Breadcrumbs ![7 European Grande Dame Hotels You Need To Visit](https://media.sheerluxe.com/igELPRUq-sev3CWQoSEXf4TZh-0=/500x221/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2Fsl-gold-site-assets-1026-hero-travel-grande-dame-hotels.jpg) ![7 European Grande Dame Hotels You Need To Visit](https://media.sheerluxe.com/1nk8VQKFDzMkunLTPxKCD8bGgh4=/400x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2Fsl-gold-site-assets-1026-thumb-travel-grande-dame-hotels.jpg) ![7 European Grande Dame Hotels You Need To Visit](https://media.sheerluxe.com/igELPRUq-sev3CWQoSEXf4TZh-0=/500x221/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2Fsl-gold-site-assets-1026-hero-travel-grande-dame-hotels.jpg) ![7 European Grande Dame Hotels You Need To Visit](https://media.sheerluxe.com/1nk8VQKFDzMkunLTPxKCD8bGgh4=/400x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2Fsl-gold-site-assets-1026-thumb-travel-grande-dame-hotels.jpg) [Europe](/culture/travel/europe) / 19 October 2026 # 7 European Grande Dame Hotels You Need To Visit There’s something particularly appealing about a hotel with a sense of history. Some of Europe’s grandest addresses are enjoying a new lease of life thanks to a string of thoughtful restorations that have brought Belle Epoque landmarks, aristocratic retreats and historic palazzos into the 21st century – without losing what made them special in the first place. If you love interesting architecture, impeccable service and old-world glamour, these are the hotels to put on your bucket list… ByJEANNETTE ARNOLD [ Save To My Favourites ](/user/login?destination=/markdownify/node/54422) Image: Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products. [ ![Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel, Cannes](https://media.sheerluxe.com/gX-v-wldmMcuyIig9ty6S7ZWygo=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2F7-european-grande-dame-hotels-you-need-to-visit.jpg) ](https://carltoncannes.com/en/) Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel, Cannes ## THE LEGENDARY RIVIERA LANDMARK ### Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel, Cannes Famously the first luxury hotel to open in Cannes, the Carlton has been an iconic fixture on the Côte d’Azur for over a century. Occupying the frontage of an entire block overlooking the city’s Boulevard de la Croisette and with uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean, the hotel first opened in 1911 when Cannes was fast becoming one of Europe’s most fashionable destinations. Known for its extraordinary guest list and relationship with the Cannes Film Festival, it’s become synonymous with the glamour of the French Riviera and has hosted everyone from royalty and film stars to presidents. It even acted as the backdrop for Alfred Hitchcock’s 1955 movie, *To Catch A Thief*, starring Cary Grant and Grace Kelly. In 2023, following a two-year closure and one of the most ambitious restorations in its history, the hotel reopened as part of Regent Hotels & Resorts. Its Belle Epoque façade, framed by the twin domes, and the ‘Carlton Hotel’ inscription atop the front were all meticulously restored to their former glory and the hotel itself was extended with new wings either side of a large, leafy landscaped garden (formerly the car park). One of the largest infinity pools in Cannes was also added, as was a swish spa and state-of-the-art fitness centre. Meanwhile, the interiors were given a more contemporary interpretation of Riviera glamour by the acclaimed French interior designer Tristan Auer without sacrificing the building’s listed heritage and the hotel’s legendary spirit. The moment you step through the century-old wood revolving doors, it’s hard not to be totally wowed by the high ceilings, chandeliers, frescoed domes, marble columns and the most beautiful flower arrangements. The reimagined hotel now has 332 rooms and suites, including the penthouse suite where guests have private use of a vast, landscaped rooftop garden. Inside each bedroom, you’ll find high ceilings, a calm palette of beige and cream tones, artisan fabrics and every modern luxury needed for a truly restful stay. When booking, it is worth bearing in mind that only 72 rooms have sea views – do splash out on one of these, as nothing beats waking up to the natural light and panoramic views of the Med and the seafront promenade. Across the road, the private beach club dates back to 1930 – there is something wonderfully old school about spending the day here, lounging on one of the navy and white striped sunbeds, watching the boats pass by and dipping into the Med for a swim, followed by a long lunch (be sure to order the brioche lobster roll). *Rates at the* [*Carlton Cannes*](https://carltoncannes.com/en/) *start from €518 per night on a B&B basis.