Tired of the same old hotels? Europe is full of one-of-a-kind places to stay — from fairytale castles to glass igloos under the northern lights. If you’re dreaming of a stay that’s as unforgettable as the destination itself, this list is your ultimate guide.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a bucket list adventure, or just want something totally different, these 10 unique stays will upgrade your entire trip.
1.
Treehotel – Harads, Sweden
Live among the treetops in the Swedish Lapland
Treehotel offers ultra-modern treehouses suspended in the forest — like the iconic “Mirrorcube” that reflects the surrounding pine trees.
Why it’s unique:
- Designed by leading Scandinavian architects
- Sleep 4–10 meters above ground
- Northern lights viewing in winter
Best for: Nature lovers, design geeks, northern lights chasers
From €500/night
2.Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort – Saariselkä, Finland
Sleep in a glass igloo under the Arctic sky
This is one of the most iconic stays in Europe. Imagine lying in bed, watching the aurora borealis dance overhead — all while staying warm and cozy in your private glass dome.
Why it’s unique:
- Glass igloos with heated roofs
- Located inside the Arctic Circle
- Husky safaris and ice fishing available
Best for: Winter honeymoon, bucket list travelers
From €450/night
3. Attrap’Rêves Bubble Hotel – France (Provence & more)
Sleep in a bubble under the stars
These transparent bubble rooms are placed in secluded natural settings in southern France. Each bubble is private, soundproofed, and offers a clear view of the night sky.
Why it’s unique:
- No roof = uninterrupted star views
- Optional telescope with some bubbles
- Eco-friendly construction
Best for: Romantic getaways
Sleep in a bubble or a cabin – unusual night Attrap’Rêves PACA
4. Castello di Petroia – Umbria, Italy
Sleep in a 12th-century medieval castle
This authentic stone fortress sits between Perugia and Gubbio in the Umbrian countryside. You’ll sleep in four-poster beds surrounded by ancient walls and panoramic views.
Why it’s unique:
- 900-year-old castle with modern comforts
- Offers cooking classes and truffle hunting
- Real medieval dining hall
Best for: History lovers and fairytale vibes
From €150/night
5.Hotel Marqués de Riscal – La Rioja, Spain
Futuristic wine hotel designed by Frank Gehry
This hotel is literally a piece of modern art in the middle of Spain’s most famous wine region. It’s part of a working winery and offers tastings, tours, and Michelin-star dining.
Why it’s unique:
- Architecture by Frank Gehry
- Vineyard views from every room
- Wine spa and rooftop bar
Best for: Wine lovers and design enthusiasts
From €400/night
6.
The world’s original ice hotel — rebuilt every year
Each winter, artists from around the world sculpt entire suites from snow and ice. You can also stay in the “Icehotel 365,” a permanent frozen wing open year-round.
Why it’s unique:
- Ice beds, walls, chandeliers — even ice glasses
- One-of-a-kind rooms each season
- Warm rooms available for part of your stay
Best for: Adventurous travelers
From €300/night
7,Giraffe Manor – Nairobi, Kenya (Bonus entry)
Technically in Africa, but so iconic we couldn’t leave it out
This boutique hotel allows you to dine while giraffes poke their heads through the windows to say hello.
Why it’s unique:
- Only place in the world with breakfast + giraffes
- Colonial-era mansion in a private sanctuary
- Supports giraffe conservation
Best for: Wildlife lovers and honeymooners
From €900/night
8. V8 Hotel – Stuttgart, Germany
Sleep in a classic car — literally
This hotel celebrates Germany’s car culture with themed rooms built into real vintage vehicles. Sleep in a Mercedes-Benz, racing garage, or gas station scene.
Why it’s unique:
- 26 vehicle-themed rooms
- Located near the Mercedes Museum
- Popular with families and auto fans
Best for: Car lovers, quirky trips
From €180/night
9,Montaña Mágica Lodge – Huilo Huilo, Chile (Honorable mention)
Fairy-tale hotel shaped like a volcano that erupts water
This one’s not in Europe, but deserves a mention for future bucket lists. Nestled in a Patagonian rainforest, it looks like something from a fantasy movie.
Best for: Ultimate nature escape
Huilo Huilo Montaña Mágica, Panguipulli, 2025 Updated Prices and Discounts | Trip.com
10.The Witchery by the Castle – Edinburgh, Scotland
Baroque gothic drama next to Edinburgh Castle
Dark velvet, antique furnishings, gold bathtubs, and secret staircases. This small hotel feels like stepping into a gothic romance novel — and it’s just steps from the Royal Mile.
Why it’s unique:
- Each suite is dramatically decorated
- Candlelit breakfasts served in bed
- Celebrities often stay here
Best for: Romantic weekends, vampire-chic lovers
From €350/night
Pro Travel Tip:
Unique places like these book up FAST — especially for summer and holidays. Book at least 3–6 months in advance for the best rates and availability.
Ready to Add These to Your Bucket List?
These aren’t just places to stay — they’re experiences you’ll remember forever. From castles to bubbles to treehouses, make 2025 the year you sleep somewhere extraordinary
