Exploring a new city or revisiting a favorite destination opens the door to countless opportunities for discovery. Every city, no matter its age, holds fascinating stories waiting to be uncovered — if you take the time to dig a little deeper.

With so many exceptional hotels around the globe, why not elevate your next travel experience by choosing a place that offers more than just luxury? Imagine staying somewhere steeped in days gone by — a hotel that not only provides supreme contentment but also weaves you into its past. 

Historic hotels, typically over 75 years old, bear significance to their location’s heritage. Whether they were once owned by a famed figure, witnessed pivotal moments in the past, or are housed in landmark buildings, these institutions of comfort bring stories to life. Many preserve their original architecture and charm while seamlessly blending in the latest amenities.

If you’re searching for an extraordinary place to stay on your next vacation, where history mingles with luxury and hospitality, these remarkable hotels promise a truly memorable trip.

CONVENT SQUARE LISBON HOTEL – VIGNETTE COLLECTION
Lisbon, Portugal

The Convent Square Hotel in Lisbon has a very remarkable story spanning several centuries. The building was originally commissioned by King Sancho II of Portugal in 1242, as a monastery for monks of the Dominican Order. The monastery was the scene of several noted events, including the convention of Cortes of Coimbra in 1385, establishing a Parliament-style gathering of representatives of the nobility, clergy, and the middle class; and the Lisbon Massacre of 1506, which took place just before the Portuguese inquisition.

An earthquake in 1531 significantly damaged the convent and it was rebuilt in 1536, and a second earthquake in 1755 destroyed most of the building, except for the main chapel of the church. The monastery remained in use until its closure in 1834. 

This storied building is now the Convent Square Lisbon, Vignette Collection, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts in the heart of the vibrant Baixa district. The hotel has preserved many of the monastery architectural details of the original building with its cloisters, and color palate inspired by the adjoining church, Igreja de São Domingos, where Portuguese royal weddings have taken place. Combining contemporary décor with historic elements, the hotel celebrates Lisbon’s culture.

The 121-room hotel is built around the inner courtyard, which was the original open-air cloister, with its centuries-old olive trees, and fireplace, inviting guests to take in a serene atmosphere. The chic, rose-gold lobby, and CapÍtulo Restaurant with its vaulted ceilings and marble columns, reflect a timeless elegance. Tastefully designed rooms and suites mix antique accents with modern amenities. 

Above the beautiful cloister, guests can experience the serenity of a rooftop oasis. The indoor plunge pool and sauna provides an opportunity to relax while enjoying the peaceful ambiance.

Guests at Convent Square Hotel should not miss the chance to also visit its church, Igreja de São Domingos, a National Monument. The church, which had been badly damaged over the years by earthquakes and then by a fire in 1959, was restored and reopened in 1994, leaving many signs of the fire. 

Situated in one of the most recognizable neighborhoods in Lisbon, the hotel is near Rossio Square and a few steps away from Baixa Pombalina, commonly known as Lisbon Downtown. Just ask the dedicated concierge team at Convent Square for help planning your time in the city. 

KIMPTON HOTEL MONACO DENVER
Denver, Colorado, USA

The Kimpton Monaco Denver is made up of two adjacent historical buildings in downtown Denver: The Railway Exchange and the Art Moderne Title buildings. These landmarks are both on the National Register of Historic Places and date back to the early 1900s. 

The original Railway Exchange, built in 1876, was demolished and replaced with a new building with a limestone facade in 1909. The Art Moderne Ttile building was built in 1928 and was the first Art Deco building in Denver. The Rocky Mountain News called it the “first fully modernistic building in Denver.”

The Hotel Denver Monaco was established in 1998 when the Kimpton hotel chain took over the building. This family and pet friendly boutique hotel features a bright, upbeat décor and is conveniently located in downtown Denver. The large living-room lobby welcomes guests with its elegant touches and distinctive hand-painted ceiling. Be sure to snap a picture with Moonica, the large cow statue that greets visitors by the elevator.

Newly renovated guestrooms and suites offer a balance of comfort and style. Decorated in blues and greens with leather accents, rooms even come with their own yoga mat for guests’ use. 

Onsite, the award-winning Panzano Italian restaurant focuses on local, organic, and sustainable cuisine. As well, the lively bar is the perfect spot to unwind, especially during their Wine Happy Hour. 

With many options of things to do in and around Denver, the hotel provides curated experiences for its visitors. Guests can choose from active activities like hiking, skiing, or mountain bike adventures; immersion in the city’s art scene; craft beer or culinary tours; shopping expeditions; and visits to music or sports venues. 

