Experience world-class luxury without breaking the bank at these top-rated European hotels.
Staying at a five-star hotel doesn’t always mean spending a fortune. Across Europe, you can find stunning luxury hotels that offer high-end amenities, breathtaking views, and top-tier service—all at surprisingly affordable prices. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a cultural city break, or a relaxing retreat, there are budget-friendly five-star hotels that deliver an unforgettable experience.
Let’s explore the best five-star hotels in Europe where you can enjoy luxury for less.
In this article
Key takeaways
- Luxury doesn’t have to be expensive—many five-star hotels in Europe offer top-tier service at reasonable rates.
- Based on my research, some of the most affordable five-star hotels can be found in Portugal, Greece, Eastern Europe, and select major cities.
- Using hotel rewards programs or booking during off-peak seasons can help you save even more.
Best Budget-Friendly 5-Star Hotels in Europe
Here’s a look at some of the best five-star hotels in Europe that deliver incredible luxury at a fraction of the price.
| Hotel Name | Location | Starting Price (Per Night) | Best For |
| Heritage Avenida Liberdade | Lisbon, Portugal | $190 | Elegant city stay |
| Electra Palace Athens | Athens, Greece | $180 | Rooftop Acropolis views |
| Hotel Bristol | Warsaw, Poland | $170 | Historic charm |
| Hotel Sacher Salzburg | Salzburg, Austria | $200 | Old-world luxury |
| Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam | Amsterdam, Netherlands | $190 | Scenic waterfront views |
| Párisi Udvar Hotel | Budapest, Hungary | $180 | Grand architecture |
1. Heritage Avenida Liberdade – Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon has become a hot travel destination, but it still offers great value when it comes to luxury hotels. Heritage Avenida Liberdade is a five-star boutique hotel located in a beautifully restored historic building along the city’s most famous boulevard.
Why it’s a great deal:
- Rooms start at $190 per night, far less than comparable hotels in London or Paris.
- Walking distance to Lisbon’s best restaurants, shops, and historic sites.
- Free wine tastings and afternoon tea for guests.
Best for: Travelers who want a luxurious yet intimate hotel in the heart of Lisbon.
2. Electra Palace Athens – Athens, Greece
Located in the heart of Athens’ Plaka district, Electra Palace Athens is one of the city’s best-kept luxury secrets. With a rooftop pool overlooking the Acropolis, this hotel offers five-star service at an affordable price.
Why it’s a great deal:
- Prices start at $180 per night, much lower than similar hotels in Rome or Paris.
- Stunning rooftop views of the Acropolis.
- Complimentary Greek breakfast included with your stay.
Best for: Travelers looking for a mix of history, luxury, and affordability.
3. Hotel Bristol – Warsaw, Poland
Eastern Europe is one of the best regions for budget-friendly five-star hotels, and Hotel Bristol in Warsaw is a prime example. This elegant Art Nouveau hotel has hosted dignitaries and celebrities for over a century.
Why it’s a great deal:
- Rates start at $170 per night, a steal for a five-star experience.
- Close to Warsaw’s Old Town and major attractions.
- Features a luxurious spa and a Michelin-recommended restaurant.
Best for: History buffs and travelers looking for affordable elegance in Eastern Europe.
4. Hotel Sacher Salzburg – Salzburg, Austria
This iconic hotel is known for its classic Austrian luxury and its famous Sachertorte chocolate cake. Located on the banks of the Salzach River, Hotel Sacher Salzburg offers five-star service with stunning city views.
Why it’s a great deal:
- Rooms start at $200 per night, an excellent price for a five-star hotel in Austria.
- Luxurious interiors with chandeliers, antique furnishings, and marble bathrooms.
- Complimentary breakfast with homemade Austrian pastries.
Best for: Travelers who appreciate historic hotels with gourmet experiences.
5. Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam – Amsterdam, Netherlands
Five-star hotels in Amsterdam are notoriously expensive, but the Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam provides luxury accommodations at a more reasonable price. This modern hotel sits along the IJ River, offering peaceful views while being just minutes from the city center.
Why it’s a great deal:
- Starting rates around $190 per night, significantly lower than other five-star options in Amsterdam.
- Complimentary access to the hotel’s wellness center, including a sauna and fitness room.
- Convenient tram access to Amsterdam’s top attractions.
Best for: Travelers who want modern luxury with scenic river views.
6. Párisi Udvar Hotel – Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is one of the best cities in Europe for affordable luxury, and Párisi Udvar Hotel is a perfect example. This stunning hotel is housed in a historic palace with ornate stained-glass ceilings and elegant marble floors.
Why it’s a great deal:
- Rooms start at $180 per night, offering high-end elegance for a fraction of the cost.
- Located near the Danube River and Budapest’s famous thermal baths.
- Features an award-winning spa and fine dining restaurant.
Best for: Travelers seeking opulent architecture and five-star service on a budget.
How to Book Luxury Hotels for Less
Luxury doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Here are some tips to get the best rates on five-star hotels.
1. Travel During the Off-Peak Season
Hotel rates are lowest during the shoulder seasons (March–May and September–November). Avoiding the summer crowds can help you score luxury stays at a fraction of the price.
2. Use Hotel Loyalty Programs
Signing up for hotel rewards programs like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and Hyatt World of Rewards can unlock free nights and exclusive discounts.
3. Book Through Credit Card Travel Portals
Many travel credit cards offer special hotel deals through their portals. Some of the best cards for luxury hotel bookings include:
| Credit Card | Best For | Annual Fee |
| Chase Sapphire Reserve® | Luxury hotel perks and travel credits | $550 |
| American Express Platinum | Complimentary hotel upgrades | $695 |
| Capital One Venture X | Earning rewards for hotel stays | $395 |
4. Look for Hidden Gems in Less Touristy Cities
Instead of booking in London or Paris, consider nearby destinations like Lisbon, Budapest, or Warsaw, where five-star hotels are much more affordable.
FAQ
What is the cheapest country in Europe for five-star hotels?
Countries like Poland, Hungary, and Portugal offer some of the most budget-friendly luxury hotels.
When is the best time to book a five-star hotel in Europe?
The best deals are typically found in the off-season (fall and spring) and during flash sales from major hotel chains.
Can I use travel points to book five-star hotels?
Yes! Many hotel rewards programs allow you to redeem points for luxury stays. Hyatt, Marriott, and Hilton offer some of the best value for free nights.
Bottom Line
Experiencing five-star luxury in Europe doesn’t have to be expensive. By choosing the right destinations, booking strategically, and using rewards programs, you can enjoy high-end accommodations at a fraction of the usual cost. Whether you’re looking for historic charm, modern elegance, or scenic views, these budget-friendly five-star hotels offer an unforgettable stay—without the luxury price tag.
