Summer reveals a different side of Europe’s great cities, where rooftop pools overlook historic skylines, sun-drenched terraces become the setting for long lunches, and al fresco dining spills into lively squares long after sunset. From Athens and Rome to Copenhagen and Amsterdam, these standout hotels combine exceptional design, wellness and gastronomy with a strong sense of place, offering inspiring city escapes for the season ahead.
The Dolli, Athens
Overlooking the Acropolis from the heart of Athens, The Dolli transforms a restored neoclassical mansion into one of the city’s most captivating stays. Its iconic infinity pool appears to merge with the Parthenon, while thoughtfully curated interiors, an acclaimed rooftop restaurant and an exceptional location place Athens’ most celebrated landmarks just moments away.
Image Credit: Corinthia Rome
Corinthia Rome
Hidden behind the elegant façade of a former bank, Corinthia Rome brings together Roman heritage, contemporary comfort and one of the city’s most exciting culinary destinations. Guests can dine at Viride and Piazzetta by acclaimed chef Carlo Cracco before unwinding in a remarkable spa set within the building’s original bank vault, where ancient Roman wellness rituals inspire every experience.
Experimental Marais, Paris
Tucked away in the heart of Le Marais, Experimental Marais pairs contemporary interiors by Tristan Auer with one of Paris’ most exciting new dining destinations. Guests can enjoy French-American cuisine at Temple & Chapon, signature cocktails from the Experimental Group, and unwind in the spa featuring Roman baths, a hammam and Susanne Kaufmann treatments. Just steps from the neighbourhood’s independent boutiques, cafés and galleries, it captures the creative energy of one of Paris’ most vibrant districts.
Image Credit: CN Traveller
Six Senses London
Housed within the landmark Whiteley Building, Six Senses London brings the brand’s celebrated wellness philosophy to the heart of the city. The expansive Six Senses Spa features a 20-metre indoor pool, thermal suite, biohacking lounge and Alchemy Bar, while Whiteley’s showcases seasonal British cuisine with a strong focus on sustainability. Just moments from Notting Hill, it offers a restorative escape in one of London’s most dynamic neighbourhoods.
Verride Palácio de Santa Catarina, Lisbon
Set within an elegant 18th-century palace in Lisbon’s vibrant Chiado district, Verride Palácio de Santa Catarina combines historic grandeur with contemporary Portuguese design. Highlights include a rooftop plunge pool with panoramic views across the Tagus River, personalized dining experiences and beautifully restored interiors featuring original azulejos, ornate ceilings and marble details.
Image Credit: The Woodward
The Woodward, Geneva
Overlooking Lake Geneva, The Woodward is an all-suite retreat housed within a beautifully restored Belle Époque landmark. Home to the two-Michelin-starred L’Atelier Robuchon, Le Jardinier and the spectacular Guerlain Spa, set inside the building’s former bank vault, the hotel also features one of Geneva’s longest indoor pools and elegant lakefront views, creating one of the city’s most exclusive stays.
Brach Madrid
Designed by Philippe Starck, Brach Madrid transforms a historic Gran Vía building into one of the city’s most unique boutique hotels. Highlights include the Mediterranean-inspired Brach Restaurant, La Capsule Spa with a 20-metre pool, hyperbaric chamber and biohacking experiences, plus a rooftop terrace overlooking Madrid’s skyline. Just moments from Chueca and Malasaña, it places the city’s creative energy on the doorstep.
Image Credit: Guldsmeden Hotels
Manon Les Suites Guldsmeden, Copenhagen
Bringing a resort-like atmosphere to the heart of Copenhagen, Manon Les Suites Guldsmeden is centred around its iconic Junglefish Pool, surrounded by tropical greenery and Balinese-inspired interiors. Spacious apartment-style suites, an organic dining concept, rooftop sauna and sun terrace create a relaxed urban escape just moments from the city’s lakes and cultural attractions.
Image Credit: Orient Express
Orient Express La Minerva, Rome
Just steps from the Pantheon, Orient Express La Minerva marks the legendary brand’s first hotel, reimagining a 17th-century palace through the vision of architect Hugo Toro. Guests can enjoy panoramic rooftop dining at Gigi Rigolatto, cocktails beneath the hotel’s historic frescoes, and individually designed rooms inspired by the golden age of grand European travel.
Rosewood Amsterdam
Housed within Amsterdam’s former Palace of Justice, Rosewood Amsterdam blends centuries of history with contemporary Dutch design by Studio Piet Boon. Highlights include the Asaya Spa, an indoor pool, Eeuwen restaurant, the atmospheric Advocatuur cocktail bar and an impressive collection of more than 1,000 artworks, creating one of the city’s most anticipated luxury openings.