tour chateau frontenac

Truly experience Quebec City with passionate local guides

Unique guided walking tours to make the best of Quebec City

Entertaining historical walking tours for everyone !

Cocktail at the Garrison Club

Visit of the Quebec Garrison Club

A Taste of History

There's not one quite like our cicerones.

Our tour guides are local, passionate, dedicated and professional. They put in their every effort to conduct tours that are fun, engaging, informative and unforgettable. They even bring history to life as they re-enact some prominent figures of local history and tell memorable stories and little known facts. An experience not to be missed!

The Guided Tour of the Château Frontenac is recognized by the Viator Experience Awards and is one of the Top 20 most popular activities in Canada.

Jean-Claude

We have received your request correctly.

You will receive an email with a summary of your bookings.

Can't find it? Leave us your email and we'll send you a summary of your bookings.

Chateau Frontenac Guided Tour

• 9.40 / 10 25 reviews | 301 travellers History of building was very interesting. Recommend this tour. 8 Anonymous
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service starts
• X (Twitter)

Enter one of Quebec's most emblematic buildings and discover its best-kept secrets with this Chateau Frontenac Guided Tour, which is sure to surprise you!

At the time you choose, we'll meet in front of the Dufferin Terrace . From there, we'll walk to the entrance of the famous castle of Frontenac, to find its history. Let's go!

For an hour, we'll enjoy walking around this imposing building converted into a luxury hotel, declared a Historical Monument in 1981. We'll visit the foyer, the Champlain restaurant , the Rose Room , the ballroom and many other rooms, and you'll be amazed by the exquisite decoration of this place! 

As we walk around Château Frontenac, we'll reveal some of the most curious stories of the castle. For example, did you know that in the year 2000, this building revealed a secret that had been kept for over 50 years: a walled-in and forgotten room! 

Furthermore, during the visit, we'll discover the reason for the peculiar names of its rooms, 17 suites have been renamed in honour of important personalities who stayed at Frontenac . Queen Elizabeth II, the Princess of Monaco, Charles de Gaulle and Francis Mitterrand, among other celebrities, are immortalised in this Canadian castle.

After discovering every corner of the most photographed hotel in the world, the visit will end at the starting point.

More Information

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English speaking guide.

Entrance to Frontenac Castle.

When to book?

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible. This must be indicated in the reservation.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.
• Promotes local employment.
• Has a gender equality policy.
• Has a carbon footprint offset policy.

Cicérone Tours Show more

Corporate name: Cicérone inc.

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities .

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

A - This activity requires a minimum of 2 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point.

Dufferin Terrace, in front of the Au 1884 food kiosk

You may also be interested in

Walking Tour of Old Quebec

Quebec City River Cruise

Quebec Nighttime Boat Trip

Login to add activities to your favorites and access them from any device

This site is reCAPTCHA protected and Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Basic information regarding personal data protection

Person responsible for the processing: CIVITATIS TOURS, S.L. (CIVITATIS). Purpose: Provision of the services requested; Sending commercial communications about CIVITATIS products and services, for which commercial profiles of our customers may be drawn up; Sending surveys in order to assess the services offered and their degree of satisfaction, as well as the publication of opinions about the service received; Compliance with accounting, legal, fiscal and administrative obligations; Publication of customer images and processing of data for statistical purposes. Rights: You have the right to access, rectify and delete data, to limit its processing, to oppose its processing and to its portability. Additional Information: You can consult additional information on Data Protection in the General Terms and Conditions .

Log in to rate the opinions of other travelers

Guided Tour of the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City

TICKET PRICES STARTING FROM

Taxes and fees will be calculated at checkout

On this 1-hour guided tour, experience the history of the prestigious Château Frontenac. Discover the famous people and historical events that have shaped its identity over the years. You'll have the unique opportunity to see the architectural improvements and installations undergone in the recent years. IMPORTANT: Please note that this tour takes place rain or shine, every day of the year.

Ticket Options

5 Options Available

Départ en français 14h00: $14.49

Tour guidé du Château Frontenac avec guide en costume d'époque d'une durée d'environ 1 heure.

English Departure 10:00am: $14.49

1-hour guided tour of the Château Frontenac with guide in period costume.

English Departure 3:00pm: $14.49

Départ en français 11h00: $14.49, english departure 1:00pm: $14.49, ticket information.

• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per booking

What's Included

• All taxes, fees and handling charges

What's not Included

Cancellation policy.

• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Info

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Children must be accompanied by an adult

Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas

Get ideas from the pros.

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

Members save 10% or more on over 100,000 hotels worldwide when you’re signed in

Check availability

• About this activity

Guided Tour of the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Multiple languages

On this 1-hour guided tour, experience the history of the prestigious Château Frontenac. Discover the famous people and historical events that have shaped its identity over the years. You'll have the unique opportunity to see the architectural improvements and installations undergone in the recent years.

IMPORTANT: Please note that this tour takes place rain or shine, every day of the year.

Activity location

• 2, rue d'Auteuil / D'Auteuil street, 2, chateau Frontenac
• G1R 5C2, Quebec City, Canada, Canada

Meeting/Redemption Point

• G1R 4P5, Québec, Québec, Canada
• Fri., Jul. 26 -
• Sat., Jul. 27 CA $29
• Sun., Jul. 28 CA $29
• Mon., Jul. 29 CA $29
• Tue., Jul. 30 CA $29
• Wed., Jul. 31 CA $29
• Thu., Aug. 1 CA $29
• Fri., Aug. 2 CA $29
• Sat., Aug. 3 CA $29
• Sun., Aug. 4 CA $29
• Mon., Aug. 5 CA $29
• Tue., Aug. 6 CA $29
• Wed., Aug. 7 CA $29
• Thu., Aug. 8 CA $29
• Fri., Aug. 9 CA $29

English Departure 1:00pm

• Activity duration is 1 hour 1h 1h

1-hour guided tour of the Château Frontenac with guide in period costume.

Départ en français 11h00

Tour guidé du Château Frontenac avec guide en costume d'époque d'une durée d'environ 1 heure.

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included All taxes, fees and handling charges
• What's excluded What's excluded Service charge

Know before you book

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transport options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Transport options are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Children must be accompanied by an adult

Activity itinerary

Terrasse dufferin, best deals on things to do, top experiences in quebec city.

0 Start your search

• Virtual Guided Tour of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

More Videos of Québec City

Join the virtual guided tour conducted by the Cicérone Tours team. You will be able to visit the most photographed hotel in the world: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac .

This outstanding hotel is situated at the top of Cap Diamant right in the heart of Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac overlooks Québec City and the striking St. Lawrence River like a regal king.

Discover the elegant lobby, the majestic ballroom, the stylish 1608 bar and Le Champlain restaurant. Also discover the Rose room and one of the suites that has been named after Grace Kelly.

We wish you a wonderful visit!

