If you think outside the box, away from brand-name properties and quintessential European tourist destinations, there are plenty of budget-friendly five-star accommodations.
Finding an affordable hotel in Europe can be a challenge for anyone — the volume of properties alone can be overwhelming. And for those who want to experience the finer things in life, securing a five-star hotel without spending thousands of dollars can be a daunting task. But if you think outside the box, away from brand-name properties and quintessential European tourist destinations, there are plenty of budget-friendly five-star accommodations. U.S. News rounded up 10 top properties featured on the Best Hotels in Europe ranking that don’t skimp on quality, service or luxury — and all can be booked for less than $200 a night.
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Marrol’s Boutique Hotel BratislavaBratislava, Slovakia
Set in the heart of Slovakia’s capital, this 54-room hotel impresses guests with its central location and charming atmosphere. The property’s address puts visitors within walking distance of the Old Town, the Blue Church and the banks of the Danube River. Standard room rates, which range from $100 to $120 per night on average, include a daily buffet breakfast and free Wi-Fi access.
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Emerald Hotel KosovoPrishtina, Kosovo
The Emerald Hotel Kosovo is situated about 5 miles south of the Prishtina city center, but travelers say the excellent service, facilities and tasty food at the on-site restaurant make up for the hotel’s removed location. The property is home to a spa, a fitness center, a tennis court and an outdoor pool surrounded by umbrellas and lounge chairs. The Top Restaurant, which offers scenic views of Kosovo from its fifth-floor perch, serves Mediterranean fare. Meanwhile, the Lobby Restaurant offers breakfast and the lounge bar is open 24 hours a day for coffee or cocktails. Average nightly room rates range from $100 to $120.
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Tomtom SuitesIstanbul
With a chic, modern design and just 20 suites, this property is a favorite among boutique hotel lovers. The hotel is set in Istanbul’s Beyoglu neighborhood, across the Golden Horn from the Old City, meaning travelers can walk to Taksim Square and the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art, among other sights. At the hotel, each suite is outfitted with modern interiors, free Wi-Fi access and a Jacuzzi and rain shower. Tomtom Suites is also home to an on-site art gallery and a rooftop terrace that offers panoramic views of the city. Room rates here, which include daily breakfast, start around $120 to $130 a night.
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Casa Delfino Hotel & SpaChania, Greece
Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa draws guests to its picturesque locale with uniquely decorated rooms and coveted on-site amenities. The hotel is set in a peach-hued Venetian mansion on the island of Crete. At this quaint property, guests have access to a spa (complete with a steam room, a Jacuzzi and a relaxation area) and a rooftop garden with lounge chairs and a hot tub. Aside from the property’s features, previous lodgers praise Casa Delfino’s high level of service and spacious accommodations. Average nightly room rates range from $120 to $135.
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Hotel MetropoleBrussels
According to previous guests, Hotel Metropole embodies old-fashioned glamour and grandeur. The rooms feature decadent decor in rich jewel tones, plus highlights such as chandeliers, minibars with complimentary beverages and free Wi-Fi access. The property is set in the heart of Belgium’s capital city, putting travelers near the Grand Place and the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula. Previous visitors also rave about the Hotel Metropole’s neighborhood, which is filled with shops and eateries. Those who would prefer to eat on-site have that option too: Café Metropole serves tapas, tasting menus and brasserie-style cuisine. Standard average nightly room rates range from $120 to $150.
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Hotel RialtoWarsaw, Poland
Hotel Rialto caters to travelers with its art deco styling and quality customer service, and guests describe the hotel as “charming” and “classy.” Hotel Rialto’s accommodations feature a white and chocolate brown color scheme, LED TVs, minibars and free Wi-Fi access, which previous travelers describe as speedy and reliable. When it’s time for a meal, hungry visitors can head to Salto — the signature restaurant of Poland’s “Top Chef” winner Martin Gimenez Castro. This hotel’s price point wins over travelers, too: average nightly room rates range from $80 to $150.
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Gran Hotel La PerlaPamplona, Spain
Overlooking the lively Plaza del Castillo, this property sits within walking distance of top sights such as the San Nicolás church and the Pamplona Cathedral. At the hotel, which was once frequented by Ernest Hemingway, soundproof accommodations include free Wi-Fi access, LCD televisions and oversized bathrooms. (Travelers suggest requesting a room that looks out onto the plaza to get a feel for the essence of Pamplona.) Gran Hotel La Perla is also home to a restaurant, and there are plenty of cafes and eateries nearby as well. Average nightly rates here hover around $150 to $160.
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Schlössle HotelTallinn, Estonia
Walk along the cobblestone-lined Holy Spirit Street in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town and you’ll find the 23-room Schlössle Hotel, which receives rave reviews for its on-site amenities, boutique atmosphere and five-star service. The property boasts a private sauna, a spacious lobby with a fireplace and several sitting areas, a bistro that serves Nordic cuisine and the highly praised Schlössle Restaurant. Rooms are equipped with minibars, free Wi-Fi access and an iPad for guest use. What’s more, the boutique property sits just a short walk from St. Olaf’s Church and Toompea Hill — two of Tallinn’s most popular attractions. Travelers can secure a room at the Schlössle Hotel for $150 to $170 a night, on average.
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Hotel Royal Plaza MontreuxMontreux, Switzerland
With striking Lake Geneva views and a picturesque location in Montreux, Switzerland, this contemporary hotel is popular with travelers looking to relax. All guests receive complimentary access to the hotel spa’s indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and fitness center, while those seeking a little more pampering can book a massage or facial. The majority of accommodations have a private balcony or terrace, offering views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. Outside the rooms, visitors will find a cigar lounge, two bars and Café Bellagio, which sits along the water’s edge and offers patio and indoor seating with lake views. On average, a stay at this hotel costs $170 to $185 per night.
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Fota Island ResortCork, Ireland
Fota Island Resort is located about 10 miles east of the Cork city center, on nearly 800 acres of land — and guests say the grounds are immaculate, the staff is friendly and the afternoon tea is delightful. In addition to tea, travelers can enjoy meals at the upscale Fota Restaurant or the casual Spike Bar. Other features at the Fota Island Resort include a spa, a cycling studio and an indoor heated swimming pool. But the property is perhaps best known for its 18-hole golf course, which has hosted the Irish Open. When it comes to accommodations, travelers can stay in a room, suite or multibedroom lodge. You can secure a standard room here for around $125 to $180 a night, on average.
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Finding an affordable hotel in Europe can be a challenge for anyone — the volume of properties alone can be overwhelming. And for those who want to experience the finer things in life, securing a five-star hotel without spending thousands of dollars can be a daunting task. But if you think outside the box, away from brand-name properties and quintessential European tourist destinations, there are plenty of budget-friendly five-star accommodations. U.S. News rounded up 10 top properties featured on the Best Hotels in Europe ranking that don’t skimp on quality, service or luxury — and all can be booked for less than $200 a night.
