Discover Iconic European Destinations with Qatari-Owned Luxury Hotels
For travelers in Qatar looking for a refined European escape, several iconic cities offer the perfect blend of culture, shopping, gastronomy, and luxury hospitality. What many travelers may not realize is that some of Europe’s most prestigious hotels are owned or backed by Qatari investment funds (Katara Hospitality, Qatari Diar, and Smeralda Holding).
For Qatari travelers, this creates a unique opportunity: To enjoy world-class European destinations while staying in hotels connected to Qatar’s global hospitality portfolio.
From the fashion capital of Milan to the elegance of Paris and the scenic beauty of Switzerland, these destinations are ideal for short luxury city breaks from Doha. With direct flights from Hamad International Airport to many European capitals, travelers can experience a seamless transition from the Middle East to Europe’s most sophisticated cities.
Below are some of the best European city breaks for Qatari travelers, along with exceptional hotels that reflect Qatar’s global investment in luxury hospitality.
Milan: Italian Fashion, Culture, and Timeless Luxury
Milan is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and a favorite destination for travelers from the Gulf. Known as a global capital of fashion and design, Milan offers world-class shopping, Michelin-starred restaurants, and iconic landmarks such as the Duomo Cathedral.
For Qatari travelers in search of luxury stays, Excelsior Hotel Gallia, a Luxury Collection Hotel, ranks among the city’s most prestigious addresses. Owned by Katara Hospitality, the hotel combines Italian elegance with modern luxury.
Located near Milan’s central train station, the property features refined suites, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic city views, and one of the city’s most exclusive spas. Guests are also within easy reach of Via Montenapoleone, Milan’s luxury shopping district featuring brands like Prada, Gucci, and Versace.
A city break in Milan offers the perfect mix of fashion, culture, and gourmet dining, making it an ideal destination for Qatari travelers looking for sophistication and style.
0Rome: A Historic Escape with Iconic Hospitality
Rome remains one of Europe’s most captivating destinations. With thousands of years of history, stunning architecture, and world-renowned cuisine, the Italian capital offers a travel experience unlike any other.
For luxury travelers from Qatar, The Westin Excelsior Rome, owned by Katara Hospitality, is one of the city’s most iconic hotels. Located on the prestigious Via Veneto, the property reflects classic Roman grandeur with spacious suites, elegant interiors, and exceptional service.
From this location, travelers can easily explore famous landmarks such as:
- The Colosseum
- The Trevi Fountain
- The Vatican Museums
- The Spanish Steps
Rome also offers incredible dining experiences, ranging from traditional trattorias to Michelin-star restaurants. For visitors from Qatar who appreciate heritage and culture combined with luxury, Rome delivers a truly unforgettable European city break.
Costa Smeralda, Sardinia: Italy’s Elite Mediterranean Retreat
For travelers seeking something beyond the traditional city break, the Costa Smeralda region of Sardinia offers a luxurious Mediterranean escape. This glamorous coastal destination is known for its turquoise waters, exclusive marinas, and upscale resorts.
Several luxury properties in this region are owned by Smeralda Holding, part of Qatar’s investment portfolio.
These include:
- Hotel Cala di Volpe, a Luxury Collection Hotel (Porto Cervo)
- Hotel Pitrizza (Liscia di Vacca)
- Romazzino, a Belmond Hotel (Arzachena)
- Sheraton Cervo Hotel, Costa Smeralda Resort (Porto Cervo)
These resorts are famous for hosting celebrities, royalty, and high-net-worth travelers from around the world. Guests can enjoy private beaches, yacht excursions, fine dining, and world-class golf courses.
For Qatari travelers who appreciate privacy and exclusivity, Costa Smeralda represents one of the most luxurious summer destinations in Europe.
Paris: The Ultimate Luxury City Break
Paris has long been one of the most popular destinations for travelers from Qatar. With its romantic atmosphere, haute cuisine, luxury shopping, and cultural landmarks, the French capital remains an essential European destination.
Several of Paris’s most prestigious hotels are owned by Katara Hospitality, including:
Each of these properties offers a unique interpretation of Parisian luxury.
The Peninsula Paris is known for its historic architecture, rooftop dining overlooking the Eiffel Tower, and exceptional service.
Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris blends art, design, and luxury, featuring a private cinema and an impressive contemporary art collection.
Maison Delano Paris offers a more intimate boutique experience with elegant interiors and refined hospitality.
For Qatari travelers visiting Paris, these hotels provide a familiar connection through Qatar’s global hospitality investments while delivering an authentic Parisian experience.
Cannes: Mediterranean Glamour on the French Riviera
For travelers who enjoy seaside elegance and international glamour, Cannes is one of Europe’s most iconic coastal destinations.
The legendary Carlton Cannes, owned by Katara Hospitality, is one of the most famous hotels on the French Riviera. Located on the prestigious Boulevard de la Croisette, the hotel has hosted celebrities, film stars, and global leaders for decades.
Cannes offers beautiful beaches, luxury boutiques, fine dining, and vibrant nightlife. During the famous Cannes Film Festival, the city becomes a global center of entertainment and culture.
For Qatari visitors seeking a luxurious Mediterranean getaway with historic prestige, Cannes is a perfect choice.
London: A Global Capital for Luxury and Culture
London remains one of the most popular destinations for travelers from Qatar. The city offers world-class shopping, international cuisine, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural experiences.
Several prestigious hotels in London are part of Qatar’s hospitality investments:
- The Savoy, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
- The Adria
- Grosvenor House, a JW Marriott Hotel
- The Chancery Rosewood (developed by Qatari Diar)
The Savoy is one of London’s most legendary hotels, known for its historic elegance and prime location near the River Thames.
The Adria offers a boutique luxury experience in the upscale South Kensington neighborhood.
Grosvenor House on Park Lane overlooks Hyde Park and provides classic British luxury.
London’s combination of culture, entertainment, and luxury shopping makes it one of the best European city breaks for travelers from Doha.
Switzerland: Alpine Luxury and Scenic Relaxation
For travelers seeking nature, wellness, and scenic beauty, Switzerland offers an exceptional escape.
Several luxury hotels in the country are owned by Katara Hospitality, including:
These properties provide a combination of alpine charm and modern luxury.
Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne is particularly renowned for its panoramic mountain views, world-class spa facilities, and exclusive atmosphere. The resort sits high above Lake Lucerne and has become a favorite destination for luxury travelers from the GCC.
The Royal Savoy Hotel & Spa Lausanne blends historic elegance with modern luxury, offering refined accommodations and panoramic views of Lake Geneva in the heart of Lausanne.
Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa is a historic five-star hotel in the heart of Bern, known for its elegant rooms, luxury spa, and stunning rooftop terrace overlooking the Swiss Alps.
Switzerland’s peaceful landscapes and high-end hospitality make it an ideal destination for relaxation and wellness-focused travel.
Madrid and Amsterdam: Elegant European Capitals
Two additional European cities worth considering for a luxury city break are Madrid and Amsterdam.
In Madrid, The InterContinental Madrid, owned by Katara Hospitality, offers refined luxury in the heart of the Spanish capital. The city is famous for its art museums, historic architecture, and vibrant culinary scene.
In Amsterdam, The InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam provides a sophisticated stay overlooking the iconic Amstel River. The hotel combines Dutch elegance with five-star hospitality.
Both cities offer unique cultural experiences and are excellent additions to a European travel itinerary.
Why These Destinations Matter for Qatari Travelers
For travelers from Qatar, visiting these European destinations offers more than just a luxury holiday. Many of the hotels in these cities are part of Qatar’s global hospitality investment portfolio, reflecting the country’s growing influence in the international tourism industry.
Staying in these properties allows Qatari travelers to experience European culture while supporting Qatar’s international hospitality presence.
Final Thoughts
Europe offers countless destinations, but cities like Milan, Rome, Paris, London, Cannes, Madrid, Amsterdam, and the Swiss Alps stand out as some of the best city breaks from Doha.
With several iconic hotels owned or supported by Qatari investment funds, travelers from Qatar can enjoy world-class hospitality in some of Europe’s most prestigious locations.
Whether it is shopping in Milan, exploring history in Rome, relaxing in the Swiss Alps, or experiencing the glamour of Cannes, these destinations provide unforgettable travel experiences tailored for discerning Qatari travelers.
