Palatial Retreats: 8 Royal Residences Turned Luxury Hotels (23 photos)

Many royal residences have traded their historic exclusivity for hospitality, opening their doors to everyday travelers. Yet step inside, and you’ll still be treated like royalty. These grand estates offer a chance to live like monarchs while soaking in the romantic, storied atmosphere of a bygone era.





Palazzo Murat



In 1997, Southern Italy’s stunning Amalfi Coast on the Sorrento Peninsula was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its crown jewel is Positano, a picturesque fishing town tumbling down steep hillsides toward the sea. This was once the summer retreat of Joachim Murat—King of Naples, Napoleon’s famed marshal, and his brother-in-law. Today, this grand palace houses the exquisite Palazzo Murat hotel.





Nods to its historic grandeur abound, from intricately carved stone doorframes and arched windows to classic tiled rooflines and fine antique wooden furniture. Even the hotel's pool remains remarkably unchanged from its original design.



Unlike many hotels perched high along Positano’s cliffside, Palazzo Murat sits right in the heart of the historic center. Guests can stroll to the beach without braving endless flights of steep stairs—though this lower vantage point does mean slightly less sweeping sea views.

Culloden Estate & Spa



Originally built as an official residence for the Bishops of Down, the Culloden Estate & Spa is now one of Northern Ireland’s premier luxury hotels. Situated just a 10-minute drive from central Belfast, the property is nestled within 12 acres of secluded gardens, offering beautiful estate views.



First established as a hotel in 1876 and extensively renovated in 2012, the estate has meticulously preserved its grand character. Guest rooms feature opulent classic furnishings in timeless British fashion, while its world-class spa and wellness offerings attract visitors from well beyond Northern Ireland.



With its romantic ambiance and serene countryside feel, the estate is a top destination for couples and honeymooners looking for an indulgent getaway.

Grand Hotel Baglioni



Stepping into the Grand Hotel Baglioni feels like stepping right into Florence's rich history. Housed in the former palace of the Carrega Bertolini princes, the hotel itself boasts a heritage spanning well over a century.



The property features nearly 200 remarkably spacious guest rooms—a rare luxury for a historic building. The interiors showcase timeless craftsmanship, with rich dark wood ceilings and floors, original leaded glass windows, pristine white marble bathrooms, and classic artwork and frescoes adorning the walls.



From the rooftop garden and the Terrazza Brunelleschi restaurant, guests enjoy panoramic vistas of Florence, dominated by the iconic dome of Santa Maria del Fiore and Giotto’s Campanile. While a stay here comes with a premium price tag, its prime location and opulent character make it a favorite choice for discerning travelers, far beyond those simply seeking status.

Esencia



Hotel Esencia sits on Mexico’s Riviera Maya coastline near Playa del Carmen—a world-famous mecca for divers and beach lovers. The estate was originally built as a private retreat for an Italian duchess, who erected an elegant, Mediterranean-style villa tucked amid lush tropical foliage.



The resort maintains an intimate, exclusive atmosphere, with just 29 accommodations spread across 70 sprawling acres. Guests enjoy high-end amenities including pre-loaded iPods, luxury Molton Brown toiletries, private plunge pools, a world-class spa, and authentic regional cuisine at its Sal y Fuego restaurant.

Ciragan Palace Kempinski



The Çırağan Palace Kempinski occupies a former 19th-century Ottoman imperial palace. To this day, it stands as one of Istanbul’s grandest landmarks, making its slightly secluded location away from the main tourist hubs part of its exclusive charm.



Converted into a luxury hotel in 1980, the property seamlessly blends opulent Middle Eastern heritage with modern European comfort. Guests can enjoy manicured seaside lawns, a heated infinity pool right on the Bosphorus, pampering spa services, fine dining, and grand event spaces.



While it caters to high-profile clientele, the hotel is far more than just a luxury retreat—it is a legendary venue for unforgettable weddings and high-level business summits.

Palacio de Villapanes



The Palacio de Villapanés was built in the early 18th century as a grand residence for an aristocratic family in Seville, Spain. Tucked away on a quiet street in the historic center, it lies just steps from landmark attractions like the Casa de Pilatos, Seville Cathedral, and the Royal Alcázar.



The hotel features 50 elegantly appointed modern rooms that thoughtfully incorporate original architectural elements, including ornate wall moldings, intricate coffered ceilings, and hand-carved wooden doors.



The rooms come equipped with cutting-edge amenities, including complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi—a modern luxury the original aristocratic owners could never have imagined. On the roof, a plunge pool offers guests panoramic views over the rooftops of Seville.

Ashford Castle



With its dramatic turrets, battlements, and imposing stone facade, Ashford Castle is the quintessential Irish fortress. Perched on a picturesque peninsula overlooking Lough Corrib, its striking setting is as idyllic as it is historic.



Dating back to the 13th century, the castle passed through the hands of several noble families before becoming a grand hotel. Today, guests can still partake in traditional country pursuits like falconry, boat tours on the lake, golf, archery, and clay shooting.



The lavish, oversized guest rooms feature fine wood paneling and antique furnishings. Staying true to its grand heritage, the castle maintains an elegant dress code for lunch and dinner.

Palazzo Caracciolo



Situated in Naples’ historic heart, the Palazzo Caracciolo was once a royal residence before being transformed into an upscale hotel under the prestigious MGallery collection.



The grand historical architecture blends effortlessly with chic, modern interiors dominated by white and silver tones, seamlessly integrating state-of-the-art amenities.



Guests particularly enjoy the serene inner courtyard gallery, an ideal spot to unwind in the evening, as well as the hotel's fine Mediterranean restaurant.