The Best Hotels Across Europe, According To Reviews

With everything from age-old history to amazing beaches to stunning cities, it's no surprise that Europe is the most popular place to vacation, attracting 60% of international tourists for their getaways. But with more than 640,000 places to spend the night, the real issue is lodgings. For visitors on a budget, hostels have long been popular choices, but for those of us who want a luxurious destination — think 24/7 butlers, complimentary chocolates, and afternoon tea — there are hotels out there with all the fixings.

Explore combed through the reviews of countless 5-star luxury hotels to determine the best of the best, evaluating which accommodations had excellent reviews — 4.5 stars or more — as well as the most feedback. We also made our picks based on which hotels have the most lavish and extraordinary features and offerings, ranging from top-notch service to beautiful views to Michelin-starred restaurants. Want to still save a little cash on your stay? Use these genius money-saving tips for booking hotels in Europe.

The reviews don't get better than Badrutt's Palace in St. Moritz, Switzerland. This lavish hotel has loomed over Engadin Valley since 1896 and has 5 stars on Tripadvisor with over 1,000 reviews. One guest wrote, "From being picked up at the train station in a 1968 Rolls Royce limo that was once a part of Queen Elizabeth's fleet, to the greeting by name by [six] staff members at check-in ... everyone at the hotel was above and beyond with care and kindness." But that's just in a day's work at Badrutt's Palace, as its superior service also includes Swiss chocolates and Engadiner Nusstorte at turndown, as well as hot water bottles in between the sheets.

Everything a guest looking for luxury could need can be found within the hotel's 157 guest rooms, some with balconies and views of Lake Saint Moritz. Or, for a room with history, book Suite 501, which was Alfred Hitchcock's favorite. When he wasn't lounging in his opulent, airy respite, he would be in the hotel's mountain-facing Le Grand Hall, where he was inspired to create "The Birds." Besides beautiful views, Badrutt's Palace is also known for its spa, nestled six floors from the ground floor with a 25-meter infinity pool, hot tubs, and treatment rooms. It also has a long roster of dining offerings, including a Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant and a high-end bar with live music, where jackets are required.

Claridge's backstory encapsulates the extravagant, historic reputation of this art deco-style hotel in London. When European monarchs stayed here while in exile during World War II, people would call and ask to be transferred to the king. The only suitable response from the operator was, "Which one?" That was the A-list lineup at Claridge's, and even after the war, in modern times, it has attracted everyone from Kate Moss to Audrey Hepburn to Spencer Tracy, who once said he would take Claridge's over heaven once his time is up. But you don't need to be royalty or a Hollywood star to stay at this storied hotel that dates back to 1812 when it was a terraced house hotel. Nearly 3,000 people have rated Claridge's 4.5 stars on Tripadvisor, writing comments such as, "An expensive treat but so worth it. Lovely staff make this hotel so welcoming. Still one of the quintessentially British hotels in London."

One of the aspects that makes Claridge's so authentically English is its word-renowned afternoon tea service. But even if tea isn't your thing, you'll find 5-star fare at the onsite 1930s-style Fumoir bar featuring cozy, dark colors and vintage drinks. More options are at Claridge's Restaurant, which offers grand dishes like caviar, rock oysters, Dover sole meunière, and black truffle arancini. That is if you can tear yourself away from your suite, all of which have baby grand pianos and 24-hour butlers.

The Ciragan Palace Kempinski in Istanbul, Turkey, isn't designed to look like a palace — it is one. Located on the Bosphorus Strait between Europe and Asia — making it the only Istanbul venue reachable by private boat or plane — the waterfront abode was once a 19th-century Ottoman palace. Now, that regality continues for guests, offering features like 24-hour butlers, marble bathrooms with Salvatore Ferragamo toiletries, and a heated outdoor infinity pool. Unsurprisingly, Ciragan Palace Kempinski has earned 4.5 stars through nearly 2,700 Tripadvisor reviews. "The whole experience was amazing, it is genuinely the closest thing to being treated like royalty that we have experienced ... Everything felt generous, friendly and efficient," wrote one past guest on the platform.

Many celebrities have stayed at Ciragan Palace Kempinski, prompting a wall of fame featuring stars like Oprah Winfrey, Bill Clinton, and Madonna. Guests will enjoy antique furniture, velvet and satin upholstery, marble touches, and lavish rugs throughout the hotel's 310 rooms, most of which have balconies. Although you could enjoy a bite on that balcony with a view of the hotel's 1-mile seafront, it's better to head to its Laledan Restaurant, especially for breakfast. You will find 300 meal offerings; nearly a third are organic — the restaurant even has dessert, chocolate, and baklava rooms.

