European Capital Cities — Our 20 Best Hotels

Heritage Hotel Madrid

Europe's capital cities are crammed with luxury hotels these days, but if you want to steer clear of the big name chains, then this is a good place to start! We've scoured the streets of Paris, London, Rome, Madrid and many others to select a comprehensive list of the best hotels in Europe's top cities. As well as elegant Grand dames, you'll find gorgeous boutique hotels, and cosy B&Bs which not only offer a personalised touch, but also won't break the bank. Browse our list and start planning your grand tour!

  • Hotel de Rome Berlin (Gendarmenmarkt) 146 rooms from CA$754

    Sights nearby  -  Explore the city by hopping on the metro at U Hausvogteiplatz
    Swimming Pool  -  Indoor Pool
    Four poster beds  -  For romantics.
    Full of character
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyDisabled accessParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Fodors, Frommers, Kiwi Collection, Michelin Travel

    One of Rocco Forte's finest hotels. Architectural splendour and grand interiors that ooze contemporary elegance. Sleek rooms and suites in blues, reds and beiges. Fantastic roof top terrace bar/lounge with unrivalled views of Berlin, great spa. An ultra-stylish spot for any city visitor. See More

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  • Le Bristol Paris (Faubourg St Honore) 188 rooms from CA$1266

    Restaurant  -  The Epicure has three Michelin Stars and 114 Faubourg has one.
    Designer Shopping  -  Located on the Rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré
    Garden  -  Stunning courtyard garden
    Gourmet
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled access

    Opulence and luxury in the heart of Paris' designer district. Outstanding service from super friendly staff. Rooms are stuffed with antiques and original artworks and bedrooms are huge. Michelin starred dining and the only hotel rooftop pool in Paris. See More

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  • Hotel Bourg Tibourg Paris (Le Marais) 24 rooms from CA$366

    Romantic Break  -  An opulent and sultry love nest, think miles of red velvet, subdued lighting and Byzantine alcoves with mosaic-tile tubs.
    City Style  -  With Jacques Garcia behind the design of Hotel Bourg Tibourg you are guaranteed a seriously stylish stay!
    Sights nearby  -  Marais is brimming with galleries, historic sights and museums, the most notable, Notre Dame, is just down the road.
    Lively area  -  In the heart of the Marais.
    Air conditioning
    Recommended by  -  Frommers, Fodors

    A handsome Parisian townhouse turned sultry Moorish palace. The heavily adorned, compact boudoirs boast rich fabrics & innumerable tassels whilst Junior Suites offer a more sleek contemporary vibe. Communal areas are full of character too, plus there's a welcome courtyard garden. A hidden gem. See More

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  • The Gore Hotel, Starhotels Collezione London (Kensington) 50 rooms from CA$320

    Restaurant  -  Restaurant 190 Queen's Gate is overseen by Michelin starred chef Daniel Galmiche.
    Sights nearby  -  Great location for the Royal Albert Hall and Hyde Park.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Full of character
    Air conditioningRestaurantNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A quintessentially British townhouse that prides itself on spectacular service with laid back vibes. Classic-styled rooms house period pictures, antiques & comfortable beds. Restaurant 190 Queen's Gate offers contemporary classic dishes and Bar 190 superb G&Ts! Spot on location for city exploring See More

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  • The Berkeley London (Knightsbridge) 214 rooms from CA$809

    Spa breaks  -  As well as fabulous treatments at the Bamford Wellness Spa, there's a rooftop pool with retracting roof for summer months
    Bar  -  The Blue Bar, a fashionable Art Deco institution popular with celebs
    Restaurant  -  The Collins Room restaurant and fabulous traditional afternoon tea
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor Pool with great views
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyDisabled access
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Fodors, Frommers, Kiwi Collection, Michelin Travel

    Stunning Grand Dame with impeccable service opposite Hyde Park, offering beautiful rooms and suites, some with terraces and many with great views, a rooftop pool, iconic bar, pampering spa and gourmet dining. The perfect luxury city break. See More

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  • Relais Rione Ponte Rome (Piazza Navona) 9 rooms from CA$263

    City Style  -  Sleek, modern rooms and suites are beautifully appointed and all feature original contemporary artworks
    Local exploring  -  With its central location on the Piazza Navona, most of Rome's highlights are accessible on foot
    Views  -  Rooms overlook the Piazza di Tor Sanguigna and Piazza delle Cinque Lune
    Value chic  -  A great value option in the heart of Rome
    Air conditioningViews

    A new arrival to Rome, art hotel Relais Rione Ponte is a cheeky affordable boutique hotel with 9 rooms right in the heart of the Eternal City with a permanent art exhibition on show. A great choice if you're on a budget but looking for luxury. See More

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  • Palazzo Ripetta Rome (Piazza del Popolo) 78 rooms from CA$512

