Bulgari Hotel, Beijing

An oasis in bustling Beijing, the Bulgari is one of the most sophisticated locations to wind down from a busy day of sightseeing in China’s capital.

Located five minutes from the stylish Sanlitun neighborhood and just inside the 3rd Ring Road, Bulgari Hotel, Beijing feels like a haven from the bustle of one of the world’s largest cities. It opened its doors in 2017 as the 4th property in the Bulgari collection. The brand once again turned to designer Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel, who mixes contemporary Chinese elements with an Italian spirit. Stepping into the entryway, you can almost feel the chaos and energy of Beijing slipping off you as you are warmly greeted into your luxurious temporary home by the excellent and welcoming staff.

The 119 rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows with views over the embassy district. Expect minimalist Italian furnishings, and a color scheme centered around light-colored woods with beige, taupe, and chocolate accents. The bathrooms are simple, but beautifully done with double vanities, large bathtubs and Bulgari bath products. The spacious suites include the flagship 4,300 square-foot Bulgari Suite, which comes with its private spa treatment room and sauna, as well as a custom-made chandelier adorning the entrance way.

Attached to the hotel lobby, you’ll find the sophisticated Il Bar with its bronze and steel bar connected to the elegant Il Ristorante, serving up both exquisite Italian fare and contemporary Chinese cuisine. In the warmer months, guests should enjoy the outdoor garden for breakfast and riverside walkway for a morning stroll. And there is no better place to end your day than the over 16,000 square-foot Bulgari Spa. Treatments here (enjoyed in any of the spa’s 11 treatment rooms) blend traditional Chinese elements with western techniques. Before your treatment, indulge in the 82-foot pool surrounded in Vicenza stone. For more activity, head to the fitness center where Bulgari’s workshop program focuses on body composition assessment, movement and nutrition genetic analysis.

Couples and solo travelers who are looking for an extremely soft landing, and don’t mind being a bit removed from the major tourist sites.