Most hotels derive grandeur from ostentatious furnishings and over-the-top opulence, but Domaine des Etangs in Massignac, France, doesn't need these elements, as it's luxurious on its own. Located in a 700-year-old stone castle surrounded by 2,500 acres of lush forest, Domaine des Etangs is known for its peaceful ambiance achieved through transparent ponds, grazing cattle, and colorful gardens serving the kitchen. Speaking of eats, Domaine des Etangs knows how to do it. Its fares are in the Michelin guide, and it cooks cuisine from the château's former stables. You can have a wine tasting in the garden. Or, for another kind of relaxation, head to the Moulin Des Etangs spa or the Roman-inspired spa with a tepidarium, steam room, ice bath, and hydrotherapy pool.

There's no need to share hallways here. The property has six private country houses featuring exposed stone and wood beams, modern furnishings, and fireplaces. Or, stay in the ancient chateau itself, which has just seven boutique rooms featuring artwork curated by the owner, an art collector. Domaine des Etangs has earned 230 reviews and 5 stars on Tripadvisor, from guests who have written comments such as, "It's a hidden gem that deserves all the accolades. Extremely beautiful, and the staff just make your stay very special."

Spanish cities like Marbella, Barcelona, and Madrid are epicenters of activity for vacationers, but for a getaway from it all, those with a penchant for the high life know to stay at Finca Cortesin in Casares, Spain. The hotel, beach club, spa, and golf course are surrounded by more than 500 acres of countryside, creating a serene atmosphere that's a far cry from the party scene of the aforementioned destinations. Just ask its 600-plus Tripadvisor reviewers, who rated the property 4.5 stars. As one wrote on the platform, "Finca Cortesin is arguably the best hotel I've ever had the privilege to stay at. From the moment you arrive, you realize this is a special place ... If I had to describe it succinctly, I think the term that would do it justice is 'understated elegance.'"

The Andalusian-designed hotel with Mediterranean and modern touches comprises 67 bright rooms with high ceilings and two courtyards. For an even more luxurious experience, book one of the hotel's private homes. You will enjoy complimentary service of drinks, tapas, fresh-cut flowers upon arrival, and a daily bowl of fresh fruit. All guests can access the property's 5.7-acre garden, spa with Thai treatments, four pools, tennis courts, and the 1.5-acre beach club. Or, if you love it that much, rent or buy one of Finca Corestin's three-to-six-bedroom villas or two-to-four-bedroom apartments so you can escape here whenever the mood strikes.

Budapest has seen significant changes throughout its history, but the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace brings the best of the city's past to life through its elegant wrought iron peacock gates, lobby with more than 2 million mosaic tiles, and views of the Danube River that's just steps away. It's no surprise that this hotel is the only one in the country named a Forbes 5-Star hotel. But that's not the only group that's rated it highly — the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace also has 5 stars on Tripadvisor through nearly 3,300 reviews. A happy visitor wrote on the platform, "I cannot say enough about the Four Seasons Budapest. We had an incredibly luxurious ... and perfect stay ... I cannot wait to go back!"

With an Art Nouveau exterior, the hotel houses artifacts from the city's bygone days, like Belle Époque art pieces, porcelain china, and glassware. Meanwhile, the rooms have a modern style with all of today's comforts, like surround sound speakers, 24/7 room service, and snacks. Some rooms have balconies with views of the Danube River, while others have marble bathrooms and powder rooms. For a nightcap, head to the MÚZSA cocktail bar that features dark, moody vibes, decorative glassware, and a 1920s style. The bar also hosts an afternoon tea service energized by a live pianist, as well as teacakes served on hand-painted porcelain.

Despite the 232 rooms at the Gleneagles Hotel fit for a king with the complimentary chocolates, marble bathrooms with heated floors, and views of the Scottish countryside, you won't want to stay holed up in them for too long. That's because this Auchterarder hotel is nicknamed "the glorious playground," and it has a long list of activities to prove it. Throughout its 850 acres, guests can utilize an internationally recognized golf course, horse stables, a tree climbing center, a fishing school, tennis courts, a shooting school, and an owl exhibition. 

For those without a penchant for the outdoors, the Gleneagles Hotel also has 10 eateries – of which one is the only 2-Michelin star in the country. Another offers breakfast offerings that are the stuff of legend. Since the hotel dates back to 1924, it provides an afternoon tea service that features the same food items that Queen Elizabeth once enjoyed.

With nearly 5,500 Tripadvisor reviews, the Gleneagles Hotel has earned 4.5 stars and plenty of satisfied guests. One wrote, "Having never stayed at Gleneagles before I was so looking forward to it and it exceeded every expectation. The attention to detail within the service, decor of the hotel and grounds and room was just amazing ... We cannot wait to return to Gleneagles in the future with our little one and feeling lovely and relaxed after our stay here [sic]."

Venice is the second-most visited city in Italy, and it can get crowded. But you won't feel that crowd at the Gritti Place despite its perfect placement on the Grand Canal. However, this hotel is about much more than just convenience. The Gritti Palace is a palace in every sense of the word, as it was a former palazzo built in 1475 and converted into a hotel in 1895. It's adorned with many of the opulent fixtures of its past, such as Murano glass chandeliers, Rubelli fabrics, and artwork and antiques, all intertwined with today's must-have technologies.

