Europe's most beautiful new hotels
- Jan Johannessen
- May 26
- 3 min read
Prix Versailles has just unveiled its list of the world's most beautiful hotels for 2026 – and seven of them are in Europe.
The prestigious architecture award, established in 2015, recognises outstanding design across categories including hotels, restaurants, airports and train stations. This year, the jury has selected 16 hotels worldwide, with European properties dominating the list.
"All the projects on this year's list fit perfectly into their local scene," said Jérôme Gouadain, Secretary General of Prix Versailles.
He noted that the hotels demonstrate what it takes to achieve excellence in interior and exterior design – and that they offer a kind of hospitality that elevates their surroundings at the same time.
Sir Prague – Prague, Czech Republic
Near the Vltava River, Sir Prague occupies a neo-Renaissance building dating back to 1884. While the stone façades, iron railings and timber parquet floors have been meticulously restored, the interiors draw inspiration from Czech Cubism – featuring vintage furniture and a distinctive design sensibility.
Chiemgauhof Lakeside Retreat – Übersee, Germany
With panoramic views of Lake Chiemsee, the hotel was selected for its blend of Bavarian heritage, modern hospitality and a life close to nature. Designed by Matteo Thun's Milan-based studio, the building is inspired by the region's traditional barns, with interiors featuring natural materials and Japanese touches.
La Fondation – Paris, France
Located in Paris' 17th arrondissement and designed by PCA-Stream. The building's original layout has been preserved and contrasted with green walls, terraces, courtyards and hanging gardens. Prix Versailles calls it "a role model for quiet luxury off the beaten trail."
Les Roches – Le Lavandou, France
The seaside resort from the 1930s is designed to evoke the impression of a ship floating on the water. Contemporary art permeates the entire hotel, turning it into something of a private museum.
Villa Dubrovnik – Dubrovnik, Croatia
Originally designed by celebrated Croatian architect Mladen Frka in 1961, and now reimagined by Studio Arthur Casas. Limestone, stucco, cotto and oak give the hotel an earthy, natural colour palette.
Orient Express La Minerva – Rome, Italy
One of the year's biggest hotel openings is set in a 17th-century palazzo in the heart of Rome. Architect Hugo Toro drew inspiration from the world's great railway lines, and Prix Versailles describes the property as "the epitome of timeless, understated luxury."
Splendido, A Belmond Hotel – Portofino, Italy
Belmond reopened Splendido earlier this year after 18 months of restoration. The hotel occupies a former 16th-century Benedictine monastery, and Martin Brudnizki Design Studio is behind what Prix Versailles calls the perfect balance between Ligurian heritage and contemporary elegance. As part of the restoration, the former private summer residence Villa Beatrice has also opened to the public for the first time.
The full world list for 2026
Alongside the seven European hotels, this year's world list features nine properties from across the rest of the globe:
The ArcadiaPlace, Lugu Lake – Yanyuan, China
The Silk Lakehouse, Shangri-La Hangzhou – Hangzhou, China
The Telegraph Hotel – Tbilisi, Georgia
The Oberoi Rajgarh Palace – Khajuraho, India
Kasbah d'If – Marrakesh, Morocco
Naboa – Tulum, Mexico
Soori Penang – George Town, Malaysia
Desert Rock – Hanak, Saudi Arabia
Maison Mystique – Khao Yai, Thailand
