From famous renaissance paintings to innovative modern sculptures, there’s nothing more inspiring than seeing a fantastic piece of art while immersing yourself in a new place.
Some of the best art hotels guarantee their guests this experience. It might be by adorning their walls with invaluable artworks, building abstract installations by their pools, or positioning themselves near some of the most iconic galleries and sculptures in the world.
Have you found your favourite piece yet? Maybe you’ll find it in a boutique art studio in the charming town of Nantucket? Or, perhaps you’ll see it at the world famous Art Basel festival in Miami?
View the world through the eyes of an artist; check out our round-up of the best hotels for art lovers.
1. Hotel Savoy — Florence, Italy
Located in the heart of beautiful Florence, a city renowned for its renaissance art, Hotel Savoy is the perfect base for art history buffs in search of centuries-old masterpieces.
Not only is the hotel ideally situated — with some suites offering views over the famous Piazza Della Repubblica — it’s also embellished with signature prints and renaissance antiques by curators, Laudomia Pucci and Olga Polizzi.
Step outside the dazzling hotel lobby and walk two minutes round the corner to the Cathedral di Santa Marie del Fiore and the iconic Duomo. Join the swathes of art aficionados who have flocked to the city for years to stare up at its painted ceiling: ‘The Last Judgement’ (1572-79) by Giorgio Vasari and Frederico Zuccari.
Widely considered to be one of the greatest renaissance artists of all time, Florence was once the playground of Michelangelo. See his masterpiece sculpture ‘David’ (1504) at the Accademia Gallery, just a ten minute walk from Hotel Savoy.
For more inspiration, check out our top 5 things to see in Florence.
“Florence is known for its art. Hotel Savoy has artwork hanging all over its walls, including photographs of celebrities who have been seen at the city’s fashion weeks, as well as famous designers.” Alice, Travel Specialist.
2. Domaine des Etangs — France
Somewhere in the rolling countryside of Charente in southwest France, there’s a magical 13th-century chateaux set within a 1,000-acre private estate: Domaine des Etangs. Truly the stuff of fairy tales, this restored castle was created by knights in the Middle Ages and now serves as a 5-star hotel unlike any other.
Not only is this boutique hotel itself a historical landmark, but it also boasts an onsite gallery, an outdoor ‘art trail’, and an interactive arts programme.
The gallery, La Laiterie, runs yearly exhibitions that are all connected by the theme of nature, with past displays ranging from ‘Elements and Colours’ (2020) by Yves Klein to ‘Tribes of the World’ (2017) by Anne de Vandière.
In-keeping with Domaine des Etangs’ overarching philosophy that “art is everywhere”, the walls inside this grand old building are heavily adorned with artworks so that guests are never far away from an interesting piece to ponder.
“Temporary exhibitions are showcased and organised by renowned curators. The Domaine’s cultural mediator is also on hand to talk guests through the various artworks around the estate on guided art tours.” Alice, Travel Specialist.
3. Hotel Arts Barcelona — Barcelona, Spain
Modern art lovers will love this swanky beachfront hotel in buzzing Barcelona. Living up to its title, Hotel Arts Barcelona is something of a masterclass in contemporary architecture with its clean façade comprised of glass and steel, designed by the famous Bruce Graham.
The biggest talking point about this stylish design-inspired hotel is undoubtedly the enormous Frank Gehry-designed fish sculpture, ‘El Peix’, which sits next to the main pool and presides over its gardens. Revolutionising the city’s waterfront, the sculpture was built for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics and is said to represent Gehry’s desire to create motion in architecture.
Following the hotel’s motif, art is also displayed throughout its interior spaces. Each room is adorned with an original piece of art by a Spanish artist — many of them from the Catalonia region.
And if you haven’t got your fill of art from the hotel itself, the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art is just a 20 minute drive away — perfect for art fanatics!
“The hotel has a strong focus on architecture, art, design, and innovative cuisine to immerse guests in the creative culture of the city.” Alice, Travel Specialist.
4. The St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort — Abu Dhabi
Situated on the pristine sands of Saadiyat Island overlooking the Arabian Gulf, The St Regis hotel is the epitome of Middle Eastern opulence and style. Fusing Arabian design with a beach-inspired colour palette, guests can unwind in complete luxury between visits to Abu Dhabi’s world-class Cultural District.
Just an eight-minute drive from The St Regis, the city’s Cultural District is home to the Lourve Abu Dhabi, which comprises 9,200 sq. meters of exhibition space and was designed by Pritzker-prize-winning architect, Jean Nouvel. Having bought into the ‘Louvre’ brand back in 2007 in a £663 million deal with French officials, the Arabian museum aims to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western art.
And if the Louvre isn’t enough for you, culture vultures will be pleased to know that the Guggenheim is also coming to Abu Dhabi and is set to open its doors in 2023.
This affluent city is quickly becoming an art and culture hub with the addition of these two iconic institutions. It also boasts an upscale hotel scene and luxury beachfront resorts for the ultimate art-lovers retreat.
“Less than ten minutes away from the Louvre Abu Dhabi, this hotel’s location is unbeatable for exploring the city’s Cultural District.” Zoe, Travel Specialist.
5. QT Wellington — New Zealand
It’s hard to know where the art museum ends and the hotel begins at the QT Wellington in New Zealand, with its eclectic collection of artworks dotted throughout the property. Conveniently situated on Wellington Harbour, immerse yourself in the unique art scene of New Zealand’s capital by staying in one of its quirky yet comfortable rooms.
Celebrating both high and lowbrow art, you’ll find pieces ranging from the outrageously gaudy to the intellectually sophisticated, and everything in between.
