Top 25 hotels and resorts in Europe and the UK. Locations you can poke your finger at without embarrassment for a luxury vacation
Confused and don't know where to spend your next good vacation? Then follow our list of the best hotels and resorts in Europe and the UK for a luxury vacation. Here you'll find places to visit as a family or a romantic couples' escape, settle down in solitude with a book overlooking the sea or have the most active and educational vacation. Mountains, sea, urban locations - browse to catch the impulse: I want to go there.
Recommendations are stacked based on customer reviews, the facilities and comfort of the most European and UK vacation stopover and the best designed interiors. Find where you'd like to start your conquest of Europe and the UK to experience the best vacation on your own skin.
Let's start small - land or water?
Land - mountains, valleys, deserts of paradise, city stops
Stay on dry land if you want an educational, active and fulfilling vacation experience. Of course, you'll always have the option of not leaving the confines of UK and European hotels and resorts for a luxury vacation.
Claridge's - London, UK
London's aristocratic star that has celebrated more than 200 years does not miss its podium of supremacy. The Claridge's is ranked in the top 5 best hotels in London, top 10 best hotels in the UK and top 15 best hotels in Europe - no catch.
The hotel's distinguished guests who are willing to return when visiting London and the eminent creative minds who never stop working on the modern run of one of the best hotels in the UK and Europe make up an efficient team that serves as a perpetual motion machine. Of course, to visit the hotel you need to repeat the rules of good manners and lay out a considerable amount of money, but the experience you get, believe me, can hardly be compared to anything. The Claridge's Hotel is considered the benchmark for a city stopover, where you'll get a luxury capsule vacation, from the name-brand interiors to the best spa treatments, oases overlooking London and food that Michelin has crowned more than once. Allow yourself an unforgettable stopover in London, UK at the very best hotel Claridge's.
Domaine Des Etangs, Auberge Resorts Collection - Massignac, France
This royal chateau in France is set amidst green hills and looks like the wildest fantasy of a summer residence for dignitaries. The 13th century walls and towers have been restored to perfect condition and there is perhaps little doubt that a princess lives in one of the towers, guarded by a dragon. Escaping to this one of Europe's most luxurious hotels can be the most romantic experience. There are 7 suites, several secluded cottages, and a farmhouse with rooms on the vast grounds. As is the norm, to maintain the atmosphere and keep the fairytale feel, the rooms and halls are furnished with antique furniture, which like the walls are finished to perfection.
Your royal vacation will be filled with picnics and tastings of craft products, boat rides and walks among green groves. There are exciting locations for children, which they will be free to explore to the maximum of independence. Domaine Des Etangs is one of the best places for rest and recuperation in Europe.
Four Seasons Gresham Palace Hotel - Budapest, Hungary
An urban stopover in Europe that certainly boasts and view of the moving water of the Danube and yet it is one of the best urban hotels in Europe. The Four Seasons chain is known for its ability to take a grand location and push it to the limits of perfection. A staycation in Budapest really can be the best vacation ever, even if you're on business. Apart from the landscaped water, you can see the Old Town, Chain Bridge and the curves of Buda from the windows.
You may need a few days to explore the neighborhood, and a couple more to enjoy it. Your concierge will carefully consider all preferences and recommend the best of the best.
There is a delicious 100+ year old establishment on the hotel grounds, a street nearby where those who like to party will satisfy their cravings, and for those who want to add cultural experiences to an idealistic vacation, the Ferenc Liszt Museum and the Hungarian State Opera House will provide that opportunity.
Gresham Palace in Budapest will transport you to the Golden Era of the city, where you will be the main character.
Gleneagles - Perthshire, Scotland
A countryside European vacation stopover where, among 850 acres of green space, golf courses are a key focus. Having opened exactly 100 years ago the beautiful estate has quickly become a popular European vacation destination for dignitaries, celebrities and dreamers who achieve their goals.
The world-class golf courses have made the hotel famous around the world, and after the Rider Cup in 2014, even those who are not really interested in the club sport became aware of the location.
Activities such as shooting and fishing, wellness in the thermal pool and the rituals of the spa complex, many sports activities and a gastronomic tour are possible in the country complex. The hotel is chic with its interiors whether it is the main lounge or your room. Gleneagles is a wonderful place to discover Scotland and Scotch whisky.