You'll Also Like

Vegan Restaurants in Québec City

Nordic Cuisine in Québec City

14 Historic Places That Bring Québec City's Key Moments to Life

The Best Eco-Friendly Hotels in Québec City

Québec City Bike Paths

Agritourism and Artisan Producers

10 Best Things to Do in Old Québec City

Sustainable Restaurants in Québec City

• Explore Fairmont Gold
• Fairmont Heritage Place
• Fairmont Residences
• Hawaii Big Island
• Hawaii Maui
• Los Angeles
• San Francisco
• San Francisco Ghirardelli
• Santa Monica
• Washington D C
• Lake Louise
• Mont Tremblant
• Quebec City
• Vancouver Airport
• Vancouver Pacific Rim
• Vancouver Waterfront
• Vancouver, Hotel Vancouver
• Southampton
• Rio de Janeiro
• Riviera Maya
• Riviera Maya Heritage Place
• County Kildare
• Monte Carlo
• Mount Kenya
• Abu Dhabi Bab al Bahr
• Dubai The Palm

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Experience

• 1 rue des Carrières Québec City Quebec, Canada G1R 4P5
• Tel +1 418 692 3861
• Fax +1 418 692 1751
• [email protected]

Experience details

Quebec City virtual map   Experience everything the Château has to offer during your stay! We've gathered our most popular amenities and activities together under an experience fee of $ 35 plus tax per room (a value of $100), per night which will be added to your bill. Discover our program which includes several categories: family, history & culture, food & beverage, and wellness. For more information, refer to a member of our staff.

Find your Fairmont Culture

Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé Hotel & Residences

A hands-on immersion at the Oulja craft complex

Fairmont Doha

Adrenaline-pumping session of dune bashing, followed by a drive to the Inland Sea.

A paratrike flight over the Inland Sea and thrilling quad-bike races across the dunes.

To discover the very essence of Qatar’s culture, choose this immersive six-hour excursion.

Please check details

Copy My Trip: 4 days in Québec City

Jul 24, 2024 • 8 min read

Vieux-Québec is enchanting - yes. But you’ll find some of Québec City’s most memorable moments in the neighborhoods beyond © Jeff Frenette Photography, Destination Québec cité

I’m Lonely Planet’s destination editor for the eastern US and Canada – and the love of all things Canada is in my blood.

I was born in Toronto and lived there much of my life. I went to school in Montréal. I ran a half marathon through Vancouver, did a solo driving-and-hiking trip through British Columbia and Alberta, and recently visited Newfoundland for the first time. But I hadn’t been to Québec City since a family trip when I was 3 years old, so it was definitely time for a return visit.

Since its enchanting winter carnival and summertime festivals make this one of Canada’s most visited cities, I was excited to get beyond the typical tourist spots.

What was your favorite activity?

Vieux-Québec, with its cobblestone streets, the  Dufferin Terrace overlooking the St Lawrence River and the castle-like Château Frontenac hotel, is undeniably magical. But my favorite thing on this trip was getting out of the Old Town, on a bike excursion. You can rent bikes (electric or regular) at Tuque & Bicycle Experiences and plan your own day, or hire bikes and a guide. Away from the bluffs and steep alleys of its historic center, Québec City has hundreds of kilometers of bike trails, including some flat and scenic paths that wind along the Rivière-Saint-Charles. (The Destination Québec cité website lists some suggested bike routes .)

We pedaled to the new location of the Grand Marché de Québec , where a number of vendors sell produce and prepared foods at stalls. On the second floor, the line of customers at Zeitoun Cuisine Libanaise  is a sign of the joint’s excellent sandwiches, juicy grilled chicken, and creamy hummus and baba ghanoush.  

What was the most scenic experience of the trip?

Parc de la Chute-Montmorency , home to the towering Montmorency Falls, is just about 12km (8 miles) outside of the city – definitely close enough for a bicycle excursion. These falls are truly tall: almost 100ft higher than Niagara Falls, in fact. You can walk up the 487 steps in the panoramic staircase, zip-line across, climb any of the three via ferrata routes or take a cable car up to the top of the falls, where the views from the suspension bridge are absolutely magnificent. If you’re really intrepid, visit the frigid falls in winter, when you can ice-climb up the frozen cliff walls.

Best thing you ate?

I ate a lot of great things on this trip, especially on the evening food tour we did around Vieux-Québec with HQ Services Touristiques (top marks for the French onion soup and the beer at Archibald’s ). My favorite eating experience of the trip, though, was the six-course dinner at ARVI restaurant, which explored cutting-edge presentations of seasonal and local flavors. I’m a sucker for a dining event , where a meal is not just the food (and wine) – but almost a theatrical experience, from the presentation of the plates to the chefs’ explanations of what they had prepared for us to the eating itself.

The menu is basically a list of ingredients that range from the familiar (crab, lobster, asparagus, barley, beet, etc) to the less familiar (lovage, sorrel, quince, koji), each of which is the focus of the dishes you'll be served. I loved not only guessing what was what, but which ingredients were savory and which were sweet. My favorites were a gorgeous asparagus-and-goat-cheese assemblage; a deeply flavorful duck preparation with beets and quince; and a surprising dessert of barley, rice and koji.

What was the handiest thing you packed?

It’s almost too predictable: the best thing I packed for Québec was warm clothes, even though I visited at the end of May, when it was already hot and steamy in New York City, where I live. The forecast had called for chilly and rainy weather, so I packed for October: layers, naturally, including a lightweight jacket, a couple of sweaters and long-sleeve shirts. I did not pack gloves or a hat, though I wish I had.

Summers do get hot in Québec City, and winters are frigid (but very fun) . Yet the in-between months are, well, unpredictable. To that point, the forecasted rain was less than expected, so we enjoyed mostly sunny and cool weather.

Best tip for someone who wants to plan the same trip?

Since I always like learning about the historical context about any place I visit, and since I’m not always the best at pre-trip research, I was thrilled to get an early peek at the brand-new “ In Other Words, Québec ” exhibit at the Musée de la Civilisation . This multifaceted, immersive exploration of the history of Québec mixes artifacts with works of art, and goes quite the distance in incorporating Indigenous viewpoints. 

I’d also say that while exploring Vieux-Québec is wonderful – this is, after all, the only walled city in North America north of Mexico, and what’s left of the city’s 400-year old fortifications amazes – I highly recommend making sure to visit some neighborhoods beyond those old walls. After all I saw on this trip, I’m already looking forward to a future visit to take a culinary tour of Île d'Orléans, or maybe even packing my warmest clothes to brave the cold for Winter Carnival and the ice hotel .

Where did you stay? What was the vibe?

I spent the first two days and nights of my trip at Le Monastère des Augustines , immersing myself in the ideas and methods of holistic wellness that the Augustinian nuns have been practicing for hundreds of years. Sure, “wellness” and “sustainability” are trendy catchphrases on everyone’s lips these days. But as I learned, the Augustinian nuns have been committed to these principles, and have been caring for people’s minds and bodies, since the 17th century. 

The monastery has only been open to the public since 2015. Since the resident nun population has been dwindling, plans took shape to turn the historic building and its massive archives into a museum chronicling the history of Québec. In order to pay for the necessary renovations, part of the structure was set aside as a sort of retreat for wellness , operating with the principles of “hospitality, kindness and generosity” that the nuns have always put into practice. This seems like a pretty solid business plan to me – especially considering that the nuns were once the preeminent businesswomen of Québec, running all the hospitals in the province and hiring and overseeing their doctors as far back as the 17th century.