    Families  -  Adjoining rooms can be grouped together around a hallway with private access — ideal for families or small groups
    Honeymoons  -  An excellent city honeymoon option, with beautiful interiors and luxurious touches and a great central location
    Local exploring  -  Its superb location means easy access on foot to many of Rome's highlights
    Restaurant  -  San Baylon Restaurant for superb traditional cuisine and Piazzetta Ripetta for relaxed all day dining
    Air conditioningRestaurant
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Elegant independently owned 5-star hotel in a former convent near the Piazza del Popolo, with beautifully designed, spacious bedrooms, a charming courtyard garden, and a fine restaurant and bar. Highly recommended for a chic Roman holiday. See More

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  • CoolRooms Atocha Madrid (Barrio de las Letras) 35 rooms from CA$342

    Local exploring  -  In the buzzing Las Letras area, with shops and bars on the doorstep, and many of Madrid’s must-sees are within a 10-minute walk
    Local markets  -  Wander around El Rastro market, held every Sunday and known as Spain´s most popular open air flea market
    Sights nearby  -  Lots of nearby sights such as Puerta del Sol, the arcaded Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace
    Great walks  -  The Buen Retiro Park is a great spot for pleasant rambles
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    A restored 19th-century palace in the city's lively literary quarter. Original features have been modernised with additional art deco fittings creating a timeless elegance. Expect innovative tapas at the restaurant, a pool and refreshing terrace. Rooms are spacious and sophisticated. A real gem! See More

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  • Heritage Madrid Hotel Madrid (Salamanca) 46 rooms from CA$351

    Romantic Break  -  This hotel with a belle-époque design is ideal for a sumptuous romantic getaway with its air of indulgence and luxury
    Local markets  -  Find bargains at El Rastro, Madrid's oldest street market
    Great walks  -  Go for a relaxing stroll in in El Retiro park
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendly

    An impeccably stylish hotel in a listed building with a roof terrace offering great city views. Decadent interiors feature beautiful tiling and sumptuous patterned fabrics, while luxurious rooms have fabulous designer wallpaper and indulgent bathrooms. A superb city bolt-hole for couples. See More

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  • Baltazar Hotel Budapest (Országház utca 31) 11 rooms from CA$215

    City Style  -  A tour de force in style and imagination — posh street food, a lively bar and an eclectic mix of antiques and contemporary art
    Families  -  The Family loft offers 2 rooms both with double beds and a large sitting room — perfect for a chic family city break
    Close to nightlife  -  Located right in the heart of the Gastronomic Quarter of Budapest, with plenty of bars and restaurants
    Restaurant  -  Humming with activity as guests & locals sip on Carpatian wines and feast on an upscale version of Budapest's famed street food
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendlyParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A retro boutique hotel on the Buda side of the river. Rooms and suites based on artist themes, from Vermeer to Keith Haring, have all the mod cons and sultry lit spaces. Fantastic Budapest themed street food in the restaurant and a great wine selection. Very trendy. See More

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  • The Guest House Vienna (Innere Stadt) 39 rooms from CA$344

    Local exploring  -  With the feel of a private apartment, but with 5* hotel service, a chic base to explore Vienna's streets
    Sights nearby  -  Hofburg Imperial Palace & St Stephen's Cathedral
    Great walks  -  Five minute walk from Burggarten Park
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    RestaurantDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    Contemporary 5* hotel. Large bedrooms have modern furniture, Bang & Olufsen electronics, stunning city views and big grey marble bathrooms. Delightful brasserie designed by Sir Terence Conran offers updated traditional dishes. Private, chic and central. See More

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  • d'Angleterre Copenhagen (Indre By) 90 rooms from CA$944

    Families  -  Every child is given a Lego toy at check in, and extra kids beds are set up in an in room tent complete with duck soft-toy.
    City Style  -  Set in a former palace, with views of many of the city's sights from the roof terrace, this is a luxurious choice.
    Foodies  -  Do not missed the Michelin starred restaurant Marchal which champions classic French cuisine
    Great walks  -  Take an evening walk from Kongens Nytorv to the harbour front just south of the Royal Playhouse.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming Pool

    Stunning 5* city hotel. Elegant rooms have chandeliers, silk furnishings, enormous marble bathrooms and contemporary touches. Full spa, indoor pool and gym. Sublime cuisine in Michelin-starred restaurant, and opulent champagne bar. Luxurious, plush and exclusive. See More

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  • The Dylan Hotel Amsterdam (Grachtengordel-Canal Ring) 40 rooms from CA$658

    City Style  -  A wonderfully balanced design hotel with the perfect mix of style and practicality, ideally set within the grachtengordel
    Foodies  -  Michelin starred Vinkeles restaurant serves impeccable cuisine and the lounge bar is one of the hottest spots in the city
    Close to nightlife  -  Located on one of the city's most beautiful canals, packed with chic cafes, hip bars and trendy restaurants
    Great walks  -  Soak up the atmosphere of Amsterdam by walking through the different districts
    Air conditioningRestaurantParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  I Escape, Tablet, Frommers, Kiwi Collection, Small Luxury Hotels, Michelin Travel

