You don’t always need to visit the iconic museums and galleries to see artworks by famous artists. Choose the right hotel, and you can find masterpieces right there in the hotel lobby or guestroom. From antiquities at the Hotel Metropole Venice to artworks by Dalí and Warhol at Ashford Castle in Ireland, here are some of the best Luxury Gold hotels where you can discover remarkable art collections.

Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth Hotel, Montreal

@fairmontqueene

Known for its rich history, Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth Hotel in Montreal is a feast for art lovers. The hotel is home to an exclusive art collection, created in collaboration with art curator Marie-Justine Snider, MASSIVart Collection and Sid Lee Architecture. It showcases around 124 artworks by 37 Canadian artists across 21 floors.

From paintings and drawings to photography and sculptures, there are endless treasures to explore in the hotel. You can find Paul Hardy’s Drift Glow oil painting, a sculpture by Michel De Broin, a Platner armchair, and a mixed media installation by Alexandre Berthiaume.

@fairmontqueene

There’s also the immortalised Suite 1742, where John Lennon and Yoko Ono held their iconic bed-in. From original furniture to an archival cabinet and virtual reality headset that lets you experience John and Yoko’s point of view, this is a mini museum in itself, and firmly cements the hotel as an artistic hotspot in Montreal.

Stay here: Vibrant Quebec & New England

Read more: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

Hotel Metropole Venice, Venice

@hotelmetropolevenezia

Venice is famed for its exquisite museums and monuments, but you can enjoy a unique private art collection with a stay at Hotel Metropole Venice. Dripping in historic grandeur, the hotel is home to an extensive collection of antiques, artworks and tapestries from all over the world.

Admire vintage fans, wallets, handbags, nutcrackers, corkscrews, crucifixes, and other precious artifacts throughout the Metropole’s corridors and rooms. There’s even a Salone degli Specchi (Hall of Mirrors) and an original painting of Selim II, Sultan of the Ottoman Empire.

@hotelmetropolevenezia

The Costume Museum of the Mocenigo Palace in Venice even once loaned the Metropole priceless pieces for a temporary exhibition, thanks to the hotel’s artistic reputation and existing collection. 

Stay here: Ultimate Italy

Read more: Expert selected: the 4 best hotel spas you can visit with Luxury Gold

The Lodge at Ashford Castle, Ireland

@thelodgeashford

Set on the spectacular 350-acre estate of Ashford Castle, overlooking Lough Corrib, The Lodge is a true hidden gem. While most come here to enjoy an Irish fine dining experience at Wilde’s Restaurant, there’s also another major drawcard – the art collection. 

You’ll discover a remarkable collection of masterpieces from Salvador Dalí’s Marjore and Andy Warhol’s Absolut Vodka to Toulouse-Lautrec’s A Portrait Of Yvette Guilbert. There’s a Henry Moore black lithograph called A Seated Woman in an Armchair, a pair of colored lithographs called Maravillas Suite by Joan Miró, and Egon Schiele’s Nude Girl With Arms Raised. From Lucienne Day and David Hockney to Henry Moore and Peter Blake, there’s some serious art here.

@thelodgeashford

It’s well worth the 20-minute walk from the magnificent Ashford Castle, where you can also meet resident artist Rick Lewis A.R.A. As one of Ireland’s most renowned artists, Lewis has produced a stunning series of paintings featuring Ashford Castle and is even available for guest commissions.

Stay here: Ultimate Ireland

Read more: Our top 10 hand-picked luxury hotel stays for 2023

The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, South Africa

@12apostleshotel

This luxurious Twelve Apostles Hotel in Cape Town hosts its own private art collection, showcasing a remarkable blend of African art and contemporary works. The pieces are scattered throughout the hotel and you’ll discover paintings, sculptures and intricate beadwork, celebrating the local culture, traditions, and natural environment. 

@12apostleshotel

Named after the rugged mountain range surrounding the hotel, the location was a source of inspiration for many artists throughout history. You can even spot the famous mountain scenes painted by the Dutch/South African painter Tinus De Jongh and his son Gabriel De Jongh.

