Readers Share Their Preferred Old-World Places to Stay in the Continent
Discover a variety of distinctive heritage lodgings in European destinations, including ancient palazzos to medieval fortresses and eccentric getaways.
An Opulent Venice Residence
Two visitors managed to secure a stunning five-century-old historic residence for only €100 per night. Situated in the tranquil lanes of a Venetian district, the outside looks unassuming, but inside, opulence greets you.
Guests can walk through a green ornamental garden, view a spacious foyer embellished with paintings and Renaissance paintings, brightened by sparkling Venetian chandeliers. The welcome space boasts an vintage velvet armchair, perfect for sipping a prosecco or regional drink.
Dating back to the 1500s, the original proprietors gave Venice with two rulers. Today, the stone corridors and spacious rooms have a refined, aristocratic air, as if ghosts of the artist or a renowned painter might materialize and start creating art. The first meal of cappuccino and pastries in the patio, provided by kind hosts, provides a pleasant start to the day.
A Cooking Course in a Historic Fortress
East of the city of Turin in the heart of the Monferrato area, a beautiful castle with history to the medieval period offers a immersive culinary program. Although a large part of the current building was erected about 1700 on old bases, it has been meticulously refurbished by a dedicated group.
Guests can take part in excellent food workshops, as well as fascinating outings and adventures. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for anyone interested in regional dishes and the past.
A Stunningly Refurbished Manor in Romania
Located above a charming Transylvanian hamlet, an 18th-century estate features elegant accommodation adjacent to one of the area’s most exquisite medieval religious sites. Set at the far side of a green tree-lined gorge, the grand but inviting inside include period regional artwork and pieces, creating the sensation of stepping into a historical novel.
Visitors can enjoy candlelit dinners on the terrace, prepared by a local culinary expert, and while away afternoons in the splendid library. The manor accommodates up to nine, and reasonable prices offer an budget-friendly and magical retreat.
An Ancient Fortress Perched Above the River Danube
Travelers looking to experience old-world eras, a 1200s structure located on a cliff with views of the mighty river in Baden-Württemberg provides an unforgettable stay. Reachable via a demanding zigzag cycle trail up a steep rock, the fortress includes pale exteriors that screen a spacious courtyard with cozy accommodations and a wonderful pub in a underground room.
The sweeping location provides magnificent vistas across the nearby protected area and spectacular sunsets. Supposedly inhabited by ghosts, exploring the corridors and paths for ghosts is entertaining for visitors. A generous breakfast with lots of tasty baked goods provides sustenance for additional adventures.
A Unique Fruit-Themed Retreat in Stirling
Challenging to convey, this 1700s dedication to a exotic produce is perched on a rural property near the city of Stirling. Part of the building includes two bedrooms and a washroom, separated from the basic kitchen and comfortable common space by the distinctive feature. Certainly unconventional, lodging here gives a different adventure for visitors wanting something distinctive.
Pet-welcoming and sleeping four, the building contains vintage literature and records from the 1970s, supplying amusement in the lack of TV and wifi.
World War I History in Flanders
In a Belgian city that was free during the WWI, a historical residence formerly served as a gathering place for military personnel. Currently, the building has been carefully maintained by knowledgeable staff, and the religious space in the loft is a very special location of remembrance.
The rooms and morning meal are lovely and very much in the essence of the original establishment.
Patio Apartments in Seville
Although the Andalusian capital is famous for its historic hotels, many can be pricey. An alternative selection offers surprisingly budget-friendly prices and a convenient location. This is a 1500s central area building with historic roots from the old times.
Guests can lodge in rooms organized around a communal open space, once used for community functions like baking and laundry. The place is a especially suggestive location for enthusiasts of {Spanish golden age theatre|