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!
5-Star
9.1
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.
Shimogyo-ku Kamigojocho 401-3, 600-8377 Kyoto, Japan
Honored with the Condé Nast Traveller US Readers’ Choice Award 2025 as one of India’s best hotels
Palaces, Boutique Hotels
Palaces began as royal residences designed to impress, like Schönbrunn, City Palace, and Versailles. With grand halls and ornate decor, they hosted guests based on status and ties. Modern media highlights their opulence, a vision embraced by historic palace stays worldwide. Live your royal dream and explore our catalog of historic palace stays for your perfect getaway!
5-Star
9.4
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.
Member of Relais & Châteaux since 2018Awarded One Michelin Key (2024-Present) and the Michelin Green StarAwarded Five AA Red Stars and Three AA Rosettes
Manors
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!
5-Star
9.3
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.
First Western-style hotel in JapanReceived the VERIFIED Responsible Hospitality certification from Forbes Travel GuideRanked one of the Top Tokyo City Hotels in September 2021 by Travel + Leisure
Chain Hotels
Chain hotels are known by their brand names, offering quality through standards set by their parent companies. However, older ones still deliver something unique for guests, such as bespoke cultural and regional experiences. If you're looking for a hotel that combines reliability with rich historical and cultural significance, explore our list of chain hotels.
5-Star
9.1
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.
Chiyoda-ku Uchisaiwai-cho 1-1-1, 100-8558 Tokyo, Japan
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
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.
Earned its first Michelin Key in October 2025, the first ever on Norway’s southern coastFeatured in the Guide MICHELIN every year since 2022, for four consecutive years
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!
5-Star
9.3
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.
Recognized as Toronto's First Luxury HotelCelebrated its 100th Anniversary in 2003
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
9.1
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.
37 King Street East, Financial District, Toronto (ON), Canada, CA-M5C 1E9
Recognized as the second oldest established hotel in LondonAwarded four AA Rosettes (2026) — Ormer MayfairAwarded One Michelin Star (2024) — Ormer Mayfair
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!
5-Star
8.8
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.
Half Moon Street, Mayfair, London, United Kingdom, W1J 7BH
Won the Restoration & Redesign Award at the 2025 National Hotels of the Year ScotlandWon Best Castle Hotel and Best Fine Dining Restaurant Hotel in the 2017 Scottish Hotel Awards Regional Finals
Castles
Once home to kings and knights, castles were fortified estates with towering walls. Today, many historic castles have been transformed into heritage stays, offering guests a taste of medieval grandeur. Some castle hotels in Ireland, the UK, and Germany also serve as wedding venues. If you're a history buff, explore our list of the most breathtaking heritage castle hotels.
4-Star
8.2
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.