The media hype has made me a bit of a skeptic about “wellness” – but at the Monastère, I found it surprisingly easy to embrace the mindset and ethics of the approach. It felt very natural in this environment, where everything and everyone seemed to speak from the heart. While still very obviously a monastery, the building has been thoroughly modernized; its location, steps from downtown, makes it feel accessible both in location and vibe. 

What sold me was the daily “silent breakfast.” Every overnight stay includes breakfast (everything local, seasonal, organic and delicious) – which every guest takes in silence. The idea is to start the day slowly and with contemplation rather than with loud chatting. As an introvert, I can’t tell you how lovely it is to be in a public space and be actively encouraged not to talk to people. It was a real pleasure to just focus on what I was eating and my plans for the day ahead. (Of course, if you need to ask if there are any more pancakes or fresh squeezed juices, you can – just in a lowered voice.)

A variety of yoga and qigong (a traditional Chinese medicine practice) classes are available, as well as meditation sessions and other wellness workshops. I decided to keep things low-key and opted for a docent-led meditative walk (aka “walking meditation”). As at breakfast, you’re meant not to talk, but rather just stay absorbed in your breathing. (I cheated by focusing on taking in the unfamiliar surroundings.) I also had a lovely massage – unique for me in its focus on mindfulness and caring, rather than the deep muscle manipulation that I usually opt for. “Close your eyes,” the massage therapist said. “You have nothing to do. I will take care of you.”

I’m still thinking about how resonant and effective those words were.

Two types of rooms are on offer. “Contemporary” accommodations have en-suite bathrooms that were newly built on the top floor when the building underwent restoration. Once nuns’ living spaces, “authentic” rooms have been renovated into supremely cozy and comfortable guest quarters, with single or double beds and shared modern bathrooms. The Monastère even offers special rates for caregivers, since they need to be taken care of, too – a touch that, for me, truly encapsulates the ideas and intent behind the project. The more I learned about the concept, the practices, and the social and environmental good underlying this special place, the more I wanted to spread the word…and – yes – the wellness.

For the third and fourth nights of the trip, I stayed at L'Hôtel du Vieux-Québec , a more traditional hotel that’s on one of the Old Town’s main thoroughfares and just a 2-minute walk from the Monastère. Every morning, staff hung a small wicker basket outside my (comfortable, modern) room, which contained a continental breakfast of fresh croissants, yogurt, cheese and juice. The hotel has received accolades for its eco-friendly practices like carbon offsets, solar-energy usage and energy-efficient lighting. The rooftop beehives and garden supply the restaurant next door. 

Caroline traveled to Québec City on an invitation from Destination Québec cité . Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.

Explore related stories

Jul 16, 2024 • 5 min read

Here's where Lonely Planet staffers traveled in July.

Jul 4, 2024 • 9 min read

Jun 21, 2024 • 9 min read

Jun 17, 2024 • 3 min read

May 28, 2024 • 9 min read

May 27, 2024 • 7 min read

May 26, 2024 • 7 min read

May 23, 2024 • 8 min read

May 22, 2024 • 7 min read

May 21, 2024 • 11 min read

Review of the Hotel Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City, Canada

D o you have a hotel in North America that you just absolutely HAVE to stay in? There are several hotels on my bucket list, including the Salish Lodge in Washington, the Waldorf Astoria in NYC, and the Hotel del Coronado in California. A few weeks ago, as part of my attendance at the Women in Travel Summit (WITS), I had the opportunity to stay at the Fairmont Chateau Frontenac Hotel in Quebec City, Canada, a hotel that was on my bucket list.

This post includes affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us. I received a discounted rate from Hotel Chateau Frontenac as a group conference attendee. All opinions are my own.

This isn’t just a beautiful hotel – it’s also a widely photographed and toured hotel.  Even if you haven’t been to Quebec City, you’ve probably seen photos of the Chateau Frontenac – it looks like a castle. I’ve never stayed in a hotel that doubles as a tourist attraction, but I absolutely loved my stay at the Chateau Frontenac.

If you are planning a vacation to Quebec City with kids , and want to splurge on a luxurious stay, I’d definitely recommend staying at the Fairmont le Château Frontenac.

Review of the Fairmont Chateau Frontenac Hotel in Quebec City, Canada

Location of the hotel chateau frontenac.

There are several areas of the city, but the most popular tourist area is Old Quebec, within the walls. The Hotel Chateau Frontenac, built in 1893, is located right in the center of the action, on the St. Lawrence River. It’s right in the city center and is an excellent location for your vacation.

Once you check into the hotel, you won’t need a car to explore most of the city. It’s an extremely walkable city, and parking is very limited at the various restaurants and shops. Despite the central location and tourist crowds outside, I found my room to be nice and quiet.

Are you planning on flying into Quebec City? Jean-Lesage Airport in Quebec City is about 20 minutes away from the hotel. There are several different transportation options, including Uber, cabs, private cars, and a hotel shuttle.

For my solo visit, I chose to take the hotel shuttle and found it to be extremely comfortable and convenient. It’s best, however for those arriving individually. If you are traveling as a family, a private car or a cab is probably the better and more affordable option.

About the Chateau Frontenac

The Chateau Frontenac hotel was commissioned by the General Manager of the Canadian Pacific Railway and was designed by architect Bruce Price. It was built in seven stages from 1892-1893 and has had several additions over the years.

Despite being an older hotel, it’s been modernized and updated. It has all of the amenities and features of newer hotels. It is quaint and charming but still feels modern.

Until my time at the Chateau Frontenac, I’d never stayed in a hotel that was such a big tourist attraction. Because of that, tourists were always in the lobby (guided tours of the hotel are available for an additional cost and are offered to the general public), and around the resort. People are constantly visiting the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac at all times of the day.

It wasn’t at all inconvenient, however. It’s a big hotel and doesn’t feel crowded. You just have to expect there to be tourists in the lobby all the time.

Amenities at the Chateau Frontenac

In addition to the rich history and perfect location, the Chateau Frontenac also offers some fabulous family-friendly amenities. There are several different room views, some with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River or the city.

Want to work out during you vacation? The hotel has a large fitness center, as well as an indoor pool.

When I visited this area of the hotel, there was no one in the pool or the fitness center, which isn’t surprising. There’s so much to do in the city, and you can get plenty of exercise by walking or running outside.

There’s also a fabulous spa if you are looking for some pampering while staying at the Chateau Frontenac. You’ll also find a hair salon, several shops and boutiques, a concierge (who can help you book restaurant reservations), and a business center. The resort does have WiFi throughout the property, although a fee may apply depending on your Fairmont Gold status.

My favorite amenity at the Chateau Frontenac, however, is the Canine Ambassador, Daphnie. Daphnie sits in the lobby of the hotel greeting guests. I always miss my dog Polly when I’m traveling, so it was nice to see another dog each day.

Guests are welcome to stay with their dogs at the Chateau Frontenac. However, there is a housekeeping fee, and only certain floors are pet-friendly. Make sure you work directly with the hotel to be sure to get a pet-friendly room.

There are electric car chargers, as well as a business center. Luxury car rentals are also available, although you’ll be able to walk to most downtown locations thanks to the fantastic location. Helpful staff are around everywhere to help you make the most of your stay.