Hacienda San Rafael - Seville, Spain
The ability to preserve heritage and develop it is intrinsic to the Spanish. Once a farmhouse transformed into a luxurious retreat wrapped in the blooming gardens of the hilly Andalusian countryside.Today you can choose between 16 colorful rooms, three more secluded cottages and a capsule villa where your stay can be completely private
Your vacation in this recommended European vacation spot can be either slowed down or very active. Thanks to the secluded nooks scattered throughout the garden, you'll be able to be alone with a book or your own thoughts. Numerous excursions, including horseback riding, can make your day so impressive and informative that you will sit down to write your own book in the garden. Several pools offer a touch of beach relaxation on a cushioned sun lounger with a glass of homemade wine or manzanilla.
Hacienda San Rafael is a hotel in Spain that will surround you with the best of the country's rich culture.
Heckfield Place - Hampshire, United Kingdom
Country houses UK one of the best vacation options amidst nature, elegant surroundings and luxurious activities. Especially, if it is Heckfield Place. Added to its aristocratic look and fill is an immediate atmosphere that has a relaxing feel to it, even if it is the first time such an experience has been made.
Fulfilling their primary purpose of making your fantasized vacation a reality, the hotel staff very gently and casually learns what you want and quickly makes it a reality. Be ready to relax by the two-level pool and in the charming treatment rooms, which specialize in recovery and rejuvenation.
The grounds are filled with fresh air and green meadows where you can have wonderful picnics, playing with your children and enjoying each other. The best hotel for a family vacation in the UK is Heckfield Place.
Hotel d'Inghilterra - Rome, Italy
Rome is truly the capital of Italian heritage. Hotel d'Inghilterra has been passing from owner to owner for 200 years, keeping its charm and atmosphere. With the last transition in 2016, a restoration was made, but the style chosen many years ago does not go with fashion trends, but prefers to remain timeless. Living in Rome like an aristocrat is a necessity, as it's the only way to experience that city.
Climb higher, the upper suites offer a wonderful perspective on the eternal city with its centuries-old rooftops. Mirrors framed in pompous gold frames and restored antique furniture are juxtaposed with modern recliners on the terraces and in the lounge areas.
The bar and restaurant can discover Italian cuisine and extend the gastronomic range to rare delicacies that are collected from all over the world. Enjoy the views, comfort and luxury at the best vacation destination in Europe Hotel Inghilterra, Rome.
De L'Europe - Amsterdam, Netherlands
You can experience how modernity can redefine styles with comfort and expensive materials at the Hotel De L'Europe in Amsterdam. This European rest stop can give aesthetic pleasure to the other delights on offer. The ancient decorations are given a new meaning without losing their chic and aristocratic feel.
Rooms offer luxurious large four-poster beds, deep marble bathrooms and landscaped city views with plenty of sunshine during the day. You may choose to stay in the newer creative options, but you can't escape the feeling of sublimity.
Several establishments providing the hotel's gastronomic scene, including one with two Michelin stars, will make your day exquisitely delicious and natural. Part of the North Sea will be right on your plate, and you'll just be in the middle of the water arc, reflecting the light of the terrace lamps and enhancing your romance.
Hotel De L'Europe is a wonderful place to discover Northern Europe in comfort and possibilities.
Hotel Imperial - Vienna, Austria
Symbolizing 19th-century luxury, the Imperial Hotel absolutely lives up to its high-profile name. Once you enter the lobby with crystal chandeliers and shiny parquet floors, golden ruffles on the walls and lush upholstered furniture, you can't help but square your shoulders and try not to slip like a mischievous child on the canvas. The most imposing rest awaits you among the spacious lobbies and high ceilings.
Re-watch the movie "Monsieur Gustave" right in the hotel - it will be a landmark activity, after which you may want to know more about the prototypes of the characters. You'll certainly be able to do that here.
Europe's best vacation stopover boasts the most convenient accommodations for sightseeing in Vienna. Although, the Imperial Hotel is equipped with everything you need to not even think about leaving, you may want to take advantage of the city's opportunities and the hotel staff can organize your excursion at its best.
