Culinary By Lindsey Anderson

Europe’s Michelin-Starred Meccas

Without question, one of the greatest pleasures of traveling is food. In a new place we want to try new things, so we seek dishes unfamiliar to us in their history, ingredients and even the techniques used to cook them. After all, we don't just eat on holiday to satisfy plain hunger; we eat to better understand the place we are in, and to treat ourselves to its very best.

When planning a trip, the question of where to eat is usually one of the first to arise, and foodies 'round the world are fortunate enough to have the Michelin Guide's help. This culinary treasure map highlights the world's best and most groundbreaking restaurants, many of which reside in Europe. And so, for anyone dreaming of future meals across the Atlantic, here are four European hotels with Michelin-starred restaurants worthy of a trip.

Dinner served in Santa Elisabetta, Hotel Brunelleschi
Breakfast with a view

Santa Elisabetta in Hotel Brunelleschi, Florence

Unfolding on either side of the River Arno, Florence is an effortlessly romantic place. Masterpieces of art and architecture connect by cobblestone lanes, and the surrounding hills offer both spectacular views and plenty of wine to be paired with the region's famous cuisine.

The two Michelin-starred restaurant Santa Elisabetta pays homage to Tuscan culinary tradition in a modern way. It's located in Hotel Brunelleschi, a Florentine institution that occupies a former sixth century Byzantine tower near the city's famed Duomo.

Santa Elisabetta occupies the tower's first floor, its circular shape allowing for just seven tables to be arranged in an intimate setting; there, acclaimed chef Rocco de Santis creates his minimalist cuisine. He was raised in Campania and brings a wealth of experience to the ingredients of Tuscany, transforming them and storytelling through each of his dishes. At Santa Elisabetta you'll experience true innovation within ancient walls.

Culinary art at Santa Elisabetta, Hotel Brunelleschi
Seaside dining

Vistamar in Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, Monaco

A glittering destination on the French Riviera, the tiny city-state of Monaco has, for decades, been synonymous with luxury and glamour. Sitting in the heart of it all is the Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, which was built in the early 1900s and invites its guests to travel back to the gilded era of La Belle Epoque.

Living up to this refined history is Vistamar, the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant. From its perch overlooking the port, Vistamar offers a friendly and relaxed dining experience with a focus on healthy Monegasque cuisine. Diners relax on the sun-soaked terrace while chefs prepare a bounty of Rivieran ingredients from trusted local producers.

l'Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Monaco
Beef filet

Le Louis XV - Alain Ducasse a l'Hotel de Paris in l'Hotel de Paris, Monaco

Just across from the Hotel Hermitage is the grand l'Hotel de Paris, another historic jewel of Monaco. The building's palatial 19th century design makes it clear - this is a place to indulge in the good life.

Of course, that good life includes exceptional cuisine, which is easily found at the three Michelin-starred Le Louis XV - Alain Ducasse a l'Hotel de Paris. Mediterranean food with international influences is created there by chefs Dominique Lory and Alain Ducasse, and like the hotel it sits in, Le Louis XV is legendary. The establishment had been open less than three years when it became the first hotel restaurant ever to earn three Michelin stars; Ducasse was just thirty-three years old at the time.


L'Oiseau Blanc in The Peninsula Paris, Paris

From an avenue stemming grandly from the Arc de Triomphe, The Peninsula Paris reigns as one of the city's most fashionable hotels. Its Haute Couture inspiration speaks to the best of French art and culture, both of which are showcased at Chef David Bizet's L'Oiseau Blanc. Named for the plane carrying Nungesser and Coli on their 1927 attempt to cross the Atlantic, this rooftop restaurant gives its diners a unique panoramic view that includes the Eiffel Tower and a replica of the aircraft suspended off the terrace. Awarded a Michelin star in 2020, L'Oiseau Blanc takes diners on adventurous journeys of their own, which are playfully served in six "stops."

L'Oiseau Blanc at The Peninsula Paris


If it's excellent food you're after, the following hotels are for you. In addition to dining well, you'll also enjoy VIP perks when you book Internova SELECT Hotels & Resorts with us.






Ask our agency about other experiences we can provide at these destinations!