HAMBURG, ISTANBUL, and MCLEAN, Va.—Hilton Worldwide has reached agreements to add its first European hotels under the Curio – A Collection by Hilton brand. Dating back more than a century each, Reichshof Hamburg and Rumeli Han Istanbul are historic landmark hotels undergoing major renovation and restoration. The hotels are due to open in 2015 and 2017 respectively.
Launched in June 2014, Curio offers upper upscale and luxury independent hotels the opportunity to partner with Hilton Worldwide while maintaining their own distinct identity and local charm. Having already welcomed guests into the first Curio properties in destinations in the Americas including Las Vegas, Dallas, and Florida, Reichshof Hamburg is expected to be the first Curio to open in Europe.
“Europe offers a prime growth opportunity for Curio owing to its concentration of quality independent hotels,” said Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, Europe, and Africa, Hilton Worldwide. “Reichshof Hamburg and Rumeli Han Istanbul are iconic properties which, by joining Curio – A Collection by Hilton, will maintain their unique characters, underpinned by Hilton’s commercial engine and global reputation.”
Reichshof Hamburg is owned and operated by RH Operations GmbH & Co. KG, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cologne based Event Hotels, and boasts a prime location in the strategic Hamburg market, directly opposite Hamburg Central Station.
Built in 1910, the hotel features an art deco façade and a paneled restaurant, installed in the 1920s and taking inspiration from by Hamburg’s rich maritime history. Reichshof Hamburg is currently undergoing a 30 million euro renovation program, which will return its exterior to its former glory, while creating a new, contemporary interior. Upon completion in Q2 2015, the hotel will include 280 guestrooms and suites, 11 meeting rooms, and a ballroom.
Rumeli Han Istanbul is owned and managed by Tarı̇hı̇ Rumelı̇ Han Turı̇zm Ve İnşaat San.Tı̇c. A.Ş. and occupies a prominent address on İstiklal Avenue, in the heart of the cosmopolitan Beyoğlu district. The 19th century building is a short walk from the attractions of Taksim Square and Galata Tower, and has been granted protected status in recognition of its architectural and historical heritage.
With a carved stone façade, the hotel will include 173 guestrooms spread over seven floors and a number of food and beverage outlets, including a rooftop bar and restaurant, offering views over the Istanbul skyline. The hotel will be subject to a renovation program prior to opening in 2017.
This really is where east meets west: Istanbul is the only city in the world to be built on two continents. Turkey’s capital is the perfect destination for a city break with a difference. Istanbul’s history spans over 2,500 years, yet it also has a modern and vibrant atmosphere.