1. The First Roma, Rome
This hotel, ranked by Expedia as one of the most picture-perfect art hotels in the world, is so swish on the arty stakes that it almost feels like a full-blown gallery that you can throw a sleepover in. With more artwork – 150 pieces to be exact – than rooms, this boutique bolthole is the perfect stay for those wanting to avoid the slightly OTT luxury hotels in the city. Not to say that The First Roma hasn’t got plenty of va-va voom. Rooms are decked out with marble, and enough colourful upholstery to make your eyes water. Upgrade to the suite for a complimentary bottle of Prosecco.
2. art’otel, Amsterdam
You know you’ve hit the jackpot when the locals come to where you’re staying to have a good time. This is very much the story at art’otel, where Amsterdammers can’t get enough of their creative cocktails, as well as their buzzing year-round events calendar. You’re also more likely to remember the hotel’s titillating art displays and raunchy artefacts than Van Gogh’s Sunflowers too.
3. The Merrion, Dublin
This iconic hotel is unashamedly classic in its artistic outlook, and is all the more lovable for it. Aside from the winning location, slap bang in the heart of Dublin’s historical centre, the period charm also really comes into its own when you wander through the endless hallways, all adorned with 19th and 20th century artworks. Get the backstory by taking one of the hotel art tours with a clued-up guide.
4. XVA Art Hotel, Dubai
Dubai has positioned itself as a serious contender in the art stakes and XVA has a lot to do with it. The focus on Middle Eastern art and local design sits well with the hotel’s location in the heart of Dubai’s of Al Fahidi, the city’s historical district. One meal in one of the hotel’s gorgeous courtyards is all it takes to see why the likes of Conde Nast Traveller and Wallpaper* have been fawning all over it.
5. The Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas
There’s more to slot machines and showgirls in America’s sin city, and The Cosmopolitan says that loud and clear with the high-rolling exhibitions at the Bellagio Art Gallery. Originally built as a high-rise apartment block it contains 3,026 rooms, so it has more than enough space to cram an impressive 100+ pieces that range from sculpture to print.
6. Kimpton Hotel Eventi, New York
This Chelsea boutique aesthetic is straight out of a modern spy thriller, with its mysterious and magical character drawn from the moody colour scheme, glittering views of the city skyline and the elegant nudes by Barbara Nessim. Their ambitious event space, The Big Screen Plaza, an enormous 10,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor creative platform, truly elevates your hotel experience to the next level. Come here during the day to enjoy the jaw-dropping surrounds by the pool, and in the evening to sip a Manhattan under the stars surrounded by Fifth Ave fashionistas.
7. Bohem Art Hotel, Budapest
Staying here is one up from choosing a bed in the arts district; you really feel like you’re sleeping in an art gallery. The creative atmosphere is written all over the walls, with eye-catching paintings by young Hungarian artists hung above beds, and lots of neon lighting to make it extra-instagrammable.
