Hotels aren’t just great places to stay when exploring a new city — they can also be historic attractions themselves. Check out top 7 oldest hotels – the first hotels in the world below.
Orso Grigio
It was technically Austria’s when Orso Grigio was founded in the 1300s. However, following Italy’s annexation of the province, the hotel is now properly located in San Candido. There’s a nice fusion of the two cultures on display, and the views out the windows are stunning as well. From the comfort of their hotel room, guests can take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the city below, which is a vibrant melting pot of cultures. This inn, which dates back to the 14th century, and the neighboring San Candido marketplace continue to amaze visitors to this day. Orso Grigio now offers unrivaled hospitality, service, and cuisine to its guests.
Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan
The Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan in Japan claims to be the world's oldest hotel, having opened in the year 705. During the reign of Emperor Keiun, Fujiwara Mahito opened an inn that would later become the Keiunkan Hotel. The Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan in Japan was officially named the oldest hotel in the world in 2011.
The onsen, or traditional hot springs, at this inn are a major selling point. Tokugawa Ieyasu and Takeda Shingen, among other notable samurai and shoguns, were rumored to have visited Nishiyama Onsen. Today, Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan is still run by the 52nd generation of the Mahito family.
Hotel Interlaken
The current iteration of the 1323-founded Hotel Interlaken has its origins as a hospital, a cloister, and a tavern. After being run as a guesthouse by monks and nuns for a while, the hotel changed hands several times to various members of the same family. In 1491, after extensive renovations, it was given its own coat of arms.
The lobby, the restaurants, and the bar all feature some of the original walls and furnishings. In addition to the excellent service, the hotel's location next to a stunning Japanese garden is a major draw for visitors. In fact, if you ask nicely, we can arrange for your room to overlook the entire garden.
Hoshi Ryokan
The Hoshi Ryokan, like the Keiunkan, is an ancient Japanese inn with a documented history stretching back to the year 718 A.D. The Ryokan, like the Keiunkan, is a great place to relax and soak in the hot springs after a long journey. In addition, they boast open-air baths that have thrived in popularity throughout the years.
The hotel has a classic layout and decor, and its delicious meals are prepared using a wide variety of time-tested techniques. The tranquility and harmony of this sanctuary will be greatly appreciated by all who visit.
The Olde Bell
The Olde Bell is just one of manyhotels across the United Kingdom that boasts the title of "oldest." The Olde Bell, unlike many of these other hotels, can claim to be the oldest in the UK thanks to its long history that dates back to 1135. In its early days, the hotel's oldest section hosted visitors to the local Benedictine Priory.
The Sanctus Bell was rung to alert the monks of a significant visitor to Hurley in need of lodgings, hence the Olde Bell's eponymous name. Famous people like Winston Churchill, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Cary Grant have all visited The Olde Bell over the years.
The Old Bell Hotel
There is another historic English hotel on this list with a name nearly identical to The Old Bell Hotel. Similar to the other hotel, The Old Bell Hotel in Malmesbury boasts that it is the oldest hotel in England despite the fact that three other English hotels are considerably older. In 1220, Abbot Loring opened the Old Bell Hotel as a hostel for the benefit of nobles paying a visit to Malmesbury Abbey. Although some of The Old Bell Hotel has been renovated since its 1220 founding, the hotel's hooded stone fireplace in the Brasserie is original to the building.
Zum Roten Bären
um Roten Baeren is the oldest hotel in Germany and all of Europe, predating the city in which it now stands. This vibrant structure was around for the 30 Years' War, both World Wars, and the time of witch hunts. While the exterior has been updated, the basement has kept much of its original decor and artwork. Even though the hotel isn't as fancy as some others, it has a rich history and a long tradition of hospitality. It is also convenient for visiting the exciting cathedral market and the world-famous Freiburg Concert Hall during your time in Germany.