FCC ANGKOR BY AVANI
Siem Reap, Cambodia

Built in 1917, the French Colonial style building with its large windows and wraparound porch, was the home to the French Governor up until 1946 when Cambodia was granted self-rule. The building became a popular meeting place for celebrities and journalists and was subsequently named the Foreign Correspondents Club.

Recently renovated, The FCC Angkor is a beautiful, 80-room boutique hotel in Siem Reap. Set amidst lush tropical flora and ancient trees, the hotel is in the center of town, across from the Royal Residence and Independence Gardens. Visitors can spend days exploring Angkor Wat, local cafes, shops, and galleries, which are just minutes away via tuk tuk. 

During the renovations, the owners of the hotel paid special attention to local culture and artisans, utilizing handcrafted items from local bamboo and textile weavers, and stone cutters in the design. 

The guest rooms and suites have views of either the gardens, pool or the river, and are spacious and understatedly elegant. Blending the colonial architecture with Khmer copper artifacts, peacock chairs, and handmade bed runners adds warmth and character to guest rooms. 

Restored to its former glory, The Mansion restaurant is one of the buildings on property that has retained its original architecture. With high ceilings, rattan furniture, and large windows opening to the tropical gardens, guests can enjoy authentic Khmer cuisine and Asian fusion dishes. For cocktails, Scribe is a contemporary take on a colonial-styled bar, with its copper, wood and sandstone décor. 

JW MARRIOTT SAVANNAH PLANT RIVERSIDE DISTRICT
Savannah, Georgia, USA

Early in the 1900s, Savannah Georgia became one of the region’s most prosperous communities, enabling the city to make widespread improvements to the infrastructure. These improvements included the creation of a power grid to supply electricity to local homes and businesses. The development of a sprawling power plant along the Savannah River was commissioned by city officials and construction began in 1912. 

The building, with its 176-foot smokestacks and eclectic architecture quickly became a beloved landmark and was known as Riverside Station. The power plant provided electricity to the municipality for several years, even necessitating expansions to the facility due to increased demand in the 1940s and 1950s, until the complex was closed in 2005 and operations moved to another location. 

The iconic building was eventually acquired by the Kessler Collection whose plans were already under way to transform Riverside Station into a multiuse entertainment center. With the infusion of millions of dollars into the project, the power plant was transformed into an impressive hotel, The JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District.

Catering to different tastes, this riverside retreat consists of three distinct buildings: Restored to its former glory, The Mansion restaurant is one of the buildings on property that has retained its original architecture. With high ceilings, rattan furniture, and large windows opening to the tropical gardens, guests can enjoy authentic Khmer cuisine and Asian fusion dishes. For cocktails, Scribe is a contemporary take on a colonial styled bar, with its copper, wood and sandstone décor. 

JW MARRIOTT SAVANNAH PLANT RIVERSIDE DISTRICT
Savannah, Georgia, USA

Early in the 1900s, Savannah Georgia became one of the region’s most prosperous communities, enabling the city to make widespread improvements to the infrastructure. These improvements included the creation of a power grid to supply electricity to local homes and businesses. The development of a sprawling power plant along the Savannah River was commissioned by city officials and construction began in 1912. 

The building, with its 176-foot smokestacks and eclectic architecture quickly became a beloved landmark and was known as Riverside Station. The power plant provided electricity to the municipality for several years, even necessitating expansions to the facility due to increased demand in the 1940s and 1950s, until the complex was closed in 2005 and operations moved to another location. 

The iconic building was eventually acquired by the Kessler Collection whose plans were already under way to transform Riverside Station into a multiuse entertainment center. 

With the infusion of millions of dollars into the project, the power plant was transformed into an impressive hotel, The JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District.

Catering to different tastes, this riverside retreat consists of three distinct buildings: Restored to its former glory, The Mansion restaurant is one of the buildings on property that has retained its original architecture. With high ceilings, rattan furniture, and large windows opening to the tropical gardens, guests can enjoy authentic Khmer cuisine and Asian fusion dishes. For cocktails, Scribe is a contemporary take on a colonial styled bar, with its copper, wood and sandstone décor. 

JW MARRIOTT SAVANNAH PLANT RIVERSIDE DISTRICT
Savannah, Georgia, USA

Early in the 1900s, Savannah Georgia became one of the region’s most prosperous communities, enabling the city to make widespread improvements to the infrastructure. These improvements included the creation of a power grid to supply electricity to local homes and businesses. The development of a sprawling power plant along the Savannah River was commissioned by city officials and construction began in 1912. 

The building, with its 176-foot smokestacks and eclectic architecture quickly became a beloved landmark and was known as Riverside Station. The power plant provided electricity to the municipality for several years, even necessitating expansions to the facility due to increased demand in the 1940s and 1950s, until the complex was closed in 2005 and operations moved to another location. 

