If the culture vulture in you is itching for a well-deserved city break, why not explore great destinations that have some of the best cultural hotels in the world? While you are still deciding where to have your fix of some culture, we dug into the world of travel and with the help of some accommodation experts, managed to come up and share some of the best cultural hotels in close proximity to some famous museums across the globe.
Some of the Best Cultural Hotels
The Hermitage, St. Petersburg
Although slightly further afield, the Hermitage in St Petersburg, Russia has managed to acquire a spectacular collection of world art – more than 3 million items – spanning the years from the Stone Age to the early 20th century.
Where to stay:
Silver Sphere Inn, St. Petersburg
The boutique Silver Sphere Inn is located in the historic center of St. Petersburg, offering views of the bustling Nevsky Prospekt and the famous Lutheran Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. The Hermitage is only an 11-minute walk away, making this the perfect choice for your trip to St. Petersburg.
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Le Louvre, Paris
Le Louvre was a medieval fortress and the palace of the kings of France before becoming a museum almost two centuries ago. The museum’s collections, which range from antiquity to the first half of the 19th century, are among the most important in the world. It is also home to the Mona Lisa, just in case you are a grumpy traveller in need of a smile.
Where to stay:
Hôtel Helussi, Paris
What would a best cultural hotels list be without including Paris? Close to both Paris’ major train stations, Gare du Nord and Gare de L’Est, and within walking distance to the Louvre, Hôtel Helussi couldn’t be in a better location for a weekend-break to Paris to visit Le Louvre. You can choose from a variety of unique rooms, including an elegant balcony room, as well as a complimentary sauna – ideal for relaxing in after a day walking around museums.
The Guggenheim, Bilbao
The Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is not only recognized as one of the best galleries in Spain, but also the world. The collection features a significant representation of Basque art, with artworks by internationally renowned figures of the second half of the past century, such as Jorge Oteiza or Eduardo Chillida.
Where to stay:
Barceló Bilbao Nervión, Bilbao
The Barceló Bilbao Nervión hotel enjoys a prime central location, close to the winding streets of the city’s old quarter and is located just 15 minutes on foot from the Guggenheim Museum. Take in beautiful views over the river from your modern, brightly decorated room, or enjoy modern takes on local Basque cuisine at the Ibaizal Restaurant.
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The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
The largest museum in the Western Hemisphere, its collection of more than two million items is not only broad but also deep —covering the entire world, from antiquity to the present.
Where to stay:
Royal Park Hotel and Hostel, New York
Located in the heart of Bloomingdale, the Royal Park Hotel and Hostel is a great, affordable option for a trip to the Big Apple. Choose from shared dormitories through to private and family rooms, and explore the best New York has to offer. The Metropolitan Museum of Art can be reached either by talking a stroll through Central Park, or taking advantage of many of the city’s transport links.
The British Museum, London
Britain’s largest museum looks after the national collection of archaeology and ethnography, with more than eight million objects ranging from prehistoric bones to bits of Athens’ Pantheon and exquisite gold jewels.
Where to stay:
Caesar Hotel, London
The Caesar Hotel is located in the quiet residential area of Bayswater, one of the most cosmopolitan areas of the city, known for its Victorian streets and abundance of greenery. Paddington Station and several Tube stations are within a 10-minute walk, making it an ideal starting point for visiting London, shopping and discovering all that London has to offer.
The British Museum is an easy tube ride away or, if you want to soak up the hustle and bustle of London, you can take a stroll through the gorgeous Hyde Park or through the sophisticated Marylebone and Fitzrovia.