    One of Amsterdam's coolest canal-side hotels. The contemporary interior design complements a classical exterior. The individually designed suites exude character and luxury. Don't miss the Michelin-starred restaurant or sophisticated lounge bar—a vibrant city escape. See More

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  • The Foundry Athens (Psyrri) 12 rooms from CA$198

    City Style  -  Located in a former industrial building with custom-made design pieces, this hotel has reams of contemporary style
    Local exploring  -  With its central location, this hotel is the perfect starting point for your local exploring in Athens
    Groups  -  The hotel's spacious apartments are perfect for groups and can sleep up to four people
    Local markets  -  See how the local shop with a trip to the Central Municipal Athens Market, a bustling fruit and vegetable market
    Air conditioningDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    Ideally located, close to the centre of Athens, in the historic district of Psyrri, this elegant, industrial-style 12-suite boutique hotel provides space and light and a divine rooftop bar/café - for individuals, architectural-lovers, couples and families. A unique urban hotel. See More

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  • Pestana Palace Lisbon 190 rooms from CA$291

    Total relaxation  -  Indulge in a truly regal stay- lavish suites filled with fine antiques and rich fabrics, lush gardens and wonderful food.
    Sights nearby  -  The fascinating Hieronymites Monastery is just two minutes down the road, trace the history of the Order of Saint Jerome.
    Great walks  -  The sprawling sub tropical gardens are well worth exploring, they have even been declared a National Monument.
    Swimming Pool  -  Two lovely pools.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Frommers, Kiwi Collection

    An opulent extravaganza of stained glass, parquet floors, stucco work and painted rococo ceilings in this 19th Century Palace. Rooms ooze classical elegance and romance with views of the Tagus River from private balconies. Enjoy the fantastic fine dining cuisine, sleek bar, pool and spa. See More

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  • The Lumiares Lisbon (Misericordia) 53 rooms from CA$263

    Spa breaks  -  The spa boasts a gym, sauna, steam room and a variety of massage and beauty treatments.
    Sights nearby  -  The Carmo Convent, a ruined old monastery, is a short walk away.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Spa
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Occupying a beautifully renovated 18th-century palace set on an old cobblestone street in the lively Barrio Alto district, this boutique hotel offers chic, mini-apartment style rooms, a restaurant, rooftop bar, gym and spa, and is easy walking distance from the city’s main attractions. See More

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  • The Dean Dublin (St Kevin's) 51 rooms from CA$293

    City Style  -  A cool contemporary hotel in the heart of the city
    Sights nearby  -  Fifteen minutes walk from the world famous Guinness Storehouse.
    Lively area  -  In the thick of the action.
    Lively  -  Hip and happening.
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessNo pets

    Stylish, vibrant hotel in Dublin's city centre. Offering a selection of chic rooms and three bars, the Dean aims to reinvigorate it's Georgian setting with a modern twist. A stone's throw from a host of clubs and bars, it's the perfect launching pad for a lively weekend in Dublin. See More

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  • Christiania Teater Oslo 102 rooms from CA$250

    Local exploring  -  Situated just by Oslo's main street, within delightfully easy distance of the main sights and buzzing bars
    Sights nearby  -  The Royal Palace, the Parliament buildings and City Hall are around the corner
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    RestaurantPet friendlyViewsParking

    A quirky hotel in a historic old theatre bang in the centre. Stylish interiors have parquet floors and marble panels, with a wacky bar and restaurant featuring an eclectic mix of patterns and decor. Elegant rooms have colourful classic furniture and eye-catching wallpapers. A hip and happening base! See More

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  • SP34 Copenhagen (Nansensgade) 118 rooms from CA$305

    City Style  -  Leading the pack, the hotel is frequented by creatives and artists drawn by the pared-down Nordic style and vibrant social scene
    Close to nightlife  -  Friday nights are when this place comes alive, with live DJ sets and free concerts and a trendy crowd of locals
    Hotel Entertainment  -  The small in house cinema offers a cosy screening and the lobby bar has a wine hour every evening from 5pm.
    Foodies  -  With three distinct and excellent restaurants, a rooftop bar and a port collection that is hard to rival.
    RestaurantParking

    A wonderful boutique hotel in Copenhagen's funky Latin Quarter. Stylish rooms, suites, and a penthouse in muted natural colours with all the mod cons. Two restaurants, four bars and a roof top terrace. A characterful choice with plenty to do for couples and families. See More

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  • Michelberger Hotel Berlin (Friedrichshain) 119 rooms from CA$123

    Lively  -  Trendy, urban, youthful.
    Value chic
    City Style
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    Restaurant
    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller

    The bare necessities in a hip, urban, youthful hotel. Rooms designed according to themes - think flea market collectibles scattered through 'the library' or 'the chalet', for example. Inexpensive and cool. See More

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Written by Sarah Empson

posted Tuesday, 19th December 2023