Kempinski Hotels

Founded in 1897, Kempinski Hotels has been creating memorable experiences for its guests for over a century. From the elegance of the Belle Epoque to the opulence of the 1970s, the brand has evolved with time, mirroring the trends and designs that have defined each era. As Kempinski expanded worldwide in the 1990s, they carried with them the essence of European luxury, subtly influenced by the unique flavors of their new homes.

Beginnings in Berlin (1907)

At the turn of the 20th century, Berthold Kempinski, a wine merchant and restaurateur, opened his doors to Berlin's elite. His wine restaurant, located on Leipziger Strasse 25, quickly became a social hotspot, serving exquisite wines and daily set menus that complemented seasonal delicacies. The grandeur of the establishment was epitomized by the Emperor's Hall, inaugurated by Kaiser Wilhelm II himself.

Emergence on the Entertainment Stage (1928)

By the late 1920s, Berlin had become the epicenter of Europe's cinema and entertainment industry. Kempinski's new location on Kurfuerstendamm 27 was a nightly hub of joy and warmth. The Haus Vaterland at Potsdamer Platz further solidified Kempinski's reputation for delivering unique experiences, with its dining rooms offering cuisines from around the world.

Stepping into the Hotel Industry (1961)

Dr Friedrich Unger, Berthold Kempinski’s grandson, returned from the US to transform the Kempinski restaurant into the city's first new luxury hotel, marking Kempinski's entry into the hotel business. It soon became a favorite among Berlin's fashionable crowd and notable figures like Albert Einstein. During his 1963 stay, US President John F. Kennedy famously declared, “Ich bin ein Berliner.”

A New Era of Luxury (1977)

The 1970s marked a period of opulence and indulgence, giving rise to a new breed of luxury traveler. Kempinski expanded across Europe, opening the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in Munich and Hotel Gravenbruch near Frankfurt. These grand hotels, with their lavish decor and first-class amenities, heralded a new Golden Age of luxury travel.

Expansion into China (1992)

As China began to open up to the world in the early '90s, Kempinski seized the opportunity to establish a presence there. Their luxurious hotel in Beijing's diplomatic district catered to Europeans eager to do business in China while offering local flavors to intrepid travelers visiting iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall.

Arabian Adventures (2005)

By the mid-2000s, Kempinski had successfully established itself in the Arabian Peninsula. They debuted a luxurious beach resort in Ajman, an opulent hotel in Abu Dhabi, and an urban escape in Dubai. Kempinski's ability to offer first-class experiences ingrained with Arabian culture led to further expansions across the Middle East.

African Escapades (2013)

In 2013, Kempinski unveiled its first luxury safari camp in Kenya’s Masai Mara. Guests were immersed in traditional ceremonies and wildlife encounters, marking the beginning of Kempinski's adventures in Africa. This was followed by the opening of new hotels in Nairobi, Accra, Djibouti, and the breathtaking Kempinski Seychelles Resort Baie Lazare.

Crossing the Atlantic (2022)

Kempinski made its mark in the Americas with the debut of Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana in 2017, recognized as Havana's first true luxury property. Further expansions in Cuba and the Caribbean were followed by Kempinski's maiden venture into North America, welcoming guests to the pristine beaches of Cancún, México.

Kempinski Hotels, with its deep-rooted heritage and commitment to luxury, continues to create defining moments and beautiful performances for its guests, marking a legacy of over 125 years of unforgettable experiences