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There’s something inherently magical about hotels in historical locations. These aren’t just places to stay; they’re doorways into centuries of stories, culture, and craftsmanship. Around the world, some remarkable properties have transformed timeworn buildings into luxurious havens, blending heritage with world-class service. Here are some of the most unique hotels that let you live history, in comfort and style.
1. Hotel Danieli, Venice
Once the 14th-century Palazzo Dandolo, Hotel Danieli sits right on the Riva degli Schiavoni, facing the Venetian lagoon. Step inside and you’re met with soaring Gothic arches, gilded ceilings, and Murano glass chandeliers — every detail dripping in old-world glamour. Writers like Proust and stars like Sophia Loren have stayed in its suites, known for their palatial feel and Grand Canal views. It balances historic beauty with seamless five-star hospitality.
2. Hôtel de Crillon, Paris
Overlooking the elegant Place de la Concorde, Hôtel de Crillon has been a Parisian landmark since 1758. It underwent a thoughtful renovation under Rosewood Hotels, keeping its neoclassical architecture intact while infusing the interiors with fresh, contemporary sophistication. The suites, designed by Karl Lagerfeld, are true showpieces. Add Michelin-starred dining and a serene underground spa, and you’ve got a hotel that feels both iconic and effortlessly modern.
3. Aman Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan, Yamanashi
Dating back to 705 AD, this serene ryokan in Japan’s Yamanashi prefecture holds the Guinness World Record as the oldest hotel in the world. Tucked away in the Japanese Alps, it offers traditional wooden interiors, onsen baths fed by natural hot springs, and exquisite seasonal cuisine. Under Aman’s discreet luxury touch, it’s an ideal escape for anyone looking to unplug and immerse themselves in Japanese tradition, with a touch of modern comfort.
4. Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Quebec City
Le Château Frontenac looks like it leapt from the pages of a fairytale. Built in 1893, this towering château-style hotel presides over Quebec’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. Think copper turrets, grand staircases, and sweeping river views. Inside, the gold-accented suites and heritage-inspired ballrooms maintain an air of classic elegance, while Fairmont’s polished service brings it all into the now.
5. Belmond Villa San Michele, Fiesole
Set on a hillside above Florence, this former Franciscan monastery dates back to the 15th century and features a Renaissance façade said to be designed by Michelangelo. It’s every bit as romantic as it sounds — terraced gardens, panoramic views, lemon trees, and cloisters that feel frozen in time. Inside, rooms mix antique charm with plush comfort, and dining on the loggia is pure Tuscan bliss.
6. Galle Fort Hotel, Sri Lanka
Hidden inside the 17th-century Dutch Fort in Galle, this boutique hotel was once a merchant’s residence. Its restored colonial architecture, from pillared verandas to timber ceilings, creates an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Each suite feels like a small, personal gallery, mixing Sri Lankan heritage with artisanal elegance. It’s a calm, design-forward refuge for those in the know.
7. Hotel El Convento, San Juan
Tucked in the cobbled heart of Old San Juan, Hotel El Convento is a former Carmelite convent dating back to 1651. It’s now a serene boutique hotel with leafy courtyards, Spanish colonial accents, and views of the city’s oldest cathedral. The rooms nod to history but keep things cosy and refined, offering a unique Caribbean charm you won’t find anywhere else.
8. The Ritz, Paris
Since 1898, The Ritz has defined Parisian luxury. Housed in an 18th-century townhouse on the Place Vendôme, its walls have seen the likes of Coco Chanel, Ernest Hemingway, and Audrey Hepburn. The recent renovation kept its Belle Époque soul while upgrading its already legendary amenities — think the spa, the Hemingway Bar, and themed suites inspired by its most glamorous guests.
9. The Savoy, London
The Savoy changed the game when it opened in 1889, becoming the first luxury hotel in Britain with electric lights and private bathrooms. Today, its Art Deco interiors still dazzle, particularly in the Royal Suite, which offers Thames views fit for royalty. From cocktails at the American Bar to a show-stopping dinner at the Savoy Grill, it’s a celebration of London’s enduring elegance.
10. The Gritti Palace, Venice
Originally built in 1475 and later becoming the home of Doge Andrea Gritti, this canal-side gem is the very definition of Venetian grandeur. Think hand-painted ceilings, silk-covered walls, and antique furnishings that feel more like a museum than a hotel. Part of The Luxury Collection, the Gritti is known for its intimate atmosphere and sublime dining. Enjoy a meal at Club del Doge with the Grand Canal sparkling just metres away.
These aren’t just hotels; they’re living pieces of history, offering immersive stays that bring the past into the present with grace and style. For travellers who value substance alongside splendour, these hotels in historical buildings deliver a truly unforgettable experience.