Rooms at the Chateau Frontenac

When I booked my hotel room at the Chateau Frontenac, I was amazed by the number of room types they offer. Among the 600+ guest rooms, you’ll find Fairmont Rooms, Fairmont City View Rooms, Fairmont River View Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, Deluxe City View Rooms, Deluxe River View Rooms, and Signature Rooms.

Suites at the hotel are also available for those looking for more space. Within the various room types, you’ll find different bed configurations including one queen bed, one king bed, and two double beds.

Although I booked a deluxe city view room, my room had a beautiful view of the river in addition to a view of the city. The room had a television, a small table with two chairs, a larger armchair, a closet, a minibar, a Keurig coffee maker, and a bathroom with a large sink and shower.

The king bed was extremely comfortable, and the room was modern and quiet. Turndown service in the evening is offered by request, although I decided not to call. Rooms include bathrobes, and cribs are available if you need them.

Food at the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

Quebec City is filled with delicious restaurants, but there are several great options available without even leaving the hotel. On my first day, I ate at Bistro Le Sam, a restaurant and bar located right off of Dufferin Terrace overlooking the Saint Lawrence River.

I easily could have eaten all of my meals here – the food was absolutely delicious, the drinks were fabulous, and the views were gorgeous. I would even plan to visit Bistro Le Sam for a drink and appetizers even if I wasn’t staying at the hotel.

For more of an adult atmosphere, there’s 1608. It’s not a spot where I would bring kids, but it is fun for a drink and a quick bite of food. While I was there, they were just renovating the bar, so it looks brand new.

Our conference included breakfast, so I didn’t eat breakfast in the hotel restaurant. The Place Dufferin offers a buffet breakfast, as well as a la carte options.

I heard from other hotel guests that it was absolutely delicious. There’s also the more formal Champlain Restaurant for upscale dining. Room service is also available.

To read more Chateau Frontenac reviews and see rates, click here .

Have you stayed at the Chateau Frontenac?

The post Review of the Hotel Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City, Canada appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My Portfolio
• Latest News
• Stock Market
• Biden Economy
• Stocks: Most Actives
• Stocks: Gainers
• Stocks: Losers
• Trending Tickers
• World Indices
• US Treasury Bonds
• Top Mutual Funds
• Highest Open Interest
• Highest Implied Volatility
• Stock Comparison
• Advanced Charts
• Currency Converter
• Basic Materials
• Communication Services
• Consumer Cyclical
• Consumer Defensive
• Financial Services
• Industrials
• Real Estate
• Mutual Funds
• Credit Cards
• Balance Transfer Cards
• Cash-back Cards
• Rewards Cards
• Travel Cards
• Credit Card Offers
• Best Free Checking
• Student Loans
• Personal Loans
• Car Insurance
• Mortgage Refinancing
• Mortgage Calculator
• Morning Brief
• Market Domination
• Market Domination Overtime
• Asking for a Trend
• Opening Bid
• Stocks in Translation
• Lead This Way
• Good Buy or Goodbye?
• Financial Freestyle
• Capitol Gains
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Yahoo Finance

The 2024 top 25 historic hotels worldwide® most magnificent ceilings and domes list is announced.

WASHINGTON, July 24, 2024 --( BUSINESS WIRE )--Historic Hotels Worldwide®, a prestigious program that recognizes and celebrates authentic historic hotels around the world, is pleased to announce The 2024 Top 25 Historic Hotels Worldwide® Most Magnificent Ceilings and Domes list . Visitors to the hotels celebrated on this list can appreciate the creativity, craftsmanship, and extraordinary attention to detail of the hoteliers and preservationists that have worked to recover or restore these historic hotels. Some of the best examples are viewed by looking up at the magnificent ceilings and domes in the public areas of these hotels, including lobbies, spas, ballrooms, and restaurants. These ornate ceilings and domes include some of the finest surviving examples of historic stained glass, painted frescoes, hand-painted wallpaper, ornamental plaster, stenciled wood, and gold leaf. To experience the fine artistry of these architectural wonders, Historic Hotels Worldwide invites travelers to visit these historic treasures in person and to remember to look up.

Sign up for Discover & Explore , a monthly culture and history travel newsletter, to keep up with new and exciting offerings from Historic Hotels Worldwide. Visit the Historic Hotels Worldwide Press Room to learn more about the program.

Castlemartyr Resort (1210) Cork, County Cork, Ireland

At the heart of Castlemartyr Resort’s 18th-century manor house is the historic Knights Bar. It is aptly named, as the historic castle complex was built by the Knights Templar in 1210. The Knights Bar ceiling showcases a stunning Rococo-style design installed by the LaFranchini brothers in the 18th century. These Swiss decorators became famous in Ireland for their distinct Rococo-style stucco ceiling and wall designs that survive in grand mansions throughout Ireland to this day. Rococo style is an exceptionally ornamental and dramatic style of architecture, art, and decoration. It combines asymmetry, scrolling curves, gilding, white and pastel colors, sculpted molding, and trompe-l'œil frescoes to create surprise and drama. The Knights Bar offers guests a fantastic sampling of original LaFranchini design. It has welcomed many visitors over the years, first as a ballroom for the Boyle family in the 1800s, and later as a chapel used for daily Mass by the Carmelite order, who owned the manor house in the early 1900s. Castlemartyr Resort was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2022.

Gran Hotel Ciudad de México (1526) México City, México

With historic features dating to the 16th century, the Art Nouveau-style Gran Hotel Ciudad de México rose within Mexico City’s Zócalo (a historic public square) as a department store in 1899. The immense popularity of the modern and sophisticated shopping center led to a striking renovation in 1910. An ornate Tiffany-style glass ceiling was the most stunning feature added during the renovation and was installed over the building’s lobby by European artisan Jacques Grüber. Once complete, the stained-glass ceiling contained 20,000 separate pieces of glass and was illuminated by sunlight and lighting fixtures. The rectangular ceiling spans the length of the main hall and contains three central domes. The sparkling blue, yellow, red, and green stained glass is supported by a metal frame, which is vaulted around the edges to create a shallow dome above the lobby. Around those edges, visitors can spot the "CM" glass medallion motifs, which harken back to the hotel’s former life as "El Centro Mercantil." Today, it is one of the largest stained-glass installations of its kind in the world. Gran Hotel Ciudad de México was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2023.

Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam (1578) Amsterdam, Netherlands

Located between two historic canals in the heart of the Dutch capital city, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam boasts a rich history and beautiful ceilings. One of the showstopping elements at this hotel is the Council Chamber, which opened in 1926 when Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam was still serving as the city hall of Amsterdam. The visionary behind the Council Chamber’s design was Willem Penaat. He saw the Council Chamber as a joint work of art; all its parts were based on the same idea, executed by several artists under his direction. A highlight of the Council Chamber is the unique wooden ceiling with its matte glass bowl chandeliers, which were designed by the artist Frits Lensvelt. Upon leaving the Council Chamber, hotel guests experience the Marriage Chamber. Designed by Chris Lebeau (1878-1945), the painted walls and ceiling are decorated with images and motifs to symbolize the story of romantic love, told through unique color combinations of light green, olive green, turquoise, and purple, with touches of orange and gold. The ceiling, decorated in the same colors as the walls, is a part of the artwork and depicts zodiac signs. A scale on the ceiling, beneath which are placed two chairs for a bride and groom, represents balance in marriage. Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2018.

