From Picasso to Anish Kapoor: 3 Luxury Hotels That Bring Art To Life

Imagine a vacation that doesn’t just take you somewhere, but immerses you in the heart of an art lover’s dream. Every hotel carries a distinct allure—some with quintessential charm, others with grandeur that defies the ordinary. But then, there are art hotels that dismantle the pedestrian notion of hospitality. From sculptural surprises in the vertiginous atriums to suites that feel like private art galleries—every corner whispers the secrets of renowned artists and the local culture. The ambience is a kaleidoscopic tapestry that leaves you suspended in an orbit of ingenuity and reverence. Think of it as an all-access pass to live, breathe and sleep in art. Whether wandering in the art-laden halls of The Fife Arms Hotel or soaking up the artistic drama in the palatial Byblos Art Hotel and Galleria Vik Milano, these places promise a stay that is as inspiring as it is indulgent. 

1. Contemporary Art Meets Historic Charm At The Fife Arms, Scotland

Located in the Scottish village of Braemar amidst the Cairngorms National Park, The Fife Arms Hotel is a cheery fantasy and home to more than 16,000 curated pieces and commissioned artworks by contemporary artists like Bharti Kher, Guillermo Kuitca, Zhang Enli, Subodh Gupta to name a few. Originally built in the 19th century, it was restored and reopened in 2019 by Iwan and Manuela Wirth — arguably the most influential contemporary art dealers in the world today. While the paradisiacal landscapes of Braemar await you outside, the interiors beckon you to interact, engage and lose yourself in the world of Scottish history, art and culture.

Art is central to ‘The Fife Arms’ experience as you find richly decorated antiques, caricatures, period wallpapers and original artworks in every corner of the room. From the moment you enter the reception area to when you reach the room, your senses are on high alert as you encounter an explosion of artistic expression: large-scale portraits by Picasso and Freud, a pine chimneypiece carved by the Scottish poet Robert Burns, and a stag’s head rendered by none other than Queen Victoria herself. The hotel features quintessential 46 rooms and suites that are individually designed, reflecting distinct characteristics and each telling a tale of Braemar. If desserts are your priority, do not miss the skill of the pastry chefs and the afternoon tea experience curated from local ingredients. You can also book a guided art tour to immerse in Fife Arms’ extraordinary art collection. This destination will linger in your memory, much like a timeless piece of art.

DP Loves: Savouring a hearty meal at the Clunie dining room, raising a toast at The Flying Stag – the hotel’s public bar, or immersing in the atmospheric beauty of the Fog House and the Wine Cellar. 

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2. Experience Dramatic Architecture And Art Through The Ages at Byblos Art Hotel, Italy

Nestled in the heart of Valpolicella and just a stone’s throw away from Verona, Italy, the Byblos Art Hotel Villa Amistà is more than a relic of antiquity. It’s a magnetic convergence of eras, where history collides with contemporary artistic languages. The grand Venetian-style hotel was born from the love of art and design and sits in a beautifully manicured five-acre garden. Opened in 2005, designer Alessandro Mendini with his eccentric design sensibilities, has punctuated the villa’s classic interiors with bold colours and sculptural forms that stand out in stark contrast to the historic building. Expect statement design, a spa that redefines indulgence, a fitness room and an outdoor pool surrounded by Verona’s tranquil vistas. All this is complemented by exquisite cuisines that harmonise Italian gastronomic traditions, paired with exceptional regional and international wines.

As you wander through its luxurious halls and the 58 rooms, guests can find over 200 site-specific installations, paintings, and sculptures by international artists and designers, including Vanessa Beecroft, Damien Hirst, Marc Quinn, Anish Kapoor, Giulio Paolini, Beatriz Millar, Philippe Starck, Marcel Wanders, Ettore Sottsass, Eero Saarinen, Eero Aarnio and many others. Staying at the Byblos Art Hotel means exploring new boundaries of art and culture. 

DP Loves: The picturesque gardens are perfect for private events or a lovely evening of unwinding with a book and some exceptional wines. 

Also read: Amaraanth In South Goa Embraces Slow Travel, Curated Art, Design, and Quiet Luxury

 3. Luxurious And Legendary Experiences Await At The Galleria Vik Milano, Italy

Perfectly nestled within Milan’s iconic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Galleria Vik Milano is a stunning blend of history and modern artistry. Originally built in the 1800s, the building was acquired by a hotel group and rebranded into Galleria Vik 2019. Norwegian-American hoteliers Alex and Carrie Vik have collaborated closely with local artists, turning this historic landmark into a dynamic cultural destination. The luxury hotel features 89 uniquely designed rooms and suites, each showcasing extraordinary (sometimes shocking) art and arcade views. A striking Rodin sculpture greets guests in the lobby setting the tone for the hotel’s artists’ journey. Long hallways on multiple floors become a canvas for artistic expression, where brushstrokes tell their own stories. In a surprising twist, one corridor unveils artwork that can only be seen under black light, adding an element of intrigue to the experience.

Original paintings hang on the walls along with colourful art frescoed directly on the interiors by street artists and international auteurs. The walls are finished in stucco Veneziano, a luxurious Italian technique and an extensive collection of contemporary, mid-century, vintage, and antique Italian furniture are tucked into each room. Overlooking the iconic Bull Mosaic of Galleria, the ‘Vikisimmo’ restaurant within the hotel offers a curated seasonal menu of European and Chilean culinary traditions. The effulgent hotel seamlessly straddles the realms of hospitality and art – existing as both a luxurious retreat and a living museum. 

DP Loves A visit to I Dodici Gatti, the best pizzeria in the town on the rooftop of Galleria Vik Milano, for the best wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas and Italian comfort foods.

These art hotels are a nucleus of artworks, sculptures and sensory indulgence, reminding us that travel is more than just a change of scenery—it’s a chance to immerse in something more extraordinary. So, whether you are a seasoned art connoisseur or looking for an artistic escape steeped in wonder and inspiration, these remarkable destinations should be on your travel bucket list.