Historic Hotels Redefining Luxury: Top Ten Repurposed Buildings for a Memorable Stay in 2026

Published on November 21, 2025

Everyone loves to learn about the past, and many want to do that while relaxing, so the services from historic hotels will fit the needs of many customers. In 2026, more and more people will be searching for hotels that are located in historic reused buildings. People will want to experience the reuse of structures, such as prisons and train stations, from the past while sleeping comfortably in the remains of the structures. The trend reflects the deepening interest in the sustainment, experience, and reuse of structures that are of great architectural value. In 2026, the first in the world was enunciated to be a list of the 10 most sought hotels for travel.

1. The Old Clare Hotel, Sydney, Australia

The Old Clare Hotel offers a unique blend of history and creativity, located in the trendy Chippendale district. The hotel is built from the former Clare Pub and the Carlton & United Breweries building. Many original features, such as high vaulted ceilings and vintage brewery fridges, are retained, creating an exciting fusion of history and modern design.

Guide for Travelers: Ideal for visitors who appreciate quirky design and enjoy staying in a building with rich history and personality.

2. Bodmin Jail Hotel, Cornwall, UK

The Bodmin Jail Hotel in Cornwall offers a spine-chilling experience. Once an operational prison, it housed notorious criminals and witnessed 55 executions. The hotel embraces its eerie past, with rooms referred to as cells, and offers immersive historical tours, including ghost tours. This is a perfect spot for those seeking a blend of history, mystery, and adventure.

Guide for Travelers: Book your stay for a spooky and unique getaway with historical significance. Explore Cornwall’s darker history with a guided tour.

3. Canfranc Estación, Royal Hideaway, Canfranc, Spain

The Canfranc Estación, Royal Hideaway hotel occupies the historic Canfranc Railway Station, a building designed in the early 20th century. Located at the foot of the Pyrenees, the hotel retains much of the original charm, including early 20th-century architectural styles. It’s an excellent choice for adventure seekers looking to explore the mountains or enjoy the luxurious amenities in a historic setting.

Guide for Travelers: This is the perfect destination for visitors who love history and the outdoors, offering hiking and skiing options nearby.

4. Fontevraud L’Ermitage, Anjou, France

The Fontevraud L’Ermitage sits within the grounds of the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to 1101. The hotel occupies the former dormitories of nuns and offers guests a serene atmosphere with easy access to the Abbey. Staying here allows you to immerse yourself in the history of one of France’s most iconic landmarks.

Guide for Travelers: Perfect for history lovers and those seeking a peaceful stay surrounded by medieval architecture.

5. Union Station Nashville Yards, Nashville, USA

Union Station Nashville Yards was once a bustling train station but has been transformed into a chic boutique hotel. It retains much of its original architectural features, including the iconic clock tower and stained-glass windows. The hotel’s lobby bar is housed in the former ticket counter, preserving the station’s heritage while offering modern luxury.

Guide for Travelers: A must-visit for those who appreciate architectural beauty and a blend of history and modern amenities in the heart of Nashville.

6. Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu, Kyoto, Japan

Situated in a 1933 schoolhouse, Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu brings together historic charm and modern comfort. Located in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, this boutique hotel offers easy access to the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Guests can enjoy a luxurious stay in the transformed classrooms, making it a unique spot for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.

Guide for Travelers: Ideal for those looking to combine relaxation with cultural exploration. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Kyoto while staying in a piece of its history.

7. Hotel Place d’Armes, Montreal, Canada

Located just a block from Montreal’s Notre-Dame Basilica, Hotel Place d’Armes occupies three historic greystones. With exposed brick and original woodwork, this hotel offers a modern yet nostalgic ambiance. The hotel’s proximity to key cultural landmarks makes it an excellent base for exploring Montreal’s vibrant history.

Guide for Travelers: Perfect for history enthusiasts who want a blend of modern luxury and old-world charm, right in the centre of Montreal.

8. Nine Orchard Hotel, New York City, USA

The Nine Orchard Hotel is housed in the historic Jarmulowsky Bank in Manhattan. This boutique hotel pays careful attention to preserving the building’s original architectural details, such as cornice moldings and millwork. Its lobby bar, the Swan Room, is set in the former bank teller room, offering a nostalgic yet upscale experience.

Guide for Travelers: Ideal for travellers looking to enjoy a luxurious and immersive stay in the heart of New York City’s Lower East Side.

9. Bank Hotel, Stockholm, Sweden

Located in a former bank building from 1910, the Bank Hotel blends modern luxury with the elegance of its original structure. Guests can enjoy stylish rooms and enjoy the city views from the hotel’s rooftop bar. The building’s historical charm is evident throughout, making this a unique stay in the heart of Stockholm.

Guide for Travelers: Bank Hotel is perfect for those who want to enjoy Stockholm’s nightlife and culture while staying in a building rich with history.

10. Sandi Hotel, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Nestled in Paraty, Sandi Hotel occupies a 300-year-old mansion that once served as a mint and a bank. This stunning hotel offers a blend of colonial charm and luxury, complete with a spa, pools, and exquisite restaurants. It sits in the heart of Paraty’s UNESCO-listed centre, making it a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to unwind while surrounded by history.

Guide for Travelers: Sandi Hotel is perfect for travelers who love history, luxury, and tranquillity in an off-the-beaten-path destination.

Conclusion: A Journey Through History

When you get a Salvaged Stay, it’s more than a bed for the night: it’s history with a modern twist. With hotels all over the world, the experience is comfy and a peek into the past. Staying in a jail in Cornwall? Or maybe an old bank in New York? Either way, you’ll have priceless memories.