Lucknam Park-Wiltshire, United Kingdom
A green estate wrapped in lush green accessories is a landmark, but not at all one that is frozen like a museum. It's a completely living structure, filled with a variety of locations for relaxation and even more green spaces for your imagination.
The interiors are pretty classic, as for a luxury estate, but how pampered we've become, as every item in the building has great value, history and a desire to please you.
Take advantage of the bicycles, for landscape walks, which can be simply countless here. Golf carts are also at the guests' disposal, after all, this is England.
Foodies should be interested in the restaurant, without it your experience will definitely not be complete. Chef Hiwell Jones has a Michelin star pinned on his menu, but he hasn't stopped surprising his admirers.
Go horse riding or archery, lounge by the heated pool or spend the day with a spa treatment - every activity will be full of excitement and relaxation. Lucknam Park Manor exemplifies classic English splendor and charm.
Mandarin Oriental Ritz - Madrid, Spain
If you were to stack the top must-see vacation spots in Europe the Mandarin Oriental Ritz should be in the top five. The building's history goes back to King Alfonso XIII, and the walls of the welcoming palace remember Grace Kelly and Ranier, Salvador Dali and Martha Hari. Well Mandarin Oriental loves iconic buildings.
Your introduction to Madrid begins at the facade, where Rafael de La-Hoz has realized an architectural fantasy. Once inside you will discover the thought process and vision of Gilles & Boissier, who proved their professionalism on the glass vault of the Palm Palace and the majestic portal that allows you to look into the Museo del Prado without leaving the hotel.
The hotel is equipped with all the modern perks from fitness center, spa, relaxation locations, pools and restaurants where Michelin has happily left its star. Paella under the stars will be your unique experience and romantic moment at one of the best hotels in Europe for a vacation in Madrid, the Ritz.
Palacio Principe Real - Lisbon, Portugal
An example of how love for your business can save the life of a beautiful thing, breathing new life into it, you will find right in the center of Lisbon, in the middle of the trendy quarter. Gale and Miles Carli's hotel is a pink dream come true. The rooms to stay are located in the garden, allowing you to admire the view from the window. The elegant and luxurious interior is enriched by a copper deep soaking tub, and the fireplace so aptly built into the wall adds warmth and sophistication to your stay. A stroll through the garden of palm and lemon trees leads to the pool, which becomes a very relaxed meeting place for guests. However, this is not the only opportunity to socialize. Afternoon English tea brings everyone together in the luxurious lounge or right in the garden for socializing and chit-chat, which is not a bad way of honing Isabelle Amaral's etiquette lessons. Her childhood was spent in the Palacio Príncipe Real and she has much to say about the secrets of these walls.
The Ritz - Paris, France
Maria Luisa's innovation once made such a stir around the hotel that its echoes can still be heard today. Today, when our world is fast-paced and the ability to marvel has been dulled by the inability to keep up with the pace, the Ritz Hotel is still able to raise eyebrows on your face. At least it will be somewhere in the middle of the surprise and pleasure that has been heightened in us.
The Ritz's French elegance is classic chic without the modern vulgarity. Romance and attention to detail is what makes the Ritz stand out from the crowd.
Baroque halls with gilded furniture, hanging curtains and boldly colored sofas will make up your comfort and evoke an inner sense of delight. Step out onto your balcony to admire Paris and welcome the best sunset with a glass of sparkling wine. The Ritz gives you possibilities and expands your options, at some point you catch the feeling of flying, because the hotel has everything you need for that.
Dorchester - London, UK
Everyone is eagerly awaiting the opening of the penthouses and rooftop, one of London's most expensive and luxurious hotels. But also the part of the best hotel in the UK that is already available is striking with Pierre-Yves Rochon's designs. The numerous restaurants and bar offer many opportunities to expand one's gastronomic and alcoholic horizons. "Tom Bouton's Grill" offers a novelty in the form of calamari bolognese a la Coffmann's, with a sense of humor the British are all right. And, of course, Pierre Coffmann had the first portion and was completely satisfied.
Head to the new suites, which are done in delicate ivory tones and filled with luxurious modern amenities to give a sense of significance and idyll. Still the spa remains a haven for the most innovative treatments, where every client feels like Elizabeth Taylor as Cleopatra. The Dorchester is one of Europe's finest hotels for a luxurious vacation on planet Earth.
