Learning more about the history of a new place is always interesting, especially for travellers far from home, and the world is crammed full of hotels that have been around long enough to become part of history themselves.
So why not do a bit of time travel and stay in a Japanese Ryokan that’s been around since 718 or a luxury Victorian palace on the banks of the Nile? We've selected some of the world's oldest hotels.
Hoshi Ryokan in Chugoku, Japan
Hoshi Ryokan in Chugoku, Japan
Today Hoshi Ryokan is officially the world’s second oldest operating hotel, knocked out of first place only recently by the discovery of an even older Ryokan just up the road.
Stay in a traditional tatami room
While it currently holds second place in terms of years, everything else about this Japanese guesthouse is first rate. Founded in 718 and operated by the same family for 46 generations, Hoshi Ryokan provides guests with modern hospitality in traditional surroundings.
Japanese Yukata robes, futon beds, tatami (woven-straw) floors, and bamboo arts and crafts workshops transport guests back in time. Meanwhile the flat-screen TVs, great WiFi, and elaborate breakfast and dinner menus supply all the modern day comforts.
Ringhotel zum Roten Baren in Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany
Ringhotel zum Roten Baren in Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany
Germany’s oldest guesthouse is located in the Old Town district of Freiburg, between the Swabian Gate and the town’s gothic cathedral. Opened in 1120, the Roten Baren guesthouse survived the Plague, witch-hunts, revolutions, and both World Wars (during which time it briefly belonged to France).
Wake up to breakfast in the wood-panelled dining room
Today it’s a thriving guesthouse next to the lively Cathedral Market and the Freiburg Concert Hall, which makes it feel like you’ve travelled at least a few centuries back in time, while still being able to get a decent breakfast and WiFi connection.
Old Bell Hotel in Wiltshire, UK
Old Bell Hotel in Wiltshire, UK
The Old Bell Hotel in Wiltshire claims to be the UK’s oldest hotel (it was opened in 1220) but so does the Old Bell in Hurley (which opened in 1135). While the debate continues guests can at least be sure that they’re in for a cosy, well-pampered trip when they check into this atmospheric hotel.
A traditional log fire and beamed ceilings give the dining space a rustic feel
Not only has the Old Bell Hotel kept its character with log fires, period furnishings, and eight (unoccupied) coffins in the cellar, it’s also based in one of the UK’s most historic market towns.
The town of Malmesbury hosts an annual two-day carnival that incorporates the Malmesbury Abbey and the Malmesbury Market Cross. The carnival includes street performances, classic English food, and repeated attempts at the world record for the largest pillow fight.
Old Winter Palace Luxor in Luxor, Egypt
&lBook now on our platform and embark on a unique and memorable travel experience.
Old Winter Palace in Luxor, Egypt