Spain has solidified its reputation as a tourism powerhouse with another remarkable accolade: it is home to Europe’s largest hotel by size and the tallest hotel on the continent.
Standing at an impressive 186 metres with more than fifty floors, this iconic structure is more than just a striking sight—it embodies the allure of a country that draws both national and international tourists in droves.
Skyscraper capital
When considering Spanish cities with the most skyscrapers, Madrid often comes to mind. Surprisingly, it is Benidorm that takes the crown, housing more tall buildings than any other city in Spain. Known for its towering skyline that contrasts with the Mediterranean backdrop, Benidorm has a skyline dominated by residential towers and hotel giants. Among these is the Gran Hotel Bali, which was once the tallest building in Spain until 2006. Though it lost this title to Madrid’s Torre Emperador Castellana, it remains a prominent landmark and the tallest hotel in Europe.
A luxurious stay in Europe’s tallest hotel
The Gran Hotel Bali opened its doors in 2002 after 14 years of planning and construction. Situated just 350 metres from Playa Poniente and next to La Marina shopping centre, this four-star hotel is a popular choice for those seeking both luxury and views. The price per night varies based on the season, the room type, and how far in advance guests make their reservations. Visitors can relax in one of three swimming pools, enjoy the newly renovated wellness centre offering massages and facial treatments, or take in sweeping views of the Mediterranean from the observation deck on the 43rd floor.
Despite initially aiming for a height of 210 metres, the Gran Hotel Bali reached a final height of 186 metres, securing its place in European hospitality history. The hotel’s capacity, paired with its enviable location and array of amenities, ensures its continuing status as one of Spain’s most remarkable feats in the hospitality sector.
Europe’s largest hotels by number of rooms
Usually, the world’s largest hotels are ranked by their sheer number of rooms. At the top sits Moscow’s sprawling Izmailovo Hotel, boasting a staggering 5,000 rooms across four separate towers—earning it the title of Europe’s largest. Not far behind is Barkhatnye Sezony in Sochi, with its 4,688 rooms. This hotel was originally built for the influx of athletes and spectators during the 2014 Winter Olympics. Another Moscow landmark, the Cosmos Hotel, comes in with 1,777 rooms, serving as a lasting legacy of the 1980 Summer Olympics.
Across the continent, London’s Royal National Hotel stands as the UK’s largest, housing 1,630 rooms in the bustling heart of Bloomsbury. Meanwhile, Gothenburg’s Gothia Towers is Scandinavia’s proud contender, offering 1,200 rooms to travellers seeking a mix of Nordic hospitality and modern comforts