Any savvy traveler knows that a hotel can make or break a vacation. Who wouldn’t want to bed down someplace with a fantastic art collection or out-of-this-world decor? Ahead, we’ve compiled a list of showstoppers sure to make your stay a memorable one.
For the design junkie:
From mind-blowing architecture to quirky interior design, these hotels have unique aesthetics that are guaranteed to be easy on the eyes.
1. Wanderlust Hotel, Singapore
Located in Singapore’s Little India neighborhood, this whimsical getaway features rooms with decor chosen according to themes from “Yellow Submarine” to “Origami.” The hotel also has an eclectic outdoor terrace with funky furniture and a rainbow-tiled jacuzzi.
2. Marqués de Riscal Vineyard Hotel, Elciego, Spain
This hotel in the wine country of Spain is a work of art in and of itself. It’s the brainchild of renowned architect Frank Gehry, but it isn’t just a feast for the eyes: it’s also home to several fantastic restaurants and a wine bar that showcases the finest vintages from the region.
3. The Saguaro Palm Springs, Palm Springs, CA
If you’re seeking a technicolor dreamworld nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, look no further. It’s easy to see why the Saguaro has been the chosen venue for Coachella pool parties time and time again.
4. One and Only Bedroom, Hotel Droog, Amsterdam
For the design-obsessed, it doesn’t get much better than this: this one-room escape is located on the top floor of iconic fashion and design store Hotel Droog. The building is located in a complex of 17th-century houses that Droog has converted into studios, a gallery and a charming garden.
For the contemporary art aficionado:
Ever loved a museum or gallery so much you wished you could live there? We know the feeling. You can sleep in the presence of artistic greatness almost anywhere in the world thanks to visionary hotel owners who have chosen to fill their properties with impressive collections of contemporary art.
5. Semiramis Hotel, Athens
Not only does this hotel boast a killer futuristic aesthetic loaded with neon and lucite, but thanks to owner Dakis Joannou, it also houses works by stellar artists such as Jeff Koons and Takashi Murakami.
6. El Fenn, Marrakech
Since this hotel was founded by London-based gallerist, collector and founder of the Marrakech Biennale Vanessa Branson, it’s no surprise that art can be found in every nook and cranny of the refurbished palace, from the restaurant to the bedrooms and even the library.
7. The Sagamore, Miami, FL
The Sagamore has been a landmark in the art world since the 1940’s, but recently it has stepped up its game. Partnering with various museums and galleries to create innovative programs, this hotel has seen exclusive installations and live performances from the likes of Banksy, Mr. Brainwash and Spencer Tunick.
8. The Swatch Art Peace Hotel, Shanghai
This institution’s unique concept blends a conventional hotel and retail model with a renowned artist residency program. Artists from all kinds of backgrounds are selected to live in the historical luxury hotel for anywhere from 3 to 6 months and asked to “leave a trace,” i.e., a piece of their work, for future guests to enjoy.
9. Le Pavillon de La Reine, Paris
This vine-covered 18th-century mansion is the picture of French elegance. On the inside, historical vibes blend effortlessly with contemporary design features, and the outdoor courtyard is home to an impressive collection of modern sculptures by artists such as Guillaume Piechaud. Added bonus for art lovers? This haven is located right around the corner from the Musée Picasso.
10. Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, CA
This unique hotel’s rust-colored, understatedly modern buildings perfectly complement its breathtaking cliffside views of the Pacific Ocean. Also on the property is an art gallery where an exhibit of photographs by Ansel Adams is currently on view.
For the history buff:
Of course, we couldn’t complete this list without a nod to those Old World hotels that have become household names due to the unadulterated opulence of their architecture and decor.
11. Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico City
This 5-star hotel is located smack in the center of the city. The gorgeous French nouveau architecture is perfectly preserved, but the real star of the show is the magnificent 1908 Tiffany stained-glass canopy in the atrium.
12. Aman Canal Grande, Venice
Amal and George Clooney got married here and if that’s not enough to convince you to stay here, this 16th-century palace is decked out with extravagant historic decor such as Murano glass chandeliers and even some frescoes by Tiepolo. Art history nerds, rejoice.
13. St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel, London
Okay, so this hotel wasn’t actually built during the Renaissance, but it’s still got history. It was built in 1873 and has been restored to its original glory, Gothic Revival metalwork, gold leaf ceilings, hand stenciled wall designs and all. Not to mention, the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe” music video was filmed here.
