As the anticipation for travel in 2024 starts brewing, the question arises: Will we revisit familiar destinations, explore new horizons, or venture to places solely to experience the allure of a captivating hotel? This compilation spotlights the most enticing hotels set to open (or reopen) in 2024, each possessing a distinct charm that makes them destinations in their own right.
With the acknowledgment that many are still under construction, here’s a glimpse into 24 of the most intriguing hotels opening this year.
1. Matca, Transylvania (Romania)
Open Since January 1, 2024
Matca, translating to “queen bee” in Romanian, introduces a new echelon of luxury to the Carpathian mountains. With 16 rooms featuring hand-carved rustic wooden furnishings and traditional Transylvanian elements, Matca embraces the region’s spirit. The main hotel sprawls across two fortified farmhouses, offering a spa and a restaurant focused on local sourcing.
Starting from $417
2. Hotel Maria, Helsinki (Finland)
Open Since December 15, 2023
Hotel Maria welcomes guests with a promise to brighten the perpetual darkness of a Finnish winter. With a wellness concierge and spa suites boasting in-room soaking tubs, the hotel spans four protected buildings dating back to 1885. The modern classic design, minimalistic chandeliers, and a focus on Finnish produce at Restaurant Lilja define the hotel’s aesthetic.
Starting from $497
3. Hotel Casa Lucia, Buenos Aires (Argentina)
Opening in January 2024
Set to open later this month, Hotel Casa Lucia, located in the Edificio Mihanovich, an art deco skyscraper, pays homage to Buenos Aires’s golden age. The 142 rooms feature minimalist decor, allowing the focus to shift to the breathtaking views of the city and the River Plate. With contemporary Argentinian art, marble accents, and a 52-foot pool, Hotel Casa Lucia aims to offer a luxurious experience.
Starting from $670
4. The Leinster, Dublin (Ireland)
Opening in February 2024
Breaking the monopoly of the famous hotel on Dublin’s Merrion Square, The Leinster brings boutique chic to this historic square. Lively patterned headboards, contemporary Irish artwork, and a rooftop restaurant offering Irish-French-southeast Asian fusion food define the hotel’s charm.
Starting from $275
5. Kibale Lodge (Uganda)
Opening in Parts Throughout 2024
Nestled in Kibale National Park, Kibale Lodge, part of Volcanoes Safaris, caters to chimpanzee lovers. The eco-friendly lodge, set on a 150-acre site, offers views of the Rwenzori Mountains, Queen Elizabeth plains, and the Kazinga Channel. With a spa, sauna, and pool, Kibale Lodge provides an immersive experience in the heart of nature.
Opening in parts, with initial bandas available from May
6. Palazzo Cordusio Gran Meliá, Milan (Italy)
Open Since December 2023
Palazzo Cordusio Gran Meliá graces Milan with its elegance. Located on Piazza Cordusio, the hotel occupies the historic Palazzo Venezia, offering rooms with a turn-of-the-century feel, a cocktail bar in an inner courtyard, and rooftop dining with views of the Duomo.
Starting from $890
7. Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort (UAE)
Opened in January 2024
Situated on the Arabian Gulf, Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort offers an eco-friendly retreat less than an hour from Dubai. Surrounded by protected wetlands, the resort features 174 rooms with recycled materials and overwater villas, providing a unique escape into nature.
Starting from $525
8. The Residence Douz (Tunisia)
Opened Recently
Basking in sunny temperatures around 60°F (16°C), The Residence Douz presents a luxurious escape in Tunisia. With 50 whitewashed villas inspired by local traditions, the hotel offers contemporary amenities, two restaurants, and proximity to desert attractions, including the salt lake and desert hot springs.
Starting from $313
9. Mollie’s, Manchester (UK)
Opening in 2024
Housed in the legendary Old Granada Studios, Mollie’s in Manchester promises a retro US vibe combined with boutique-style rooms. The 130-room hotel, the third from the Soho House-created budget brand, adds a touch of sassy glamour to this iconic landmark.
10. KAI Akiu (Japan)
Opening in April 2024
Nestled in Akiu, renowned for its thermal waters, KAI Akiu introduces a traditional ryokan experience. With 49 rooms featuring views of the forested valley, the ryokan offers rejuvenating onsen baths, making it an ideal retreat after exploring nearby gorges and waterfalls.
These hotels, each with its unique character and offerings, beckon travelers to embark on unforgettable journeys in 2024. Whether exploring the bucolic landscapes of Transylvania, embracing the elegance of Milan, or discovering the eco-friendly retreats in Uganda and the UAE, these destinations promise a blend of luxury, comfort, and cultural immersion.