These established hotels have stood the test of time, preserving their illustrious heritage while catering to the modern traveler.
While many travel to explore the city, these hotels are very much a part of their region’s history and culture.
Experience decades of stories, architecture, and design even during your trip’s downtime by staying at these long-established accommodations.
READ ALSO: Once Upon A Time: 5 Real Life Storybook Castles Around The World
Rambagh Palace
India’s Rambagh Palace is a treasured landmark, now recognized by travelers all over the globe. In the 2023 Travellers’ Choice Awards, hosted by TripAdvisor, Rambagh Palace was crowned the best hotel in the world.
Located in India, the palace was the former residence of the royal family. Often called the “Jewel of Jaipur,” it was originally built in 1835 to serve as the home of the queen’s favorite handmaiden.
Later on, it also became a royal guesthouse and hunting lodge. It was in 1925 when the Maharaja of Jaipur made the palace his permanent residence.
Today, Rambagh Palace offers its guests luxury and extravagance that was once fit for royalty. It features elegantly appointed rooms, marbled corridors, airy verandas, and majestic gardens set in 47 acres that echo with history.
The hotel’s Suvarna Mahal also won the title of India’s Best Hotel Restaurant for 2024 by the World Culinary Awards. The fine-dining establishment treats its guests with rich Indian cuisine tinged with nostalgia, inspired by the region’s traditional cooking methods and ingredients.
Brown’s Hotel
Known as London’s oldest luxury hotel, Brown’s Hotel has never been renamed, rebuilt, or relocated.
Founded in 1832 by James and Sarah Brown, the hotel has opened its doors to a diverse cast of characters such as Agatha Christie, American President Franklin Roosevelt, Mahatma Gandhi, and Diana, Princess of Wales.
During World War II, Brown’s welcomed servicemen and politicians from the Allied nations and added an air raid shelter to its facilities. Swiss manager Anton Wallimann worked hard to ensure a warm environment for his guests, even while struggling to find food and the staff to serve it.
With almost 200 years in service, Brown’s now operates under Rocco Forte Hotels. Take a rest in their inviting rooms and luxurious suites, enjoy British Afternoon Tea in The Drawing Room, savor fine cuisine at Charlie’s at Brown’s, sip cocktails after dark at the Donovan Bar, and relax and rejuvenate at The Spa at Brown’s.
The Gritti Palace
Experience the beauty of Venice’s Grand Canal at The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel. Dating back to 1475, the original palace was redesigned in Venetian Gothic style for the Pisani family.
In the 16th century, it became the private residence of the Doge of Venice, Andrea Gritti. In the centuries that followed, it was home to other noble families and illustrious visitors.
The Gritti Palace was turned into a hotel at the beginning of the 19th century, undergoing a meticulous renovation.
Today, it continues to offer its guests an insight into its illustrious past, from its beautiful terrazzo floors to the remarkable selection of artworks and antiques.
Indulge in Venetian culinary traditions at the hotel’s Club del Doge Restaurant, restored by the city’s artisans. Meanwhile, The Gritti Terrace offers al fresco dining right next to the Grand Canal.
Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, commonly known as just Château Frontenac, is situated in Old Quebec, perched on a promontory.
Now designated a United Nations World Heritage site, the hotel boasts breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and the fortified old city.
Completed in 1893, Château Frontenac was designed by American architect Bruce Price and was originally a part of a series of hotels built for the Canadian Pacific Railway company, as a railroad pitstop for train travelers.
During World War II, officials including President Roosevelt, British Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill, and Canadian Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King met there to discuss strategies during the First and Second Quebec Conference.
Now a heritage urban resort, Château Frontenac features luxurious furnishings, indoor pools, restorative spa treatments, and impeccable service. Garnering numerous prestigious awards and accolades, it has been one of the most recognized hotels in the world for years.
Banner image via Instagram @fairmontfrontenac.