* [ ![Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel, Cannes](https://media.sheerluxe.com/Fnlobi6FiIPHjjvVjmfm76F15DI=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2F7-european-grande-dame-hotels-you-need-to-visit2.jpg) ](https://carltoncannes.com/en/) Carlton Cannes, A Regent Hotel, Cannes ## THE ARISTOCRATIC RETREAT ### Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence Perched in the Fiesole hills, overlooking Florence, Villa San Michele reopened in April this year with 39 redesigned rooms and suites, a new Guerlain spa and restored gardens. Once a Renaissance convent, the legendary retreat, renowned for its celebrated Michelangelo-inspired façade, terraced gardens and sweeping views, retains the soul of a private residence while embodying the refinement and creative spirit of one of Italy's most storied hotels. Expect antique furnishings, frescoes, Tuscan marble and traditional craftsmanship, while the atmosphere remains that of a secluded aristocratic villa with the luxury of a Belmond hotel. The hotel has three restaurants, including the fine dining Antesi which is housed in the convent’s 16th-century loggia and has just eight tables – chef Alessandro Cozzolino’s menu uses the best seasonal, locally sourced produce. There are two stylish bars and a heated pool with stunning views of the hotel’s woodland and iconic wisteria. For the first time in its history, Villa San Michele will remain open throughout autumn and the festive season until 3rd January 2027. During this time, guests can enjoy a Masters of Savoir Faire programme, whereby you can visit some of the city’s artisans, artists and cultural custodians. *Rates at* [*Villa San Michele*](https://www.belmond.com/en/hotels/europe/italy/villa-san-michele-florence) *start from £1,010 per night, on a B&B basis.* [ ![Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence](https://media.sheerluxe.com/EldumU-UlxyywioiVwgGY642R0s=/1920x0/smart/filters:no_upscale()/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2F7-european-grande-dame-hotels-you-need-to-visit3.jpg) ](https://www.belmond.com/en/hotels/europe/italy/villa-san-michele-florence) Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence ## THE TIMELESS ADDRESS ### Hotel d’Angleterre, Copenhagen The Danish capital’s landmark Hotel d’Angleterre started life in 1755 as a restaurant, founded by a servant of the court who fell in love with the daughter of the royal chef, and evolved into what has long been considered Copenhagen’s best address. Balancing stately Victorian architecture and contemporary Nordic design, the hotel has undergone many iterations through the years and has been at the centre of the the city’s social life for more than two centuries, welcoming royalty, statesmen, artists and generations of distinguished visitors – world leaders like Winston Churchill and Bill Clinton, A-listers Tina Turner, Whitney Houson and Beyoncé, fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen and philosopher Søren Kierkegaard have all passed through the doors. A major restoration completed a decade ago brought the historic building into the modern era, while a further renovation of 92 bedrooms a couple of years ago has given them a fresh, more contemporary feel. With deep-pile carpets, heavy silk curtains, contemporary furnishings in a palette of greys and original artworks, the interiors exude understated elegance. Yet the hotel’s essential character remains unchanged: that of an iconic old-world grande dame, with its history woven into every corner. A few blocks from Amalienborg Palace and steps from the capital’s best shopping, the hotel is also home to Michelin-starred restaurant Marchal where the menu blends contemporary Nordic elements with classic French cuisine. Cap off your stay with a visit to the Amazing Space spa, a tranquil haven with an indoor pool – the only one in downtown Copenhagen. Though beautiful in all seasons, the hotel is famous for its fairytale-like Christmas decorations, making the holiday season one of the most romantic times to visit. *Rates at* [*Hotel d’Angleterre*](https://www.dangleterre.com/en) *start from €770 per night room only.* [ ![Orient Express La Minerva, Rome](https://media.sheerluxe.com/GEMp0uUI3z7Xj7nGrNVCW6tDdG0=/1920x0/smart/filters:no_upscale()/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2F7-european-grande-dame-hotels-you-need-to-visit4.jpg) ](https://www.orient-express.com/en/hotel/europe/italy/rome/la-minerva) Orient Express La Minerva, Rome ## THE PALAZZO REBORN ### Orient Express La Minerva, Rome Situated in the historic Piazza della Minerva, in the heart of Rome and just a few steps from the Pantheon, the 93-room La Minerva opened in the spring of 2025 – the first hotel in the Orient Express portfolio. The property, formerly known as Palazzo Fonseca, was built in 1620 as the residence of the aristocratic Portuguese Fonseca family, before becoming a hotel in 1811. It soon became a favourite destination for prominent artists and intellectuals in the Grand Tour era, hosting figures such as Stendhal, Vittorio Alfieri and Herman Melville. During the massive refurb, the building’s interiors and historical features were meticulously designed and restored and remain firmly rooted in the history of Rome, while incorporating art deco touches to