Stay here: Spectacular South Africa

Read more: How to spend 24 hours at 7 of the most exquisite hotels around the world

Leela Palaces, India

@theleela

The Leela Palaces have created an extraordinary artistic experience for guests. At The Leela Palace Bengaluru, your artistic journey begins at the door. The dazzling 17th-century Peacock Throne which was the seat of Mughal emperors, is located at the entrance to the lobby, and the gilded peacock stonework is simply exquisite.

The Leela Palace Udaipur pays tribute to the Land of the Mewars with traditional artisanal crafts and artifacts inspired by the regal cultural heritage of Rajasthan. Its hallways are lined with a trove of Indian artwork.

The Leela Palace New Delhi has created an extraordinary artistic experience for guests. Their extensive art collection is scattered throughout the hotel, featuring works by artists such as Satish Gujral, Paresh Maity, Sanjay Bhattacharya, Satish Gupta and Laxma Goud. 

@theleela

Discover ornate Rajasthani paintings and Tanjore gold leaf paintings. Admire the artworks lining the corridors then discover the massive golden mosaic revealing a blossoming lotus bud in the central courtyard. The guestrooms and suites feature lithographs depicting Indian kings and queens, embedded with semi-precious stones and gold leaf by famed photographer Rohan Shreshta. 

You’ll also discover the exclusive Art Walk, with a rare collection of Indian art. From murals and paintings to sculptures and contemporary installations, this remarkable experience is parallel to visiting a museum or art gallery.  

Stay here: Essence of India 

Read more: Step inside the most unique luxury retreats in India

Hotel Granvia Kyoto

@hotelgranviakyoto

If you love art hotels, you can’t miss Hotel Granvia Kyoto. Featuring over a thousand artworks by Kyoto-based artists, the hotel holds one of the most significant art collections in the country. You’ll find both traditional and contemporary Japanese art here, with the collection spread from the lobby to corridors and guest rooms.

@hotelgranviakyoto

Whether it’s the intricately hand-painted screens, unique sculptures, or handcrafted ceramics, art is an integral part of the experience at Hotel Granvia Kyoto. It offers invaluable insight into Japan’s rich artistic heritage and the chance to get immersed in the local Kyoto art culture. 

Stay here: Majestic Japan 

Read more: A journey of a lifetime: unearthing Majestic Japan, with Luxury Gold

Driving in a classic car is an experience like no other. The vintage charm, luxurious designs, and powerful machinery under the hood – a classic car experience is all about nostalgia, romance, and style. From driving in a classic Citroën in Provence to a luxury vintage car in New Zealand’s Napier, we look at some of the most unique classic car driving experiences you can enjoy with Luxury Gold. 

What is so special about classic cars?

Driving a classic car isn’t just about getting from A to B – it’s about appreciating exceptional design and celebrating the art of travel and the thrill of the journey. A classic car is a unique way to explore and connect with a destination, giving an atmosphere of luxury and nostalgia. Our vintage driving experiences offer an exceptional journey, with iconic and historic vehicles carrying you through the world’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re an automobile aficionado or simply appreciate a memorable roadtrip, these classic car experiences promise a trip filled with style.

Provence, France

For classic car admirers, few experiences are more evocative than winding through the lavender fields of Provence in a classic Citroën 2CV. We’ll take you on the drive of a lifetime in a chauffeured vintage Citroen 2CV through the Provençal countryside. Set off from Lourmarin’s market and cruise through picturesque vineyards, ancient olive groves, and idyllic villages all while enjoying the charm of the classic French car. You’ll arrive at the renowned Domaine de la Citadelle winery where you can explore the grounds and savour a gourmet picnic and wine before heading to Avignon. Sophisticated and romantic, this is the epitome of vintage French luxury. 

Experience it: Ultimate Southern France

Read more: Destination France: Live Your Parisien or Provencal Dream

Napier, New Zealand

Renowned as the Art Deco Capital of the world, Napier is a city that celebrates its vintage charm, making it the perfect location for one of our classic driving experiences. When you travel with Luxury Gold you can explore Napier in a luxurious classic car, such as a vintage Packard or Chevrolet. Your expert local guide will chauffeur you on your personal tour of Napier. 