Elmau Castle - Germany
A castle in the Bavarian Alps looks like a fairytale unreal fantasy reflected in the blue sky. This stunning resort in Europe has the ability to enchant, delight, captivate and satisfy most vacation needs.
The family resort in Europe offers entertainment to suit all ages, amidst its Instagram-worthy mountains. The crystal clear air and spa will heal your body and mind and open your consciousness to enjoyment and expansion.
The 10 gastronomic scenes will satisfy any food preference, while the bars and lounge locations will delight with an assortment of drinks collected from around the world. Head to the outdoor heated pool, which is just incredible blending in with nature, as if this drop was taken from the nearest crystal clear blue body of water. Elmau Castle gives a unique feeling and experience.
Water - seas, oceans, beach vacations
Water stops for vacations in Europe and the UK are a special kind of therapy where landscapes play a dominant role and in some cases are a strong complement to wellness treatments, rejuvenating rituals and unique entertainment.
Finca Cortesin - Malaga, Spain
A Mediterranean vacation can achieve such unqualified luxury as the Finca Cortesin resort. The most talented team in organization and design is involved in the emergence of such a sparkling Mediterranean gem.
The resort brings together vacation delights such as a beach club and golf courses, a large spa and the best gastronomic scenes.
Finding your own among the 67 rooms, you'll sink into soft designer furniture with muted tones and hues tied together by Balinese style.
Get to know Chef Lutz Boesing's delectable creations at El Jardín de Lutz, where a mind-blowing landscape is added to the mantis shrimp cream soup with lobster and basil.
Be prepared to ask about every object that fills the room, because they have found a continuation of their story thanks to decorator Duarte Pinto Coelho and his follower Lorenzo Castillo at one of Europe's best vacation resorts, Finca Cortesin.
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc - Antibes, France
The history of the hotel dates back to the time of Hemingway, Fitzgerald and Chagall, and not without their participation. For 150 years of its formation remained unchanged picturesque expanses around and the mansion of Napoleon III, dating back to the 1st century.
When, after the pandemic, big-name stars returned to their vacation addiction, the Hotel du Cap took over the Instagram feed again and came alive with even more zeal for life.
Beach vacations though take center stage on the property, opportunities allow you to enjoy the spa's expanded menu, conquer the tennis courts, explore beehives and birdhouses, and stroll along fragrant mimosas.
The rooms and rock shelters are filled with luxurious French chic and the comforts of modernity. The restaurant, with its terrace over the raging waves, gives you the opportunity to enjoy sunsets over the riviera and tastefully sample seafood specialties and traditional French entrées. A classic vacation with premium comfort never fails to appeal to a star-studded public, thanks to the authenticity of the experience and the balance of the rhythm. The Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc awaits connoisseurs of luxury European vacations on the Antibes Riviera.
Il Sereno - Lake Como, Italy
A vacation on the freshwater Lake Como in Italy is famous for its unique scenery and the romanticism of every moment that is lived here. The idea of two creative and talented architects became an idealistic picture harmoniously blended with nature.
The hotel even complemented the overall harmony with a blooming garden of 183 plant species, emphasizing the focus on sustainability and creation. Your table will be filled with farm produce and freshwater catch, which, combined with her culinary talent, has given Raffaele Lenzi a cherished star.
The rooms are simple and comfortable, with plenty of wood and modern design. Panoramic windows give an absolutely incredible view of the water and the dramatic mountains fringing Lake Como.
Jump into the wooden lacquered boat and it will give you a very romantic journey across the lake with a stop at the 16th century palace, where the sounds of the grand piano fill the halls and the interiors ignite the senses. One of the most romantic vacations in Europe awaits you on Lake Como at Hotel Il Sereno.
Ciragan Palace Kempinski - Istanbul, Turkey
One of the world's most popular vacation destinations offers a visit to its gem to experience the full force of oriental bliss. It may seem like just a big movie set with Instagram-worthy decorations, but the incredible beauty was actually created by a sultan back in the 17th century.
Airy fabrics maintain an oriental light atmosphere where every touch feels like a velvet rose petal, where the most romantic feelings are heightened to the extreme.
