By now, you’ve hopefully caught up with Netflix’s series, The Crown, which chronicles the life of Queen Elizabeth II. Watching this extravagantly cinematic drama left us with dreams of channeling our own inner Elizabeth as she navigates running the monarchy from within the stately, OTT quarters of Buckingham Palace. In tribute, we’ve rounded up six of the world’s most regal hotels to visit at least once in your lifetime.
Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul
Reachable by three rather decadent modes of transport – limousine, yacht, or helicopter – this real-life palace and five-star hotel in Istanbul has been a legendary meeting place for royalty, heads of states, and celebrities from around the world. Oprah celebrated her birthday here, and Madonna is rumored to have rented out the hotel’s Sultan Suite for a cool $15,000 per night.
Ciragan Caddesi 32, Istanbul
(+90) 212 326 4646
www.kempinski.com
The Gritti Palace
This 15th century palazzo in Venice dates back to 1475 and features hundreds of restored paintings and artifacts from its original owner, Andrea Gritti, who was the Doge of Venice from 1523 to 1538. With Gritti Palace’s stunning location on the Grand Canal, guests can make an entrance by arriving at this remarkable property via water taxi or gondola.
Campo Santa Maria del Giglio, Venice
(+39) 041 794 611
www.thegrittipalace.com
Umaid Bhawan Palace
With 26 acres of lush gardens and 64 Art Deco-style rooms and suites, Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur manages to be both the site of a five-star hotel and the world’s sixth-largest private residence. In 2012, Supermodel Naomi Campbell took over the entire hotel to celebrate her boyfriend Vladimir Doronin’s birthday. Hey, if it’s lavish enough for Naomi, it’s lavish enough for us.
Circuit House Road, Cantt Area, Jodhpur
(+91) 291 251 0101
www.taj.tajhotels.com
Emirates Palace
This sparkling beachfront property in the UAE’s capital is more of a city than a hotel. With 14 restaurants, jogging trails, 302 rooms, and 92 suites, Emirates Palace is the – literal – gold standard in opulence.
West Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi
(+971) 2 690 9000
www.kempinski.com
Le Meurice
If pastel tones and Louis XVI-style interiors are what you’re looking for in a hotel experience, this 19th century palace-turned-hotel in Paris will fulfill even your most regal, Marie Antoinette-inspired dreams. If you do make it to Le Meurice, be sure to take a stroll through the Tuileries Garden, which is only a five-minute walk away.
228 Rue de Rivoli, Paris
(+33) 1 4458 1010
www.dorchestercollection.com
Burj Al Arab
This striking, sail-shaped property is known around the world for its unapologetic opulence. 24-karat gold iPads? Check. Private butler service? Check. Regardless of what your needs or demands are, Burj Al Arab has them covered.
(+971) 4 301 7777