Enjoy an artisan cocktail in the hotel’s Lobby Lounge surrounded by incredible paintings and sculptures. Or, reserve a table at Hippopotamus and enjoy French cuisine while admiring impressive art installations, like the restaurant’s distinctive ‘Peacocks’.
QT Wellington invites you to “literally spend a night in an art gallery”. And what art enthusiast could turn down an offer like that?!
6. W South Beach — Miami, USA
Home of the esteemed Art Basel festival, Miami has long been a hot spot for pioneering artists looking to establish themselves on the world stage. W South Beach, a luxury beachfront hotel, aims to preserve the city’s cultural legacy by displaying over 50 million dollars worth of art on its walls.
Featuring works by famous contemporary artists such as Damien Hirst, Andy Warhol, and Basquiat, just one night in this glamorous art-centric hotel is an education in itself.
Not only do astounding pieces by big name artists adorn the walls in public spaces — the hotel’s 408 rooms also feature portraits by Art Grammy-nominated photographer, Danny Clinch. It’s a seriously impressive collection!
When you’re done soaking up all the art your eyes can handle, tuck into dinner at the outstanding Mr Chow restaurant. It serves Beijing cuisine with a modern twist, as well as signature dishes from the chef’s selected ‘duck menu’. Delicious!
“W South Beach has a huge collection of artwork hanging on its walls, including pieces by Andy Warhol. It’s also the perfect place to stay if you’re attending the prestigious Art Basel Miami Beach festival, which takes place in December.” David, Travel Specialist.
7. The Wauwinet — Nantucket, USA
Set on Nantucket’s rugged Atlantic coastline, this charming New England inn is a real refuge for the soul. A small luxury hotel, The Wauwinet is made up of just 32 rooms and four quaint cottages, and exudes old-world hospitality with its homely furnishings and modern-vintage aesthetic.
This beautiful 19th-century house is just a short drive from the centre of Nantucket town, where numerous galleries and small boutiques sit back from tree-lined streets. With a vibrant art community, one of the island’s must-visit institutions is the Artists Association of Nantucket, which features a rotating exhibition gallery, a visual arts centre, as well as an active arts programme.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, Nantucket has also been a source of inspiration for many of its residents-turned-artists. Eric Holch and G.S. Hill, who both operate galleries in the town, have captured the very essence of the island in their original artworks.
It should also be noted that The Wauwinet is particularly ideal for artistic honeymooners, with its romantic ocean views, excellent lobster dinners, and inspiring artworks in the nearby town.
8. JOALI — Maldives
Reimagining the island as an active exhibition space, JOALI Maldives is set on one of the largest and deepest atolls in the world. An art-immersive retreat, the immaculate white sand beaches, turquoise shallows, and vibrant coral reef all provide inspiration for the installations displayed throughout the resort.
With an art philosophy that is “anchored in sustainability efforts”, JOALI showcases artworks that send a strong environmental message or that celebrate local Maldivian craftsmanship. Notably, ‘Maldives Vibes’ — an impressive coral sculpture by Israeli artist, Zemer Peled — is inspired by the dazzling underwater world of the Maldives and advocates for marine conservation.
The resort also features an ‘Art Map’ that you can follow to discover all the unique art installations that are nestled deep within the island’s lush vegetation and set on its pristine beaches.
After completing the trail, attend a workshop led by resident artist, Nataliya Kuleshova, in JOALI’s purpose-built art studio.
So prepare your paintbrushes, set your clay on the potter’s wheel, and get ready to create your own masterpiece in paradise.
For more inspiration, see where to stay in the Maldives: which island is best for you?
“The ‘Art Map’ is a fantastic device, which invites guests to explore this luxurious art-immersive retreat. Combining creativity with sustainability, JOALI Maldives is a paradise island for art lovers.” Zoe, Travel Specialist.
9. Four Seasons Resort at Jimbaran Bay — Bali
For a more abstract take on the ‘art hotel’ genre, the Four Seasons Resort at Jimbaran Bay is special. Its artistic offerings are realised through its amazing buildings, which pay homage to classical Balinese architecture.
Collectively, these stunning villas emulate an authentic Balinese village. Step inside, and you’ll find intricately patterned walls and a colour palette featuring accents of gold, both of which are synonymous with traditional Balinese art and culture.
Aside from the extraordinary construction of these thatched-roof pavilions, the resort also boasts a culture centre where you’re invited to try your hand at customary Indonesian arts and crafts, from ceramic making and songket weaving to woodcarving and rice cake art.
In Bali, art is not just an object to be admire from a distance — it’s a way of life.
10. Regent Seven Seas Cruises — Everywhere
Who says a beautiful art hotel can’t be found at sea? Sure, while not technically a hotel, Regent Seven Seas Cruises have a private collection of art that is so impressive, we couldn’t possibly leave them off this list.
The Seven Seas Splendor cruise ship boasts a 300-piece strong art collection, including a real Picasso, Le Taureau Noir (1947), which is aptly displayed in the ship’s premier steakhouse: Prime 7. Furthermore, you can continue your art voyage on this ship with a visit to the Observation Lounge. Here, you’ll find a breathtaking collection of blown glass by renowned artist, Duncan McCellan.
Taking nearly two years to curate, the multimillion dollar private art gallery aboard the Seven Seas Splendor is said to be one of the most discerning collections of 20th and 21st century art on the sea to date.
And the best thing about this buoyant art gallery is…you can visit anywhere in the world with it! Discover the best luxury cruises for your next escape and travel the world in unparalleled style.
See your favourite masterpiece
Whether it’s an Andy Warhol in Miami or a Michelangelo in Florence, let our expert team find the best art-inspired hotels for your luxury holiday,
Contact us today to speak to our Travel Specialists. They’ll personalise the perfect escape, uniquely tailored to you.