reflect the glamour of the Orient Express trains. The suites bear names that connect with the past: Stendhal (honouring the illustrious guest), Obelisco (recalling the Piazza’s iconic monument), La Minerva (a tribute to the guardian goddess) and Orient Express (a celebration of the house’s legendary travel legacy). Expect bedside tables shaped like travel trunks, woven carpets reflecting Rome’s palette, hand-painted headboards in rose-hued skies recalling the light of the Eternal City, and curtains in subtle shades of blue mirror the shutters of the surrounding buildings. In a city of rooftops, the hotel’s highlight has to be the Gigi Rigolatto restaurant on the 7th floor where guests can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Eternal City, taking in the piazza below, St Peter’s Dome, the Pantheon and the Altare della Patria. The menu more than matches the breathtaking views – expect Mediterranean-cum-Roman dishes that have been given a modern twist like arancini, lobster linguine, aged beef carpaccio and Milanese; leave space for the best pistachio ice cream or the tiramisù. Breakfast is also served here. *Rates at* [*La Minerva*](https://www.orient-express.com/en/hotel/europe/italy/rome/la-minerva) *start from €1,950 per night on a B&B basis.* [ ![Orient Express La Minerva, Rome](https://media.sheerluxe.com/WQDoKoea3LHbartwc9fLhpmpGrw=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2F7-european-grande-dame-hotels-you-need-to-visit6.jpg) ](https://www.orient-express.com/en/hotel/europe/italy/rome/la-minerva) Orient Express La Minerva, Rome [ ![Orient Express La Minerva, Rome](https://media.sheerluxe.com/q2UhvN5eYpnpdY_FRqjyufa-8FE=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2F7-european-grande-dame-hotels-you-need-to-visit5.jpg) ](https://www.orient-express.com/en/hotel/europe/italy/rome/la-minerva) Orient Express La Minerva, Rome ## THE GLAMOUR OF OLD MADRID ### The Palace Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid Facing Madrid's iconic Neptune Fountain, The Palace Hotel has been one of the city's most celebrated landmarks since it opened in 1912. Commissioned by King Alfonso XIII, it was the largest hotel in Europe at that time and also the first hotel in Spain to feature an en-suite bathroom and telephone in every room. Located on the Plaza de las Cortes, the hotel is in the heart of Madrid’s Barrio de las Letras and is surrounded by some of the city's most renowned cultural institutions, including the Prado and Thyssen Bornemisza museums, as well as the Retiro Park and Plaza Mayor. It is no wonder The Palace has played a huge part in the social and cultural life of the Spanish capital. Over the decades, it has welcomed royalty, politicians, Hollywood celebs, artists and writers – Dalí, Picasso and Ernest Hemingway among them – and became a military hospital during the Spanish Civil War; the famous glass-domed lounge was used as an operating theatre, due to the abundant natural light. A four-year refurb, completed last year, saw the restoration of the hotel’s historic architecture while keeping the building’s sense of old-school luxury – the original art deco features and celebrated glass art nouveau dome were carefully preserved, while the 470 rooms and suites and public spaces were given a more contemporary polish. Many of the rooms have recovered fireplaces and are done up with art deco-inspired furniture, wallpaper inspired by the Retiro park, as well as warm velvets and marble. The large bathrooms have mosaic showers and amenities created exclusively for the hotel by Byredo. La Cúpula Restaurant & Bar is undoubtedly the crown jewel of The Palace Hotel – a space that was also restored to its former glamour of the Roaring 20s. Headed up by chef Nuno Matos, expect reimagined Spanish favourites as well as dishes inspired by former guests, such as Picasso’s twist on a Waldorf salad and steak tartare, a nod to journalist Julio Camba who lived at the hotel for 12 years. Don’t miss the 27 Club cocktail bar which oozes old-world charm and serves the best dry martinis. *Rates at* [*The Palace Hotel*](https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/madcl-the-palace-a-luxury-collection-hotel-madrid/overview/) *start from €420 per night room only.* [ ![The Palace Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid](https://media.sheerluxe.com/yyrjiVldbnWqjLJc4gA6KCcOPBY=/1920x0/smart/filters:no_upscale()/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2F7-european-grande-dame-hotels-you-need-to-visit7.jpg) ](https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/madcl-the-palace-a-luxury-collection-hotel-madrid/overview/) The Palace Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Madrid ## THE GREAT SPA HOTEL, REBORN ### Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa, Baden-Baden In the heart of the historic spa town of Baden-Baden in southwest Germany, Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa has the kind of pedigree that makes the term grande dame entirely appropriate. Dating back to 1872, it