Canadian Hotel Recognized Among World’s Best for 2026

A hotel in Montreal, Canada, has been recognized as one of the best in the world for 2026. The accolade comes from the annual Unpack ’26: The Trends in Travel report, released by Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo. This report highlights evolving travel trends and the top destinations expected to attract visitors in the coming year.

The report indicates a growing preference among travelers for accommodations that blend historical architecture with modern luxuries. Specifically, Hotels.com noted a significant rise in demand for “upcycled retreats,” which include hotels repurposed from former schools, prisons, and banks. Among these, Hôtel Place d’Armes stands out, housed in four historic buildings that date back to the late 19th century.

According to the report, searches for Hôtel Place d’Armes on Hotels.com increased by 36 percent in 2025 compared to 2024. The hotel is located at 701 Côte de la Place d’Armes, in a structure originally built in 1870 for the Great Scottish Life Insurance Company. This building gained official recognition as a historic site on November 7, 1975, due to its cultural value and exceptional design.

The other three buildings that comprise the hotel have equally rich histories. The middle structure, located at 53-57 St. Jacques, was the former head office of the People’s Bank. Another building at 43-51 St. Jacques was constructed in 1869 and leased to various tenants over the years. The easternmost building, erected in 1899, was developed by the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Society of Montreal.

Today, these four heritage buildings are interconnected, maintaining their historical charm while incorporating modern amenities. As the hotel’s website states, “We’ve maintained the heritage of each building, while incorporating modern elements, two lively restaurants, and a plethora of meeting and event space.” This blend of old and new makes Hôtel Place d’Armes a key feature of Old Montreal.

This recognition is part of a broader trend observed across Canada, as several destinations have received accolades in the global report. Other hotels named among the top choices for 2026 include the Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu in Japan, a former school; the Bodmin Jail Hotel in the United Kingdom, which was once a prison; and the Union Station Nashville Yards in the United States, a converted train station.

Hotels.com compiled its list based on a year-over-year increase in global hotel searches, comparing data from January 1 to December 31, 2024 with the same period in 2025. This methodology reflects shifting preferences among travelers, particularly a desire for unique accommodations that offer a sense of history and character.

In addition to this recognition from Hotels.com, Hôtel Place d’Armes has also garnered praise in the CN Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, which highlights the most beloved hotels in Canada. Such accolades reaffirm the hotel’s status as a standout destination for travelers seeking both comfort and a glimpse into the past.