My Top 10 Favorite Luxury Hotels in Europe

Europe offers endless beauty, history, and culture—but the right hotel can turn a remarkable trip into an unforgettable one. These are my personal favorites, each offering a blend of location, elegance, and service that keeps me coming back (or dreaming of returning). From clifftop retreats in the Mediterranean to countryside hideaways in Provence, these properties embody the very best of European hospitality.

In no particular order, these are some of the best hotels in Europe. Clients rave about them time after time.

10 Favorite Luxury Hotels in Europe:

1. Vila Vita Parc - Algarve, Portugal

Perched on a dramatic cliffside overlooking the Atlantic, Vila Vita Parc is a sanctuary of lush gardens, golden beaches, and refined Portuguese charm. Whether you’re sipping wine from their own vineyard, dining at their two-Michelin-starred Ocean restaurant, or relaxing in a private cabana, this resort delivers both elegance and a sense of place.

2. Le Sirenuse - Positano, Italy

An icon on the Amalfi Coast, Le Sirenuse is pure Italian romance. With breathtaking views of Positano’s pastel-colored cliffside, impeccable service, and a legendary champagne & oyster bar, every detail here feels magical. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger long after checkout.

3. Grand Hotel Tremezzo - Lake Como, Italy

Few hotels capture the glamour of Lake Como like Grand Hotel Tremezzo. From its floating pool on the lake to its lush gardens and Art Nouveau architecture, it’s a destination in itself. Sip a cocktail at sunset while gazing across the water to Bellagio—pure dolce vita.

4. La Réserve Paris - Paris, France

For those who want Paris at its most refined, La Réserve offers an intimate, private-mansion feel just steps from the Champs-Élysées. With only 40 rooms and suites, personalized service is paramount, and the Michelin-starred dining will make you feel like a true Parisian insider.

5. Villa Igiea - Palermo, Sicily

A glamorous Sicilian palazzo brought back to life, Villa Igiea blends Belle Époque elegance with modern luxury. Overlooking the Gulf of Palermo, it’s the perfect base to explore Sicily’s rich history, vibrant markets, and coastal beauty.

6. Four Seasons Taormina - Sicily, Italy

Set in the enchanting hilltop town of Taormina, this Four Seasons property offers panoramic views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. The lush gardens, infinity pool, and impeccable service make it an irresistible mix of Sicilian charm and world-class comfort (you might recognize it from the White Lotus!).

7. San Montano Resort & Spa - Ischia, Italy

High above the Bay of Naples, San Montano feels like a serene Mediterranean hideaway. Known for its thermal pools, spa, and views that seem to stretch forever, it’s the perfect escape for those seeking relaxation, wellness, and understated elegance.

8. Palace Elisabeth - Hvar, Croatia

The crown jewel of Hvar, Hotel Palace Elisabeth combines historic grandeur with contemporary elegance. Overlooking the Adriatic and Hvar’s charming harbor, this palace-turned-luxury-hotel is the island’s most iconic address. Guests enjoy a blend of Venetian heritage, chic interiors, and world-class service, all just steps away from Hvar’s vibrant town center.

9. Hôtel Crillon le Brave - Provence, France

Tucked away in a charming hilltop village, Hôtel Crillon le Brave is the definition of Provençal elegance. Surrounded by vineyards and lavender fields, it’s a haven for wine lovers, cyclists, and anyone who wants to slow down and savor the French countryside.

10. Cali Mykonos - Mykonos, Greece (Newer Standout)

This sleek, contemporary resort has quickly become one of the hottest addresses in the Greek islands. With private pools for nearly every suite, an infinity pool overlooking the Aegean, and a chic, understated design, Cali Mykonos offers modern luxury with a laid-back island vibe.

These hotels aren’t just places to sleep—they are destinations in their own right. Each offers a unique perspective on its location, from the flavors of local cuisine to the way the sun sets over the horizon. When you choose the right property, the hotel becomes part of the story you take home.

If you’re ready to experience one (or several) of these extraordinary stays, I can help craft a journey that matches the beauty, comfort, and magic each of these properties offers. Contact me to begin planning.

At Distinct Vacations we partner with in-country travel suppliers allowing us to offer out-of-the-ordinary, non-Googleable, local experiences with premium service throughout your vacation.

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