Take Me to the River

If rivers had a popularity contest, the Seine would be the undisputed star—especially with its starring role during the 2024 Paris Olympics. SO/Paris makes sure the city’s famed river steals the show during your Parisian adventure. Nestled along the waterfront, between the chic Marais and vibrant Bastille districts, this fashionable gem is all about style and art. From the sleek rooms and suites, you can soak in shimmering river views and postcard-worthy Parisian rooftops—ideal for that perfect Instagram shot. Just steps from Notre Dame and a short stroll to Hôtel de Ville, you’re right in the heart of the city’s buzz. As night falls, the real fun begins. Head up to Bonnie Club, the only fully glass-enclosed rooftop club in Paris, where you can sip cocktails and groove to the city’s top DJs, dancing above the Seine until 5am—when the doors finally close.

While the Hudson may claim the spotlight for most New Yorkers, the East River offers its own distinct sparkle—and Casa Cipriani places you right on its shimmering edge in Lower Manhattan. Boasting views of the Brooklyn Bridge and iconic Statue of Liberty, this riverside treasure is housed in the historic 1909 Battery Maritime Building. Guests can savor the charm of the setting from elegant rooms and suites or indulge in alfresco dining on the East Terrace. And then there’s the exclusive private members club, where old-world glamour meets a vibrant, modern crowd—a favorite of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. Whether you’re unwinding in the cozy Living Room or lounging in the Promenade Lounge with its velvet banquettes and Art Deco elegance, this is the perfect place to sip cocktails, play backgammon and soak up the very best of the East River.

James Bond, Harry Potter and Fast & Furious might have brought the River Thames to the big screen, but nothing beats the bird’s-eye view from Shangri-La The Shard, London, perched on floors 34 to 52 of The Shard. At 1,016 feet, this glassy giant—Western Europe’s tallest building—offers jaw-dropping, panoramic views of England’s longest river through its 11,000 shimmering panels. For a sky-high dining experience, TING serves up modern British dishes with a dash of Asian flair, perfectly paired with a sunset over the capital. In the spacious guest rooms, you can channel your inner British spy and use the provided binoculars to catch a glimpse of the city’s rhythm—watch commuters cross London Bridge, boats drift lazily down the river and the skyline come to life from your luxury perch. And don’t forget the Sky Pool on level 52, where you can take a dip while taking in stunning river views below.

Nestled in up-and-coming Navy Yard, Thompson Washington D.C. puts guests right by the Anacostia River and marina. Enjoy the scenic 20-mile Anacostia Riverwalk Trail right outside, perfect for a stroll or bike ride. Inside, the hotel’s design nods to the area’s maritime roots with nautical details—think ropes in the light fixtures and artwork by Dalton Maroney and Meghan Gerety that turns the lobby into a gallery-like space. Come warm weather, sip cocktails with city and river views at Rooftop at Thompson’s outdoor terrace or wander over to Yards Park for a laid-back afternoon on the boardwalk, by the canal. Just around the corner, catch a ball game at Nationals Park, home to the Washington Nationals, or explore the nearby Smithsonian Museum and iconic National Mall.

Picture yourself sipping a glass of local wine while floating in a decanter-shaped pool, soaking in the Douro River’s tranquil flow and Porto’s breathtaking skyline. At The Yeatman, this pool is the crowning glory, offering unbeatable views of the city’s winding streets and vibrant, medieval Ribeira district across the water. With its six terraced floors cascading down the riverbanks, every room at The Yeatman promises enchanting riverside panoramas. Wine lovers, prepare to be spoiled—a Wine Spa awaits, along with daily cellar tours showcasing the region’s finest vintages. For a culinary adventure, the Michelin-starred restaurant serves up traditional Portuguese dishes, all paired with majestic river views of the Douro and the UNESCO World Heritage city.

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The Yeatman is featured in the article’s cover shot.

At the wave-shaped Peninsula Bangkok, you’re in for a riverfront treat with panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River—aptly dubbed “The River of Kings”—from every room and suite. Dive into international delights at The River Café & Terrace, where lush gardens and a splashy water ballet by Thai longtail boats set the scene. At the hotel’s very own pier, hop aboard one of the complimentary riverboats, crafted from charmingly restored rice barges, or cruise the city in a snazzy green Tuk Tuk. And don’t forget to swing by the grand lobby, where a water droplet chandelier and tropical plants set the stage for live piano tunes and spectacular river views.

Lyon’s story is told through its two iconic rivers: the Rhône and the Saône. Nestled between these flowing beauties, Boscolo Hotel & Spa Lyon stands proudly in the historic district, just a short stroll from Place Bellecour, the charming Vieux Lyon and majestic Basilique de Fourvière. Since 1897, this elegant hotel has preserved its Haussmann charm with striking black marble and Vicenza stone. Step into the spa, inspired by Roman thermal baths with its stone walls and vaulted cellars, for a realm of relaxation and indulgence. At Angelo Restaurant, savor the finest Italian cuisine in France’s capital of gastronomy. Wander along the bustling Rhône banks or the serene Saône quays while soaking in the rich history of a hotel that has welcomed legends like Martin Luther King and Edith Piaf.

In the heart of Shanghai’s dazzling skyline, W Shanghai – The Bund offers a front-row seat to the Huangpu River. This showstopper combines 1920s glamour with futuristic flair, topped with a striking 50-meter-tall W light. Nestled along the Bund, the city’s vibrant waterfront, the hotel offers a riverside outdoor pool framed by the stunning Pudong skyline—a perfect spot for photos, especially after dark. If you prefer indoor relaxation, the 25-meter indoor pool is ideal for laps or unwinding in oversized whirlpools. At the end of the day, retreat to your guest room, where you can soak in panoramic river views and enjoy modern décor inspired by the elegance of old Shanghai.

Set high on the Cap Diamant peninsula, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac offers sweeping views of the mighty St. Lawrence River as it meanders past the historic heart of Old Quebec. Since 1893, this hilltop icon has greeted guests with its stately charm, set against the backdrop of Vieux Québec’s cobblestone streets and fortified walls—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s no surprise that the hotel boasts themed suites honoring distinguished guests like Queen Elizabeth II and Céline Dion. For a different perspective on this landmark, head to the nearby Old Port of Québec and embark on river excursions for breathtaking views of the Château, Montmorency Falls and Île d’Orléans. For a longer adventure down the St. Lawrence, visit the Grosse-Île historical site or journey to Tadoussac to spot whales in the majestic Saguenay fjord, where salt and fresh waters converge in a stunning natural display.