The iconic building was eventually acquired by the Kessler Collection whose plans were already under way to transform Riverside Station into a multiuse entertainment center. With the infusion of millions of dollars into the project, the power plant was transformed into an impressive hotel, The JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District. Catering to different tastes, this riverside retreat consists of three distinct buildings: the chic Power Plant, romantic Three Muses, and the contemporary maritime Atlantic.

The Power Plant how has an expansive lobby, with a life-size chrome dinosaur, and is home to many restaurants, art galleries and rooftop lounges. The guest rooms are bold with original architectural details, paired with industrial styled accents.The Three Muses has an alluring, soft aura, with sophisticated guestrooms adorned with whimsical realist art. With beautiful views of the riverfront, the Three Muses is designed for romance.

The Atlantic, with its maritime details, inspires guests on a bespoke yacht voyage. Traditional and stately, this fascinating hotel is an unparalleled retreat. Nestled in the heart of historic Savannah, The JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District is the city’s most luxurious hotel andentertainment destination. Visitors have accessto incredible restaurants, high-end shopping, live music, and curated experiences.

RADISSON COLLECTION HOTEL, PALAZZO NANI VENICE
Venice, Italy

Palazzo Nani is a Renaissance palace, built in the 16th century as a residence for the noble Nani family, which dates back to the 12th century. Originally the neoclassical-style palazzo contained a large art collection, including items from Roman times and the entrance portal was decorated with two large statues of consuls.
 
The palace was owned by the Nani family up until 1810, when the family moved to live in San Trovaso. The Austrian army occupied the palazzo in 1959, turning it into barracks, and subsequently the building was turned into a school. During this period the art collection gradually disappeared. 

The Fines Arts Heritage Committee approved a renovation of the building, led by architect Marco Piva. The work preserved some of the original decorative and architectural elements of the façade and interior, including stuccos, historical ornaments, and murals on the walls and ceilings. Situated close to the Venetian Ghetto, on the Cannaregio Canal, the palazzo’s façade is unadorned and asymmetrical, due to additions that extend the right side of the building. When renovations were completed in 2021 Palazzo Nani became a Radisson Collection hotel.

The elegant reception area with its dark woods and plush furnishings opens to the vibrant Zoja Wine Bar and Terrace restaurant. On the second and third floor Saloons guests can admire the bright rooms’ murals, frescos, and painted ceiling, while in contrast the fourth floor Saloon is modern and understated. The hotel’s 52 guestrooms and suites feature contemporary furnishings, with touches of the original painted walls and ceilings. The rooms have views of the Cannaregio canal, the city streets, or the courtyard. 

The hotel is surrounded by markets, neighborhood shops, and cafes. Guests are a short distance away from St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and other local attractions. 

THE ARIZONA BILTMORE
Phoenix, Arizona, USA

The Arizona Biltmore’s story began in 1910 when brothers Warren and Charles McArthur moved from Chicago to Phoenix and started a tour company with an outfitted Dodge truck. They envisioned Arizona as a premier tourist destination and, recognizing the lack of quality accommodations, decided to build a world-class hotel.

In 1928 construction began on the Arizona Biltmore with designs by Albert Chase McArthur, brother to the owners. McArthur, a draftsman for Frank Lloyd Wright, paid him $10,000 to use his patented block design, only to find out that Wright did not own the patent. Wright provided four months of on-site consultation for the project, specifically with the implementation of the textile block system that is the signature feature of the hotel’s overall appearance, which is why he has been mistakenly credited for the design.

Construction was swift, taking nine months, and the hotel opened with a grand gala on February 23, 1929. An overwhelming response to the invitations led to the celebration spanning three nights to accommodate all 600 guests. Later that year, however, the stock market crash forced a sale to initial investor William Wrigley Jr., whose legacy remains tied to the nearby Wrigley Mansion, now a private club built in 1931.

The Biltmore became a glamorous haven for Hollywood stars like Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe. Ronald and Nancy Reagan honeymooned there in 1953, favoring the charm of Cottage 1. However, in 1973, a fire caused massive damage, closing part of the resort. The hotel reopened after just 90 days of restoration, which included adding the iconic stainedglass piece, “Saguaro Forms and Cactus Flowers,” designed by Wright.

Today, the Arizona Biltmore is the epitome of elegance. Guests can choose from exquisite rooms, cottages, and villas, all radiating Hollywood glamour and desert chic. The resort offers two championship golf courses, seven pools, and diverse dining experiences, including its famous Tequila Sunrise cocktail.

Even with so much to do at the resort, the Phoenix area and beyond have many thrills like hot air balloon rides over the Sonoran Desert and of course, the iconic Grand Canyon. Blending luxury, and natural beauty, the Arizona Biltmore remains a quintessential desert retreat

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