It can take a long time to reach some of our bucket-list destinations, so once we're there, we want what we traveled for -- namely, national monuments, iconic sites, and natural wonders -- right at our fingertips once we arrive.
Well, that's possible at these 20 hotels around the world. Whether you want to wake up to the Eiffel Tower in Paris or California's Yosemite National Park, you'll be able to find just what you're looking -- right out your window -- at these stunning properties.
SEE ALSO: The 30 best hotels in the world
Yosemite National Park, Ahwahnee Hotel
Nestled deep amongst the pine trees, cliffs, and canyons of Yosemite Valley is the 123-room Ahwahnee Hotel. The impressive stone and wood structure, built in 1927, is considered a National Historic Landmark. Rooms with views of the Half Dome and El Captain summits are filled with wood and rich tapestries of Native American design. Highlights here include the Great Lounge with 24-foot-high ceilings and a large stone fireplace along with the light-flooded dining room. This hotel is on the expensive side -- and parking is limited -- but the prime location and views are worth the price tag.
Eiffel Tower, Hotel Lutetia
The Hotel Lutetia -- in all of its Art Deco glory -- is a sprawling historic property on the Left Bank in the center of Saint Germain-des-Pres. This Jazz-era hotel offers meeting rooms, two restaurants, a bar, spa, fitness center, and even a smoking lounge. The hotel recently underwent renovations and rooms come in a variety of sizes: superior and deluxe rooms, or junior and signature suites with varying themes. For example, the Parisian Suite was once the residence of the Opera House Director and has direct views of the Eiffel Tower. The two restaurants include a classic brasserie and the gastronomic restaurant "Le Paris" reminiscent of cruise liners in the 1930s. The Piano Bar for live jazz is a musn't-miss. For "matin," a breakfast buffet is served for a steep price and can elicit long wait times. A better idea is to try the many neighborhood cafes or jump on the metro across the street.
Milan Cathedral, Boscolo Milano
Boscolo Milano is truly a one-of-a-kind luxury design hotel under the management of Marriott, with one of the most fashionable addresses in Milan. Previously a bank, the property was transformed into a design hotel in 2009 by the same architect who renovated the Musée d’Orsay in Paris. In-the-know locals and sophisticated international travelers (families may not be comfortable here) book design-forward rooms, some of which have views of the Duomo from private balconies. A rooftop terrace, champagnerie (is that even a word in English?), and luxe spa are just a few of the features on offer. Breakfast, bike rentals, and Wi-Fi are free. Oh, and if you don't travel without your pup -- he or she is welcome here, free of charge. Compare rates at the nearby five-pearl Bulgari Milano if you prefer a bit more seclusion and the same level of luxury.
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