Some of the world’s greatest hotels are destinations in themselves. They are the kind of places you visit and never want to leave. So amazing are these brag-worthy hotels that you might plan an entire trip around visiting them.
While some of these hotels are temporarily closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, others are open with notable precautions in place. Whenever it is safe for you to travel again, these are certainly worthy of your attention.
There are quite a few majestic palace hotels around the world. With such grandeur can sometimes come a high price tag, but there is a way to experience them for less. Here are ten majestic places to stay and how you can enjoy a night for free. It’s time to start racking up those hotel points!
Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como, Italy
As one of the newest additions to Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ I Prefer program, guests can earn and redeem points for a stay at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo. Its majestic views of Lake Como, exquisite service, and beautiful guest rooms are simply magical. Equally amazing are the gardens behind the hotel, which feature a swimming pool and pizzeria. Most travelers, however, will want to spend time in the floating swimming pool that is actually part of Lake Como.
Westin Palace Madrid, Spain
One of the city’s oldest hotels also has one of its most envious locations in the heart of the “golden triangle of art.” Friendly doormen in top hats greet arrivals into an elegant lobby. As you climb the staircase, you arrive into the hotel’s famous lounge with a stained-glass cupola that draws visitors and locals for afternoon tea or an evening cocktail. This is also where breakfast is served each morning. The Westin Palace participates in the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program for those that want to redeem points for a free stay. Some of the best rooms are those that overlook the Neptune Fountain and always-buzzing traffic circle. From here, everything from Puerta del Sol to Gran Via shopping is within walking distance.
Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seville, Spain
In the heart of historic Seville, Hotel Alfonso XIII is a stunning example of Moorish architecture. The hotel was commissioned by the king of Spain during the 1929 World Fair. Its mosaic-covered archways, gurgling fountains, and beautiful courtyards blessed with orange trees are a must-visit for people coming to Andalucia. Travelers can redeem Marriott Bonvoy points for a free stay, or simply stop by for a cocktail while walking around the city.
Hotel Danieli, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice, Italy
Facing the Grand Canal and Palazzo Ducale, this luxurious hotel is among the most luxurious palazzo hotels in the city. It is actually several buildings interconnected by bridges. Once you enter the revolving doors of the main building, you instantly see what makes its interiors so regal: a plethora of art, antique décor, and stunning Venetian Gothic architecture. Hotel Danieli is a member of Marriott Bonvoy, and members can earn and redeem points for a stay.
Dromoland Castle, County Clare, Ireland
If you want to sleep in a castle, this is the real deal. Dromoland Castle is a stunning estate surrounded by lush greenery and a beautiful lake. Like much of Ireland, the hotel is popular with golfers, but also has a luxurious spa and fine dining. Wandering the halls of this hotel reminds you of what a majestic place this is with gilt-framed artwork, elegant antiques, and regal décor. The property is part of the I Prefer loyalty program with Preferred Hotels & Resorts. Don’t miss some of the hotel’s signature experiences like clay shooting, pony riding, fishing, biking, and even a visit with the property’s resident falconers.
Kulm Hotel, St. Moritz, Switzerland
This lakefront palace is the ultimate in mountain luxury, which is great for wintertime skiing, but also summertime outdoor activities. Kulm Hotel dates back to 1856, and its history is interwoven into the decor and architecture of the hotel. Views of the Engadine Valley from its swimming pool and spa are the perfect place to decompress. As a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, guests can redeem points from its Leaders Club program for a night here.
Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur, India
This palace dates back to 1746 and is literally an island estate in the middle of Lake Pichola. For fans of James Bond films, it may look especially familiar from the movie “Octopussy.” These days, guests at the Taj Lake Palace can redeem Taj Inner Circle points for a stay where they can enjoy fragrant Rajasthani cuisine, beautiful views of the lake, and the signature service for which Taj is known. This is like a fairy tale experience come to life.
The Plaza Hotel, New York
Featured in many Hollywood films and a staple of Fifth Avenue, The Plaza Hotel is a legend. With rooms facing Central Park and a lobby that is as much a tourist attraction as many of the city’s famous sights, spending the night here is a dream for many travelers. This hotel is managed by Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, which participates in the Accor Live Limitless program. Guests can use points from Accor’s program to score a free stay. Don’t miss afternoon tea in The Palm Court; another option is to choose from one of the many culinary treats in the hotel’s own lower-level food hall.
Raffles Singapore
This is Singapore’s oldest hotel and is fresh from a complete renovation that has it sparkling like a new property. Raffles Singapore participates in Accor’s loyalty program, which means you can redeem points for a discounted or entirely free stay. In the recent renovation, the hotel added more suites to its room count. Raffles Singapore has hosted diplomats, celebrities, and well-known authors like Rudyard Kipling and Somerset Maugham over the years. This is a stop on many Singapore visitors’ agenda so they can sample the famous Singapore Sling cocktail at The Long Bar. Other delectable dining options here include an Alain Ducasse restaurant and options for Indian, Chinese, and French cuisine.
Palacio Duhau – Park Hyatt Buenos Aires
The hotel has two sections, one of which is in a restored, neoclassical palace that is simply stunning. Palacio Duhau is modeled after a chateau in France, and it has a team of butlers to help guests from the moment they arrive. Withing walking distance are numerous visitor attractions including Recoleta Cemetary where Eva Peron is buried and great shopping neighborhoods. Local and international art is on display in the Paseo de las Artes Duhau, which is the hotel’s underground gallery. Guests can redeem World of Hyatt points for a night here.
