Palaces abound in Europe and Vienna is just one city where these regal structures still rise in grandeur and can still be visited. Many of these palaces and castles are rich in history and although they have been preserved, quite a number have been converted into lodgings.
Hotel Imperial
Hotel Imperial in Vienna’s Ring Boulevard used to be the home of Prince Philip of Wurttemberg from 1863 to 1865. The prince left the palace when a city planning project constructed a street between the palace and a nearby park without consulting him. By 1873, the property was purchased by a wealthy investor and transformed the halls into hotel rooms.
This 150-year-old hotel has retained its regal ambience and interior design. Visitors here are treated to 19th century chandeliers, crest-embossed drapes and numerous relics. What’s also unique about this establishment is its traditional personal butler service.
Schlosshotel Igls
This palace was built more than 100 years ago and served as a summer residence for a German doctor. It was later used as a base for the German Air Force during the Second World War. Eventually, the French and American troops took over the place.
Today, the Schloss which lies in the Tyrolean mountains just five kilometers from Innsbruck is now considered a five star hotel.