That vibe extends to the palace's rooms, which are also adorned in lavish, vintage décor and have marble bathrooms with Acqua di Parma toiletries. Overall, it's one of the dreamy hotels to book for your next romantic getaway. History is also on the menu at the Gritti Palace's restaurant Club del Doge, which serves classic Venetian dishes from decades past with produce sourced from the hotel's vegetable garden. With so much old-world charm, it's unsurprising that the hotel has more than 1,900 Tripadvisor reviews and 5 stars. "I was thoroughly impressed by the blend of traditional hospitality and modern conveniences offered here. They've managed to preserve a classic, timeless feel while incorporating all the contemporary amenities one could wish for," wrote a reviewer.

The Hotel Imperial in Vienna, Austria, was once the abode of Duke Philipp of Württemberg, but since 1873, it has hosted guests ranging from celebrities to royals. It's home to 79 rooms and 59 suites, all with chandeliers, silky drapes, and antique touches. You can even live like Duke Phillipp and stay in his former apartment in the Royal Suite, which features parquet flooring, 23-foot-high ceilings, a personal butler, royal touches, and opulent furnishings. It's no surprise that the Hotel Imperial has been named one of the most iconic hotels in the world by Elle Décor and is on Conde Nast Traveler's Gold List.

Plus, it has garnered nearly 1,900 Tripadvisor reviews and 4.5 stars. "Our suite was elegant, big and had all the amenities including a full bar. We got turndown everyday with chocolates ... The service is 5 stars and we will definitely be back and only wish we stayed longer!" wrote a former guest. Even the Hotel Imperial's restaurants nod to its storied past. Café Imperial Wien serves traditional Viennese dishes and the hotel's staple Imperial torte, a cake made with a secret recipe that was first made to celebrate its opening. Guests can also indulge in afternoon tea service or a Champagne-laden buffet brunch accompanied by live music every Sunday. Still hungry? Check out Vienna's Naschmarkt, one of the best food markets in Europe.

Since 1898, the Ritz Paris has been an icon in the City of Love, offering the lavishness that one expects in this romantic city. It was once a private home. When it became a hotel, the Ritz was the first to offer electricity on every floor and private bathrooms. Inside the rooms, ranging from the Versailles-inspired Suite Impériale with a bust of Napoleon and 19-foot-high ceilings that cost €42,000 per night to the €2,000-per-night Superior Room that includes a marble fireplace and Italian sheets, guests will find luxury in every corner. It's no surprise that this is one of the places where you'll most likely spot celebrities in Paris. 

That ambiance is the same at the Ritz Paris's seven restaurants, including one headed by a Michelin-starred chef and another that hosts intimate wine-pairing dinners led by the hotel's sommelier. The Ritz Paris has nearly 1,000 Tripadvisor reviews and 4.5 stars, with rave reviews: "This hotel is truly in a league of its own ... for those seeking the pinnacle of Parisian luxury, the Ritz Paris delivers an unforgettable experience that justifies its legendary status. Truly a 5-star gem in every sense."

Villa d'Este in Cernobbio, Italy, is on Lake Como, but it might as well be heaven on Earth, which has become the historic hotel's nickname. It has two buildings to choose from; one dates back to 1568, when it was a summer home for the Cardinal of Como. The other has the same vintage vibes with silk drapes, oil paintings, and furniture that nods to the property's storied past. Guests love the accommodations, as Villa d'Este has 4.5 stars on Tripadvisor, garnered from nearly 1,800 reviews. Per a reviewer, "Probably the most elegant and welcoming hotel anywhere. Immaculate and utterly beautiful yet low key super service ... A true bucket list destination."

But outside the hotel's 90 rooms, it gets even better. Villa d'Este sits on 25 acres of Lake Como's shoreline, and guests can even swim in a pool atop the lake in a one-of-a-kind experience surrounded by breathtaking views. If you don't feel like going for a swim or lounging by the pool, you can book a private boat tour of the lake's most notable properties, play squash, or explore the colorful gardens that fill the property. Or just explore the lobby, as Villa d'Este has one of the most beautiful hotel lobbies in the world. 

With so many hotels on travelers' radar, it wasn't easy to choose the cream of the crop. But Explore was able to do so by reading endless reviews by people just like you, who were over the moon by the level of service and beauty that their European hotels offered. We only named hotels with at least hundreds — if not thousands — of positive reviews and have garnered between 4.5 stars and 5 stars.

Plus, we evaluated which hotels had the most luxurious fixtures and offerings, such as on-site gardens from where ingredients are sourced, views of iconic landmarks, and ancient spas. Many of these spots are frequented by royalty and celebrities, but luckily for us regular travelers, we're more than welcome to reserve rooms, too. But before you book, keep in mind this one thing tourists may be thrown off by when staying in a hotel in Europe.