Bernini Palace Hotel (16th century) Florence, Italy

Historic Bernini Palace Hotel is in the historic center of Florence, Italy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic hotel dates to the 16th century when it was built to serve as the regal palace of the influential Della Pera family. A new group of owners converted the building into an upscale hotel decades later. The hotel’s prestigious reputation remained well intact, especially once Florence briefly assumed the role of national capital amid the Unification of Italy in the 19th century. Italian statesmen met within an ornately frescoed venue inside the hotel, which soon became known as the "Sala Parlamento," or "Parliament Hall." The hotel’s proprietors then commissioned more artwork to appear throughout the space during this period, which focused on the major historical figures responsible for uniting the Italian Peninsula. Among the most prolific individuals to debut upon the walls of the Sala Parlamento were Giuseppe Montanelli, Vincent Salvagnoli, Manfredo Fanti, and of course, Giuseppe Garibaldi. The Sala Parlamento has since remained a central fixture of the Bernini Palace Hotel. Bernini Palace Hotel was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2015.

Hôtel Golf Château de Chailly (16th century) Chailly-sur-Armançon, France

Once a fortified castle during the Hundred Years’ War, Château de Chailly in the Burgundy region of France primarily served as a regal palace for many centuries thereafter, passing through the ownership of various royal families and other private owners before it was transformed into a resort in 1990. Throughout Hôtel Golf Château de Chailly’s public areas and guestrooms, exposed wood beams and high ceilings show the architectural heritage of this historic hotel. In two of the Castle Suites, n°1 and n°5, roughly hewn, lacquered wood beams form a canopy between the living space of the suite and the interior peaks of the château’s iconic French Renaissance-style towers. In the dining rooms and sports bar, more refined wood beams support the ceiling above guests as they enjoy dinner and drinks. A more colorful ceiling can be experienced under the "Dôme du Cosmos" at Hôtel Golf Château de Chailly. Operating as a chapel, this space is also an art piece with magnificent mosaics made of 250,000 tiles of multicolored glass on the walls, floor, and ceiling. Beneath the lacquered wood ceiling of the chapel and above the central tiled altar, hangs a palette of golden orbs painted against a deep blue sky and pale-yellow swirls of light. Hôtel Golf Château de Chailly, inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2022, dates to the 16th century. The building was designated a National Monument by the French Ministry of Culture.

Quinta Real Oaxaca (1579) Oaxaca, Mexico

Built in 1579, Quinta Real Oaxaca was originally the Convent of Santa Catalina de Siena. In the 1970s, the building was carefully restored to its original appearance, including its famous frescoes and historic tiled floors, and reopened to the public as a hotel. The National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) supervised the interior decoration. Teams of experts restored the frescoes that adorned the ancient walls. One of the most historic features of the hotel is the domed Los Lavaderos (The Washtubs) building, located on the northwestern corner of the grounds and surrounded by the hotel’s breathtaking gardens. This ornate, free-standing, open-air Spanish Colonial-style gazebo was where the convent’s nuns once did their laundry. Under the historic dome, water flows from the center of an octagonal fountain into twelve basins, never overflowing. It is one of the region’s most ingenious hydraulic systems of the Colonial era. This destination hotel is located within the historic city center of Oaxaca de Juárez, which was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Quinta Real Oaxaca was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2012.

Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam (1650) Amsterdam, Netherlands

Situated next to the Herengracht canal—designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site—today’s luxurious Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam occupies six monumental townhouses originally known as Herengracht 542-556. Dating to the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century, these townhouses all display a blend of beautiful architectural styles and preserved ceiling features. In 2014, new owners acquired the six gorgeous edifices at Herengracht 542-556. A talented group of architects then worked to transform the structures into a spectacular 93-room hotel called the Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam. The team endeavored to protect the amazing architectural heritage that defined each of the historic homes, preserving their stunning marblework, ceiling frescoes, and Rococo-inspired wall carvings. One of the most magnificent ceiling features of the hotel is the painted wooden beams of the Brentano Suite. Originally a family home dating to 1753 occupied by the family of Josephus Brentano, the Brentano Suite features a hand-painted classical fresco with two panels depicting cherubs raising a sword, lifting a wine glass, bearing a laurel wreath, and blowing a trumpet. Gold and cream laurel wreaths and floral vine motifs, set against dark wood, surround the cherubs. Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2018.

Hacienda de los Santos (1710) Alamos, Sonora, México

Famous for its artistic flair and celebration of religious iconography, Hacienda de los Santos is a family-owned and operated boutique hotel composed of three historic Colonial-style mansions, as well as one sugar mill, that dates to the 18th century. Located in Alamos, Mexico—a National Historic Monument of Mexico—the historic buildings were restored and transformed into a holiday destination in the late-20th century. One magnificent ceiling at the hotel is above the Felipe Almada Theatre, a meeting room and theater designed to pay homage to the "Catalan vault," a form of 18th century architecture once popular in Spain. The theater’s ceiling was designed using historic methods to feature two impressive concave domes that connect in the middle of the room. Originating in the Mediterranean, this style of vaulted ceiling requires buttresses to support the weight of the vaults and has been used in cathedral architecture for centuries. The construction is labor intensive, and Hacienda de los Santos hired a family of brick masons from the State of Guanajuato to build the unique ceiling. Around 10,000 earthen bricks (called Cuñas ) make up the ceiling, and these were handmade and hardened in mesquite-wood fires just a few miles from Hacienda de los Santos. The bricks were hand-laid, each carefully positioned to create the double-domed ceiling. The vaulted ceiling supports itself without any kind of pillar, beam, or other support from the underside. Also notable is the flat roof above the domes, hidden from those admiring the ceiling from below, which is an example of sustainable air conditioning. In Sonora, Mexico, where temperatures rise in the summer, this design is a blessing as well as an example of how historic architecture can offer modern buildings lessons in energy-efficient cooling and heating. The theater is one of five buildings at the hotel with this style of vaulted ceiling. Hacienda de los Santos was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2015.

Hotel Maximilian's (1722) Augsburg, Germany

With a history reaching back over 300 years, Hotel Maximilian's is located directly on the Maximilianstraße in the middle of Augsburg, Germany. While the historical record of Hotel Maximilian’s dates to the 15th century, the current iteration of the building was constructed in the early 1700s. Architect Johann Baptist Gunetzrhainer, the court mason for the Duchy of Bavaria, converted the entire space into a brilliant guesthouse and masterfully crafted the hotel’s appearance in the regal style of Rococo architecture. Within the hotel, two magnificent modern ceiling features stand out: the glass dome in the Teehalle ballroom and the paper ceiling that hangs above the hotel’s Sartory Restaurant. Constructed in 2012 and one of the most recent ceilings to make the list, the Teehalle’s glass dome forms a pine nut, the emblem of Augsburg. The pine nut was once the emblem of the Roman legion that camped at the confluence of the Lech and Wertach rivers in Augsburg. The pine nut was considered to be a symbol of fertility by the Romans. This popular symbol can be found adorning historic buildings in many places in Augsburg, either painted, sculpted, or cast in metal. The mix of 21st-century glass dome architecture and the pine nut symbolism make this ceiling a tribute to the hotel’s embrace of both modern sensibilities and tradition. At the hotel’s Sartory Restaurant, guests not only can enjoy a meal worthy of a Michelin Star, but also bask in the beauty of the unique paper ceiling. This rare type of decoration makes guests feel as if they are floating on a cloud during their meal and conveys a sense of light and ethereal warmth. Hotel Maximilian's was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2019.

