Recognized as a Category B heritage building by Historic Environment ScotlandAwarded the Gold accreditation by Green TourismWinner of the Platinum Award from Greengage ECOsmart 2024 and 2025
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.
5-Star
Very good(2141 reviews)8.5
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.
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
Fabulous(39 reviews)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.
Shimogyo-ku Minamikyogoku-cho 74-1, 600-8117 Kyoto, Japan
World’s Leading Heritage Hotel 2007 - 2013 by World Travel AwardsIndia’s Best Heritage Hotel 2006 and 2007 by National Tourism of IndiaWon the Asia’s Leading Suite Award in 2010 - 2016 by World Travel Awards (Maharajah Pavilion)
Havelis
Havelis have graced India since the 16th century, usually built as multiple-story homes for the elite. Blending Mughal and Rajput styles, most are regarded as works of art, featuring stone carvings and complex murals. Many haveli hotels are still run by their original families, offering rich history and cultural experiences. For a stay steeped in heritage, explore our curated historic haveli stays!
5-Star
Very good(245 reviews)8.3
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.
Zorawer Singh Gate, Amer Road, 302002 Jaipur, India
Recognized as a Registered National Tangible Cultural PropertyKnown for changing its decoration theme every month
Ryokans
Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns known for native architecture, authentic cuisine—especially kaiseki-ryouri dinners—and serene onsen baths. Often run by the same family for generations, they preserve Japan’s rich hospitality heritage and offer an immersive cultural experience Choose a ryokan from our list for an authentic experience!
5-Star
Exceptional(419 reviews)9.7
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.
Located within the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to India's broad leaf oak trees and unique wildlife
Boutique Hotels, 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.
Very good(5 reviews)8.2
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.
The Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary P.O. Ayarpani District Almora Uttarakhand India P.O. Ayarpani District Almora Uttarakhand India, 263601 Almora, India
Declared as a Heritage of Industrial Modernization by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in 2007
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
Superb(84 reviews)9.2
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.
Ryokans
Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns known for native architecture, authentic cuisine—especially kaiseki-ryouri dinners—and serene onsen baths. Often run by the same family for generations, they preserve Japan’s rich hospitality heritage and offer an immersive cultural experience Choose a ryokan from our list for an authentic experience!
3-Star
Superb(99 reviews)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.
Recognized as the Best Resort in the ‘Rest of Europe’ category by Condé Nast Traveller Readers Award in 2025Honored with the AA Sustainable Award in 2025Home to Andrew Fairlie, one of only two 2-Michelin-starred restaurants in Scotland
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
Superb(1659 reviews)9.3
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.
Auchterarder, Gleneagles Village, Auchterarder, United Kingdom, PH3 1NF
Served as a filming location for the 1966 movie La Réligieuse Recognized with a Michelin Star for its on-site restaurant, Le RestaurantRecognized with MICHELIN Green Star for sustainable gastronomy
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
Very good(157 reviews)8.4
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.