
Hôtel Massé · Paris
Hôtel Massé Paris
A very stylish new stay in Paris’ Pigalle, this 40-room boutique hotel is family-run and designed by Gasparetto Parenti. It's well-priced and seriously design-forward—no two rooms are alike, but all are filled with vintage furniture. It's one of our favorite boutique hotels in the city, particularly for its fun neighborhood.

Mona Athens · Athens
Mona Athens
Located in a former textile factory, this 20-room boho hotel is a study in industrial-chic design. The sister hotel to boutique hotel Shila, Mona has a great location near some of the best restaurants in Athens, cool rooms (especially the penthouses), a gorgeous rooftop with Acropolis views, and a particularly fantastic breakfast (served until 1pm.) Combine that with reasonable rates, and it's one of the best spots to stay for design-minded young travelers.

Hôtel Balzac Paris & Spa Ikoï · Paris
Hôtel Balzac Paris & Spa Ikoï Paris
Set in the 8th arrondissement near the Champs Elysées, Hôtel Balzac is run by the same team as Paris' Relais Christine and Saint James hotels. Book for chic, minimalist decor and access to facilities including a Japanese spa with tatami massages and chef Pierre Gagnaire’s three-Michelin-starred restaurant.

NUMEROVENTI · Florence
Numeroventi Design Residency Florence
A beautiful, intimate artist residency in a renaissance palace at the heart of Florence, this boutique stay hosts only a few apartment-style, impeccably-designed rooms that highlight original frescos and artwork from past residences. The hotel offers a seasonal breakfast every day, as well as special food events depending on the time of year. For the aesthetes and creatives, Numeroventi is a place to connect with like-minded people and stay in a space that continues to cultivate the historic relationship between art and Firenze.

K5 · Tokyo
K5 Tokyo
This stylish, Japanese-owned boutique hotel is one the most design-forward and affordable spots to stay in Tokyo. The 20 rooms feature stunning furnishings, including a bamboo and washi lantern above the beds, and the hotel’s dining options are equally impressive: don’t miss Caveman, the hotel’s restaurant and bar. Located in Nihombashi, close to the central Ginza neighborhood.

Château Voltaire · Paris
Château Voltaire Paris
An instant hit upon opening in 2021, Chateau Voltaire has become a tried-and-true classic on the boutique hotel scene, beloved for its central location and elegant but still cool atmosphere. Owned by the Zadig & Voltaire founder, it’s a fashion crowd favorite, and its location in the 1st makes it convenient for all types of travelers. The minimalist-chic design was done by Festen Architecture, and the brasserie L’Emil is great whether or not you’re staying at the hotel.

Hotel Locarno · Rome
Hotel Locarno Rome
If you're looking to stay somewhere in Rome with a real sense of place, this old-school institution is your best bet. Hotel Locarno has been open since 1925, and the 44 classically decorated rooms feel like a step back in time. We also love the rooftop bar for drinks.

Carmen Amsterdam · Amsterdam
Carmen Amsterdam
Owned by Lebanese-Dutch Carmen Maria Atiyah de Baets, this ultra-special guesthouse, café, and shop in central Amsterdam is set in a canal-side townhouse and was designed to offer a home-like hotel experience. A relatively affordable home base, the property also boasts a reading room, lounge, cinema, kitchen and a garden. It’s a great option for stylish, young couples. Even if you're not staying, come to shop and grab a bite at the cafe.

Hôtel Rochechouart · Paris
Hôtel Rochechouart Paris
This beloved Art Deco hotel in Pigalle (on the edge of Montmartre) is one of the most affordable yet cool spots to stay in the city. Most exceptional is its rooftop, which boasts 360-degree views of the city and landmarks including the Sacré-Cœur and Eiffel Tower (it's worth visiting for sunset views whether or not you are staying at the hotel.) The rooms are simple but well done (and on the larger side for Paris!) and the onsite bistro serves great French fare in cool surrounds.

La Traverse · Marseille
La Traverse Marseille
Set in the waterfront Malmousque neighborhood, La Traverse is one of Marseille's creative gems. Part gallery, part cafe, the soulful, multipurpose space also has one room to rent, which is occasionally occupied with artists residence. If it’s available, book it for a really local experience, with great views and a perfect location.
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