Minor Hotels has signed a new agreement to manage the historic Grand Hotel Europa in the heart of Innsbruck, expanding its presence in Austria. The property will join the NH Collection Hotels & Resorts brand. Following a major renovation project, the landmark building is set to become the only five-star hotel in Innsbruck.

First built in 1869, the property was the first luxury hotel in Innsbruck and remains one of its most famous landmarks. It sits directly opposite the central train station. The hotel quickly became a popular meeting spot for artists, aristocrats and business leaders. Its famous Barocksaal, or Baroque Salon, was added in 1883 to host balls, receptions and social gatherings. Over the decades, the historic building has welcomed high-profile guests including Queen Elizabeth II, Albert II of Monaco and The Rolling Stones.

The property is expected to open under the new brand in 2029. The extensive renovation plans will increase the number of guestrooms to around 120, add extra floors and introduce a new rooftop bar. The project also features indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a wellness area, dedicated meeting spaces, and a restaurant and bar with external street access. The historic Baroque Hall will also be restored to host celebrations and social events.

Dr Ernst Hutterer, the property owner, signed the agreement with Minor Hotels. International real estate advisory firm Christie & Co assisted in the structured operator search. The hotel is situated within walking distance of key attractions such as the Golden Roof, the Imperial Hofburg, Maria-Theresien-Straße and Congress Innsbruck. Minor Hotels currently operates eight properties across Vienna, Salzburg and Graz.

Gonzalo Aguilar, CEO of Minor Hotels Europe & Americas, said: “This signing reflects our strategy of growing with distinctive assets in key urban destinations across Europe. NH Collection is a brand particularly well suited to iconic hotels such as this one, where heritage, location and quality of experience come together in a compelling way. We see strong potential in this project and in its ability to create long-term value for our partners, guests and the destination.”

Dr Ernst Hutterer, owner of the property, added: “The Grand Hotel Europa is far more than a hotel — it is part of Innsbruck’s history. Our ambition is to guide this exceptional property into a new future while respecting its heritage. We want it not only to inspire international guests, but also to once again become a vibrant meeting place for the people of Innsbruck. We are pleased to have found in Minor Hotels a strong long-term partner for this extraordinary project.”