Home » HOTEL NEWS » Historic Hotels Worldwide Unveils The Top Twenty Five Most Historic Bars And Lounges Of 2025

Thursday, July 31, 2025

Author: TTW News Desk

Historic Hotels Worldwide recently unveiled its much-anticipated list of the Top 25 Most Historic Bars and Lounges for 2025, celebrating the remarkable cocktail destinations that offer guests a unique blend of history, culture, and craft. These bars, located within historic hotels around the globe, tell stories that range from royal gatherings to literary moments, all while providing patrons with signature drinks and authentic experiences. The venues selected for this prestigious list have retained their original architectural charm and offer travelers a chance to relive the past through well-preserved décor, sophisticated cocktails, and a welcoming ambiance.

Geographical Distribution of Historic Bars

The bars selected are spread across diverse geographies, each deeply rooted in a country’s drinking culture. Notably, the United Kingdom and Germany are well-represented, with a third of the bars situated in these countries. These regions have long been at the forefront of global pub and cocktail culture, which is reflected in the strong presence of historic bars here. However, the list is not confined to the typical cocktail capitals; rather, it includes hidden gems and lesser-known treasures that preserve the charm of their origins. From the grand ballrooms of historic estates to intimate, art-deco-inspired lounges, the diversity of the bars featured on this list ensures that there is something to suit every taste.

Highlights of the 2025 Top 25 Historic Bars

Among the standout bars selected for the 2025 list is the American Bar at The Savoy London, which holds the distinction of being London’s longest continuously operating cocktail bar. Opened in 1889, this venue has been the site of many famous meetings and events, earning it a legendary status in the cocktail world. Its Art Deco interiors, combined with its history, make it a must-visit for those seeking to immerse themselves in London’s high society.

Similarly, the Long Bar at Raffles Singapore, opened in 1887, is where the iconic Singapore Sling cocktail was first crafted. The Long Bar continues to be a cultural landmark in Singapore, where the combination of tradition and innovation creates a vibrant social atmosphere that has captivated guests for over a century.

Preservation of Historic Ambiance

The bars featured in the 2025 list are not just places to enjoy a drink—they are portals to the past. Historic Hotels Worldwide places a strong emphasis on the preservation of the original architecture and interiors that make each space unique. These venues retain distinctive features, such as elaborate ceilings, vintage furniture, and walls adorned with historical photographs and memorabilia. Whether it’s the Rococo-style ceiling of the Knights Bar at Castlemartyr Resort in Ireland or the blend of vintage and contemporary elegance at Bar 1705 at Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski Dresden, each bar tells its own captivating story.

The American Bar at The Savoy exemplifies this commitment to history with its Art Deco-inspired design, which evokes an era of glamour and elegance, while the Cantina de Zapata at Hacienda de los Santos in Mexico invites guests to experience the charms of an Old Mexico cantina, featuring a 19th-century bar top and historic Mexican memorabilia.

Unique Cultural and Heritage Experiences

These bars are more than just drinking establishments; they are cultural and heritage destinations in their own right. Many of the bars are situated within larger historic properties that hold deep cultural significance. For instance, the Victorian Lounge at the Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor in Egypt transports visitors back to the golden age of European exploration in Egypt. Guests can sip on cocktails while immersing themselves in the atmosphere where legendary figures, such as Lord Carnarvon and Howard Carter, once roamed.

At Bar Le Foyer at Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello in Canada, travelers can unwind by a monumental fireplace in a grand log chateau that speaks to Canada’s cultural heritage. Similarly, Pier 42 at Amerikalinjen in Oslo blends the nostalgia of transatlantic travel with modern elegance, making it a fitting tribute to the Norwegian America Line’s role in connecting Europe and the United States.

Signature Cocktails and Legendary Guests

The drinks served at these historic bars are often as storied as the buildings they inhabit. The Tutankhamun’s Elixir at the Victorian Lounge in Luxor evokes the ancient heritage of Egypt with a fragrant mix of hibiscus tea, date syrup, and fresh lime. In contrast, the Vesper Martini at The Spy Bar in Raffles London at The OWO recalls the world of espionage and intrigue, drawing inspiration from the famous James Bond cocktail.

These bars have also attracted a remarkable array of guests, from royalty to writers and diplomats. The Elephant Bar at Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Cambodia was frequented by Jacqueline Kennedy during her visit in 1967, and it was in this very space that her signature cocktail, the Femme Fatale, was created. The 1906 Bar at The Grand York in England has its own share of history, evoking the charm of the Northeastern Railway era.

Conclusion

The 2025 Top 25 Historic Bars and Lounges list not only celebrates exceptional cocktail craftsmanship but also recognizes the importance of preserving the unique stories and legacies of these iconic drinking establishments. Each bar reflects a rich cultural heritage that enhances the traveler’s experience, making it more than just a stop for a drink but a true dive into history. These venues, which span centuries of tradition, offer modern-day travelers the rare opportunity to step back in time while enjoying exceptional hospitality.

For those looking to combine luxury travel with a deep cultural experience, these historic bars offer an unparalleled way to explore history through a glass.

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