These beautiful vehicles complement the architectural elegance of Napier, as you explore the highlights of the city’s 140 Art Deco buildings and sculptures from the comfort of your lavish vehicle. Later on, you’ll enjoy a mouthwatering dinner at Malo, with wine sourced directly from the surrounding wineries.

Experience it: The Long White Cloud

Read more: Rugged luxury: Why a Trip to New Zealand Might Surprise You

Cape Winelands, South Africa

South Africa’s spectacular landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for our classic car driving experiences. Beginning in the vibrant city of Cape Town, you’ll take your seat in a chauffeured classic car such as a vintage Mercedes-Benz or Rover. You’ll then meander through the lush green countryside of the Cape Winelands on a scenic drive through the iconic wineland towns of Paarl, Stellenbosch, and Franschhoek. 

Cruise through valleys, vineyards, wineries and cheese farms, and stop at Vergelegen Estate to indulge in an award-winning wine tasting. Next, at Boschendal Wine Estate, you’ll indulge in a seasonal Farm-to-Table lunch. Return to your chauffeured vintage car and gaze out at the stunning scenery, illuminated by the setting sun, as you return to Cape Town. 

Experience it: Spectacular South Africa

Read more: A look inside South Africa’s most beautiful – and exclusive – wineries

Other classic car driving experiences with Luxury Gold

While a scenic drive is the most immersive experience, classic car admirers will also love these vintage car experiences with Luxury Gold.

See a vintage Trabant in Kraków’s Nowa Huta district

Nowa Huta is the historic steel district of Kraków. Established during the communist era of the 1940s, the Nowa Huta Steelworks was once the largest in the world. The district is also famed as the home of the Trabant car. Known affectionately as “Trabi”, the car was one of the most common vehicles in Central and Eastern Europe during the last decades of the Cold War. 

It’s since become a symbol of the Eastern Bloc, remembered for its notorious two-stroke engine that produced a cloud of smoky exhaust, and its body made of duroplast, a form of plastic. When you travel here with Luxury Gold, you’ll have the chance to see a vintage Trabant and learn more about the history of this fascinating district. 

Experience it: Harmony of Central Europe

Read more: The scenic route: two sublime Irish drives that deliver scenery to die for

Graceland Car Museum

Any classic car admirer has likely got the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum on their bucket list. Located in the Graceland estate in Memphis, Tennessee, the former home of Elvis Presley, the museum pays tribute to the King’s love of cars.

You can see many of the iconic vehicles Elvis owned during his lifetime, from the famous Pink Cadillac Fleetwood to the 1956 Cadillac Eldorado (originally white but painted purple by Elvis). There’s the 1960 Rolls Royce Phantom V and a 1975 Dino Ferrari 308 GT4. Don’t miss the 1973 Stutz Blackhawk, one of the most unique vehicles as it was custom-made for Elvis. It was one of Elvis’ favorite cars and the last one he drove before his death in 1977. Along with cars, you’ll also find motorbikes, like the 1956 Harley Davidson, and even a 1966 red Schwinn bicycle. 

The museum doesn’t just display the vehicles; it also tells the stories behind them. Whether you’re an Elvis fan or a motorhead, it’s safe to say you’ll find something you love at this museum. 

Experience it: Southern Grace

Read more: The Royal Treatment: All the Ways We Make Your Trip Exceptional

Although we’re only six months into 2023, and there’s plenty to be excited for with the summer still ahead of us, but we’ve always got one eye on what’s coming up further down the line. And 2024 is already shaping up to be an exciting year for luxury travel. To whet your appetite for 2024 travel, we’ve selected some of the new openings in the luxury travel sphere that deserve your attention. These offer the perfect reason to treat yourselves to an unforgettable luxury guided vacation to these spectacular destinations.

New luxury trains in Italy – Orient Express ‘Dolce Vita’

@orientexpress

Over 150 years ago, the first ever Orient Express journey launched luxury train travel into another dimension.  And to this day the name Orient Express is still the epitome timeless nostalgia and glamour.

In 2024, this five-star train will launch six new ‘Dolce Vita’ itinerates, the ultimate way to bookend your Italian vacation.

From the snow-capped peaks of the northern Alps through the picturesque hills of Tuscany and the breathtaking beaches of the southern coast, journeys visit iconic cities including Venice, Rome and Matera.