Alsisar Mahal (1737) Jhunjhunu, India

Overlooking the ancient city of Jhunjhunu is the charming Alsisar Mahal, a former palace with deep historical connections to the surrounding Shekhawati region. The estate was established by Samrath Singhji in the mid-18th century. Singhji hailed from a long lineage of prominent Rajput rulers known as the Alsisar family, and his new palace served as the main seat of power for his own domain, as the Thakur of Alsisar. The Alsisar family had also constructed an extensive variety of rich Indo-Islamic architectural details throughout the palace, where the ceilings reflect the occupants’ artistic values and impressive heritage. Now a hotel, Alsisar Mahal continues to showcase those fantastic design elements, even after the Alsisar family imaginatively converted the entire structure into a stunning hotel in the early-21st century. Upon arriving at the magnificent hotel, a massive arched gateway guides guests into the stunning interior. The ceiling displays an amazing array of beautiful frescoes, intricate wall carvings, and ornate gold-leaf detailing. On top of the hotel, the Badal Mahal Restaurant offers elevated dining—literally. "Badal Mahal" means "Palace in the Clouds" and the walls and ceiling of the interior dining room are painted to make it appear that the dining hall is among monsoon clouds. Few other vacation destinations in India embody such an impressive architectural heritage as Alsisar Mahal. Alsisar Mahal was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2012 and dates to 1737.

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar (1780) Bagac, Philippines

Casa Byzantina, a bahay na Bato or "house of stone," at the historic Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar resort in Bagac, Philippines, was originally built in 1890 in Binondo, Manila by Don Lorenzo Del Rosario. The mosaic inside the "house of stone" boasts replicas of paintings by Filipino artists such as Botong Francisco ("Pista sa Nayon"), Fernando Amorsolo ("Mango Harvest"), Vicente Manansala ("At the Market"), and Anita Magsaysay-Ho. This "house of stone" was preserved and transferred to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan, where it can now be visited—alongside other Filipino architectural marvels—by curious guests. A peek into the artisan workshops at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar shows guests the source of all the resort’s unique furnishings and details. Everything seen within the spacious resort was made in-house, from the tiles, bricks, sculptures, murals, artworks, and even its furniture pieces. Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar prides itself on housing the most skilled and talented group of artists and craftspeople hailing from different regions across the Philippines, each bringing their own distinct style and technique to this special resort. Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar’s most historic casa dates to 1780, and the historic resort was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2017.

Oscarsborg Castle (1848) Oscarsborg, Norway

Nestled on a small island in the Drøbak Sound south of Oslo, historic Oscarsborg Castle was an essential part of Oslo’s defenses in the 19th and early-20th centuries before it was transformed into Oscarsborg Castle Hotel & Resort. Within the historic castle-like, horseshoe-shaped main fortification, visitors can find beautiful brick archways and barrel-vaulted ceilings throughout meeting halls and dining rooms. In several places in the ceiling, arched openings have been bricked up by soldiers, its former "guests." Dating to 1853, the fort was frequently updated over the centuries to modernize its capabilities and respond to new naval technology. Notably, the fortifications defended Oslo against a flotilla of six German ships during World War II and bought the city’s residents time to prepare or escape in April 1940, before German forces ultimately occupied the city until the end of the European conflict. The island was decommissioned in the early-21st century and quickly became a popular historic destination, leading to the establishment of the Oscarsborg Castle Hotel & Resort in this adaptive reuse success story. In 2014, the Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage registered the fortifications as a protected heritage landmark. Guided tours at the hotel can offer more information about the main fort and its construction. Oscarsborg Castle was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2019.

Citadel Inn Hotel & Resort (1850) Lviv, Ukraine

The historic Citadel Inn Hotel & Resort in Lviv, Ukraine, opened its doors as a hotel in 2009. The hotel is housed in the circular Maximilian Tower No. 2, which was part of a fortification complex known as the Citadel. The former military structure was built in the 1850s and was intended to both control the city of Lviv and protect it from its enemies. Surviving the European wars of the 19th and 20th centuries, private owners leased Maximilian Tower No. 2 in 2004 with the goal of transforming this military building into a destination for relaxation and beauty, not war. One of the brilliant examples of this idea is the paintings on the walls of cannons, which depict the cannons shooting seeds from which flowers sprout instead of bombs. The architect of the reconstruction project was Semen Tsimbalyuk, and the painter was Oleksandr Trofimyuk. They transformed an open courtyard at the center of the tower into an enclosed guest space in an incredible 394-sq ft hall, capped by a massive 492-ft transparent dome. Guests can see sunlight, stars, and the sky through the ceiling. The walls beneath the dome are covered with artistic paintings of maps of Lviv obtained from the Austrian archives. When the hotel reopens to the public, a historical exhibition will be available in the library, as will a guide who will acquaint guests with the uniqueness of this place and talk about the style of architecture and historical events. Citadel Inn Hotel & Resort was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2013.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac (1892) Québec City, Québec, Canada

While several ceilings should be considered magnificent in Québec City, Canada’s famous Fairmont Le Château Frontenac and its Verchères room stands out. Originally called the Palm Room, this space is ideal for cocktail receptions and was once the hotel’s formal tearoom. The golden ceiling of the Verchères was painted by the Parisian artist Raoul Barbin, based on a design by architect William Sutherland Maxwell. Barbin taught decorative arts in Quebec at the time he worked on the hotel’s ceiling, which dates to 1924. The design is a sumptuous blend of Art Nouveau and Neoclassical influences, showing off a leaf-and-flowering-vine design embellished with cartouches and monochrome motifs. The palette includes shades of blue, pink, and green against a yellow-gold background. Palm designs are visible at the top of each column. Verchères is located between the Grand Ballroom and the Frontenac Room, with windows providing natural light and a view of the Place d’Armes park. Situated in the historic district of Old Québec, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stately luxury hotel stands above historic Old Québec. Fairmont Le Château Frontenac was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2012.

Hilton Paris Opera (1889) Paris, France

Hilton Paris Opera opened on May 7, 1889, during the 1889 World’s Fair in Paris, France. Initially named the Hotel Terminus, it was built by architect Juste Lisch and designed to accommodate transatlantic travelers arriving from Normandy via the Saint-Lazare station. Upon entering the historic hotel through its grand lobby today, visitors marvel at the Second Empire-style décor and opulent gold, cream, and burgundy ceiling. The ceiling was designed with Neoclassical and Second Empire influences: geometric perfection interspersed with the lavish floral and ribbon motifs popular during the 19th century. The ceiling’s warmth is complemented by soft green accents. The letters "H" and "T" are overlaid in a logo that appears throughout the design, harkening back to the days when the hotel was known as the Hotel Terminus. Paintings and sculptures by the artist Charles Joseph Lameire (1832-1910) adorn the ground level and walls. Further into the hotel, Le Grand Salon’s magnificent glass ceiling and chandeliers continue to give visitors reasons to look up. Several French movies were filmed with this magnificent backdrop over the years since the hotel debuted. Hilton Paris Opera was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2018.

