Discover Europe’s Premier City Hotels

Europe’s city hotels are not only among the oldest in the world, but they also continue to set the gold standard for exceptional service. Furthermore, the continent is home to some of the most innovative and design-forward properties, which have opened in recent years.

Top Hotels of 2023

This year’s list of our readers’ favorite hotels encompasses both classic and contemporary styles, demonstrating that whether you prefer traditional elegance or modern chic, there is no wrong choice. Each year, for the World’s Best Awards survey, readers are invited to share their travel experiences and opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and much more. Hotels were rated based on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value, with properties classified as city or resort according to their amenities and locations.

Iconic Hotels in Europe

Le Meurice

At the top of our list is Le Meurice (No. 3), which has been nestled in its historic location on the Rue de Rivoli since 1835. The hotel dazzles visitors with period details, lavish tapestries, antique mirrors, and stunning crystal chandeliers. One fan remarked, “Its location and service and history are appealing. I was most recently given a room overlooking the Tuileries. J’aime beaucoup.”

Le Negresco

Seventy-eight years after Le Meurice opened, Le Negresco began welcoming guests along the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Describing it as “pure elegance,” one fan praised the 1913 landmark, adding, “Beautiful old hotel.”

Hotel Maria Cristina

Opened in 1912, the Hotel Maria Cristina in San Sebastián, Spain, boasts gilded halls and antique-filled rooms, embodying the grandeur of the Belle Époque era. One guest joyfully expressed, “What a gem! We felt like we had stepped back in time to an age of grace and elegance with exquisite attention to detail.”

Modern Luxury at J.K. Place

When the modern J.K. Place opened in Rome in 2013, it quickly gained a reputation as a classic. Interiors designed by Michele Bönan artfully combine jewel tones, plush fabrics, and antiques, creating an effortlessly timeless ambiance. “Love the linen sheets and cashmere throws on the beds!” enthused a respondent.

Aman Venice

Additionally, the Aman Venice, located in the Palazzo Papadopoli, beautifully merges Old World aesthetics with modern comfort, featuring Tiepolo frescoes and a spa offering purifying rituals that rejuvenate body and soul.

Conclusion

These remarkable European city hotels each offer unique experiences that highlight the diverse luxury accommodations available across the continent. For travelers seeking history, elegance, and modern amenities, the best hotels await in iconic cities like Paris, Nice, and Rome.