Machiya
Machiya are traditional Japanese townhouses, especially in Kyoto, but also found in Naraijuku, Kanazawa, Takayama, and Kurashiki. Although construction ceased after the 1950 Building Standards Act, many historic machiya remain, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan’s architectural heritage. Check our list of machiyas for a memorable vacation!
4-Star
9.0
Industrial & Imperial Era
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Industrial & Imperial Era. Click to know more about this period.
Shimogyo-ku Eiyouji-cho 240-38, 600-8463 Kyoto, Japan
Features a collection of well-maintained vintage cars from the 1920s and 1930sCertified Eco-Lighthouse hotel
Historic Hotels
Recognized for their venerable age and for being steeped in history, heritage hotels are seen as icons in their locality. They are often emblematic of certain time periods due to the architecture, or for hosting significant events. They are differentiated further from modern hotels by providing meaningful cultural experiences. Take a look at our recommendations!
4-Star
8.9
Industrial & Imperial Era
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Industrial & Imperial Era. Click to know more about this period.
Celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2024Awarded Four AA Red Stars and Two AA Rosettes
Manors, Boutique Hotels
Manors emerged between the 9th and 15th centuries, tied to the manorial feudal system of medieval society in Europe. These properties have since turned into elegant country houses while retaining parts of their original estates and offering a glimpse into their illustrious past. Explore our curated list of historic manor stays for an unforgettable holiday!
4-Star
8.9
Interwar & Early Modern Heritage
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Interwar & Early Modern Heritage. Click to know more about this period.
Strathkinness Low Road, Strathkinness, St. Andrews, United Kingdom, KY16 9TX
Chateaux
Once palaces, manors, or castles of French aristocrats, châteaux were often found in rural communes. Considered historic landmarks, many are now private hotels with restored architecture, while others have been converted into museums or remained government-managed royal estates. Discover the rich heritage of France’s châteaux—explore our curated list to learn more!
5-Star
8.1
High Medieval to Renaissance
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to High Medieval to Renaissance. Click to know more about this period.
One of the oldest coaching inns in IrelandRecogized as AA Hotel of the Year 2025Retained AA Rosette for its culinary excellence since 2023
Historic Hotels, Boutique Hotels
Although smaller that most mainstream and chain hotels, boutique hotels offer standout touches like eye-catching decor, unique experiences, and personalized services. Many heritage properties are given a makeover to turn into charming boutique hotels. If you want a one-of-a-kind stay, check out our curated list of heritage boutique hotels!
4-Star
9.6
Early Modern & Colonial Expansion
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Early Modern & Colonial Expansion. Click to know more about this period.
Main Street, Crawfordsburn, Crawfordsburn, Crawfordsburn, United Kingdom, BT19 1JH
Recognized by Gault & Millau and awarded two toquesCertified Green Key hotel since 2022
Chateaux
Once palaces, manors, or castles of French aristocrats, châteaux were often found in rural communes. Considered historic landmarks, many are now private hotels with restored architecture, while others have been converted into museums or remained government-managed royal estates. Discover the rich heritage of France’s châteaux—explore our curated list to learn more!
4-Star
7.9
Industrial & Imperial Era
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Industrial & Imperial Era. Click to know more about this period.
Villas & Guesthouses
Villas and guesthouses offer privacy and scenic locations. Guesthouses are commonly smaller and tend to have a practical layout and design, while villas are grander, boasting amenities such as hot tubs, game rooms, and private pools. For a private yet budget-friendly stay, browse through our curated list of historic villas and guesthouses.
4-Star
9.0
Early Modern & Colonial Expansion
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Early Modern & Colonial Expansion. Click to know more about this period.
Interior walls designed by local artists Wajima Kanta and Wajima Kaede
Machiya
Machiya are traditional Japanese townhouses, especially in Kyoto, but also found in Naraijuku, Kanazawa, Takayama, and Kurashiki. Although construction ceased after the 1950 Building Standards Act, many historic machiya remain, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan’s architectural heritage. Check our list of machiyas for a memorable vacation!
4-Star
9.1
Early Modern & Colonial Expansion
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Early Modern & Colonial Expansion. Click to know more about this period.
Won the District Level Wildlife Conservation Award in 2022 for its sustainable ecotourism and restoration efforts
Forts
For centuries, fortifications have been vital to civilizations as defenses and status symbols—think the Alhambra and Mehrangarh. Though modern warfare rendered grand forts obsolete, their magnificence now welcomes visitors. Some even offer historic stays for those eager to explore regional heritage. Check out our list of historic fort hotels for your next holiday retreat!
4-Star
9.1
Early Modern & Colonial Expansion
Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Early Modern & Colonial Expansion. Click to know more about this period.