Mystery Hotel Budapest (1896) Budapest, Hungary

The magnificent Egyptian Revival-style vaulted ceiling in The Great Hall Restaurant & Lounge of Mystery Hotel Budapest in Budapest, Hungary, is another playful part of this luxurious and mysterious hotel. It brings the Nile to Budapest, with its leafy greens, watery blues, rich ochre, and sunny yellow in classical Egyptian motifs of reeds and fans, as well as other ancient Greek motifs. Full of optical illusions and mysterious aesthetics, this boutique hotel embraces its history as the official meeting space for the Symbolic Grand Lodge of Hungary, a merger of The Freemasonry of the Order of John in Hungary and the Nagyoriens of Scottish Rite. In 1896, they opened their new club building to host Freemasons, who enjoyed the space until the rise of the Hungarian Soviet Republic. This beautiful historic building underwent a masterful transformation into an upscale boutique hotel known as the Mystery Hotel Budapest in 2019. Zoltán Varró spearheaded the subsequent design work, which endeavored to highlight as much of the building’s historic architecture as possible. In fact, the renovations instituted Corinthian, Ionic, and Doric-inspired motifs as a way to draw upon the former masonic lodge’s preexisting Neoclassical character. Mystery Hotel Budapest was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2021.

Omni King Edward (1903) Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Located in downtown Toronto, the Omni King Edward has been a cherished local landmark since it opened in 1903. Local entrepreneur George Gooderham hired two talented architects to design the hotel’s distinctive appearance: Henry Ives Cobb and E.J. Lennox. Their distinct designs were particularly noticeable inside the hotel, especially within its stunning Sovereign Ballroom and Vanity Fair Ballroom. Featuring brilliant wall decorations, floor-to-ceiling windows, and 24-ft-high ornate ceilings, the Sovereign Ballroom immediately became one of the area’s most sought-after venues for special events. Indeed, the amazing architectural character helped the hotel establish a venerable reputation that soon reached an international audience. The Vanity Fair Ballroom was originally known as the Grand Ballroom (or the American Dining Room) and no expenses were spared for its creation, which was complete with Tiffany & co. glass windows within its arch. In Vanity Fair, the strong presence of color is perhaps the most striking feature: Massive ionic columns supporting a colonnaded mezzanine, walls, pilasters, reception desk were all made of amber, red-and-green-veined scagliola, a material made from colored plasters and polished to look like marble. The hotel’s immense popularity even led the hotel to undergo a massive expansion during the early 1920s, which resulted in the creation of a towering, 18-story wing. The construction nearly doubled the number of available guestrooms, while also installing several new outstanding facilities. Omni King Edward was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2013.

Hotel Bristol Palace (1905) Genova, Italy

When Hotel Bristol Palace opened in 1905 on one of Genova, Italy's finest thoroughfares, it mesmerized its first visitors with its brilliant take on Art Nouveau-style architecture. Beautiful marble awaited guests as they stepped inside, as did outstanding woodwork and ornate moldings. Perhaps the most memorable feature is the breathtaking elliptical staircase that ascends every floor of the hotel. This famous staircase does not have a single ceiling, but a layered maze of stairs extends far above anyone who dares to look up. The elliptical and white Art Nouveau-style staircase gives viewers a mesmerizing optical perspective. Those who dare to gaze up from the bottom are treated to the impression that the colorful stained-glass dome at the very top floor is a blue and violet iris looking down on them from within the white oval atrium. One of the most influential people to travel to the Hotel Bristol Palace was famed British filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock. Some film historians speculate that this grand staircase helped contribute to the theme set in his 1958 psychological thriller, Vertigo . Hotel Bristol Palace was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2022.

Raffles London at The OWO (1906) London, England, UK

Entering Raffles London at The OWO evokes the same feeling as entering a grand opera house, or a spacious palace. The marble staircase draws guests in to explore the unique space, with beams of light beckoning one to look up at the magnificent glass ceiling dome. Completed in 1906, the Old War Office (OWO) is one of the great London landmarks of the Edwardian Era. At the time of its construction, it served as an architectural expression of British power, confidence, and wealth in the early-20th century. This is principally reflected in its monumental scale and the sculptural detailing of the historic ceiling dome, with its ornamental plaster work. During a recent restoration, extensive surveys of the building's elaborate ceilings were conducted, and "new-to-match" moldings were installed where necessary. As one of Europe’s largest renovation projects, it marks a revelatory transition from war to peace, as a once-secret government building opened its doors to the public for the first time as a luxury hotel, Raffles London at The OWO. The public enters through its magnificent two-story entrance hall, with a groin-vaulted ceiling and Portland stone columns. At the center, the iconic triple-height ceiling dome features moldings of the Tudor crown, which was a royal cypher used widely between 1901–1953. The design, too, features King Edward VII’s own royal cypher, "ER" (Edward Rex). Raffles London at The OWO was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2023.

Fairmont Empress (1908) Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

The magnificent Tiffany-style stained-glass domed ceiling in the Fairmont Empress’s Palm Court was designed to be a stylish ceiling beneath which guests would enjoy Afternoon Tea. Opening in 1908, this gorgeous hotel was designed by Francis Rattenbury and overlooks the Victoria Harbour in British Columbia, Canada. However, soon after completion, it was discovered that the acoustics under the Palm Court’s dome were so sensitive, that if someone whispers on one side of the room, the conversation can be heard on the other side. Tea was relocated to the hotel lobby (now the Lobby Lounge), but the beautiful dome remained. In 1967, a severe snowstorm shattered the stained-glass dome beyond repair, and the entire ceiling was covered over with a false ceiling and forgotten about for more than 20 years. Between 1988–1989, an extensive $45 million restoration was undertaken to improve the hotel’s original craftsmanship. The original glass dome was discovered, and the Palm Court’s ceiling was restored. Some portions of the dome were reconstructed using historic photographs and an original piece of glass found in a nearby shop. A second outer dome was added to protect the stained glass below it from future harm. The dome at the Fairmont Empress is an awe-inspiring piece of delicate craftsmanship and is admired by guests who enjoy Afternoon Tea in the nearby Lobby Lounge. The glass dome never has the same colors; the colors of the dome change depending on the weather. The Palm Court provides an air of elegance to events, showcasing the magnificent history of the Empress. Fairmont Empress was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2017.

Grand Hotel Tremezzo (1910) Tremezzina, Italy

Immersed in the beauty of Lake Como, the historic Grand Hotel Tremezzo is a treasured example of the finest authentic Italian palaces, and dates to 1910. When Enea Gandola and his wife, Maria Orsolini Bolla, decided to establish one of the Grande Dames of Europe in the early-20th century, they hired architect Constantino Ferrario to head the project. The Gandolas also added many distinctive architectural features into the villa’s interior. Perhaps the greatest of these architectural elements were the many frescoes that still cover the hotel’s grand ceiling. Painted by Francesco Congeliani, the frescoes depict scenes from Virgil’s Aeneid, as well as scenes of heaven. Congeliani himself was the pupil of Giambattista Tiepolo, who was well-known across the continent for his work throughout the Mediterranean and Germany. Grand Hotel Tremezzo was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2012.

