Embark on an extraordinary journey across Europe this summer with new experiences launching across Raffles Hotels & Resorts. Discover the rich tapestry of arts and culture across the collection’s prestigious properties in Paris, Istanbul, Warsaw, and London. Every European city has a unique past and story to tell, reflected in the architecture, arts and cultural scenes waiting to be discovered. Each Raffles hotel celebrates and mirrors its city’s distinctive spirit; from the historical charm of London and the culinary heritage of Paris, to the impressive contemporary art scene in Warsaw and the cultural fusion of East and West in Istanbul.
Raffles London at The OWO
A historical landmark infused with British charm
The cultural journey begins in the British capital at Raffles London at The OWO. Located in the former Old War Office, this Grade II* listed landmark once served as the nerve centre for British military operations. After an eight-year restoration, this architectural masterpiece was reborn as The OWO and is now home to Raffles London, which opened up to the public for the very first time last year. The hotel’s exclusive daily Heritage Tour offers an intriguing exploration of the building’s storied past; from Winston Churchill’s former office to the subterranean briefing rooms and the military library where Ian Fleming was inspired to dream up James Bond. Hidden beneath the hotel, the newly introduced Spy Bar captures the essence of espionage with its hidden entrance, vintage decor, and 16 signature cocktails, including the iconic Vesper Martini. Discover Michelin-starred Chef Mauro Colagreco’s restaurants at Raffles London, including fine-dining spot Mauro Colagreco at Raffles London at The OWO and Mediterranean-inspired Saison by Mauro Colagreco. Savour a quintessential British afternoon tea in The Drawing Room, where guests will take in unrivalled views of the prestigious Household Cavalry guarding the official entrance to Buckingham Palace. Walking through Raffles London at The OWO, guests can retrace the footsteps of great leaders, military officials and spies, who changed the course of history in the 20th century.
Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris
Taste French Pâtisserie at its finest amidst the buzz of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, with new Pastry Chef Yazid Ichemrahen
With all eyes on the French capital for the Paris 2024 Olympics this summer, guests are invited to take the quick Eurostar journey from London to Paris to soak up the city’s electric atmosphere at Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris. The Palace’s exceptional new Pastry Chef, Yazid Ichemrahen, will provide innovative sweet creations set to redefine the culinary experience at the hotel. In collaboration with Alexandre Favre, his Executive Pastry Chef, Yazid is introducing a new dessert menu including his signature dessert, a black forest cake. Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris also offers guests exclusive access to the Parisian art scene on the hotel’s doorstep, such as La Librairie des Arts, a contemporary gallery by Bel Air Fine Art with an exceptional exhibition, “Olympism: more than just a dream”, and a curated range of cultural services by resident Art Concierge, Julie Eugène. Located just a short walk from La Concorde, Grand Palais, and the Eiffel Tower Stadium, Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris is the perfect base for exploring the city during the Olympics and enjoying the very best of Paris’ thriving art and culinary scene.
Raffles Europejski Warsaw
Explore one of the most prestigious art collections in Poland
A picturesque train journey through Germany into Poland, or a short flight from Paris to Warsaw, leads guests to Raffles Europejski Warsaw, a beacon of elegance in the heart of the Polish capital. Nestled within a meticulously restored historic building, the hotel offers access to Warsaw’s thriving arts scene. Step off the Royal Route and into Raffles Warsaw’s art gallery, home to an impressive collection of 500 modern and contemporary Polish artworks by over 120 artists, guided by Anda Rottenberg and Barbara Piwowarska. The collection includes works from renowned Polish artists including legendary Polish Avant-garde artist Tadeusz Kantor, in addition to Wilhelm Sasnal, Monika Sosnowska and Turner Prize nominee Goshka Macuga, as well as emerging talents. The hotel also actively engages with the local art community through exhibitions, collaborations, and events that foster a deeper appreciation for Polish culture. Guests can enjoy a private tour of the hotel’s collection, guided by the resident Art Collection Manager, who offers insights into the pieces and the artists behind them. Tailored recommendations for cultural explorations in Warsaw further enhance the experience, connecting guests with the city’s vibrant galleries, operas, museums, and cultural landmarks.
Raffles Istanbul
A cultural and artistic fusion of East and West
The final leg of the journey takes guests from Poland to Istanbul, to discover the enchanting allure of Raffles Istanbul. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in centuries-old traditions, blended seamlessly with contemporary arts. Set in one of the city’s most desirable areas, Raffles Istanbul captivates with stunning Bosphorus views and a modern interior design, enhanced by the hotel’s specially commissioned artwork. Designed as a canvas on which to showcase breathtaking works of art; the hotel is home to pieces from hundreds of artists from Türkiye and around the world, from murals, pictures and mosaics, to chandeliers, and sculptures. Raffles Istanbul offers exclusive access to these works through their Dream of Istanbul Art Tour, led by the hotel’s in-house storyteller. Guests are encouraged to explore the nearby cultural landmarks, such as Topkapı Palace, Haghia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque, before enjoying the exclusive panoramic views of the city from Raffles Istanbul’s Bosphorus Lounge, or afternoon tea in the Lavinia Lounge amidst glimmering mosaics and impressive sculptures.