has been one of Europe’s great spa hotels for more than 150 years, welcoming royalty, political leaders and cultural figures and playing a surprising role in European history — including hosting the 1962 Franco-German talks that helped pave the way for the friendship treaty between the two countries. After a two-year transformation, Brenners reopened in late 2025. In order to retain the hotel’s rich heritage and distinctive Beaux-Arts architectural style, historical elements – such as the traditional staircases, original doors and distinctive window frames – have been beautifully preserved and the introduction of design and sustainability initiatives seamlessly integrate into the property. In total, 79 rooms and suites were redesigned with unique design concepts, which are timelessly elegant while complemented by modern touches. Rather than attempting to make the hotel uber fashionable, the renovation has reinforced what made Brenner special in the first place: old-school European hospitality, beautiful parkland and the unmistakable sense of staying somewhere that has been around for generations. As well as being the ultimate playground for guests to explore the hotel’s unrivalled location at the gateway to the Black Forest, the spa is widely regarded as one of the best in the world and combines luxury facilities with expert medical care offering guests a holistic approach to health and wellness. Only two hours by train from Paris to nearby Strasbourg, the historic hotel has become a destination of relaxation, culinary pleasure and sophisticated entertainment, with Baden-Baden also home to Germany’s oldest and ornate casino in the style of French Royal castles. *Rates at* [*Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa*](https://www.oetkerhotels.com/hotels/brenners-park-hotel-spa/) *start from €600 per night on a B&B basis.* [ ![Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa, Baden-Baden](https://media.sheerluxe.com/RleDHHtx9Uiig8O7C3pqp-tgSrA=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2F7-european-grande-dame-hotels-you-need-to-visit10.jpg) ](https://www.oetkerhotels.com/hotels/brenners-park-hotel-spa/) Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa, Baden-Baden [ ![Corinthia Brussels](https://media.sheerluxe.com/lnup2m40lovE_kwn6KXaKoWiVi8=/800x0/smart/https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fsites%2Fsheerluxe%2Ffiles%2Farticles%2F2026%2F10%2F7-european-grande-dame-hotels-you-need-to-visit8.jpg) ](https://www.corinthia.com/en-gb/brussels/) Corinthia Brussels ## THE RESTORED BELLE EPOQUE ICON ### Corinthia Brussels Situated on rue Royale in the centre of Brussels and having stood empty for almost 17 years, the Corinthia opened in December 2024 following a four-year, €150-million restoration. Formerly the Grand Hotel Astoria, this Belle Époque landmark was originally commissioned by King Leopold II and designed by Henri van Dievoet for the 1910 Brussels International Exposition and as a palace to host distinguished guests of the King. With its era-defining architecture and opulent interiors, it became synonymous with elegance, hosting illustrious visitors like Winston Churchill and Andy Warhol. Carried out in collaboration with Brussels’ heritage authorities, the renovation has meticulously preserved the ground floor, façade and the building’s palatial character while introducing contemporary suites, elegant restaurants and a subterranean spa. At its heart is the Palm Court, which is graced by a magnificent, restored stained-glass skylight – guest pass through this breathtaking space before ascending the grand staircase to reach the hotel’s 90 bedrooms, 31 suites and five signature suites all of which evoke regal opulence with palettes of blue and rust and gold, inspired by the building’s rich history. The hotel offers a sophisticated array of dining experiences, from Michelin-starred cuisine at Le Petit Bon Bon and Palais Royal to inventive cocktails at Under The Stairs. The stunning destination spa features signature Sisley treatments. *Rates at* [*Corinthia Brussels*](https://www.corinthia.com/en-gb/brussels/) *start from €465 per night room only.* [ Sign in to comment with your SheerLuxe profile ](/user/login?destination=)Or continue to comment as a Guest below [View the discussion thread.](http://sheerluxe-dev.disqus.com/) Share This Story [Facebook ](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?display=popup&redirect_uri=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com&u=https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fculture%2Ftravel%2Feurope%2F7-european-grande-dame-hotels-you-need-to-visit&t=7+European+Grande+Dame+Hotels+You+Need+To+Visit) [ Pinterest ](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fsheerluxe.com%2Fculture%2Ftravel%2Feurope%2F7-european-grande-dame-hotels-you-need-to-visit&description=7+European+Grande+Dame+Hotels+You+Need+To+Visit&media=) [ E-mail ]() DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. 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