Accessible oriental spas such as hammam and river will cope with all the stresses and anxious thoughts that never leave you. The gastronomic scene offers you such a variety of oriental sweets and dishes that it is definitely not possible to manage in one vacation. Although, having tried this cool rest stop once, we have no doubt that you will want to repeat the relaxation in Ciragan Palace Kempinski.
Palazzo Avino - Ravello, Italy
A luxurious retreat in Italy, towering above the sea. When you finally tear your gaze away from the panorama of the blue bay with white sailboats around its perimeter, your curiosity will be taken up by the enchanting marble floor finishes, the oriental pointed arches and the presentable stone inhabitants of the hotel that give the evening romantic lighting. The private palace dates back to the 12th century, but two lovely girls, Mariella and Attilia Avino, have managed to settle here with the charm and comfort of a woman's seductive flair.
Their own vineyards supply the Lobster & Martini Bar with the finest bottles. And local farmers and fishermen supply one of the best gastronomic scenes in Amalfi with fresh and natural ingredients for Michelin-starred dishes.
The hotel's own beach club allows you to best organize your seaside leisure time in beach changing cabins with refreshments. Without leaving the hotel you can take a refreshing dip in the pool on the terrace, where your gaze will never stray from the horizon. Palazzo Avino is a luxurious European vacation hotel, where you can feel the delicate feminine touch in everything.
Porto Zante Villas and Spa - Greece
The hotel is in the top 10 best stops for a vacation in Greece and in the European top 20. The Ionian Sea is just an arm's length away here. The elegant interiors are filled with colors of light, playing with the sea blue at the end of a richly enjoyable day. One of the best spas is able to present a wide range of therapies for body and mind. The private level of service will give the best vacation in Europe, regardless of age. The kids club helps to look after the little ones so that parents have the opportunity to experience all the romance of the Porto Zante Hotel, even if you just don't leave your idealistic villa. The hotel gives great opportunities for short, spectacular trips whether by yacht or quad bike. The location is popular with royalty and the rulers of this world, because even such nobility Porto Zante can surprise, interest and charm with its competence in vacationing.
Regina Isabella - Ischia, Italy
The legendary island of Italy, where the cliffs cut into the seabed is adorned with a five-star hotel where the walls continue the cliff. The location bestows wellness and rejuvenation with thermal springs and spa rituals. The grounds are equipped with 4 pools and small private beaches that make your secret conversation with the sea secluded and private.
The glamorous interiors plunge you into the elite life of 70 years ago, without depriving you of modern conveniences and high-end service.
A completely capsule luxury vacation is possible at the Regina Isabella, but you're on the outskirts of a colorful Italian fishing town, so why not visit in the comfort the hotel offers.
Grand Hotel Poseidonion - Spetses, Greece
The ruler of the seas always draws the eye if you look at the coastline from the water. Like a sand castle on the beach with towers and protrusions, the Poseidonion Hotel is mysterious and unpredictable. The luxurious European stopover attracts its clients not only with its sumptuous interiors, the best restaurant terrace on the coast and impeccable level of service. Its towers hide unique comfortable hideaways, where the view of the bay is part of the overall landscape picture. Looking at the facade it is hard to believe that the hotel has been standing on its foundations for over 100 years, but it is a fact. During this century the hotel has gone through different periods of ups and downs, but that is why its atmosphere is filled with a ripe wisdom and stability, which is important for complete relaxation during your vacation. Grand Hotel Poseidonion can introduce you to the island and give you a coveted luxury vacation.
Sublime - Comporta, Portugal
The meaning of the vacation can be the motto "do nothing". Such a meditative state is very useful for further activity and achievement of goals. Give yourself just such a vacation in Europe by visiting Comporta in Portugal. The whole point will be your retreat, which is like a luxury barn, amidst an idealistic nature ready to provide the necessary silence, water space and several places for meditation, such as the beach, the bar or the lounge by the pool.
The harmony that radiates from this nice hotel in Europe for beach vacations is able to tune you like a stringed instrument so that it plays a melody of quiet happiness and satisfaction with life.
Biking, surfing, spa rituals and deep self-discovery will make your vacation soulful and truly restful. Sublime offers comfort that does not disturb the harmony of life, but only complements it.