Every aspect of this luxury train pays tribute to “La Dolce Vita.” Choose from 12 Deluxe cabins, 18 suites, and one La Dolce Vita suite. In partnership with esteemed local and international chefs and sommeliers, passengers will savor a 5-star dining experience onboard, showcasing the best of Italy through world-renowned wines and delicious haute cuisine.

Plus new hotels – Orient Express Minerva Hotel, Rome and Orient Express Venice

Furthermore, bringing the Golden Age glamour of the rails to their own hotels, the very first Orient Express Hotels have announced new openings in 2024 in Rome and Venice.

The Orient Express, Minerva in Rome will be sited in the former Palazzo Fonseca and is set to be a high-class romantic landmark for Rome. This exquiste 17th century palace is adorned with Roman columns and sculptures by Rinaldi Rinaldo.

The Palazzo Donà Giovannelli, built in 1400 by architect Filippo Calendario, known for Venice’s famed Doge’s Palace is the home for the Orient Express Hotel, Venice. An ode to the city’s heritage, suites will all overlook the gardens and canals of Venice and select terraces hidden on the hotel’s rooftops will offer the most beautiful views of the wonders of the Serenissima.

Expect all the luxury and nostalgia of the Golden Age of Travel that you get from their trains, wrapped up in a sumptuous hotel, with the finest Italian gastronomy on offer.

Take a timeless Italian journey with: Ultimate Italy

You might also enjoy reading: An exclusive invitation from La Famiglia Mazzei, a Tuscan wine dynasty

Egypt – new art hotel

In the bustling capital of Cairo, Egypt is set to get its first luxury ‘art hotel.’ Set to open in early 2024, the Hyatt Centric Cairo West will create an art journey for guests from the moment they arrive.

Reflecting the outstanding historical riches of Cairo and Egypt, the urban hotel will showcase the city through the lens of contemporary artists. At every turn, including in its 283 rooms, nods to Egyptian crafts and pharaonic heritage will blend with a showcase of the country’s pop culture.

Paintings, sculptures and architectural features will be complemented by landscaped gardens, a sumptuous pool and inspiring social spaces. Located in the Pyramid Heights area close to the new Grand Egyptian Museum (set to open this year) the hotel is perfectly located to immerse yourself in the rich history of Egypt.

See the best of Cairo and Egypt with: Elegance of the Nile

 You may also enjoy reading: Riches of the Nile: Why Egypt’s icon is the grandest river in the world

Lisbon – new Melia hotel

Hailed as one of the most charismatic and vibrant cities in Europe, Portugal’s capital Lisbon is a highly desirable destination. Blending traditional heritage with striking modernism, all wrapped up in a glorious year-round climate.

To add to the city’s alure, a new ME by Meliá Hotel, an exciting new opening for Lisbon is set for 2024, bringing its unique brand of luxury to the city. Described as a destination in itself, local art will blend with the latest technology to bring an eclectic and luxurious stay.

The fully equipped spa will offer everything you need to disconnect and enjoy a total-relaxation experience, whether in the indoor pool, sauna, Turkish bath or massage cabins. And a classy Rooftop Bar will let you sip a cocktail and soak up the ambience in the city, with fantastic panoramic views.

Discover the delights of Lisbon on: Spain & Portugal in Style

London – new museum takes you back in time

@bompassandparr

Why not top off a five-star visit to the capital with a step back to a bygone era? From spring 2024, a unique opportunity awaits visitors who wish to journey back in time, and step into the heart of Elizabethan High Society.

The new Shakespeare Museum in London is one of London’s most exciting new openings for 2024. Situated on the grounds of the old playhouse that staged productions like Romeo & Juliet and Henry V, the museum is set to transport visitors to this captivating era.

Guests can anticipate immersive, multisensory encounters, wrapping you in the sights, smells, sounds and ambiance that inspired Shakespeare’s plays. Through cutting-edge AI technology and a projected reconstruction of the playhouse, you’re promised a remarkable resurrection of the past, and can even step onto the stage yourself.

Visit London on: Castles & Kingdoms and British Royale

You may also enjoy reading: How Travel Concierge Michael Gives a Royal Welcome in the UK