Last Updated on August 27, 2024
As a long-time Marriott Bonvoy member, when I’m traveling to Europe, I typically start my hotel search with Marriott. There’s something to be said about the hotel chain’s standards – a quality of excellence and customer service guests can always trust.
One of my favorite types of Marriott hotel stays in Europe is the Autograph Collection. Each of its 81 Autograph Collection hotels here are inspired by a clear vision, soul, and story, with heartfelt designs and comforting sense of place. No two Autograph Collection hotels are the same (not even those in other destinations such as the U.S., Asia, the Caribbean or other regions) throughout the world. Each offers an enriching experience into the history, culture, art or natural beauty of an area.
Here are some of my favorites, with more to come later as I check them off my travel bucket list on future European adventures. To the delight of those traveling with dogs, these hotels are all pet-friendly.
Sapphire House: Antwerp, Belgium
Luxury meets authentic Antwerp living at this 139-room and suite neo-gothic hotel showcasing historic charm and 16th-century ambiance.
The hotel was once named “Den Grooten Robijn” – The Great Ruby – referring to the long heritage in gem trading which began in Antwerp in the 1500s thanks to their first direct trade route with India.
As the first Marriott boutique hotel embracing a full plant-based experience from morning to night, two-star Michelin chef De Pooter brings guests on a 100% plant-based gastronomic journey using vegetables, herbs and flowers from their own garden or from local growers at his restaurant PLANTn.
Dorothea Hotel: Budapest, Hungary
On a visit to Budapest in 2022, my husband and I had to chance to check out this historic hotel located downtown as we explored the iconic sites of the city. Inspired by the fascinating lives of Archduchess Dorothea and Palatine Joseph in the 19th century, the hotel is set in three grand buildings from separate eras taking guests on a journey through time.
The hotel offers 216 rooms and suites with refined luxury and comfort, and guests will love the Pavilions all-day dining, glass-covered green oasis, and farm-to-table kitchen. Location? Hard to beat when you’re close to main attractions like the Parliament and the famous Chain Bridge.
St. Ermin’s Hotel: London
This lovely hotel situated in the best area of central London is in an ideal locale for exploring some of the world’s most celebrated attractions. Guests can easily walk to Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and more or hop on the Underground at St. James’s Park. Even better, you’re right in the heart of West End, home to some of the best live theatre on the planet.
We love the tree-lined courtyard leading to the late Victorian-era building thought to be named after an ancient monastery that once occupied the site. Rooms and suites are stylish, well-appointed and comfortable.
Caxton Grill serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and if you’re into the British tradition, The Tea Lounge serves daily afternoon tea. Pinkies up!
The Pantheon Iconic Rome Hotel
Guests will find the ideal blend of modern luxury and history in this magnificent hotel in Rome with artwork and design reminiscent of Rome’s golden age.
Rooms and suites offer bespoke accommodations with city, Pantheon and courtyard views. You’re only moments from some of Italy’s most legendary destinations like the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori, the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain.
The hotel boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant led by Chef Francesco Apreda featuring Mediterranean fare with an Oriental twist.
Domes Novos: Santorini, Greece
If you’ve ever been to Santorini, Greece, you’ll understand the magic this destination offers. Spending time here is a dream. Especially in a location that offers relaxation and unparalleled privacy.
Domes Novos offers a family-friendly retreat with 50 elegantly designed suites and two private villas each with its own private pool and mesmerizing views of the Aegean Sea and the Santorini sunsets.
Amenities include a main pool, pool bar, kids club and spa offering volcanic-infused treatments. Vatanee Restaurant is open all day specializing in Mediterranean entrees and the Vatanee Pool & Restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch.
Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa
The location of this boutique hotel alone is ideal, only a five-minute walk from the famous “Petit France,” the Cathedral and other major city landmarks.
The historic Strasbourg hotel offers 131 rooms and suites restored to the original Art Deco design with the elegance of a timeless place blending tradition, luxury and innovation. Who could resist the cabinets of curiosities and bookcases honoring the history of “la Maison Rouge?”
We love the cozy ambiance of the 1387 wine bar located next to the lobby fireplace and dining at Maison Rouge for lunch or dinner. If you’re visiting over a weekend don’t miss Sunday Brunch at Les Salons Mistinguett offering a gourmet buffet of Alsatian specialties and an impressive assortment of other hot and cold dishes.
These, like other Autograph Collections throughout the globe, offer guests an unforgettable experience in a smaller, more intimate setting while still providing the luxury, comfort and amenities important to discerning travelers.