Fairmont Hotel Macdonald (1915) Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Located in downtown Edmonton, on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, Fairmont Hotel Macdonald opened in 1915 as one of Canada's grand railway hotels. A fine example of chateau-style architecture, this historic hotel features the Empire Ballroom, which boasts one of the most magnificent ceilings in the country. The Empire Ballroom’s ceiling is an artistic marvel, featuring intricate bas-relief carvings. The architect crafted this pillar-free masterpiece to depict a hunting scene from a bygone era, encapsulating the elegance and grandeur of early-20th century design. The ceiling’s 21-ft height impresses upon its visitors a breathtaking sense of space and grandeur, enhanced by its decorative features and private terrace. In early 2024, the Empire Ballroom underwent a meticulous renovation and restoration. The project resulted in restoring the historic ceiling’s original splendor, including hand-painting it gold to recapture the awe-inspiring sparkle it had a century ago. The restoration process was labor-intensive, requiring over 1,000 hours of preparations and painting, and more than 72 hours dedicated to cleaning the chandeliers. The result is a ceiling that not only honors the historical integrity of the space, but also dazzles guests with its renewed brilliance and intricate beauty. The Empire Ballroom’s ceiling stands as a testament to the timeless elegance and rich history of the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald, making it a must-see for visitors and a cherished venue for special events. Fairmont Hotel Macdonald was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2017.

Hotel New Grand (1927) Yokohama, Japan

When guests enter Hotel New Grand through its historic main entrance and walk up its grand staircase to the second-floor lobby, they experience a majestic blend of European Art Deco-style and traditional Japanese architecture. The foyer features ornate white plaster, detailed with motifs modeled after ancient Indian art. Storytelling silk tapestries—true works of art— hang on the upper walls and contrast with the white plaster and the patterned, washi paper lanterns hanging from the ornate ceiling. Further in the historic hotel, two more magnificent ceilings cap beautiful spaces for events: the Rainbow Ballroom and the Phoenix Room. The 273 sq m stucco ceiling of the Rainbow Ballroom has been widely acclaimed for its plaster work. The rainbow-like arched ceiling is adorned with classic decorations that are said to be the pinnacle of stucco work. The trailing clouds and lotus flowers often seen in traditional temples and shrines recall the Buddhist paintings of Gokuraku Jodo, "the Land of Bliss." Finally, the Phoenix Room’s dark wood-coffered ceiling is very different from the white plaster designs but is just as enchanting. The Phoenix Room’s canopy exudes a dignified atmosphere, with crossbeams and large ornate lanterns, reflecting the aesthetic of ancient Japanese shrines and temples. Designed by architect Jin Watanabe, Hotel New Grand’s historic architecture was certified by the city of Yokohama, and the hotel was designated as a Heritage of Industrial Modernization site by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Watanabe subsequently designed numerous landmark historic buildings in Tokyo, including the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park, and the Dai-ichi Seimei building in Hibiya. The hotel offers a special package with historical tours of the building. Hotel New Grand was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2012.

The Fullerton Hotel Singapore (1924) Singapore

Built in 1924, the original Fullerton Building is situated in a historic location in the heart of Singapore’s Central Business District. Named after Robert Fullerton—the first colonial governor of Singapore—The Fullerton Hotel Singapore began life as an ornate post office and is Singapore’s 71st National Monument. Located on the hotel's fourth floor, the Straits Room is known as an exclusive enclave well-appointed for formal banquets, private receptions, seminars, and press conferences. Previously used as the billiard room of the prestigious Singapore Club, its lofty height, unique coffered ceiling, and crystal chandeliers are simply magnificent. Both the ceiling and wall motifs are original design elements, dating back to 1928, that were retained when the stately Fullerton Building was restored in 1997 and transformed into a luxury hotel. The ceiling is 90 years old, and was sculpted by Cavaliere Rodolfo Nolli, an Italian sculptor and architect from Lombardy, who worked mainly in Southeast Asia during the first half of the 20th century. The Fullerton Hotel Singapore was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2011.

Fairmont Le Château Montebello (1930) Montebello, Québec, Canada

A luxury destination like no other, Fairmont Le Château Montebello was the dream of a wealthy Swiss-American man named H.M. Saddlemire. Inspired by the chateaus of the Swiss Alps, he invested in the venture in the 1920s and dubbed the project "Lucerne-in-Quebec." The construction site's foreman, Victor Nymark, directed the resort’s main building to be constructed in the vernacular style of Karelia, the former province of Finland where Nymark was born. In 1930, the massive cedar chateau was complete, with over 10,000 red cedar logs all cut and set by hand, contributing to three main buildings. While this log cabin architecture adds drama to many of the resort’s high ceilings, the grand lobby offers the pièce de résistance. Cedar logs and shingles alone were the largest shipment of materials ever shipped across the continent for a single construction project, and today it is the largest "log cabin" in the world. The lobby is three-stories tall, but the ceiling rises higher, with exposed beams and wood slats punctuated by stained-glass skylights. Beneath the lobby rotunda is a 20-meter-tall hexagonal fireplace, with six monumental hearths that weigh more than 300 tons. After its completion in 1930, and for the next 40 years, the log chateau was the private retreat of the Seigniory Club, whose elite membership included reputed Canadian businessmen and politicians such as former Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson, and foreign dignitaries such as Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco. In 1970, the resort opened its doors to the public, and today, all are invited to enjoy its rustic splendor. Fairmont Le Château Montebello was inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide in 2018.

"One of the best ways to distinguish a fine historic hotel from another older hotel is to look up at the ceilings. Look up and discover the tremendous detail, artistry, and craftsmanship in the historic ceilings," said Lawrence P. Horwitz, Executive Vice President of Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. "The ceilings in public areas, including lobbies, ballrooms, and restaurants, range from stained glass to painted ornamental plaster. Often, these grand and detailed ceilings have been recognized as historically significant local or regional historic landmarks. We encourage everyone to visit their favorite historic hotel and to look up!"

About Historic Hotels Worldwide®

Historic Hotels Worldwide® is a prestigious and distinctive collection of historic treasures, including luxury historic hotels built in former castles, chateaus, palaces, academies, haciendas, villas, monasteries, and other historic lodging spanning ten centuries. Historic Hotels Worldwide represents the finest and most distinctive global collection of more than 320 historic hotels in 47 countries. Hotels inducted into Historic Hotels Worldwide are authentic historic treasures, demonstrate historic preservation, and celebrate historic significance. Eligibility for induction into Historic Hotels Worldwide is limited to those distinctive historic hotels that adhere to the following criteria: minimum age for the building is 75 years or older; historically relevant as a significant location within a historic district, historically significant landmark, place of a historic event, former home of a famous person, or historic city center; hotel celebrates its history by showcasing memorabilia, artwork, photography, and other examples of its historic significance; recognized by national preservation or heritage buildings organization or located within UNESCO World Heritage Site; and presently used as a historic hotel. For more information, please visit HistoricHotelsWorldwide.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240724236272/en/

Katherine Orr Historic Hotels of America | Historic Hotels Worldwide Director, Marketing Strategy & Communications Tel: +1 202 772 8337 [email protected]