels from around the world that offer unforgettable experiences in their timeless settings.
1. The Plaza Hotel – New York City, USA
Historic Charm Meets Luxury in Manhattan
Since opening its doors in 1907, The Plaza Hotel has hosted presidents, royalty, and Hollywood stars. This iconic hotel on Fifth Avenue is a New York City landmark, known for its French Renaissance architecture and refined service. The Plaza’s Palm Court, with its stunning stained-glass dome, offers afternoon tea that transports guests to a bygone era of elegance. Book your stay here!
2. Rambagh Palace – Jaipur, India
Live Like Royalty in India’s Pink City
Originally a royal residence, Rambagh Palace in Jaipur captures the splendor of India’s royal heritage. Built in 1835, the palace now offers luxury suites with authentic Rajasthani décor and lush gardens. Walking through its regal halls, guests can imagine the grandeur of a past era and enjoy royal treatment through fine dining, cultural performances, and Ayurvedic spa experiences. Book your stay here!
3. Hotel de la Ville – Rome, Italy
An 18th-Century Gem Overlooking Rome
Located near the Spanish Steps, Hotel de la Ville combines 18th-century grandeur with modern luxury. This Italian masterpiece was once a gathering place for aristocrats and artists. Today, it offers stylish rooms and breathtaking views of Rome’s iconic skyline, allowing guests to feel the pulse of Rome’s rich history from a luxurious vantage point. Book your stay here!
4. Fairmont Le Château Frontenac – Quebec City, Canada
Step into a Fairytale Castle in North America
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Saint Lawrence River, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Canada’s most beloved landmarks. Built in 1893, this grand hotel exudes the charm of a French chateau and provides guests with historical tours, which makes it a fascinating stay in the heart of Old Quebec. Book your stay here!
5. Castello di Casole – Tuscany, Italy
A Restored Castle Nestled in the Tuscan Countryside
This 10th-century castle has been meticulously restored to its former glory as a luxury hotel in the picturesque Tuscan landscape. Castello di Casole combines rustic charm with elegance, offering views of rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. With suites in former medieval structures, it’s the perfect base for those who want to explore Tuscany’s history and culture. Book your stay here!
6. The Shelbourne – Dublin, Ireland
Experience Irish Heritage in Dublin’s Iconic Hotel
Since 1824, The Shelbourne has been a Dublin landmark, where Irish history was literally written—its walls witnessed the drafting of Ireland’s Constitution. Guests can still enjoy the original architectural details and luxurious rooms that have hosted countless historical figures. Afternoon tea in the Lord Mayor’s Lounge is a tradition not to be missed. Book your stay here!
7. Taj Lake Palace – Udaipur, India
A Floating Palace with Views of the Aravalli Hills
Built in the 1740s as a summer retreat for Udaipur’s royal family, the Taj Lake Palace is a floating marvel in Lake Pichola. Its intricate marble interiors, ornate gardens, and stunning views transport guests back to the days of Rajasthan’s majestic royalty. Boat arrivals add an extra layer of exclusivity to this unique heritage hotel. Book your stay here!
8. Alvear Palace Hotel – Buenos Aires, Argentina
Parisian Elegance in the Heart of Buenos Aires
Opened in 1932, the Alvear Palace Hotel was designed to bring a touch of Parisian elegance to Argentina’s capital. With French neoclassical architecture, it’s a luxury hotel that blends Old World charm with modern amenities. The hotel’s art collection, chandeliers, and ornate furnishings evoke Buenos Aires’ sophisticated past. Book your stay here!
9. Parador de Granada – Alhambra, Spain
Sleep Within the Walls of the Alhambra
Parador de Granada, located within the Alhambra complex, is an enchanting hotel that was once a 15th-century convent. Overlooking the gardens and fountains of this historic fortress, guests can soak in the Moorish architecture and enjoy the unique privilege of spending a night at one of Spain’s most treasured sites. Book your stay here!
10. The Ritz – London, England
Timeless Opulence at London’s Iconic Hotel
Since its opening in 1906, The Ritz has defined luxury and elegance in London. The property’s Edwardian architecture, grand chandeliers, and traditional British afternoon tea offer a glimpse into the aristocratic lifestyle. From its Michelin-starred restaurant to opulent suites, every corner of The Ritz exudes historic charm. Book your stay here!
11. Belmond Hotel Monasterio – Cusco, Peru
A Sacred Sanctuary in the Andes
This former 16th-century monastery in Cusco offers a spiritual and historic stay at the heart of the Inca Empire. Belmond Hotel Monasterio preserves its colonial architecture, with original art and a serene courtyard. It’s also a gateway for travelers heading to Machu Picchu, providing a cultural immersion into Peru’s rich history. Book your stay here!
12. Raffles Hotel – Singapore
Colonial Splendor and Southeast Asian Heritage
Established in 1887, Raffles Hotel is a blend of colonial architecture and Singaporean heritage. Known for its Singapore Sling cocktail, this iconic hotel has welcomed writers like Hemingway and Kipling. Guests can enjoy high tea, explore the lush tropical gardens, and take in the opulent surroundings that capture the spirit of colonial Singapore. Book your stay here!
Historical hotels offer more than luxurious accommodations; they provide an authentic journey into the past, with stories woven into every brick and beam. From ancient palaces in India to grand European castles, these 12 hotels give travelers a unique chance to experience history firsthand. Next time you plan a trip, consider booking a stay in one of these heritage properties for a truly unforgettable journey into the past.