Top 5 Luxury Hotels in Europe You Need to Experience

As luxury travel specialists, we believe where you stay matters just as much as where you go. We've had the pleasure of experiencing some of Europe’s most exquisite hotels firsthand, and we're thrilled to share our top picks that combine timeless elegance, impeccable service, and immersive local charm. Whether you're seeking canal-side sophistication in Amsterdam or romantic grandeur in Paris, here are our favorite luxury hotels in Europe—each one personally visited and Travel Queen Approved.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands – De L'Europe Amsterdam

Nestled along the Amstel River with views of the historic city center, De L'Europe Amsterdam is a grand dame of Dutch hospitality. This iconic property embodies old-world charm while offering modern sophistication. From its Belle Époque facade to its curated art collection celebrating Dutch masters, every detail is thoughtful and elegant.

Step inside and you're greeted by marble floors, rich wood paneling, and the quiet hum of live piano music. The guest rooms are tastefully decorated, offering luxurious bedding, sleek bathrooms with heated floors, and picturesque views over the canals or city skyline. The hotel’s central location makes it ideal for exploring Amsterdam's famed museums, boutique-lined Nine Streets, and atmospheric Jordaan neighborhood.

Highlights include Michelin-starred dining at Flore, afternoon cocktails at Freddy’s Bar (a favorite of locals), and the serene Le Spa by Skins Institute, offering treatments that blend innovation with indulgence.

Why we love it: The hotel perfectly marries Dutch heritage with five-star luxury, making you feel part of the city's rich culture while being wrapped in comfort and class.

Paris, France – Le Reserve Paris Hotel and Spa

When in Paris, romance and refinement go hand in hand—and no place captures that essence quite like Le Reserve Paris Hotel and Spa. Located just steps from the Champs-Élysées and the Grand Palais, this discreet, mansion-style hotel offers an intimate escape in the heart of the City of Light.

With only 40 rooms and suites, the experience feels deeply personal. Each room is adorned with silk-covered walls, velvet drapes, antique woodwork, and Carrara marble bathrooms. Some suites feature private balconies with Eiffel Tower views, perfect for romantic evenings with a bottle of Bordeaux.

Dining at the two-Michelin-starred Le Gabriel is a culinary revelation, featuring seasonal French haute cuisine in a refined, intimate setting. The hotel’s spa, pool, and butler service ensure every moment is luxurious and relaxing.

Why we love it: Le Reserve blends opulence with discretion. It’s luxury that whispers, not shouts—perfect for those who appreciate refinement in every detail. It also has one of the highest guest return rates in Paris, and for good reason.

Interlaken, Switzerland – Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

Tucked between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with sweeping views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks, Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa is the definition of Alpine elegance. With more than 150 years of history, this palatial retreat offers a unique mix of classic Swiss charm and world-class wellness.

The hotel boasts over 200 rooms and suites, many with balconies and dramatic mountain views. Interiors are traditional yet plush, with elegant furnishings, high ceilings, and soft neutral palettes that reflect the surrounding natural beauty.

The 5,500-square-meter NESCENS spa is a destination in itself, offering a fusion of medical wellness and holistic therapies. There’s also a vast indoor pool, saunas, a yoga studio, and a fitness center. Dining options include the upscale La Terrasse and the seasonal Ristorante e Pizzeria Sapori, both with exceptional menus.

Whether you’re skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the location is ideal for immersing in the beauty of the Bernese Oberland. Day trips to Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, and the Jungfraujoch are easily accessible.

Why we love it: The dramatic Alpine backdrop combined with regal interiors makes you feel like royalty. It’s a slice of Swiss serenity wrapped in grandeur.

Basel, Switzerland – Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois

For travelers who appreciate history, Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois is one of the oldest city hotels in Europe, dating back to 1681. Perched on the banks of the Rhine in Basel’s Old Town, it has hosted luminaries such as Napoleon, Pablo Picasso, and Queen Elizabeth II.

The hotel radiates classic luxury with crystal chandeliers, damask fabrics, and antique furniture. Rooms offer a blend of classic and contemporary décor, many with balconies overlooking the river. Service is impeccable, with staff who remember your name and preferences from the moment you arrive.

Dining at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, the hotel’s three-Michelin-starred restaurant, is an experience not to be missed. Each dish is a masterpiece—visually stunning and bursting with flavor, often combining French culinary tradition with Asian and Mediterranean influences.

Why we love it: Les Trois Rois blends historical prestige with cutting-edge cuisine and impeccable Swiss hospitality. It’s luxury with a legacy—and a story in every corner.

Porto, Portugal – Wine & Books Hotel

In the heart of Porto, Wine & Books Hotel offers a fresh take on luxury rooted in the region's rich culture of literature and wine. This boutique gem balances contemporary design with Portuguese warmth, making it both stylish and inviting.

Located just minutes from the famous Livraria Lello and the Douro River, this property is a haven for travelers seeking modern comfort with a literary twist. The hotel’s theme is reflected in every detail—from book-lined walls and thoughtful quotes, to curated wine pairings in the bar.

Rooms are sleek and modern with warm wood tones, high-end linens, and indulgent bathrooms. The hotel’s restaurant pays homage to Northern Portuguese cuisine with a contemporary flair, using local ingredients and seasonal menus.

The rooftop terrace offers a quiet escape with panoramic views of Porto’s rooftops and the river. And for wine lovers, the on-site sommelier is always ready to guide a tasting or suggest the perfect pairing.

Why we love it: Wine & Books offers a boutique luxury experience that feels personal and soulful—perfect for those who love stories, both on the page and in their travels.

Final Thoughts

Luxury isn’t just about chandeliers and thread counts—it’s about feeling seen, pampered, and inspired by the place you're in. Each of these hotels offers something uniquely special, from canal views to mountain panoramas, from Michelin stars to literary charm. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a solo escape, or an unforgettable group experience, these properties deliver.

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At Travel Queen, we don’t just book hotels—we craft meaningful journeys. If you’re ready to explore Europe in style, let us help you plan a getaway that’s anything but ordinary. Reach out to the luxury travel stylists at Travel Queen LLC!  because your next unforgettable hotel experience awaits!

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